Category: Founder

This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

With your extensive and varied experience, what initially drew you to the field of law? Was entering the legal profession a conscious decision, or did a specific experience or event inspire you to pursue this path?

My journey into the legal profession was both a conscious choice and an organic evolution, shaped by my upbringing, intellectual pursuits, and lived experiences.

As a child, I was deeply influenced by my father, a Chartered Accountant (FCA) specializing in private tax law. His accounts of tribunal hearings, the complexities of his cases, and the challenges of client management intrigued and inspired me. A self-made man with exceptional intellectual and academic prowess (he was also a topper at Shri Ram College of Commerce) –  his achievements became a blueprint for excellence and perseverance. It was he who instilled in me the qualities of discipline, perseverance, and intellectual curiosity, shaping my approach to both life and law.

Beyond his profession, he was a deeply philosophical man who, from my early years, personally guided me through Eastern philosophy, introducing me to the works of Swami Vivekananda, J. Krishnamurti, Paramahansa Yogananda, and Ramakrishna Paramahansa. These teachings became the bedrock of my ethical compass.

Initially, my academic path led me to literature, where I earned an honors degree in English Literature. This was a transformative period—literature’s deep engagement with human conflict, ethics, and justice refined my ability to empathize, analyze, and articulate complex ideas. Little did I know then that these skills would later become indispensable in my legal career.

Following my graduation, I entered the corporate world, which became both an eye-opener and a catalyst for change. While this phase refined my people and management skills – it also gave me exposure to contract negotiation, drafting agreements, mediations, employment issues and dispute resolution. Corporate workplaces in the early 2000s revealed a stark reality: the pervasive challenges of gender inequality, and workplace harassment, witnessing first-hand how these issues affected individuals, especially women in workplaces. It was here that I saw how the lack of legal awareness perpetuated these injustices, planting the seeds for my eventual pivot to law.

What ultimately solidified my decision to enter litigation, however, were deeply personal experiences— exposing me to the rigours of the justice system of the country. These experiences were both humbling and galvanizing, reinforcing the urgency of having strong legal advocacy for those who feel powerless.

In retrospect, law was never just a profession for me—it was a calling. It is what gives my life meaning and purpose as an individual and woman. It gives my life meaning and purpose, both as an individual and as a woman. I can’t imagine myself in any other field. Litigation is a tough career, but it fuels my passion and desire for learning, empowers me, and, most importantly, allows me to empower others in their pursuit of justice.

In the early stages of your career, working with various organizations, what experiences helped shape your understanding of the law? Which experiences were most influential in your growth and advancement in the legal field?

I was fortunate that in the initial stages of my career, I had the opportunity to hone my skills across a broad spectrum of courts, from the District Courts to the Appellate Courts. Practicing in District Courts provided me with a solid foundation in procedural laws, particularly in family law pertaining to matrimonial disputes, child custody and criminal law. I gained invaluable firsthand experience in criminal law jurisprudence understanding the initiation and progression of criminal cases inter-alia from the filing of FIRs to the conduct of trials and sentencing including anticipatory bails, regular bail and subsequently the natural transition to appellate work which encompassed appeal against conviction, first appeal from first order, commutation of sentence et all.  

My practice before the High Court and Supreme Court significantly enhanced my understanding of appellate law, particularly in the area of writ jurisdiction Article 226, 227 and Article 32 of the constitution of India, which has become one of my areas of specialization. A noteworthy case during this period was a PIL before the Allahabad High Court, where the Hon’ble High Court banned the import of Khas Khas from Turkey. The petitioner represented by my senior had sought an investigation into these imports, which were linked to funding arms smuggling. The court’s decision underscored the critical connection between trade policies and national security. This journey eventually led me to white-collar crime cases, where the complexities of financial frauds and corporate misconduct required a nuanced and strategic approach. At the same time, drawing from my corporate background, I continued to work extensively on negotiation and arbitration. One notable case involved an arbitration matter for a company based in Laos, which required navigating cross-border legal and commercial complexities.

Furthermore, I have been extremely fortunate that in the early stages of my career, I had the privilege of learning from seasoned lawyers and Senior Advocates, which laid the foundation of my legal understanding. One of the most formative experiences was assisting Senior Advocate Ms. Meenakshi Arora in a dowry death case before the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. This complex appeal against a conviction provided invaluable insight into criminal law, appellate advocacy, and, most importantly, the meticulous preparation required for a criminal appeal before the Apex court.

