Super Lawyer

Category: AOR

  • “Legal Profession particularly working as Advocate on Record is full of challenges and Responsibilities and for being successful, one has to required to develop the habit of working 24*7  without any liberty from work”- Purnima Jauhari, Advocate on record at the Supreme Court of India

    “Legal Profession particularly working as Advocate on Record is full of challenges and Responsibilities and for being successful, one has to required to develop the habit of working 24*7  without any liberty from work”- Purnima Jauhari, Advocate on record at the Supreme Court of India

    This Interview has been published by Pragya Chandni and The SuperLawyer Team

    Can you share with us your journey into the legal profession and what inspired you to pursue a career in law?

    First of all, I would like to extend my thanks to team ‘Super Lawyer” for my interview.  Being a second generation lawyer in the family, it was my  passion and privilege both to join the legal profession and to reach the prestigious and challenging milestone of  Advocate On Record.

    As an Advocate-On-record at the Supreme Court of India, you’ve handled a variety of cases ranging from education to environmental issues. Could you tell us about a particularly challenging case you’ve worked on and how you navigated through it?

    As an Advocate on Record I appeared in a number of cases wherein the most challenging to appear in bail matters wherein Hon’ble Supreme Court granted bail to the  accused  charged under Section 302 I.P.C under life imprisonment and Anticipatory bail to the accused charged for Section 376 I.P.C .

    Your reported judgments include significant cases such as Girish Ramchandra Desh Pande Vs. Central Information Commissioner and Indore Development Authority Vs. Manohar Lal Sharma. Could you walk us through the process of handling such high-profile cases and the impact they’ve had on your career?

    Before the apex Court, I also got the  opportunity to assist the reputed Senior Advocates and it was a great experience  for me to appear in high profile cases like the Indore Development Authority Case related to Land Acquisition. NJAC Case and recently   in Article 370  case and an important  point in these  types of cases is research work and finding out the reported judgment in your favor and to search a new point which can change the direction of your case in your favor.

    Being a member of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), you’re deeply entrenched in the legal community. How has networking and building connections within the legal fraternity influenced your career trajectory?

    I also get a 4 time  opportunity to serve the  Supreme Court Bar Association as Member Executive. During my tenure as member executive I tried my best to raise my voice against  issues related to day to day  problems faced by members of the bar  like Filing , Health , Chamber Allotment, Lockers Allotment,  Canteen Facility etc.

    Could you shed some light on your experience representing the U.P. Madhyamik Shiksha Sewa Chayan Board? How does representing a government entity differ from other types of cases you handle?

    In relation to professional assignments I always  realized  that clients  appreciate your sincerity towards your work rather than result. In my professional journey I represented the U.P. Madhyamik Shiksha Sewa  Chayan Board handled  cases related to selection and  appointment of candidates . I also get the opportunity to appear on behalf of Prathmik Shiksha  Mitra Association  regarding their appointment and working as Shiksha Mitra. While handling such types of  service matters I realized my responsibility  towards those persons who belong from the rural side and have no proper sources despite that they qualify the competitive exams and not getting  their appointment and sometimes persons less than in merit from them are appointed at their post.

    Your expertise covers a wide range of legal areas, including matrimonial matters, criminal law, and land acquisition cases. How do you manage to stay updated and proficient in such diverse areas of law?

    I usually appear in Matrimonial Transfer Petitions where usually wife filed petition for transfer her matrimonial disputes from one state to another state now a days on being working and equal stake holder it is not easy to get relief of Transfer the cases but on certain guidelines Hon’ble Court always consider the point of Transfer in favour of Petitioner wife . Apart from it I appear in  Mediation thereof wherein I feel the great satisfaction when I get success in settling the dispute of the parties .

    Can you share some strategies or approaches you’ve employed to overcome obstacles and achieve success in your legal practice? What advice would you offer to recent law graduates aspiring to establish themselves in the legal profession, especially those interested in advocacy and litigation?

    In my professional journey  I have realized that  Legal Profession particularly working as Advocate on Record is full of challenges and Responsibilities and for being successful, one has to required to develop the habit of working 24*7  without any liberty from work. Lastly, I would like to advise the law graduates who have recently join or going to  join the profession that – “Successful people are not gifted; they just work hard with dedication and Sincerity.” 

    Get in touch with Purnima Jauhari-

  • “Having the right to file pleadings before the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, an AOR is an integral connecting tissue between the aggrieved party, the arguing counsel and the highest court of the land”- Vikash Kumar Jha, Partner at Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas and Advocate-on-Record at the Supreme Court of India

    This Interview has been published by Pragya Chandni and The SuperLawyer Team

    Can you share with us what inspired you to pursue a career in law, particularly in the field of dispute resolution and arbitration?

    Funnily enough, I would have to say that my entry into the law school and eventually into the legal profession was not all planned and happened by accident. I was initially a Zoology (Hons.) student at North Campus, Delhi University, where through the internet, peers, and friends, I found out about the various national law schools in India. I was instantly intrigued; decided to leave zoology behind; and apply to law schools. It was at NLIU Bhopal, that I realised the emancipatory potential of law; my inclination and ability towards analytical thinking and its capability of a positive impact on society and human civilization at large. Further, during the 5 years I spent at Bhopal as well as the various internships I completed during that period, I realised and accordingly decided that dispute resolution would be the practice area for me. 

    I started my journey as a lawyer in 2011, upon graduating from NLIU, Bhopal and joining the disputes practice of Amarchand & Mangaldas & Suresh A. Shroff & Co. (AMSS), at its Mumbai Office. I thereafter shifted my base to Delhi in 2016, and presently, I am a Partner at Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, at its Delhi, NCR Office.

    Now, 13 years later, I am a qualified Advocate-on-Record and endeavouring to build and develop a practice in advising and representing both Indian and foreign clients in a diverse spectrum of areas under the disputes and arbitration umbrella.

    You have a specialization in various areas such as complex, civil and commercial disputes; contractual disputes; securities laws; white-collar crimes; and environmental matters. What drew you or motivated you to pursue such diverse practice areas within dispute resolution?

    The preference for a super specialised practice versus a more general one, of course, differs from practitioner to practitioner. However, for me, personally, having a more holistic and well-rounded practice and knowledge in the age of specialisation, is definitely an important arrow in my quiver. I would credit my early curiosity to learn and explore more than one area of a law, as well as the various opportunities which my firm has provided me – as equipping me to effectively advise and represent clients in a diverse variety of matters.

    As a gold-medalist graduate from NLIU, Bhopal, what pivotal moments during your education shaped your interest in dispute resolution and arbitration? 

    Numerous peers, professors and mentors and my experiences have shaped the interest I have and which I continue to learn on a daily basis in dispute resolution and arbitration. I would have to give due credit to my colleagues at my firm, college seniors, who were already placed in various law firms and who regularly advised me on various aspects of practice; my professors, who were instrumental in developing my keen interest in disputes; the various internships and clinical courses I completed which helped create a sound foundation of procedural and substantive law and of course, the people around, who constantly reinforced my desire and determination to use my legal knowledge to help people, create a more aware surrounding, and whatever I can contribute towards building a just world, the best I can. 

    Could you discuss some of the key matters you’ve worked on, such as advising and representing premier associations, international publications, and major infrastructure projects? How have these experiences influenced your approach to dispute resolution?

