A ligand L has been synthesized by the condensation of 4-chlorobenzaldehyde and 2-amino-5-chlorobenzophenone. The complexes 1–5 of Pb+2, Ni+2, Co+2, Cu+2 and Cd+2 with ligand were prepared. The newly synthesized ligand L and its complexes 1–5 were characterized on the basis of elemental analyses, molar conductance, 1H NMR, IR and MS spectral data. The ligand was also characterized by X-ray crystallography. By electronic spectra and magnetic moment data, the square planar geometry for complex 1 and the octahedral geometry for complexes 2–5 were proposed. The conductivity data suggests non-electrolytic nature of the complexes 1–5. The complexes have higher antibacterial activity than the parent ligand L.