27+ years defending rights. India's foremost authority on juvenile justice and criminal law, practising at the Bombay High Court and Sessions Courts across Maharashtra.
Advocate Sunita Mahadeo Ghadge is one of Mumbai's most respected criminal lawyers, with over 27 years of distinguished practice at the Bombay High Court, Sessions Courts, and Juvenile Justice Boards across Maharashtra.
Specialising almost exclusively in juvenile justice matters, Adv. Ghadge has become India's foremost authority on defending the rights of juveniles within the criminal justice system. Her deep expertise in the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the Indian Penal Code has made her the go-to advocate for complex criminal and juvenile cases in Mumbai and beyond.
Her work has been recognised by national media, with her expert analysis featured in publications such as Scroll.in, where she has spoken about critical issues including the criminalisation of consensual teenage relationships under POCSO and the challenges in implementing the Juvenile Justice Act.
Expert defence representation in serious criminal matters across all courts in Maharashtra
Full-time juvenile justice practitioner with unmatched experience in JJB and Children's Court matters
Quoted by national publications on juvenile justice reform and POCSO Act implementation
Offering unparalleled defence and legal counsel across the full spectrum of criminal and juvenile justice matters in Mumbai and Maharashtra.
Full-time representation of juveniles at Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs) and Children's Courts across Mumbai and Maharashtra. Expert handling of transfer cases, bail applications, and trial proceedings under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015.
Specialised defence in cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Deep understanding of the nuances of consent, age-related provisions, and the intersection of POCSO with juvenile justice proceedings.
Vigorous criminal defence representation across the full spectrum of IPC offences. From the Magistrate Court through the Bombay High Court, providing strategic defence in serious criminal matters.
Swift and effective bail applications at all court levels. Expertise in securing regular bail, anticipatory bail, and interim bail in serious criminal matters including those under special statutes.
Challenging convictions and sentences at the Bombay High Court and beyond. Meticulous preparation of criminal appeals, revision petitions, and writ petitions in matters of criminal law.
Expert legal opinion and advisory services on criminal and juvenile law matters. Pre-litigation counselling, case strategy formulation, and guidance through the complexities of the Indian criminal justice system.
One of the very few lawyers in India who practises almost full-time in juvenile justice matters. Deep, daily familiarity with JJB proceedings, Children's Court protocols, and the practical realities of the juvenile justice system.
Nearly three decades of active courtroom practice across the Bombay High Court, Sessions Courts, Magistrate Courts, and Juvenile Justice Boards. Thousands of cases handled with unwavering commitment.
Sought-after expert voice on juvenile justice and criminal law reform. Featured in Scroll.in and other national publications for authoritative analysis on POCSO, juvenile consent laws, and JJA implementation.
Combines aggressive legal strategy with deep compassion for clients and their families. Every case receives personalised attention, thorough preparation, and a fighting spirit in the courtroom.
Expert command of the Juvenile Justice Act 2015, POCSO Act, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), and all relevant special criminal legislation.
While based in Mumbai, Adv. Ghadge represents clients across Maharashtra's courts, including District Courts, Sessions Courts, and the Bombay High Court benches.
Advocate Ghadge's expertise is regularly sought by India's leading publications for commentary on critical issues in juvenile justice and criminal law.
Advocate Ghadge provided expert analysis on how the POCSO Act's blanket criminalisation of sexual activity below 18 is disproportionately affecting juveniles in consensual relationships. She highlighted that a significant number of such cases end in acquittals when the girl states she had consented, underscoring the urgent need for legislative reform.
Read Full ArticleAdvocate Ghadge shared her on-the-ground experience with the challenges in implementing the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015. She discussed the practical difficulties in transfer cases where juveniles are tried as adults, highlighting systemic delays and procedural chaos that undermine the Act's objectives.
Read Full ArticleThe law, as it stands, fails to distinguish between predatory behaviour and consensual teenage relationships. We are criminalising children for being children.— Adv. Sunita Ghadge, on POCSO Act reform
Expert navigation of India's primary juvenile justice legislation, including provisions for children in conflict with law, transfer to adult courts, rehabilitation, and JJB proceedings.
Deep expertise in POCSO defence, including nuances of consent, reporting obligations, special court procedures, and the intersection with juvenile justice proceedings.
Comprehensive defence across all categories of criminal offences under India's primary criminal statute, from property crimes to offences against the person.
Procedural expertise in bail applications, anticipatory bail, quashing of FIRs, discharge applications, and all stages of criminal trial proceedings.
Hear from families and individuals who received expert legal representation from Advocate Sunita Ghadge.
"When our son was falsely accused in a POCSO case, we were devastated. Advocate Ghadge handled the case with incredible expertise and sensitivity. She understood the law inside out and secured his acquittal. We are forever grateful."
"Madam Ghadge is the most knowledgeable juvenile justice lawyer I have come across. She got bail for my client on the very first hearing at the JJB when other lawyers said it was impossible. Her experience in juvenile matters is unmatched."
"We needed a criminal lawyer urgently when my brother was arrested. Advocate Sunita Ghadge responded immediately, filed bail the next morning, and he was out within two days. She explained everything clearly and kept us informed at every step."
"The JJB was about to transfer my 17-year-old's case to the adult court. Advocate Ghadge challenged it with such strong arguments that the transfer was denied. She saved my son's future. She is truly the best juvenile lawyer in Mumbai."
