PROFILE OF HON’BLE MR. JUSTICE CHAUDHARY KHALID RASHEED

Justice, High Court of Azad Jammu and Kashmir

January 8, 2022

Early Life and Academic Excellence

Born on 14 March 1970 in Mirpur, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Justice Chaudhary Khalid Rasheed showed brilliance early in life. He studied at Presentation Convent High School, Jhelum, excelling both academically and ethically. He earned his BA and LLB degrees from the University of the Punjab, Lahore, followed by a Shariah Law Course at the International Islamic University Islamabad. His exceptional academic record earned him a Gold Medal from the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, setting the stage for a remarkable legal career.


Legal Practice and Professional Milestones

Justice Rasheed began legal practice in May 1995 as a pleader. By June 1998, he became an Advocate of the High Court of AJ&K, later joining the Lahore High Court in 2002 and the Supreme Court of AJ&K in April 2004.
A lifetime member of the Islamabad Bar Association since 2002, he has maintained deep engagement with Pakistan’s legal community. His practice across criminal, civil, and constitutional matters refined his advocacy skills and strengthened his understanding of procedural justice.


Public Service and Bar Leadership

Justice Rasheed served as Public Prosecutor in Mirpur (1996–1999), gaining valuable courtroom experience in criminal law. His peers recognized his leadership when he was elected Member of the AJ&K Bar Council (2002) and later Chairman of its Executive Committee (2006). In 2014, he became President of the District Bar Association, Mirpur, where he championed judicial reform, lawyer welfare, and cooperative bar-bench relations.


Areas of Legal Expertise

Justice Rasheed’s expertise spans multiple legal domains:

  • Criminal Law — handling complex prosecution and defence matters.

  • Civil Law — resolving property, family, and contract disputes.

  • Revenue Law — interpreting land and taxation frameworks.

  • Constitutional Law — advocating cases with national and institutional impact.

He also practiced before the Islamabad High Court and subordinate courts, enriching his perspective on both provincial and federal jurisdictions.


Elevation to the High Court and Judicial Philosophy

On 8 January 2022, Justice Rasheed took oath as Judge of the High Court of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Since then, he has presided over diverse matters, known for independence, balance, and clarity. His judgments display depth in legal reasoning and fidelity to constitutional guarantees.
He believes that justice must remain both principled and accessible. His courtroom reflects fairness, discipline, and respect—values that inspire public confidence in the judiciary.


Judicial Vision and Ethical Approach

Justice Rasheed upholds the belief that law serves society best when grounded in transparency and accountability. He emphasizes procedural accuracy and equal protection under law. His jurisprudence demonstrates compassion for the vulnerable while preserving institutional integrity. Each verdict carries reasoned logic, clear language, and social relevance.


Legacy and Impact

Justice Chaudhary Khalid Rasheed’s journey from advocate to High Court Judge mirrors dedication to justice and unwavering professionalism. His influence extends beyond the courtroom—he mentors young advocates, strengthens judicial independence, and promotes continuous legal education. His leadership in both bar and bench exemplifies integrity, humility, and reform-minded vision.


Conclusion

Justice Chaudhary Khalid Rasheed personifies the modern jurist—learned in law, grounded in ethics, and unwavering in duty. His decisions reinforce rule of law, his leadership elevates professional standards, and his mentorship nurtures the next generation of jurists in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Through his lifelong service to the bar and the bench, he continues to strengthen public trust in the judiciary and ensure that justice remains fair, swift, and dignified.