    During my time at Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, I have been fortunate enough to work on a variety of high profile and very interesting matters. Whilst it may not be advisable to get into specifics, I have advised big conglomerates, reputed developers and builders, cricket bodies, tech companies etc. I have recently advised and represented a premier association of private sugar mills, on inter alia challenging the implementation of a state policy by way of writ proceedings instituted before the High Court of Allahabad. I have also advised and represented a highly reputed international magazine and multi-platform publication, in a civil defamation suit in Delhi; a major tea estate before the Madras High Court as well as the Supreme Court of India; a leading steel plant in various critical matters before the National Green Tribunal, Principal Bench; as well as the court appointed Administrator of a club/association before the Supreme Court, High Court, NCLAT and NCLT – amongst many other varied cases.

    These matters, like all my others, greatly influence my approach to dispute resolution. They reinforce what I believe is a prerequisite to any matter being effectively handled – first, very frankly evaluating the needs and requirements of my client in a solution-oriented approach, and then dynamically exploring the strengths and weaknesses of their case, i.e., whether they would benefit from alternate dispute resolution methods, if at all, etc. I have found that this enables me to best, realistically advise my clients and have their expectations managed from the get-go. In my view, it is very important to have a long-term vision and to have a solution based and practical approach.

    As an Advocate-on-Record, Supreme Court of India, what unique challenges and opportunities do you encounter while representing clients in the highest court of the country?

    I believe an AOR has to be cognisant of the immense responsibility that accompanies its title. Having the right to file pleadings before the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, an AOR is an integral connecting tissue between the aggrieved party, the arguing counsel and the highest court of the land. Almost on a fortnightly basis, one hears of directives and observations passed by the SC that an AOR cannot merely be a signing authority and file meritless or frivolous petitions. Thus, being an AOR is a balancing act between the needs of the client and the responsibility towards the court, which must be exercised responsibly. It is in fact a privilege. 

    In your opinion, what are some of the critical skills and qualities necessary for a successful career in dispute resolution and arbitration, especially when handling complex cases involving multiple jurisdictions and legal nuances?

    Good question. In my opinion, the first critical quality that is necessary for a successful career as a dispute resolution practitioner is hard-work, hard-work, and hard-work! It is also imperative that no matter how many years of practice have gone by, as a lawyer, one must stay abreast of developments in the legal arena and open to new and challenging ideas. This will greatly facilitate one’s capability to strategize and effectively advise the client. It is also important that one is aware of the changing needs and aspirations of the people of India, the corporate world and the nation as a whole – it will only help in molding one into a lawyer for today and for tomorrow. It is of course also important to have basic ideas about other jurisdictions and build good and reliable contacts with lawyers and experts in varied jurisdictions. The ability to learn fast and on the go is also very critical.  

    Always remember that dedicated hard-work, perseverance, and good relationships will never steer you astray! 

    Lastly, what advice would you offer to recent law graduates aspiring to excel in the field of dispute resolution and arbitration, based on your years of experience and expertise?

    Borrowing, from what I have said above, broadly I would like to synthesise my advice to law students/recent graduates as follows:

    • Sustained hard work and regular reading are your most powerful allies, whether you are a fresh entrant into the practice or a seasoned veteran. It is important to carve out the time to stay updated, accordingly.
    • Stay in touch with your alumni; your mentors; and your peers and seniors at your internships – those who are already practising and take ‘on ground’ practical advice from them. 
    • Further, do not dismiss procedural aspects or courses to the peripheries of your studies. Knowing the ins and outs of CPC is just as important as Constitutional Law or Contracts Law, if not more. Having sound procedural knowledge is vital and will provide for an excellent base/first principles knowledge, when practicing. 

    Get in touch with Vikash Kumar Jha-

  • “Don’t ever lose hope, be patient, and focus on your work, as there are no shortcuts in this profession.” – Himanshu Tyagi, Advocate-on-Record at the Supreme court of India

    “Don’t ever lose hope, be patient, and focus on your work, as there are no shortcuts in this profession.” – Himanshu Tyagi, Advocate-on-Record at the Supreme court of India

    This interview has been published by Namrata Singh and The SuperLawyer Team

    Your journey from Meerut to becoming an Advocate On Record at the Supreme Court is quite inspiring. Could you share some pivotal moments or challenges you faced during your early years in Delhi, and how you overcame them to establish your practice?

    Once you step out of your comfort zone every first thing seems to have its own challenges. However, on the professional front I can say that I decided to take the plunge to the Capital with dreams and hope to make it big, in spite of not having any significant father figure in the field of law. Initially the first question which was required to be answered was from where to start as there was hardly anyone to suggest or guide what are the choices one could make while entering the profession. I made my choice and started with litigation as I had attained little experience while being associated with the chambers of Mr. Ravi Shanker Tyagi for a very brief period in Meerut Bar which was initially very helpful as Courts in Delhi are much more refined in terms of infrastructurally and in other avenues as well.

    Your journey as a first-generation lawyer is truly commendable. What were the key principles or values that guided you in your career, especially during the initial stages when the path might have been more challenging?

    Yes, being a first generation lawyer is a very difficult choice to make especially when you are in litigation. But all that I can say is don’t ever lose hope, be patient and focus on your work, as there are no shortcuts in this profession, the only way you can accelerate is through your abilities to make hard choices and by burning midnight oil.

    Becoming an Advocate On Record involves rigorous training and experience. How was your time with Retd. Justice S.R. Singh shaped your understanding of the legal field, and what key lessons did you carry into your independent practice?

    I was fortunate enough to join the Chambers of Retd. Justice S.R Singh ( Retd. Judge from Allahabad High Court) Sr. Advocate in the year 2009.  After working with Mr. Singh for almost two years and having gained opulent experience by understanding the nuances and intricacies of legal field along with drafting, filling and everything that the field entails.

    One judicious adage told to me by my very veteran Senior was that “ Vakalat is your first wife” if you want to do justice to your profession and I have ever since imbibed this in my practice till date and I am always grateful to all my seniors and colleagues from the chamber and outside the chamber for always guiding me in the profession. 

    As Ex. Additional Advocate General for the State of H.P., you’ve handled significant cases. Can you share an experience where your role had a meaningful impact on the state’s legal representation, and what insights did you gain from that experience?

    It was a very enriching journey while discharging my duties as AAG for state government before the Hon’ble Supreme Court as such opportunities help you bring the best out of you. As while holding such an esteemed office one has to be very candid with all the briefs while representing the State before the Court.

    Handling cases involving state entities like the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) requires a nuanced understanding of administrative and constitutional law. Could you elaborate on the challenges faced and strategies employed in representing HRTC in various legal matters?

    It is always challenging to represent Road Corporation before the Hon’ble Courts as the mostly the matters pertaining to the Corporation is of higher monitory significance be it MACT matters or service matters. What I can say from experience is that you are required to be more updated with the law and recent judgments so that you can provide better assistance to the Hon’ble Court.

    Handling criminal matters requires a different set of skills. Can you share an experience from a criminal case you’ve worked on, discussing the complexities involved and the strategies adopted for a successful outcome?

    Through my experience in handling criminal matters I must say one should have a very fair understanding of criminal jurisprudence as most of the criminal matters involve personal liberty which is of utmost importance.  During my time at bar I have done several criminal trials, appeals but what always challenges me is the stage of cross examination as in my view Cross examination in any criminal matter is the heart and soul of the Trial.

    Apart from your legal pursuits, do you have any personal hobbies or interests that you find to be a great source of relaxation or inspiration?

    I can say visiting places and spending time with family and friends keeps me motivated other than work. 

    Coming from a small town like Meerut and making a mark in the legal profession in Delhi is undoubtedly a significant achievement. Could you share some extra efforts or unique strategies you employed in your journey to overcome any perceived challenges or biases associated with being from a smaller town?

