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Cheque dishonour notice, reply and Section 138 consultation
Cheque dishonour matters are deadline-sensitive. The bank return memo, date of information, cheque, underlying transaction and notice history should be reviewed promptly before drafting, replying or filing.
Work commonly required
- Review of cheque, return memo and transaction documents
- Statutory notice drafting or review
- Reply to a cheque-dishonour notice
- Assessment of payment, settlement and defence records
- Complaint or response strategy under applicable law
Preserve the evidence
Keep the original cheque where available, bank return memo, deposit proof, invoices or loan records, account statements, messages, prior notices, postal or email service proof and payment correspondence. Do not rely on an online template without checking statutory requirements.
Deadlines require individual calculation
Do not assume that a general internet deadline applies to every stage or set of facts. Obtain advice immediately using the actual bank memo, receipt date and notice record. Delay may affect available remedies.
Official source
The governing central legislation can be checked on the official India Code page for the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881.
Frequently asked questions
Can I ignore a cheque-bounce notice?
Ignoring a formal notice can prejudice your position. Preserve it, record the receipt date and obtain advice before responding.
Can a Section 138 notice be drafted remotely?
Document review and drafting can generally begin remotely. Service method and later proceedings depend on the facts and applicable procedure.
Request an initial consultation
Share the location, a short chronology and any urgent deadline.
Contact and appointment optionsReviewed 20 July 2026 · Advocate Aayush Agarwal, LL.B., LL.M. · Enrolled with the Bar Council of Delhi