Equally impactful has been my work in corporate and company law, particularly with Petronet LNG Ltd. wherein I have drafted, prepared and represented the Board of Directors as well as MD & CEO of the company in matters pertaining to disciplinary proceedings and termination (board-related issues and compliance with the Companies Act, 2013) in writ petitions under Article 226 and Letter Patent Appeal. The notable case Rajeev Agrawal v. Union of India is another reported judgement wherein the Hon’ble High Court of Delhi upheld the legality of disciplinary proceedings initiated by the company. This case was among the first to interpret Section 178(2) of the Companies Act. 

As counsel for Petronet LNG in the aforesaid matter, I’ve had the privilege of briefing some of the country’s most respected Senior (Sr.) Advocates, including Solicitor General of India Mr Tushar Mehta, Former ASGI Mr Sanjay Jain, Sr. Advocate Dushyant Dave, Sr. Advocate, Mr Sidharth Luthra and Sr. Advocate Ms. Meenakshi Arora, Sr. Advocate Mr Sandeep Sethi among others. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my advocacy skills and understanding the nuances of working in high-stakes matters.

Another pivotal experience has been representing Uttar Pradesh Power Transmission Corporation Ltd. in diverse cases which has deepened my knowledge about Electricity laws, including the landmark case before the Hon’ble Supreme Court in relation to indirect taxes (labour cess) BOCW act 1996. In this reported judgement, the Hon’ble Apex court clarified that an arbitration clause does not bar remedies under Article 226 of the Constitution, even in contractual disputes. This judgment not only set a significant precedent but also taught me the importance of navigating the interplay between constitutional remedies and arbitration law. This matter, widely reported in law journals and magazines, gave me invaluable exposure to litigating across various forums including APTEL (Electricity Tribunal) Hon’ble High Court of Allahabad and Delhi, as well as the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India.

However, what I have come to appreciate the most about my legal journey is witnessing the dynamic evolution of the law and the enactment of significant legislations that have shaped the legal landscape. As a legal professional, witnessing the enactment of the POCSO Act, 2012 and Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013 (post the Vishakha Judgement), was a significant victory for child and women protection in India. Prior to this legislation, child abuse cases were inadequately addressed under the Indian Penal Code, which was hugely challenging as a lawyer because the older legislations did not address the various violations that a child is subjected to. The significant changes in arbitration law, particularly with the introduction of the Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Act of 2015 and subsequent amendments have made the enactment aligned with international best practices. This constant evolution of the law, responding to societal needs and global benchmarks, has been rewarding to engage with as a legal professional. 

What inspired you to establish your own legal practice? Were there particular challenges you faced initially, and what factors led you to take the leap into starting your own practice?

Establishing my own legal practice was non-negotiable for me, inspired by my late father’s vision and the values he instilled in me. A successful chartered accountant with a thriving private practice in tax law since the 1970s, my father exemplified the principles of hard work, a client-centric approach, empathy in the profession, and the importance of autonomy over one’s work and time. Watching him navigate his career left a lasting impression on me and shaped my aspirations.

While I eventually established my practice, I spent the initial decade of my career in the corporate world, working with firms that primarily served North American and UK clients. This global and multidimensional experience not only broadened my perspective but also honed essential skills like professionalism, clear communication, and efficient case management. I learned how to create detailed case status reports, track deliverables meticulously, and meet international standards for client servicing—all of which have become integral to my practice today.

These early experiences also reinforced the importance of building a practice that balances professionalism with empathy, ensuring that every client feels supported and understood.

Of course, there are challenging days. Despite significant strides toward gender equality, women are not “heard” enough in court rooms and remain underrepresented in the judiciary and in senior positions within law firms. This makes persevering in the profession undeniably tough, as pressure to prove one’s competence is undeniably higher for women in the legal profession. As one counsel aptly noted, “the bar is higher for us.”

That said, true joy in accomplishment comes from overcoming challenges and obstacles along the way.

Furthermore, having an independent practice allows me the autonomy to manage my own cases while still engaging with Senior Advocates in high-stakes matters and collaborating with senior counsels on national-level cases. Working with such seasoned professionals not only enhances my legal knowledge but also underpins the importance of maintaining integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence in every case I handle.

