Super Lawyer

Category: Interviews

  • “Success, for me, is not just about individual achievements but the legacy we build through our work and the impact we have on those around us.” – Yashwant Rai Grover, Managing Associate at Inttl Advocare 

    “Success, for me, is not just about individual achievements but the legacy we build through our work and the impact we have on those around us.” – Yashwant Rai Grover, Managing Associate at Inttl Advocare 

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

    Could you please walk us through your journey in law and share what inspired or motivated you to choose this career path? Was there a particular moment or influence that played a significant role in your decision to pursue a career in law?  

    My journey in law began in a family deeply rooted in the legal profession. From a young age, I was captivated by the sight of my grandfather donning his black coat, a symbol that became one of my earliest memories. Accompanying him to court, I was mesmerized by the lawyers’ confidence and grace, which left a lasting impression on me and ignited my passion for the legal field. This early exposure naturally led me to develop a fascination with the profession and its practitioners. When it came time to choose a career, I instinctively gravitated towards law.

    Intellectual Property Law is a specialized field with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Was IPR always your first choice for a legal career, or did it become a more appealing option as you progressed in your studies and early professional experiences? How did you come to decide to continue your career in this area?  

    While Intellectual Property (IP) law was not initially my first choice, it became increasingly appealing as I progressed through my studies and early professional experiences. My internships with multinational corporations such as PepsiCo and Airtel exposed me to the dynamic and innovative world of IP law. These experiences allowed me to see firsthand how legal principles could protect and promote creativity and innovation. My passion for art and music further fuelled my interest in this field, as I found great satisfaction in working on cases that intersected with my personal interests. Over time, I realized that specializing in IP law would allow me to combine my professional skills with my creative passions, making it a natural and fulfilling career choice.

    As Oprah Winfrey wisely said, “Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.” Choosing to specialize in IP law was a defining moment in my career, as it enabled me to combine my professional work with my personal passions.

    In your role as the Head of Trademark, Copyright & Design Prosecution, what strategies do you implement to manage and grow your clients’ portfolios effectively? Can you share a success story that highlights the impact of your approach?  

    In my role as the Head of Trademark, Copyright & Design Prosecution, I specialize in advising diverse industries on all aspects of trademarks, copyrights, and designs. This includes conducting clearance searches, managing applications, and strategically developing and overseeing global trademark, copyright, and design portfolios. 

    I am recognized for my analytical skills, exceptional multitasking abilities, and proficiency in liaising with international law firms, clients, and other external agencies. I have represented our firm in numerous sessions, speaker series, and international and national networking events. Additionally, I have successfully argued numerous challenging cases before the Trade Marks Registry and the Design Office.

    My strategy involves thorough preparation, anticipating potential challenges, and understanding the preferences of each Judge, Registrar, or Hearing Officer. While legal knowledge is fundamental, the key to success lies in effective presentation and maintaining the willpower to reach logical conclusions. Out-of-the-box thinking is essential for a lawyer’s success.

    One notable success story involves representing a client for the trademark “Church *****” for alcoholic beverages, specifically wine. The hearing officer initially hesitated to accept the mark, fearing it might offend religious sentiments. Recognizing that conventional arguments would not suffice, I argued that the use of the word “Church” was appropriate, citing that Jesus himself turned water into wine, thus it would not offend but rather be appreciated. This argument was accepted, and the mark was registered. This case exemplifies how understanding the situation and presenting compelling arguments can lead to success, even beyond strict legal reasoning.

    You’ve had the opportunity to intern with prestigious organizations like Sanders Ortoli Vaughn-Flam Rosenstadt LLP and PepsiCo. How did these internships contribute to your understanding of intellectual property law and shape your career?  

    Interning with prestigious organizations like Sanders Ortoli Vaughn-Flam Rosenstadt LLP and PepsiCo has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of intellectual property law and my career trajectory. My internship at Sanders Ortoli Vaughn-Flam Rosenstadt LLP was an extension of my Master’s in New York, providing me with a unique perspective on how the law is practiced in New York. This experience broadened my outlook and allowed me to imbibe a wealth of knowledge from a different legal environment, enhancing my analytical and practical skills.