    Once you make your mark , and in this industry that is possible only when you garner some accomplishments in your name. The bias associated with a small town only remains so long as you let it affect your mental make up. If you are determined enough, the tag of coming from a small town and making it big in the capital only adds to your reputation , which at the same time works as an inspiration for people coming from the same background, and are hesitant in pursuing their goals. My only advice to the budding generation of lawyers is to fight your demons and always be hopeful and take each day as it comes. The road to success may seem endearing but it sure is fruitful at the end.

    You emphasize the importance of hard work and dedication in your career. What advice would you give to the current generation of aspiring lawyers to navigate the challenges of the legal profession and build a successful practice?

    I can vouch for the fact that hard work is the key “what you are seeking is seeking you”. I make my juniors understand that to be candid with clients and accurate in analysis and strict in study, you will achieve whatever you aim for as there are no shortcuts in this profession.

    Having experienced both your own student journey and now interacting with the current generation, what notable differences do you observe in the approach and mindset of today’s law students compared to your time? Are there specific areas where you believe current students could focus on improvement to excel in the legal profession?

    The major shift that I witnessed in the mindset of the students in comparison to when I was one, is the availability of resources and better infrastructure that can help them achieve their goals with a lot of help which is easily available, of which there was a dearth during our college  days. Accessibility and availability are the major factors that determine the early years in one’s legal career as initially apart from all the teachings done at college level, the practical learning is also very vital if you wish to stay in this field.  

    Get in touch with Himanshu Tyagi-

  • “The legal landscape has undergone some of the most significant changes in recent years, due to technological advancements and subject-specific specialization.”- Prashant Kumar, Advocate-on-Record, Supreme Court of India and Principal Associate at Dua Associates

    This Interview has been published by Pragya Chandni and The SuperLawyer Team

    Sir, could you please share your journey of how you ended up becoming an Advocate-on-Record at the Supreme Court of India and a Principal Associate at Dua Associates? What motivated you to pursue a career in law?

    The starting point of my journey with law was a matter of chance. During my school days I never imagined myself studying law, however, when I look back today, I think that joining law school was one of the best decisions which I took. I got through Gujarat National Law School, Gandhinagar in the year 2005 and started my journey in the profession in the year 2010 under the able guidance of Ratan Kumar Singh, Senior Advocate. Thereafter, I joined Kapil Sapra & Associates in the year 2012 where I dealt with multifarious works. Being a small set up, work was of different kinds, and the exposure there helped me understand the finer nuances of corporate commercial laws. In the year 2016, I joined Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan, where I dealt with high stake arbitration matters amongst others. Therefore, the exposure at this firm was of a completely different nature. In the year 2020, I joined Dua Associates as a principal associate and continue to work in this firm. I firmly believe that one must keep upgrading his skill sets to be relevant in the legal field. This belief led me to write Advocate-on-Record examinations and I cleared the same in my first attempt. I have enjoyed and learned immensely from different stints in the legal profession.

    With a specialization in commercial/civil litigation, insolvency laws, and alternate dispute resolution, can you discuss a particularly challenging or significant case you’ve worked on? What lessons did you learn from that experience?

    Every case presents a different set of challenges. Therefore, as a lawyer one must understand each case of its merits and treat the same accordingly. I started my practice with a strong foundation of civil, commercial and arbitration laws, which has helped me in dealing with other laws as well. With the advent of insolvency laws, the options available with the parties have increased manifold. Therefore, the first challenge which a lawyer faces today is to decide the right course of action in the given facts and circumstances. Whilst I have worked on various cases which have been challenging or significant, I have been recently involved in a matter before the National Company Law Tribunal, where I represented the financial creditor, in an application filed by the homebuyers, seeking to commence insolvency proceedings against a real estate developer, to which the financial creditor had lent money. Whilst the law is fairly settled, and in case the homebuyers meet the threshold and there is a default, insolvency proceedings should be commenced. However, I argued that the tribunal should not act mechanically and should see the financial health of the company, in addition to the intent behind the filing of the application by the homebuyers which can be fraudulent. I also argued that the interest of homebuyers who are not before the tribunal should also be considered before arriving at a final decision. The tribunal is yet to pass an order, however, this is significant because law is all about being creative within the realm of judicial precedents and legal principles. 

    As someone who appears regularly before various courts and tribunals, can you shed light on the dynamics of practicing law in different forums? How does your approach differ when dealing with cases in the Supreme Court compared to other fora?

    Every forum presents a different set of challenges, and a lawyer should be flexible to deal with such challenges in case one intends to practice before a different forum. By flexibility I mean adapting to the situation at hand. A lawyer who regularly appears before a district court has a particular way of dealing with the cases, however, the same may not be applicable with higher forums. Similarly, a lawyer who practices before the higher forums, will find it difficult to practice before the district courts. That’s why a lot of lawyers choose forums and stick to it. My approach is different because I have been associated mostly with chambers and firms. I started with district courts, tribunals and gradually shifted to high courts and supreme courts, and therefore had the benefit of knowing finer nuances of various courts practice. The best approach according to me is to stick to the basics, i.e., mastery over facts, reliefs sought and an understanding of the forum where the matter is listed. 

    Given your extensive experience in handling commercial disputes and arbitration matters, both domestic and international, could you highlight some key trends or changes you’ve observed in the legal landscape over the years?

    The legal landscape has undergone some of the most significant changes in recent years, due to technological advancements and subject-specific specialization. In addition, the legal profession is also moving towards a multidisciplinary approach, where there is an integration of legal services with other disciplines, such as technology, finance, and business. The areas which have seen significant change include information technology related laws, cyber laws, environmental law, arbitration law etc. In order to cater to the evolving laws and changing trends, a legal professional is required to be updated and focus on specialization. 

    Having dealt with cases across diverse sectors such as Oil & Gas, Infrastructure, Telecom & IT, Banking & Finance, etc., how do you stay updated on the intricacies of different industries? How important is industry-specific knowledge in your field?

    It’s very essential for a lawyer to be updated with latest legal developments and changes, especially in the areas in which he/she works. The way in which I stay up to date is by regularly reading legal updates online and offline. These days there are various newsletters being issued by firms, organisation which contains useful industry specific updates. In addition, I also attend to webinars and conferences, whenever the time permits in order to stay updated. Industry-specific knowledge is very essential in my areas of practice since different industries have different styles of operation. For example, a banking and finance industry has a different style of operation if one compares the same with an oil and gas industry. Therefore, it becomes imperative for a legal professional to deal with every industry after understanding and analysing the basic difference. Once there is a clarity on the basics, one can deal with the issue at hand with ease. 

    What role does advisory work play in your practice? Can you share an instance where your advice made a significant impact on a client’s case or decision-making process?

    Advisory assumes a great importance in my practice areas. Advisory does not only mean a written/oral legal advice, but it includes the day to day dealing with clients, and answering the queries, and extending support to them in the usual course as and when required. One of the opinions which according to me made a significant impact on a client’s case or decision-making process, relates to an analysis of attachment orders issued by district collector, pursuant to the recovery certificates issued by National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, and suggesting the future course of action. Pursuant to our thorough analysis and opinion, the attachment orders were quashed and the same was a big relief for the clients. 

    With over 13 years of experience in the legal field, what advice would you give to fresh graduates aspiring to pursue a career in law, considering the evolving nature of the legal profession? What qualities or skills do you believe are crucial for success in this field?

    My advice to a fresh graduate aspiring to pursue a career in law is to focus on the basics first. One can excel in the field and do specialization only if the base is strong. Secondly one has to be humble and have a humane approach. The legal profession is a noble profession wherein we have to deal with various human beings on a daily basis, therefore being humble is very essential. In addition, being sincere and meticulous also helps a lawyer in the long run. Also, having a commercial bent of mind is also important for a lawyer, especially for lawyers who deal with commercial disputes, arbitration, insolvency, corporate laws, and others. Constant upgradation of skill set is also required for a lawyer who wants to succeed in the legal profession. Lastly, one must be solution oriented and should have clarity of thought. This can only come through continuous learning and adapting to the situation at hand.  