This balance has been instrumental in my growth, enabling me to learn from the best while building my own path and niche in the profession. 

In criminal law, particularly in cases involving white-collar crimes or financial frauds, how do you approach these complex issues? Could you share a particularly fascinating case that stands out to you?

First and foremost, it’s important to acknowledge that white-collar crimes are rarely straightforward. They often involve intricate layers of collusion, procedural lapses, and complex legal issues. Successfully navigating these cases requires meticulous preparation, strategic foresight, and the ability to adapt to evolving circumstances.

My approach begins with a disciplined process that I refer to as the “discovery phase.” This phase involves an intensive discussion with the client to thoroughly understand the factual matrix, their position in relation to the case, and the specific grievances they are seeking to address and the relief they are seeking. Reviewing all relevant documents, transactions, and communications is critical to uncovering the core issues and formulating a strategy.

When representing clients who are apprehended or incarcerated, the approach shifts slightly. My co-counsels and I have often visited clients in custody to gather complete information directly from them. Each case depends significantly on the nature of the client’s involvement—whether they are the aggrieved party seeking relief or a defendant in need of defense. This tailored approach ensures that we build a robust case strategy aligned with the client’s needs and the complexities of the matter.

Additionally, I place great importance on revisiting the relevant acts and applicable laws for each matter. It’s a habit I’ve observed even among the most seasoned counsels, such as Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, who I have observed in court emphasize the value of studying the bare act every time. This practice ensures clarity and precision in interpreting the law. Equally important is studying landmark judgments from the Supreme Court and High Courts on critical aspects of white-collar crimes. These judgments provide valuable insights, particularly on issues such as interpretation, recording of statements, admissibility of evidence, and bail considerations for accused and co-accused individuals.

This foundational work is critical in developing a robust legal strategy that not only addresses the immediate legal issues but also advise the clients on their legal remedies safeguarding their best interests. Maintaining the highest ethical standards and client confidentiality is paramount in these cases

As a first-generation lawyer—and a woman in this field opportunities to handle high-stakes, complex cases have not always come easily. I have been fortunate to work under the guidance of some of the finest legal minds, including Mr. Shishir Prakash Advocate, a fourth-generation lawyer, whose mentorship has been instrumental in shaping my approach to white-collar crime and associated criminal matters.

One case that stands out in my career was a complex financial fraud involving embezzlement of hundreds of crores involving a deemed university from a reputed Bank. We represented the bank. The case was multifaceted, requiring us to address systemic collusion, navigate ongoing investigations, and safeguard the bank’s interests. 

Representing the bank, we uncovered evidence of collusion, the potential influence of the university and the sluggish pace of the police investigation and advised filing a petition in the Hon’ble Allahabad High Court for a court-monitored investigation through an SIT. The investigation resulted in 24 individuals being charge-sheeted, including senior university officials.

A key challenge was addressing the banking principle that unauthorized payments obligate indemnification. We presented the unique circumstances to the RBI, which deferred any indemnification until the trial concluded. Notably, the university refrained from filing recovery claims. The HOD of the university challenged the charge sheet under Section 482 CrPC before the High Court, which rejected the plea in a detailed judgment. The order was further challenged before the Hon’ble Supreme Court, which dismissed the SLP and directed the trial court to frame charges and expedite proceedings. As a result, the SIT completed the investigation, and 24 individuals were charge-sheeted, including key officials. 

This case was a masterclass in handling the complexities of white-collar crimes. It required navigating criminal liability, regulatory compliance, and the intersection of civil and criminal law. The outcome safeguarded the bank’s interests and underscored the importance of proactive measures by financial institutions in addressing fraud.

Most recently, my involvement in the Chhattisgarh money laundering Liquor Scam has been a highlight of my legal career. This case, of significant national importance, involves allegations of money laundering and corruption spanning multiple jurisdictions. Representing key stakeholders required navigating civil, criminal, and PMLA and PC Act domains while managing overlapping investigations by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Economic Offences Wing (EoW), and State Task Force (STF). Assisting Senior advocates such as Ms. Meenakshi Arora and Mr. Yatin Oza on this case has evolved and sharpened my legal acumen and jurisprudence of bail law in PMLA cases significantly. 