    Interning with PepsiCo (and Airtel) offered me invaluable insights from the client’s perspective. These experiences taught me how corporate departments function and the importance of tailoring legal advice to meet the needs of business teams. I learned that while legal expertise is crucial, the ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly and concisely is equally important. This understanding has been pivotal in my approach to providing practical and business-oriented legal solutions, ensuring that my advice is not just legally sound but also easily comprehensible and actionable for clients.

    How do you balance your professional responsibilities with your personal hobbies and interests? Can you tell us about a hobby or interest that helps you unwind and perhaps even inspires your professional work?  

    For me, listening to music is a wonderful way to unwind. It helps me relax and often sparks creativity, which can be surprisingly beneficial in my professional work. Spending quality time with family and friends is another essential aspect of my life. These moments of connection and laughter provide a much-needed break from the demands of work and help me return to my responsibilities with renewed energy and focus.

    I also try to make time for physical health by going to the gym—sometimes. While my attendance might not be as consistent as I’d like, the effort to stay active is important. Physical exercise not only attempts to keep me fit but also clears my mind, making me more effective and focused in my professional tasks.

    Ultimately, maintaining a balance between work and personal life allows me to stay motivated and inspired. It ensures that I can give my best both in my career and in my personal relationships, leading to a more fulfilling and well-rounded life.

    As a recognized leader in intellectual property law, what advice would you give to young professionals entering this field? What skills and qualities do you believe are essential for success in IP law?  

    As emphasised above, my advice to all young professionals would be to spend more time in the preparation of your case, be able to ascertain all of the twists and turns that may happen and know what your response will be. Each Judge / Registrar / Hearing Officer has a way of dealing with a case. The best way is to know what would trigger them.

    At the end of the day, everybody can learn the law, it’s about how you present yourself to get your case in your favour. As long as you don’t lose willpower and the ability to reach to a logical conclusion, any difficult situation can be handled. Out-of-the-box thinking is what makes a lawyer successful.

    Success is a deeply personal journey, unique to each individual. As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” In the legal profession, where careers are built case by case, visions of success can vary greatly. For some, it’s about becoming a partner at a prestigious firm, winning high-profile cases, and making a significant impact on the legal landscape. For others, success might mean advocating for underrepresented communities, building a practice that prioritizes client relationships, or having the freedom to work on cases you are passionate about.

    There is no right or wrong answer. The key is to define success on your terms. What excites you? What brings you fulfilment? What impact do you want to make? Ambition plays a crucial role in this journey. It drives us to set higher goals, push our boundaries, and strive for excellence. Being ambitious means not settling for mediocrity but constantly seeking growth and improvement.

    Remember, it’s perfectly okay to have a different vision. Your journey is uniquely yours. Celebrate your wins, no matter how big or small, and most importantly, enjoy the ride. Stay ambitious and let your passion guide you.

    Your role involves handling complex intellectual property portfolios for both domestic and multinational clients. How do you approach cultural and jurisdictional differences when advising clients on IP strategies globally?

    Navigating cultural and jurisdictional differences is a critical aspect of our work. We prioritize understanding and respecting cultural nuances, learning about their local practices, market conditions, communication styles, and how our clients operate. Additionally, we stay updated on the latest legal developments in key jurisdictions, collaborating closely with local counsel to ensure compliance with regional laws and leveraging their expertise. 

    Each client’s needs are unique, so we develop tailored IP strategies that consider both global and local contexts, conducting thorough risk assessments and devising strategies that align with the client’s business objectives while mitigating jurisdictional risks. Clear and effective communication is vital, and we ensure our communication is precise, transparent, and adapted to the preferences of our clients, building trust and ensuring alignment on IP strategies. 

    Committing to continuous learning and adaptation, we stay ahead of changes in laws, regulations, and cultural trends, providing informed and forward-thinking advice. By integrating cultural sensitivity, jurisdictional expertise, tailored strategies, effective communication, and continuous learning, we ensure our clients receive comprehensive and contextually relevant advice on their intellectual property matters, regardless of where they operate.

    As someone who has achieved significant recognition early in your career, what personal philosophies or principles do you attribute to your success, and how do you implement them in your day-to-day work?  

    Achieving recognition early in my career has been a rewarding journey, and I attribute my success to a few core personal philosophies and principles. Foremost among these is the importance of staying humble. Humility allows us to remain open to learning and growth, recognizing that there is always more to understand and new perspectives to consider. This mindset helps me build strong, collaborative relationships with colleagues, clients, and mentors, fostering an environment of mutual respect and continuous improvement.