    Get in touch with Prashant Kumar-

  • “As a cyber security advocate, I strive to strengthen laws and policies to combat emerging threats and safeguard digital ecosystems.” – Media Persona and Legal Luminary Dr. Shruti Bist, Advocate-on-Record at the Supreme Court of India

    “As a cyber security advocate, I strive to strengthen laws and policies to combat emerging threats and safeguard digital ecosystems.” – Media Persona and Legal Luminary Dr. Shruti Bist, Advocate-on-Record at the Supreme Court of India

    This interview has been published by Namrata Singh and The SuperLawyer Team

    For our readers who might be encountering you for the first time,  could you share a bit about your journey in the legal profession and your  various roles in the realms of cyber law, corporate law, and advocacy? Also what made you choose law as your career. 

    I am LLM in Corporate laws, I started my legal career as legal executive at  Thomson Reuters in 2015. I then shifted from Corporate to litigation and  worked with Seth associates under guidance of karnika Seth mam in field of  Cyber laws, arbitration and litigation .Then I joined AOR training under guidance  of Senior Advocate Supreme Court S Janani mam and started my independent  practice in Supreme Court from 2020 and qualified my AOR as well. I had  passion for law since the scope of law is very vast and also legal awareness  empowers women to exist with respect in society. 

    In addition to your legal practice, you are actively involved in media  as a TV panellist and public speaker. How do you balance these different  roles, and how has being a media personality influenced your work in law  and advocacy? 

    Yes I am a media panellist and have appeared on various legal issues and debates in DD  news, Republic Bharat, Zee News, TV 100, Nation live and others. I believe it’s also important for lawyers to increase awareness on legal issues to prevent crimes  from happening .We can balance our media work when we are free from court  hearings and being a media personality certainly adds on to your communication  skill and confidence . 

    You are an international arbitrator and mediator accredited in  London and Singapore. How does international arbitration differ from  domestic cases, and what challenges and opportunities does it present? 

    Yes I am an international arbitrator and mediator both and the work of International  mediation and arbitration certainly is more accountable since you have to  generate work for yourself and also meet International standards. In domestic  mediation matrimonial and commercial disputes are handled comfortably and are having good and huge scope to grow. The challenges of young lawyers entering  is high since big corporates prefer Singapore as base and also retired judges are  preferred as arbitrator hence new arbitrators find it tough. International arbitration is a new arena in India and Singapore leads. We look forward to improving  international arbitration in India as well. 

    As the President of the National Cyber Security Council for Women’s  Indian Chamber and Commerce Industry, you play a key role in policy making for cyber laws. What are the most pressing cyber threats faced by  individuals and businesses today, and how can one stay vigilant in the digital  age? 

    As president of the Cyber Security Council ,WICCI I actively forward  representations to PMO and various ministries for better implementation of cyber  laws in India. I worked on regulations of OTT platforms and drafting on  Intermediary Guidelines And Digital Media Ethics Code Rules 2021. I believe  further amendment on Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023 is must and  provision of cable Tv Act and TRAI regulation to further make the regulations  of OTT platforms stringent is must .Cyber threats such AI crimes Deepfakes;  driverless vehicles as a weapon; tailored phishing; disrupting AI-controlled  systems; large-scale blackmail; AI-authored fake new s are latest threat and is  must to prevent . 

    By going through news on various crimes happening and latest measures to  prevent crime available on google such as internet security, unique passwords etc  can help prevent crimes . 

    Your expertise was sought during the drafting of Information  Technology (Intermediary Guidelines And Digital Media Ethics Code Rules  2021. Can you share a bit about your role in shaping these regulations and  the key considerations that were addressed? 

    Yes representation forwarded to the Ministry on adding Singapore based guidelines  on age gradation in content of programmes shown on OTT platform was accepted  and also the Writ filed before Supreme Court through our Council assisted in  regulation of further provision on Intermediary Guidelines And Digital Media  Ethics Code Rules 2021. 

    Please Describe Work Of IEFCI And Also Your Roles As IEFCI  President.

    The International Economic Forum of Commerce And Industry is one of the  leading business organizations, enabling business to secure peace, prosperity and  opportunity for all. IEFCI is the institutional representative of various leading companies across the globe. A non-government, not-for-profit organization, IEFCI is  the voice of international business and industry. From influencing policy to  encouraging debate, engaging with policy makers and civil society, IEFCI  articulates the views and concerns of industry. Our Mission is to make business  work for everyone, every day, everywhere. We provide networking forums for  Industries, Dispute resolution forum that includes international Court of Arbitration and Mediation, legal consultancy in cyber laws, corporate laws and  other legal issues, Policy forum, and various Online Courses to empower the  Entrepreneurs and professionals to learn better skills. 

    As President and founder of Forum I have responsibility to appoint various people  to prestigious posts and also implement ideas across India through conferences  and seminars and coordinate with people apart from handling ADR and ODR  disputes. 

    Please Explain About The International Council Of Artificial Intelligence,  Cyber Security, Research And Development (ICAI CARD) And Your Role As  Founder And President  

    International Council Of Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Research and  development (ICAI CARD) is an umbrella organization that provides wide ambit of  AI and cyber security solutions to Industries and Government and also works  towards attaining goals on UN Sustainability. It’s an initiative of Shruti Bist Socio  Legal Foundation registered u/s S 8 of Company Act 2013 , Ministry of Corporate  Affairs ,India .www.caics.in 

    Our mission is to attain a high standard of AI and cybersecurity in the country and  attain sustainable development goals that require cyber peace and capacity  building for cyber resilient development. Technologies of 5G and AI (Artificial  Intelligence) have the potential to revolutionise a variety of industries, including  medicine, education, and agriculture. We have a dedicated team to research the latest AI related crimes and technology. Our mission is to provide cyber security  to Industries and government via legal and tech team and ensure Cyber Swachh  Bharat. 

    As president of Council I am working towards attainment of our goals and  mission and make India Cyber safe. I am working designing innovative courses on AI and Cyber laws in collaboration with other Universities and also implementing innovative challenges in AI and Cyber laws to promote the professional skills and  campus recruitment in the field . 

    In your extensive media appearances and speaking events, you’ve covered topics ranging from women’s rights to cybersecurity. Is there a  particular cause or issue that you are most passionate about, and why? 

    Cybercrime related topics and other topics relating to women’s rights in property, Article 370, women’s role in politics and law are my keen areas of interest since it helps women empower themselves and also defend themselves from the latest  crimes happening to them.

    You’ve received several awards, including the Virangana Award and  the Inspiring Citizens Award. Which recognition holds a special place in your  heart, and how have these accolades impacted your professional journey? 

    Certainly the accolades assist in morale boost, social recognition and also inspires  us to work further towards attaining the goals of life . 

    Being a prominent figure in the field of law, how do you unwind and  relax in your personal time? Any hobbies or activities that you find  particularly rejuvenating? 

    I like writing Books, listening to music,Yoga, walking and cooking. Its mind refreshing activities. 

    As someone deeply involved in legal education, having contributed to  conferences, e-books, and online courses, what advice do you have for law  students and young professionals looking to build a successful career in law?

    I advise them to learn law and co relate various laws together in a way that when they read IPC they should also know the provision of CrPc and Evidence applicable and  join an internship to learn practical. Joining courses enhances skills they should learn  more through distance mode forums available it increases employability in  companies.