Having worked on intellectual property rights and cyber law matters, how do you perceive the increasing significance and challenges of these areas in the digital age?

In a country where internet usage is growing exponentially—with India leading in social media consumption—the next generation must be prepared to navigate digital challenges responsibly. Cyber fraud and scam have off late become alarmingly common, with even close friends and family members falling victim, losing significant sums to scams.

Adding a new layer to this discourse is the emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI has brought incredible possibilities but also complex legal and ethical questions. For instance, Justice Pratibha Singh, a sitting judge of the Hon’ble Delhi High Court and a distinguished IP lawyer in her practice days, recently held a training session for lawyers at the Delhi High Court wherein she raised a thought-provoking question: If AI creates an original work, would it be protected under intellectual property laws, and if so, who would own the rights—the programmer, the user, or the AI itself? These questions are at the forefront of today’s legal discourse.

That said, there are immense positives to the integration of technology and AI into the legal field. I recently presented a white paper titled “Reimagining Justice in the 21st Century: AI and the Future of Judicial Decision Making” at the Ad Meliora 5 International Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Law, and Ethics, organized by the Christ Academy Institute of Law, Bengaluru. In my paper, I explored how AI could enhance judicial processes by improving efficiency, accuracy, and access to justice. At the same time, I raised pertinent questions: Can AI replace the empathic and intuitive dimensions of human decision-making? How can we balance the potential of AI with the necessity for human oversight in the judicial process? This exploration highlighted the duality of technology as both a tool for progress and a source of complex challenges.

My practical experience aligns with these broader reflections. One notable example is my work on enforcing intellectual property rights in the case of Dr. Kumar Vishwas vs. Zomato India & Ors., where I represented Dr. Kumar Vishwas in a landmark moment of my career. The Delhi High Court permanently restrained Zomato from using his iconic poem, *Koi Deewana Kehta Hai*, without authorization, underscoring the critical importance of protecting creative rights in the digital age. Similarly, my work with artists and creators has reinforced the importance of safeguarding intellectual property in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. For instance, I represented a Dubai-based artist in a copyright infringement case involving an advertising campaign by a leading jeweller in the country. I am pleased to report that we successfully averted protracted litigation by resolving the matter amicably through an out-of-court settlement. There are several matters but the moot point is that there is an urgent need for vigilance and robust legal mechanisms to uphold their rights in an increasingly interconnected world.

My work in these areas extends beyond litigation to education and advocacy. For example, I have conducted workshops for children from Grade 6 through senior school, helping them understand their internet rights and responsibilities. Topics such as cyberbullying, online privacy, and digital safety are crucial, especially when young children and women are disproportionately affected by cybercrime. In my view, Legal studies, particularly focusing on cyber law, should be made a mandatory part of senior school curriculums. One of the things I strongly advocate for.

With your experience practicing in both the Supreme Court and High Courts, how does the litigation process differ when representing clients at the Supreme Court compared to High Courts or tribunals? Additionally, how do you prepare for complex cases involving constitutional writs and appeals in criminal cases?

Practicing in both the Hon’ble Supreme Court and the Hon’ble High Courts has been a fascinating journey, as each forum demands a unique approach. The Hon’ble Supreme Court, the top court in the country primarily deals with matters of constitutional importance and substantial questions of law, requiring arguments that are concise, strategic, and grounded in precedent.

One striking difference is the time allocated to argue cases. In the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, particularly in special leave petitions (SLPs), lawyers often have just a matter of minutes to present their case and make an impact. This means every word, every argument, and every reference must be meticulously planned to resonate with the bench. It’s a test of precision and clarity. In High Courts, however, one generally has more time to build and present the case, engaging more deeply with the factual matrix and legal nuances. Furthermore, for constitutional writs, the focus is on articulating fundamental rights violations and aligning the arguments with constitutional principles. Criminal appeals require a meticulous examination of trial records, focusing on procedural lapses, evidentiary errors, or any miscarriage of justice that warrants appellate intervention. In appeals from High Court judgments, a thorough examination of the judgment is essential. One cannot mechanically file appeals simply to satisfy a litigant’s demand or burden the courts unnecessarily—a practice that often exacerbates the issue of judicial backlog.