    Diligence is another cornerstone of my professional philosophy. I believe that consistent, dedicated effort is crucial to achieving long-term success. In my day-to-day work, this means meticulously preparing for each case, paying attention to every detail, and anticipating potential challenges. By being thorough and proactive, I ensure that I am always well-prepared to advocate effectively for our clients.

    Implementing these principles involves a few key practices. First, I prioritize continuous learning, and staying updated on the latest developments in intellectual property law and related fields. This not only enhances my expertise but also demonstrates my commitment to providing the best possible service to our clients. Second, I maintain a strong work ethic, approaching each task with the same level of dedication and care, regardless of its size or complexity. This consistency builds trust and reliability, both within my team and with our clients.

    Additionally, I strive to lead by example, fostering a culture of humility and diligence within my team. By encouraging open communication, valuing diverse perspectives, and recognizing the contributions of others, I create an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to do their best work. This collaborative approach not only enhances our collective performance but also contributes to a positive and supportive workplace culture.

    Ultimately, I believe that staying humble and diligent in our work creates a solid foundation for success. By focusing on continuous improvement, maintaining a strong work ethic, and fostering a collaborative and respectful environment, I am able to achieve my professional goals while also contributing positively to the broader legal community. Success, in my view, is not just about individual achievements but also about the impact we have on those around us and the legacy we build through our work.

    Mentorship can play a critical role in career development. Have you had any mentors who significantly influenced your career, and how do you now approach mentorship with junior associates in your firm?  

    Mentorship has been instrumental in my career, with several mentors significantly influencing my professional journey. One mentor, in particular, taught me the importance of integrity, perseverance, and continuous learning, guiding me through complex legal challenges and inspiring me to strive for excellence. Drawing from these experiences, I now approach mentorship with junior associates by actively listening to their concerns and aspirations, providing constructive feedback, and encouraging continuous learning. I strive to lead by example, demonstrating hard work, integrity, and dedication, while fostering independence and celebrating their achievements. By creating a supportive and empowering environment, I aim to help my team reach their full potential and prepare for future leadership roles.

    Get in touch with Yashwant Rai Grover-

  • “Starting my independent practice felt like a calling, but it was like graduating all over again. The learning curve was steep, the hours long, but the support I received was overwhelming.” – Mohit Mudgal, Independent consultant at Mudgal Law Chambers

    “Starting my independent practice felt like a calling, but it was like graduating all over again. The learning curve was steep, the hours long, but the support I received was overwhelming.” – Mohit Mudgal, Independent consultant at Mudgal Law Chambers

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

    Could you please share what inspired you to pursue law, and how your journey from a student to an established advocate shaped your perspective on the legal profession?  

    I am an accidental lawyer. I come from a background of a wide array of professionals, including engineers, doctors, academicians, and armed forces veterans. During my school days, I was keen to serve in the armed forces growing up in a defence household. However, as a turn of fate, I could not take the NDA examination since I was severely unwell on the day of the exam. Luckily for me, at that time, the curriculum for the NDA entrance examination and LLB courses used to broadly overlap, so I could sit for the LLB examinations and qualify for the 5 year integrated law course at Amity Law School, GGSIPU. The thought of pursuing law as a profession, without any familial guidance, was both daunting and at the same time, exciting. As my college was based in Delhi, throughout the tenure of my course, I interned at various law offices practising diverse spheres of law after college hours. This developed my interest in the profession while giving me invaluable exposure to real practice outside of classrooms and an understanding of the legal profession in its practicality. 

    At the inspection of your career, you started working with the magic circle firm –  Clifford Chance. What motivated you to shift your focus to active litigation and dispute resolution in India? How did this transition add a new dimension to your understanding of the law?  

    Around the time of my graduation in 2009, the global economic crisis was going on and the future seemed uncertain. In this background, opportunities and recruitment offers were few and far between. When I got an offer from Clifford Chance’s Indian office (now known as Clifford Chance Business Services) as a campus placement, I decided to take it up – even though it departed from my conventional choice of work –litigation and disputes. Working here provided an entirely new exposure where I was part of international transactions while interacting with top legal brains across the globe. Apart from the learnings in the field of law, this role helped me understand various global professional standards and work etiquette. After having honed my skills in this role for a year, I decided it was time to explore litigation & dispute resolution (my most preferred area of interest during my internships) and don robes!