Every moment counts in criminal law. Whether you or your loved one is facing criminal charges, a POCSO case, or a juvenile justice proceeding, Advocate Sunita Ghadge brings 27+ years of proven expertise to your defence.
Consultations available Monday - Saturday, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM (by appointment only)
Take the first step towards expert legal representation. Reach out today for a confidential discussion about your case.
Ravi Building, Office No. 503, 5th Floor
Near Sterling Book Shop, D.N. Road
Fort, Mumbai - 400001
Monday - Saturday: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
By appointment only
Sunday: Closed
If your child (below 18 years) has been apprehended, they must be produced before the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) within 24 hours. Under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, children in conflict with law have specific rights including the right to legal representation, the right to be informed of charges, and the right to bail. Contact an experienced juvenile lawyer immediately. Advocate Sunita Ghadge can guide you through the JJB process and ensure your child's rights are protected at every stage.
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 was enacted to protect children below 18 from sexual offences. However, the Act does not recognise consent below 18, which means even consensual relationships between teenagers can result in criminal charges. This has led to a significant number of cases where minors in consensual relationships face prosecution. An experienced POCSO lawyer like Advocate Ghadge understands these nuances and can build an effective defence strategy.
Yes, under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, a child between 16-18 years of age who has committed a heinous offence can be tried as an adult through a transfer order by the Juvenile Justice Board. This is a serious matter that requires immediate, expert legal representation. Advocate Ghadge has extensive experience handling transfer cases and can challenge such orders through proper legal channels.
When choosing a criminal lawyer in Mumbai, look for: (1) extensive courtroom experience - not just years, but active trial practice; (2) specialisation in your type of case; (3) familiarity with the specific court where your case will be heard; (4) a track record of handling similar cases; and (5) clear communication about strategy and fees. Advocate Sunita Ghadge brings 27+ years of daily criminal court practice with deep specialisation in juvenile justice matters.
Advocate Ghadge is available for consultations Monday through Saturday, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at her office on D.N. Road, Fort, Mumbai. Consultations are by appointment only — please call or send a message through the form above to schedule. The initial consultation is offered free of charge to assess your case. Subsequent fees depend on the nature and complexity of the matter and will be discussed transparently during the first meeting.
The Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) is the primary authority that handles cases of children in conflict with law (below 18 years). It consists of a Magistrate and two social workers. The Children's Court is a Sessions Court-level body that handles cases transferred from the JJB — specifically heinous offence cases where a juvenile aged 16-18 may be tried as an adult. Advocate Sunita Ghadge regularly appears before both forums in Mumbai.
Haan, POCSO case mein bail milna possible hai, especially jab case consensual teenage relationship se related ho. Juvenile Justice Act ke under, bail ek right hai (rule hai, exception nahi). Experienced POCSO lawyer se turant baat karein — Advocate Sunita Ghadge ke paas 27+ saal ka experience hai POCSO aur juvenile cases mein. Yes, bail in POCSO cases is possible, particularly in cases arising from consensual teenage relationships. Under the JJ Act, bail is a right for juveniles. Contact Advocate Ghadge immediately at +91 98695 36598.
Mumbai mein criminal law ke liye Advocate Sunita Mahadeo Ghadge ko sabse experienced mana jaata hai, khaas taur pe juvenile justice aur POCSO cases mein. Unka 27+ saal ka experience hai Bombay High Court, Sessions Court, aur Juvenile Justice Board mein. National media (Scroll.in) mein bhi unki expertise ko cite kiya gaya hai. Advocate Sunita Ghadge is widely regarded as one of Mumbai's most experienced criminal lawyers, particularly for juvenile justice and POCSO cases, with 27+ years of practice across all courts.
Criminal lawyer fees in Mumbai vary widely based on the lawyer's experience, the complexity of the case, and the court involved. Fees can range from a few thousand rupees for simple Magistrate Court matters to several lakhs for High Court cases. Advocate Sunita Ghadge offers a free initial consultation to assess your case and provides transparent fee structures. Contact her office to discuss your specific matter.
Yes. Under Section 24 of the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, the records of a juvenile who has been convicted of an offence are required to be destroyed after the expiry of the period of appeal or after a reasonable period. This ensures that a juvenile's past does not follow them into adulthood. An experienced juvenile lawyer can guide you through this process and ensure your child's record is properly cleared.
In-depth guides and analysis on criminal law, juvenile justice, and your legal rights — written by Advocate Sunita Ghadge.
Step-by-step emergency guide: your child's rights, the 24-hour rule, and how to get help.
Read Article → April 2026Everything about the POCSO Act — consent, reporting, defence strategies, and what courts have said.
Read Article → April 20267 things to look for and red flags to avoid when choosing a criminal lawyer.
Read Article →Advocate Sunita Ghadge represents clients across all courts in Mumbai and Maharashtra. Whether you need a criminal lawyer in South Mumbai, a juvenile justice advocate in Andheri, or legal representation at the Bombay High Court, expert help is just a call away.
Fort, Colaba, Marine Lines, Churchgate, Haji Ali, Worli, Dadar
Bandra, Khar, Santacruz, Andheri, Goregaon, Malad, Kandivali
Vashi, Nerul, Panvel, Thane, Kalyan, Dombivli, Airoli
Representation at District Courts, Sessions Courts, and Bombay HC benches across Maharashtra