I must mention that the role of an Advocate-on-Record (AOR) in the Supreme Court is pivotal to the success of any case, as they bear the responsibility of not only filing pleadings but also ensuring compliance with procedural requirements and maintaining a strategic approach to case management. Working with an AOR like Mr. Mohit D Ram, who brings unparalleled expertise and insight to the table, has been an invaluable experience. Working with AOR Mohit has reinforced the power of collaboration—where a strong, cohesive team enhances efficiency, sharpens legal strategy, and ultimately drives success in complex cases.

Representing clients in the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India comes with heightened responsibility, as it is often their last avenue for seeking relief. There’s a significant emotional and professional weight to delivering results in this forum.

In bail matters, however, which directly impact an individual’s liberty, the urgency and gravity of the situation demand swift filing and a well-prepared case that convincingly demonstrates why bail should be granted regardless of the legal forum. Here, Articles 21 and 22 become central to ensuring that due process and personal freedoms are safeguarded.

My process is rooted in thoroughness and organization. I prioritize gathering detailed information from my clients, ensuring no critical fact is overlooked. This includes a meticulous examination of evidence, careful drafting of submissions, and pre-emptively addressing potential challenges. I believe that a strong foundation of facts and a clear legal strategy are indispensable for success in any matter.

Ultimately, each case, regardless of the forum, is an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the pursuit of justice.

As someone actively involved in pro bono work for child rights organizations like Pratyek.org.in and ICCHR, can you share more about your contributions to child protection under the POCSO Act? What drives you to focus your legal expertise on social causes, and how do you balance pro bono work with your other professional responsibilities?

Balancing pro bono work with my other professional responsibilities requires careful planning and time management. I allocate specific hours each week to pro bono cases and ensure that my commitments to paying clients and high-stakes matters are met without compromise. It’s not always easy, but I’ve found that the sense of purpose and fulfillment I gain from pro bono work invigorates me and enhances my overall practice. 

I am privileged to be on the panel of Pratyek.org.in as part of their child protection team, where I provide legal guidance and advice on cases of child sexual abuse under the POCSO Act. My contributions include assisting in navigating the complexities of these cases to ensure that children receive the protection and justice they deserve. Recently, I conducted a workshop on the United Nations General Comment 27, focusing on access to justice for children and its implications. It was an opportunity to highlight how justice systems can be made more inclusive and accessible for young people. 

Additionally, I contributed to the endorsement of the Election Commission of India’s 2024 guidelines on children’s involvement in election processes. This initiative focused on safeguarding children’s interests and ensuring that their participation, directly or indirectly, aligns with ethical and legal standards.

I also regularly provide legal advice to women aggrieved by domestic violence, particularly those from modest socioeconomic backgrounds, such as domestic workers and staff. It is shocking to see how many women are unaware of their rights and continue to endure violence and abuse at home. Even something as fundamental as securing their Streedhan—a legal entitlement meant for their financial security—is often overlooked or denied, leaving them vulnerable and without recourse. So one can imagine the lack of awareness pertaining to legal rights in our country and across spectrums.

I make it a point to speak to young girls whenever I get the opportunity, educating them about their legal rights and the importance of empowerment. In October 2023, I was invited to a university to conduct a workshop on Women’s Autonomy.

My passion for these causes stems from a deep belief that access to justice is a fundamental right, not a privilege. 

I also take up causes independently, advocating for change where I see injustice. In 2022, I noticed that CBSE required students to mandatorily mention their father’s name on the OMR sheet, disregarding the realities of single-parent households and in violation of ABC Vs. State (NCT of Delhi), AIR 2015 SC 2569, which emphasizes that the welfare of the child is paramount, and the father’s name is not mandatory to be mentioned. Recognizing the discriminatory nature of this requirement, I wrote to CBSE and the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR). The Education Cell of NCPCR promptly took cognizance of the issue and wrote to CBSE, urging immediate action. They highlighted the mandatory inclusion of the father’s name as discriminatory against children raised by single mothers and referenced the Hon’ble Supreme Court’s judgment.  Acting on these directives, CBSE revised their OMR sheets promptly.

Under my pro bono work, I represented an RWA President before the UP Pollution Board and assisting the residents of Sector 50 noida in presenting the residents’ plea against the construction of an upcoming mall in a residential area. These efforts reflect my ongoing commitment to advancing justice, inclusivity, and community welfare.

Given the demanding nature of your practice and your involvement in multiple legal domains, how do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

For me, maintaining mental health is not just intentional—it’s an occupational necessity!