    In 2018, you established the Chambers of Mohit K. Mudgal. Could you share the story behind starting your independent practice?  

    During my formative years in litigation and dispute resolution, I was fortunate to come across offices that provided great mentorship, a wide array of work and ample opportunity.

    From 2013-2018, I worked in Karanjawala and Co. where I gained invaluable exposure while advising and representing some of the biggest corporate houses and public figures. The issues involved in my work there ranged from complex high-value commercial disputes to matters of public importance being heard by constitutional benches of the Supreme Court. A large part of my work was briefing prominent senior advocates on complex issues which required one to be very thorough – not only with the brief but also with the law. 

    In 2018, I mustered the courage to venture into independent practice. Being a first-generation lawyer, the decision was not taken lightly. Having my practice felt like a calling to me, something I had wanted to do since day one. However, starting independent practice was like graduating all over again – the learning curve was steep and the hours were (and still are) long and exhausting. I was blessed to receive support from all corners – my previous employers, seniors at the bar, and even my peers. I am grateful for the trust bestowed upon me by these people in those initial years of independent practice. 

    As an expert in electricity laws, what challenges do you face in this niche area? How do you see the evolution of energy law in India in the coming years? 

    Electricity law is complex work that requires you to have a keen sector-specific expertise. It needs one to unlearn everything one knows about general legal principles and approach the field with a fresh perspective. The usual tricks of the trade do not always work in these forums, as the subject matter is very technical and the judges/ adjudicators are very clued in to these nuances. There is also a lack of organized dissemination of information when it comes to Electricity Laws. Some of senior lawyers provide

    When I started electricity work in 2018, there were very few established names in this sector. However, the last 6 years, it has seen a mushrooming of both work and lawyers in these tribunals. Given the vision of the country towards electrification of rural India coupled with the transition to green energy from conventional sources,  I believe that the sector shall continue to expand at a rapid and exponential pace over the next 10 – 15 years, at the very least. 

    Alongside your work, you are actively involved in providing legal aid to the needy. How important do you think pro bono work is in the legal profession, and how has it influenced your approach to justice and fairness?  

    I always tell my junior friends at the bar and my office – to be thankful for their privilege and what they’ve received, and always dedicate some time to those who can’t afford to pay for legal services. We make it a point to try and help every such person who knocks at my door and encourage the same in my office. It is a service to society and makes you a better lawyer and human being.  

    With the evolving legal landscape, what advice would you give to young lawyers and law students who aspire to excel in litigation and dispute resolution? What skills should they develop to succeed in today’s competitive environment?  

    While embracing technology in today’s time, the young lawyer can churn out results like never before and in record time. However, in this endeavour, it is paramount not to lose sight of the old-school ways of taking up the rigour and hard work to be well-read and researched.  The gestation period in mainstream litigation is long and young lawyers should not give up easily or early. Do not look at others and yearn for more or feel like you’ve been dealt an unfair hand- the comparator is always yourself. You set your standards and those are the only markers you have to live up to. 

    As someone who has transitioned from a global law firm to running your practice, how do you approach mentorship within your team? What qualities do you look for in budding lawyers, and how do you help them develop their skills and careers?  

    Mentorship is one of the hardest and most rewarding aspects of this profession. It gives me immense pleasure to see my junior colleagues thriving and learning to problem-solve on their own. 

    Ownership and responsibility are something I always look for in budding lawyers. I always throw them in the deep end and give them all the tools and resources they need to do a good job, including guidance from me. I want their ambition and drive to be so high, and their performance so good, that they should be able to replace me on a brief. That is when I know I am doing a good job!

    What qualities do you observe in current law graduates, and where do you think they might be lacking in skills? 

    Current law graduates are mostly worldly wise and confident. However, often this confidence is misplaced owing to the lack of the basic understanding and reading of the law. The practice of law is hard work and dedication which requires one to have immense patience and perseverance. This is a taxing profession and gets the best out of us. Unless we put in the hours, we can never reap the rewards. 

    Given the demanding nature of your work in litigation, arbitration, and mediation, how do you unwind and manage stress? Are there any particular hobbies or activities you enjoy that help you relax and maintain a work-life balance?  

    Music is a part of my daily routine which helps me unwind. I’m catching a live gig over most weekends given the time! I enjoy sports and am a fairly outdoorsy person. I particularly enjoy trekking, boxing, cricket, badminton and the occasional poker game!