    Get in touch with Dr. Shruti Bist-

  • “E-commerce in India is moving forward by leaps and bounds. With it , there are  bound to be cyber crimes”- Aviral Saxena, Advocate-on-Record at Supreme Court of India

    “E-commerce in India is moving forward by leaps and bounds. With it , there are  bound to be cyber crimes”- Aviral Saxena, Advocate-on-Record at Supreme Court of India

    This Interview has been published by Pragya Chandni and The SuperLawyer Team

    Can you share the journey of how you decided to pursue a career in law,  especially with a focus on Government Litigation ? 

    Firstly I would like to thank Superlawyer for this interview and convey  my deep appreciation for their endeavor. Law graduates would find my insights  useful while planning their professional journey. 

    Being the second generation lawyer, law was the obvious choice as I have been  watching my father attending court. Also the fact that law is one such mechanism  which touches human lives .It is one such avenue which can bring about positive  changes in this inequitable world. 

    I got through the National Law Institute University , (NLIU) Bhopal in 2007.I  started my practice at Allahabad High Court. After the elevation of my father as a  High Court Judge, I shifted to Delhi to practice at the Supreme Court in 2013.  One does not start with government litigation in the  formative years . I landed with ‘government panels’ after spending considerable  time in private practice. By God’s grace , I have been continuing the work for the past many years before the Supreme Court and different tribunals across Delhi. It’s  indeed a privilege to be part of a competent team of government lawyers where I  get to work on complex and high profile cases. I have gained considerable  experience while representing State Governments and Corporations. 

    With extensive experience in dealing with both State Governments and  Corporations, can you highlight a particular case that has been the most  challenging or memorable in your career so far?

    I have been extremely fortunate to have worked on a wide range of  cases.While every case I argue is close to my heart , but the one that stands out is  the service matter in which I appeared as a standing counsel on behalf of the Delhi  Transport Corporation before Delhi High Court. An Employee had resigned after  rendering 29 years of service.The court was inclined to grant relief on equitable  ground. I could successfully convince the court that the word “resignation” and  “voluntary retirement” cannot be used interchangeably in the case of an employee  and thus not entitled to retiral benefits. 

    Another satisfying case has been of a gazetted government officer wherein I was  able to secure the quashing of criminal proceedings as well as divorce under  Article 142 of the constitution from the Supreme Court . There were multiple cases lodged by his wife in different districts. 

    I have had the opportunity to assist the Senior Advocate/Advocate-on-Record(s) in several high profile cases like CBI autonomy ,Triple talaq Article 370 etc to  name a few. 

    How did your academic background shape your perspective and  approach towards practicing law? 

    Apart from my legal background , I believe my law school NLIU  played an important role in shaping my personality.Be it moot court participation or time bound completion of research papers involving rigorous research or  internships with top law firms have all contributed to my professional growth .  The interdisciplinary approach taught there has also enabled me to develop a  broader perspective which is helping me to diversify my practice .No wonder , I  never found any hurdles in adapting to the distinct practice culture of the Supreme  Court after shifting to Delhi from Allahabad (now Prayagraj) in 2013. I cracked  the Advocate-on-Record (AOR) exam in my very first attempt in 2019.

    It has been an enriching experience to represent the Government of India ,Uttar  Pradesh and Uttarakhand before the Supreme Court of India. I also appear before  different High Courts like Allahabad , Chandigarh etc frequently. 

    You have an LL.M. in Cyber Laws and have published articles in  prestigious journals. How has the specialization in Cyber Laws influenced  your practice, and what challenges do you often face in this dynamic field? 

    After some years of practice, I wanted to pursue post-graduation  However it was not possible to leave active practice and pursue studies.  Coronavirus Pandemic provided me an opportunity to pursue a two year masters’  program in Cyber Laws from School of Law and Legal Studies, Guru Gobind  Singh Indraprastha University [GGSIPU], Delhi. These two years not only gave  me invaluable insights, but also provided me with an alternative perspective  that is going to benefit my career as a lawyer. 

    E-commerce in India is moving forward by leaps and bounds. With it , there are  bound to be cyber crimes.We all have seen critically acclaimed web series  ‘Jamtara-Sabka Number Ayega’ where the phishing, a type of cybercrime, is undertaken in an organized manner by the village teenagers . I believe that the role of  Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the realm of cyber security looks promising.The  challenge remains to be seen in respect of effective implementation of AI systems  given the fact that such systems are going to be trained in safeguarding data. 

    As an Advocate-on-Record, you’ve appeared before various courts and  tribunals, including the Supreme Court and High Courts. Could you share  some insights into the differences in presenting cases in these forums and  how you navigate through them?

    I believe the approach varies from court to court.This is due to the fact that  the jurisdiction of each court is different . For instance, the Supreme Court is not  only the highest court of the land but also the final court of appeal.This mandates lawyers taking a different approach which one would not take before High Court  or Tribunal(s). It is like identifying the error committed by Court /Tribunal below  and presenting it in a limited time frame before Supreme Court judges. The case  with the High Court(s) is different as lawyers have the liberty to argue at length. 

    Practice in Trial courts involve more procedure laws while Higher courts involve  mostly appellate or writ jurisdiction dealing with legal issues relating to  substantive law. Facts are the main weapon of choice before the Trial courts  while Higher courts deal with nuances of law.However, I would add a caveat.  Facts are the backbone of every case irrespective of courts involved and lawyers should always be well versed with them .If left to me , I would say that every case  is decided on the facts and law helps in unearthing the truth and reaching at the  correct conclusion to promote justice. 

    Given your interest in writing articles and being invited by universities  to judge legal events, how do you balance your advocacy work with these  academic pursuits, and how do they complement each other in your  professional growth? 

    Being an Advocate actually provides the satisfaction of directly  representing the ‘aggrieved’ before the court. Whereas writing legal articles or  mentoring law students reflect my commitment of giving back to the legal  fraternity. 

    Both Advocacy and Academic pursuits might be distinct but they are essentially  complementary. Writing articles or mentoring allow me to engage with burning  legal topics on a broader scale. It provides me a platform to share my knowledge 

    and insights with my peers. It would be wrong If I don’t admit that writing brings  about an in-depth understanding of the legal principles. Meeting ‘like-minded’ professionals is another advantage. 

    Thus balancing practice with academic pursuits is challenging but immensely  fulfilling. 

    You’ve worked with different government bodies, including the  Government of India and various state governments. What unique  challenges or considerations arise when representing government entities  compared to private clients? 

    I have been appearing before the Supreme Court of India , Delhi High  Court, NCLT, NCLAT, and NCDRC. With over a decade of experience, I  personally feel that the case of Government bodies is often strong legally but  lacks either professional advice or proper representation. For instance, crucial  evidence is not adduced or documents vital for adjudication of the case are  not annexed before the Court/Tribunal(s) .Such instances have led to the  dismissal of cases before Supreme Court having financial ramifications. 

    When entrusted with a case , I try my best to go through the records thoroughly  and ensure superfluous claims are nipped in the bud and genuine claims, if any ,  remain for adjudication. Professional fee offered by the Government bodies is although meager but the volume of cases give consistent opportunity to appear before the Courts which enhances one’s nuanced understanding of law , not to  forget court craft. 

    Private clients on the other hand approach lawyers after taking painstaking  research about the reputation one enjoys in the market. I found such clients smart and attentive. But the problem crops up when it comes to managing their 

    expectation especially at a place like the Supreme Court where the dismissal rate of  cases is high at the admission stage. 

    I have been fortunate enough to get the best of both worlds. It has been so far a  transformative experience that has broadened my horizons and equipped me with  the skills necessary to handle extremely challenging propositions. 

    As a Managing Partner of Avika Law Offices LLP, and with reported  judgments to your credit, what advice would you offer to law graduates  entering the profession, particularly those interested in government  litigation ? 