This is an issue I’ve written about in my article published on SCC Online, “Are Women in Litigation Disproportionately Affected by Mental Health Concerns? Unpacking the Intersection of Women, Litigation, and Mental Health.” In the piece, I discussed how women, particularly in litigation, face unique mental health challenges due to systemic biases and the high-pressure environment. But this isn’t just about women—it’s about the legal profession as a whole. 

The legal profession, by its nature, exposes us to stress and emotionally intense situations whether it’s dealing with traumatic case histories, high-stakes decisions, or simply the pressure to always be at our best. Lawyers and judges often carry the emotional weight of the cases they work on, yet we’re expected to maintain this veneer of resilience. That expectation can make it difficult to seek support or even acknowledge the toll it takes. 

Recognizing this gap, I started The Inner Lawyer, a pro bono initiative on social media to raise awareness about mindfulness and mental health within the legal community.

Personally, I was fortunate that my father introduced me to Vipassana meditation during my teenage years, which laid the foundation for mindfulness in my life. Meditation, journaling, listening to classical music (both Indian and western) and moments of quiet reflection are parts of my routine. 

Lately, I’ve discovered that humor is one of the most powerful remedies for stress. As lawyers, we spend most of our days with a frown, whether it’s dealing with the intricacies of case law or the pressure of clients or opposing counsels or facing adversarial courtroom situations. So, when a Judge or a Senior Advocate lightens up the mood, it’s a welcome relief! Given the gravity of our profession, not taking life too seriously is a valuable perspective. I also enjoy watching light-hearted shows and stand-up comedy—it’s a great way to unwind and decompress! Zakir Khan and Jimmy O. Yang are among my favourites. 

For young legal professionals aspiring to build a diverse and broad legal career, what advice would you offer based on your own experience and journey?

For young legal professionals, especially the first generation lawyers aspiring to build a diverse and impactful career, my advice is rooted in three key principles: purpose, preparation, and perseverance.

First, define your why. Ask yourself why you want to pursue law and what drives you. Is it the allure of courtroom drama, the intellectual challenge, or a deep desire to make a difference? Your purpose will be your compass, guiding you through the highs and lows of this demanding profession.

Second, invest in preparation. Law is a discipline that thrives on knowledge and understanding. Cultivate critical thinking. Read widely—beyond legal texts. Literature, philosophy, and history provide context to human behavior and the societies we serve. Works by Charles Dickens, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and even contemporary writers like Shashi Tharoor have shaped my perspective, as much as the jurisprudence of Isaiah Berlin, Joseph Raz, and Catherine MacKinnon. Law is deeply intertwined with life; the more you understand the world, the better you’ll serve it. Also, engaging with their philosophies adds depth to a lawyer’s understanding and personality – both.

Third, cultivate perseverance. Success in law isn’t just about intelligence; it’s about grit and the willingness to keep going when the path gets tough. This profession demands long hours, emotional resilience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. And here’s something many young lawyers get wrong—it’s not about being aggressive or raising your voice to make your point. The best advocates I’ve seen are composed, clear, and persuasive, winning arguments with substance, not volume. Respect for the bench, seniors, and the legal process is non-negotiable—these relationships and values will shape your growth as a professional.

Finally, as lawyers, especially in today’s conflict ridden world and escalating disputes, we need to rethink the role we play. The world now needs more mediators, problem solvers, and those committed to finding resolutions. And Lawyers have the unique privilege of truly making a difference in someone’s life. Imagine mediating a family dispute, helping a couple opt for an amicable divorce instead of a contentious one, or counselling clients to pursue peace rather than retribution. As lawyers, we must assess whether a matter truly belongs in litigation or if it can be resolved through mediation or negotiation.

Ultimately, an aggrieved party looks up to the judicial system for a speedy resolution, not just representation or protracted litigation. It is our duty as officers of the court to also counsel our clients and discourage frivolous and  malicious litigation because that not only clogs an already overburdened judiciary but in my view is a disservice to the country and the justice system.

As Justice Krishna Iyer put it: “Law is meant to serve the living and does not beat its wing in the jural void.”

Find your purpose, prepare diligently, and persevere—because the impact of a good lawyer extends far beyond the courtroom.

Get in touch with Karuna Krishan Thareja –

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