    Get in touch with Mohit Mudgal-

  • “Immigration law in India is still underdeveloped, which is why I focused on it. My goal is to educate and empower migrant laborers who often face exploitation, fraud, and other challenges.” – Jose Abraham, Advocate-On-Record at the Supreme Court of India

    “Immigration law in India is still underdeveloped, which is why I focused on it. My goal is to educate and empower migrant laborers who often face exploitation, fraud, and other challenges.” – Jose Abraham, Advocate-On-Record at the Supreme Court of India

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

    Hello, and welcome to yet another episode of SuperLawyer YouTube channel. Today, we have with us esteemed advocate, Jose Abraham, who is Advocate on Record as well. And we are excited to hear his journey, who has authored five books alongside his booming practice and the kind of the connections he has built and the way he represents his clients. Thank you so much for joining us here. Hope you’ll enjoy the interview. Sir, let’s start with the very, very first question and an interesting one I would say that we want to hear your story from your school days till now, the kind of learnings, the kind of pivotal moments that you have gone through in the making of the Advocate on record and the author of five books, Jose Abraham, sir please.

    First of all, Namaskaram to all the viewers of SuperLawyer, and I would like to sincerely thank SuperLawyer for giving me this wonderful opportunity to interact with all of you. The first question is about my journey, from my school days to today.

    I am originally from a remote village in Kerala called Madampam, which is in the Kannur district. It’s a very remote area, and I attended a government school, which was a Malayalam-medium school. The reason I am mentioning this is because, nowadays, people might assume that one needs to come from an elite background or have a convent school education to succeed. So, I want to be honest and share my true background, as it might resonate with some of you and be of help.

    Coming from a remote area and attending a regular school, I am also a first-generation lawyer. During my school years, I developed an interest in reading books and newspapers, which made me aware of the significant role played by the judiciary and the legal profession. This became my motivation, and by the time I was in the 9th and 10th standards, my aim was very clear: I wanted to enter the legal profession.

    For my 11th and 12th grades, I chose humanities, and later pursued my law degree from Government Law College, Kozhikode, which is also in the northern part of Kerala. During my final years of law school, I considered preparing for the civil services. With that ambition, I moved to Delhi.

    However, after a month of civil services coaching, I had a realization. I felt that if a lawyer has the potential to be a civil servant, then a lawyer can contribute even more effectively than a civil servant. This realization came to me very quickly, and I decided to focus on my legal career.

    I began practicing at the Supreme Court, but I didn’t limit myself to just the Supreme Court. The office I joined handled cases from trial courts, high courts, and various tribunals in Delhi, which is a hub of legal opportunities. I took on cases in all these forums and even handled small matters, such as paying fines for traffic challans. These are cases where a lawyer might not even be necessary, but that’s how I started my journey.

    Wow, sir! You knew your passion from childhood. It’s rare to meet someone who decides at such a young age what they want to become and actually achieves it. You’ve been an Advocate-On-Record for over 16 years now. How has the legal landscape in India evolved during this time, and what new challenges have you or your colleagues faced? With the rapid advancements in technology and the constant introduction of new laws, we’d love to hear your thoughts on these changes and how they have impacted the legal profession.

    I would like to divide these 16 years of my practice into two periods: pre-COVID and post-COVID, because COVID has changed everything, including our legal profession. Yes, pre-COVID, there were challenges at that time as well. But after COVID, the whole system has changed. Of course, challenges remain, but I prefer to look at it from a positive perspective. New doors have opened for the legal fraternity.

    Now, a lawyer sitting in a remote place like Rajasthan can attend matters in the trial court, the High Court, and even the Supreme Court, all thanks to COVID and advancements in technology. Nowadays, lawyers can manage multiple cases simultaneously, sitting in their chambers with several devices in front of them. That’s one of the greatest advantages COVID and technology have brought to us. It’s one of the most positive changes I’d like to highlight.

    I also recognize that many law students or newly practicing lawyers might be listening. Virtual streaming is now available, and all courts are on YouTube or other specific platforms. I would like to request all young lawyers and law students: whenever you have time, please watch court proceedings. You can learn a lot by simply observing how things work.