    My journey from a law student to Managing Partner of Avika Law  Offices LLP has been a rewarding experience. I would urge law graduates aspiring to enter this dynamic profession to look for good mentors. It is extremely  important to have a good chamber in initial years which lays down a strong  foundation. Embrace lifelong learning considering the vastness of law as a  discipline. Constant updation is sine qua non .Go for additional qualifications to  hone skills .There are no shortcuts in this profession. Always uphold integrity.  

    Lastly, frequent interaction with peers and legal professionals is a fruitful idea as

    It provides both guidance and opportunities in the profession.

    Get in touch with Aviral Saxena-

  • “I always believe that litigation is akin to a game of chess where you must anticipate three to four steps of your opponent’s preparation accordingly”-Gaurav Varma, Founding Partner – Integricon Law Offices 

    “I always believe that litigation is akin to a game of chess where you must anticipate three to four steps of your opponent’s preparation accordingly”-Gaurav Varma, Founding Partner – Integricon Law Offices 

    This Interview has been published by Pragya Chandni and The SuperLawyer Team

    Can you share some insights into your journey in the legal profession and how you decided to specialize in dispute resolution, particularly in areas such as arbitrations, insolvency, and regulatory practice?

    Being the fourth-generation lawyer in a family of reputed criminal lawyers, it was clear that I will build my career in dispute resolution. During internships at various prestigious law firms in Delhi, I had the opportunity to work in various areas of practice in litigation, including Arbitrations, Company Law and  Securities Law, which eventually opened new horizons for me. I began to realise that with increasing tribunalisation and diversification of the legal field, one cannot have a short-term vision. I believe that in our legal profession, initial three to five years are most crucial for self-development and therefore, in order to gain as much practical exposure as possible in my initial years, I ventured in all practice areas by associating with senior professionals specialising in different areas like Civil Trials, Company Law, Arbitrations, White Collar Crimes, Telecommunication Law, Electricity Law, Securities Law, Service Law and Constitutional Law.             

    You have extensive experience representing clients in various high-profile cases before different courts and tribunals. Could you highlight a case that you found particularly challenging or rewarding, and what lessons did you learn from it?

    Many of the cases, argued by me, have been widely reported by news and legal journals, ranging from landmark judgments in Arbitration, Insolvency and Commercial Law issues to the judgments granting bail in Delhi Riots case and establishing the principle that ‘holding weapon is not a fundamental right’. I have worked on numerous high-profile cases, including those involving leading FMCG companies, real estate developers, hospitality group, electricity transmission cos., 2G spectrum allocation trial proceedings, challenging constitutionality of provisions of Companies Act, as well as cases related to SFIO, EOW, ED prosecutions involving hundreds of crores, and SEBI and FEMA violation cases. Each of these cases has been a different learning experience, particularly, in forming strategies to build the case in a manner that achieves the desired relief. 

    I always believe that litigation is akin to a game of chess where you must anticipate three to four steps of your opponent’s preparation accordingly. With time, I have also learned the importance of identifying the “fulcrum of the case”, that one crucial point in the brief around which the case needs to be built. Proficiency in drafting and research is invaluable in devising the right strategy. However, it’s important to emphasize that in my philosophy, I do not discriminate between cases or compromise my level of commitment based on factors such as monetary value or property valuation, or the stature of the individual / organisation involved.  

    Your career includes handling SFIO, EOW, ED prosecutions involving hundreds of crores and SEBI and FEMA violation cases. How do you navigate the complexities of economic offences and regulatory issues while dealing with such cases?

    I have handled economic offences, regulatory violation proceedings and white collar crimes ranging from alleged Ponzi Schemes to alleged manipulation of accounts, incomplete disclosures to regulatory authorities and the 2G spectrum allocation process, where the alleged quantum is in multiples of hundred of crores based on initial investigations., These cases are unique as they require an understanding of accounts, commercial law, criminal intent and ultimate loss or injury caused. Additionally, one must gauge the aggrieved party’s nature of loss or injury caused and accordingly analyse the case. When representing clients in such cases, I adopt the simplest approach of assuming the client is placed at the weakest point and start self-questioning regarding the alleged act as presented, level of involvement shown, possible intent and natural consequences or repercussions on others as well as on the client.  

    Having worked with various senior advocates and legal luminaries, how has that shaped your professional growth and influenced your approach to legal practice? 

    In the past 16 years, I have been fortunate to work closely with many legal luminaries, senior advocates, namely Mr. Mukul Rohatgi, Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Mr. Sudipto Sarkar, Mr. Amit Sibal, Mr. Amarjit Singh Chandhiok, Mr. Dhruv Mehta, Mr. Neeraj Kishan Kaul, Mr. Arvind Nigam, Mr. Ashwini Kumar Mata, Mr. Mohit Mathur, Mr. Vikas Pahwa, Mr. Tarun Gulati, Mr. U.K. Chaudhary and my mentors Mr. Meet Malhotra, Mr. Vivek Kohli and Mr. Sumeet Pushkarna.  

    From my interactions and close work with all these respected senior advocates, I have learned that one must be a master of the facts of their brief. The entire facts, pages and interconnection of different documents must be mapped in your mind so clearly that you can anticipate the questions from the Bench and opponents and be ready with references in the case file instantaneously. While arguing in Court, you cannot leave grip of the facts because sometimes, you need to frame the argument thinking on your feet. Clarity of thought while preparing the case and explaining the case or arguing in Court is the most crucial aspect to be learned.   

    You have worked with government departments such as the Central Government, State Government, departments like Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission, Delhi Transport Corporation, Delhi Jal Board, Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation. How has your experience with these government bodies influenced your approach to handling cases and managing client expectations?

    Working with Government Regulators and Departments has been an enriching experience for me. I have had the opportunity to handle a variety of issues, ranging from defending constitutionality of Acts / Rules / Regulations to defending discretion in approvals, licensing, allotment of tenders, as well as intent and implementation of policies & schemes and also dealing with service law related issues. 

    Being a government lawyer is a position of utmost responsibility. It requires careful handling of confidential files and also defending executive actions, each of which is taken after detailed deliberation and approvals at different levels within the concerned department and ministry. I must commend government departments for their diligence in adhering timelines granted by Courts for preparation of pleadings or compliance with any interim or final decisions. In recent times, government departments have significantly ramped up recruitment of legal officers, leading to an overall improvement in case management at departmental level. 

    As an Advocate-on-Record with a significant presence in the Supreme Court, could you share some insights into the dynamics of presenting cases before the highest court in India? How do you approach advocacy in such a distinguished forum?

    As an Advocate-on-Record, when filing pleadings or presenting cases before the Hon’ble Supreme Court, it is paramount to be thoroughly knowledgeable about the subject matter of the case. Being well-read extends beyond understanding the legal issues at hand, it also entails being familiar with judicial precedents and legal developments pertaining to the relevant statute. 

    The Hon’ble Supreme Court plays a pivotal role in the ongoing process of evolution of law, adapting to changing societal norms and refining legal complexities. This includes redefining principles of bail, fundamental rights, shaping jurisprudence of economic offences or commercial laws. Therefore, it is imperative to possess a strong foundation of legal knowledge when assisting the Bench.   

    Considering your extensive experience, what advice would you give to law graduates who are entering the legal profession today, especially in terms of specialization and adapting to the ever-changing legal landscape?

    As I mentioned earlier, the initial three to five years in the legal profession are extremely crucial for professional development. Certain good practices, such as reading judgments, if cultivated since the beginning, prove invaluable in the long run. When I refer to “reading”, I don’t mean merely skimming legal news or excerpts of judgments available on various portals but reading the entire judgment – the original text. 

    Learning should not be confined to assignments alone. It’s only when you immerse yourself in reading and compiling research subject-wise that you can not only identify your areas of interest but also be well-prepared to adapt to the ever-changing legal landscape in any field of law.     

    Get in touch with Gaurav Varma-

  • ” I like the variety that comes with being a practising advocate. I did not deliberately choose these practice areas, most lawyers don’t get that choice– at least not initially when you’re starting out”- Devyani Gupta, Advocate-on-Record, Supreme Court of India

    ” I like the variety that comes with being a practising advocate. I did not deliberately choose these practice areas, most lawyers don’t get that choice– at least not initially when you’re starting out”- Devyani Gupta, Advocate-on-Record, Supreme Court of India

    This Interview has been published by Pragya Chandni and The SuperLawyer Team

    Could you please share with us the pivotal moments or experiences that led you to pursue a career in law, particularly your journey from your undergraduate studies at National Law Institute University, Bhopal, to earning an LL.M. from Cornell Law School?

    I just went with the flow and ended up where I did. When I was in school, I was very sure that I’ll be studying English Hons. in Delhi University. Most of my classmates in school were heading to DU and I felt like that is where I want to be as well. But I cleared CLAT and allowed myself to be talked into studying law – and boy, am I glad I did! Although I was quite average academically, the five years I spent at Bhopal were very fulfilling. The decision to apply for Masters was also one without a lot of planning behind it –I was in the final year of my course, I had no job and I had no idea what I wanted to do. I made a last minute decision to apply for LL.M.. In fact, some of the admission deadlines for colleges had already passed by the time I got around to applying. My LL.M. year was very enriching and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

    As an Advocate-on-Record at the Supreme Court of India, you have a diverse range of experiences, including representing political parties and government departments. What motivated you to specialize in areas such as commercial law, service law, constitutional law, and election law?

    I like the variety that comes with being a practising advocate. I did not deliberately choose these practice areas, most lawyers don’t get that choice– at least not initially when you’re starting out. You say yes to all kinds of work. For me, this diversity is what keeps the work exciting and interesting.

    During your time at Cornell Law School, you served as an Associate Editor for the Cornell International Law Journal and as a Researcher for the Center on the Death Penalty Worldwide. How did these roles shape your perspective on the legal profession, and how do they contribute to your current work?

    My work as an Associate Editor for the Cornell International Law Journal felt like a natural extension of my work at the NLIU Law Review when I was in Bhopal. I had been a part of the journal since the first year, and continued up till my final fifth year when I was effectively in-charge of the Editorial Board – Content Review. At CILJ, I had an exposure to how much more professional these journals are; you work on tight deadlines, the articles and publications are by well-known academics, the editing is strict, the citations must always be as per the Bluebook. I feel like my editing experience helps me write and draft better. It instills an ability to discern good writing quickly.  

    My time as a Researcher with the Death Penalty Worldwide was shorter. I felt like I had taken on too much, what with all the credits and extra-curricular activities, and could not continue it for longer. 

    Drafting and researching constitute a big chunk of my professional responsibilities, so I’d say, yes, these experiences definitely help me now.  

    From your extensive internship experience, including working at Parekh & Co., Amarchand & Mangaldas & Suresh A Shroff & Co., and others, which experiences had the most significant impact on your development as a legal professional, and how did they influence your career choices?

    I did not do as many internships as some of my classmates and colleagues. But from the ones I did, I got a fair look into the workings of litigation chambers, litigation law firms and corporate law firms. I also got to work with an Intellectual Property Rights team, specifically the patents team of a law firm. Through these experiences, I realised that (A) I’m probably better suited as a litigating lawyer over a transactional one, and (B) I’d rather work with a small team of a few colleagues than with a large team of people. The internship experiences brought that clarity at some point.

    You’ve been involved in varied cases relating to Constitutional matters, and also many election disputes involving RP Act, symbol order etc. Can you share a specific case or experience that challenged you professionally and how you navigated through it?

    I think each case is a new challenge in itself. I cannot think of anything specific at the moment but I am looking forward to a few 7-judge bench matters that are scheduled to be listed where I am involved as the Advocate-on-Record. 

    What made you decide to take the New York Bar Exam? Have you had the experience of handling cases before US Courts as an Attorney and Counselor-at-Law in the State of New York. 

    Most international students in my LL.M. cohort were very keen on taking the New York Bar Exam. On finding that I can easily fulfil the eligibility requirement by taking certain credits from a list of a few select courses, I decided that I will also take the exam and see where it takes me if I pass. I was open to exploring work opportunities outside but I didn’t know what kind of law I wanted to practise. 

    I passed the NY Bar, but I came back to India soon thereafter and joined the litigation chamber of an Advocate-on-Record. The NY Bar qualification is now just an embellishment on my CV. My feet – and practice – are firmly planted in the Supreme Court of India.

     Lastly, considering your rich and varied experiences, what advice would you give to recent law graduates who are embarking on their legal careers?

    There is no straight line to success and everybody’s experiences are different. Don’t compare your path to others’. Stay motivated and stick it out. Showing up is half the battle.

    Get n touch with Devyani Gupta-

  • “Since Insolvency Law is still at a fairly nascent stage, every case brings with it a new set of challenges giving you the opportunity of contributing towards the Insolvency Jurisprudence as a whole”- Himanshu Chaubey, Partner, Edictum Law & Co.

    This Interview has been published by Pragya Chandni and The SuperLawyer Team

    Can you share the journey that led you to pursue a career in law, starting from your education at Hidayatullah National Law University? What motivated you to choose law as a profession?

    Honestly speaking I stumbled upon law by chance. I was always interested in humanities and social sciences but took up a Science in my plus 2. But I soon realised  that I was not very good at it. A friend of mine then informed me that there are these institutions called the National Law Universities and people graduating for these institutions are getting well-paying jobs. It was the first time that CLAT was being conducted for admission to these colleges. I did some research and thought that it might suit my interest. So I must admit candidly that I chose law to avoid doing Engineering and was lured by the promise of a Fat Pay Cheque .  

    As an Advocate-on-Record at the Supreme Court of India, you’ve handled matters of constitutional and national importance. Could you discuss a specific case that stood out to you, and how it shaped your perspective on legal practice?

    Ans. As an AOR one matter which really stood out for me was a case wherein My Client, who is an RTI Activist, was not being allowed to reside within the confines of a District on the basis of false FIR’s registered against him. The FIR’s were registered by the same people against whom action was being taken on the basis of representations made by My Client. The Supreme Court while allowing the Appeal observed and reiterated that the fundamental right of Free Movement and Residence across the Country cannot be curtailed on flimsy grounds. 

    Your experience involves representing clients in various High Courts, dealing with matters related to the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996. Can you share insights into the challenges and strategies you often encounter in this area of law?

    Ans. An Arbitration is nothing but a trial being conducted by a judge chosen by the parties and as per rules chosen by the parties. Therefore every Arbitration has to be approached in the same manner as one would approach a Trial before a Court of First Instance. As is the case with any Trial, even in Arbitration, it is of utmost importance that all the documents and facts, which are essential for establishing the claim, are brought on record. Even though it is said that one should not hide any facts from a doctor and a lawyer, however it is also a part of Human Nature to narrate only those facts which are beneficial to us. Therefore it is our job as lawyers to even extract those facts and documents, which are harmful to us so that we are not blindsided by them during the Arbitration. If you are thorough with your facts then all other challenges are manageable.  

    In your independent practice, you’ve represented clients before the National Company Law Tribunal and drafted appeals before the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal. How did this experience contribute to your understanding of corporate law and insolvency matters?

    As a firm our primary focus is towards commercial litigation and naturally that includes litigation before the NCLT and the NCLAT. Since Insolvency Law is still at a fairly nascent stage, every case brings with it a new set of challenges. That also gives you the opportunity of contributing towards the Insolvency Jurisprudence as a whole. One case that stand out for us, which also then became a landmark judgment with respect to powers of NCLT under the IBC, is the case of E.S. Krishnamurthy v. Bharath Hi-tech Builders Ltd.  We handled that case from the NCLT uptill the Supreme Court and therefore it is very close to our Hearts. 

    As an Associate at Gohil and Singh Law Chambers, you were involved in drafting and researching on petitions before the Supreme Court. Can you share a memorable case and the legal issues you tackled during that time?

    Mr. Pradhuman Gohil, has played a big role in my development as a lawyer. I worked with him for four years and extensively worked on matters before the Supreme Court. There were several cases which helped me to hone my skills as a lawyer. However one case which stands out was a Criminal Appeal in which we were defending a person convicted for murder. The case was based purely on Circumstantial Evidence and primarily based on statements of witnesses. We prepared for that matter for over six months and the hearing went on for 3 weeks. That case had all the issues can can think of a in a Criminal Case, ranging from importance of a Statement under Section 313 CrPC, Completion of Chain in a case of Circumstantial Evidence, Veracity of the testimony of a Hostile Witness, etc. 

    During your association with the office of Mr. Ajit Kumar Sinha, Senior Advocate, you were involved in researching matters before the Supreme Court and High Courts. Can you elaborate on the types of cases you worked on and the legal principles you engaged with?

    Mr. Ajit Kumar Sinha is my mentor in the profession. I did majority of my internships under him and eventually started my career with him. I worked under his guidance for 2 and a half year. During my time with Mr. Sinha, I had the opportunity to work on matters pertaining to mining laws, service laws, Land Laws, Tender Matters etc. I also had the opportunity to assist him in the Coal Scam Matter and the NJAC matter. 

    Given your diverse legal background, from constitutional matters to criminal law and commercial transactions, what advice would you offer to recent law graduates aspiring to build a versatile legal career and those interested in practicing law at a high level and dealing with matters of constitutional significance?

    My Advice to recent law graduates to not restrict themselves to practising only in one area of Law. The Beauty of the profession lies in its diversity and therefore one must try and grab onto all the work that comes their way. One must be a jack of all trades, because that goes a long way at retaining clients. The aim has to be that for your Client you should be the one stop shop. 

    Every person has a different journey and one advice that a friend of mine once gave me is to not compare my journey with that of others. Law, and especially litigation, demands perseverance. You just need to stick around and give your hundred percent, and at the cost of sounding preachy, I must say that there are no short cuts.

    Get in touch with Himanshu Chaubey-

  • “Advocacy is a blend of dedication, strategy, and continuous learning, and I believe in mastering every facet of this noble profession.” – Vikas Verma, Advocate-on-Record at Supreme court of India & founder of KMS Law Firm

    “Advocacy is a blend of dedication, strategy, and continuous learning, and I believe in mastering every facet of this noble profession.” – Vikas Verma, Advocate-on-Record at Supreme court of India & founder of KMS Law Firm

    This interview has been published by Namrata Singh and The SuperLawyer Team

    What initially sparked your interest in pursuing a career in law, and could you share the motivation or experiences that led you to take the Advocate-on-Record (AOR) exam after already having an extensive 15-year career in the legal field?

    From the initial stage of my career, legal profession was passion for me, after passing my LLM, I was involved in Judiciary Coaching, then after that I was appointed as Assistant Advocate General by the Government of Haryana from 2011 to 2014, but I feel that Advocate-on-record is a prestigious position in the Supreme Court and has its own charm.

    Establishing and leading KMS Law Firm is a significant accomplishment. Could you share some insights into the challenges you faced during the initial stages of starting the firm and what motivated you to embark on this entrepreneurial journey in the field of law?

    At KMS Law Firm we have a research-oriented approach and highly experienced team which ensures a quality assistance with an assortment of legal business solutions, ranging from complex transactions. I started my journey with dedication & Hard work. 

    As the Co-Chairman of the All India Lawyers Forum, you likely engage with a diverse legal community. What initiatives or activities do you find most rewarding in fostering connections among the legal professionals across the country?

    As Co-Chairman of AILF, I have organised about 40 webinars during lockdown on different topics of law which were most significant for legal fraternity with sitting and former judges of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. I learnt a lot from the experiences from different speakers/guests who gave valuable insights on legal topics. 

    In your role as Emeritus Assistant Advocate General for the Government of Haryana, what are some of the legal and constitutional issues you advised on, and how did they contribute to the governance of the state?

    As the Assistant Advocate General of Government of Haryana, I was a younger officer of the court in the State of Haryana. I attended and presented before the constitutional court and divisional benches and dealt with different types of cases of Government during the tenure. I took an active part in proceedings of court in state matters.

    As the Managing Partner of KMS Law Firm, you’ve been involved in a diverse range of legal areas, from criminal law to constitutional Law. Can you share a case or experience that stands out to you, something that was particularly challenging or rewarding in your career?

    It was a great experience when I dealt with the most difficult cases of NDPS and argued before the Supreme Court and Justice Indira Banerjee gave good judgement on reducing the sentence and even waived off the fines also. 

    As a firm has a Research-Oriented Approach, could you elaborate on how this approach translates into delivery quality legal assistance to clients? How does the firm ensure its team stays well-informed and updated on legal developments?

    The firm boasts of a Highly Qualified Team to assist the clients with the legal and regulatory framework. The mindset of our team is a special mix of integrity, intelligence, energy, and strategy which is the backbone of our firm. It is this conspicuous character that makes our associates different from others. It is what enables us to be the best for our clients, – their guiding star, and their trusted legal advisor.

    In your extensive experience navigating litigations across various high-profile forums, including the Supreme Court of India and the High Courts, can you share a situation where the courtroom dynamics were particularly challenging, and how did you navigate through it to secure a positive outcome for your client?

    When I dealt with a civil case regarding a land dispute before the court of Hon’ble The Chief Justice of India and the court had made up its mind to deliver the verdict that the land could be divided amongst the parties to the suit. Even our case was on strong footing as the order of the lower court was in the favour of my client, but I tried to give my best before the court and the court finally passed an order in favour of my client.

    For law students aspiring to intern in the legal field, what suggestions would you give them to make the most out of their internship experiences? Additionally. Could you share insights into the types of internship your firm, KMS Law Firm, typically offers and skills you look for in potential interns?

    During the internship experiences, students should do research work and discuss the file, read the bare acts with interpretation and should attend court proceedings so as to know the practical nuances of law. Good communication and drafting skills is what we seek in our prospective interns.

    Balancing a career in law can be demanding. How do you unwind or pursue personal interests outside of your legal commitments? Any hobbies or activities that you particularly enjoy?

    Social Engineering is the best theory in the legal field. I am involved in yoga & Meditation which I enjoy after work. Generally, I like to visit new places for holiday breaks.

    Considering your extensive experience in the legal field and as a mentor to aspiring lawyers, what advice or suggestions would you offer to the coming generation of legal professionals? In your opinion, what can they do differently or better to thrive in the dynamic legal landscape and contribute meaningfully to the field?

    Seven lamps of advocacy are the most significant for every lawyer i.e., honesty, courage, wit, industry, eloquence, legal judgement and fellowship. One should always try to master these all. Also, with the advancement in technology in research work and filing it is necessary to be conversant with the developments in them and use them for one’s progress. Also reading judgment and discussing with seniors gives immense jurisprudential understanding of law. 

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