    During my initial days, we would go to court just to see how senior lawyers like Nariman Sir, Arjun Sir, and other legal luminaries addressed the court, persuaded judges, and secured favorable orders. Back then, to witness these events, we had to be present in the Supreme Court, and it was rare to see them in High Courts. Today, however, everyone can watch how the Supreme Court’s constitutional bench handles matters. You can see the top lawyers arguing various cases.

    COVID has, in fact, given us many opportunities along with advancements in technology. There are numerous platforms now. For instance, SuperLawyer, which I believe is a more recent creation, is a result of technology. We are getting more opportunities, more platforms where we can interact and gain a wealth of knowledge. That’s what the present era offers us.

    Sir, beautifully said. The SuperLawyer YouTube channel is a relatively recent addition, but SuperLawyer written interviews have been conducted for over a decade now. This has actually helped us transition to more video interviews, as people often feel more comfortable speaking on camera rather than writing their responses. So, it has been beneficial for us as well.

    With that in mind, sir, I would first like to ask: how do you find the time to write such amazing books? One book, in particular, I’d like to discuss is Indians and Immigration Laws: Concerns and Remedies, which addresses the critical issue of migration in Indian society and explores the legal framework surrounding it. Could you elaborate on your thought process while writing this book and perhaps share some insights into the cases you’ve encountered related to Indian migration laws?

    Yes, as a first-generation lawyer, to establish a successful practice, we need to do multiple things. One of these things is writing books, as it gives the impression that we may be an authority on a particular subject. That’s why many choose to author books. This helps us gain recognition within the legal fraternity.

    I would advise participants and viewers to start writing whenever possible. You can begin by publishing articles in newspapers or journals—there are many available now. Take advantage of these opportunities as they can give you an edge and increase your visibility. Writing, especially authoring books, is one of the best ways to present yourself to your fraternity and potential clientele. It is essential for establishing a solid practice.

    The first book I authored is on immigration. Immigration law may be a well-developed area in most developed countries, but in India, unfortunately, it is still underdeveloped. Very few lawyers focus on this area. I realized that this was an untapped field, so I decided to concentrate on it and write a book about it.

    A large number of Indians migrate to foreign countries for jobs or studies, and this is covered under the Indian Immigration Act of 1983. There are laws and systems in place governing immigration, but the common person may not be aware of how the entire process works. I authored this book as a way to educate and empower ordinary people migrating abroad, particularly migrant laborers and domestic workers heading to the Middle East. Many of them face exploitation on multiple levels, such as fraudulent recruitment agencies, high fees, human trafficking, and bonded labor.

    I wrote this book to help NGOs and society as a whole, particularly those working in the field of migration. It also addresses the broader issues surrounding the migration process. Many cases are now emerging in courts related to recruitment fraud and other issues. When something happens to an Indian citizen abroad, it is often the responsibility of the Indian Embassy to intervene and provide legal support. The high courts can also entertain petitions regarding the kind of legal assistance Indian missions and embassies are supposed to provide if they fail to do so.

    What a beautiful area and as you rightly said that there are very few who are practicing this particular immigration laws in India. Outside India, especially developed countries, they have developed their own immigration system, which is more prominent.

    Sir, given all of this and your connection with NGOs and you being the global president of Pravasi Legal Cell, what inspired you to establish this particular NGO? And what unique legal issues do you actually encounter while dealing with the cases that are related to NRIs?

    In 2009, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to establish an NGO, Pravasi Legal Cell, aimed at providing legal assistance. I came to Delhi in 2007 to start my practice, and despite India being one country, the vast differences in languages and cultures across states made my initial years challenging, particularly as I am from the southern part of India. These early struggles inspired me to create an NGO that would offer pro bono legal aid to migrants, who often face similar challenges.

    That’s how Pravasi Legal Cell was founded. Initially, we focused on providing legal support to migrants in Delhi. At the time, a significant portion of these migrants were nurses from Kerala, who were subject to severe exploitation. There was a bond system in the nursing field that was prevalent between 2009 and 2011. Even though the Constitution abolishes bonded labor and specific legislation exists to prevent it, the bond system persisted in the nursing sector. Nurses, after completing their education and joining a hospital, were forced to sign a bond that required them to work for the hospital for three to five years. If they broke the bond, they had to pay a hefty compensation, sometimes as high as five to seven lakhs.

    In 2009, I filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on behalf of one of these nurses. The Honorable Delhi High Court ruled that such bonded labor practices were not permissible in the nursing profession. The court directed the Nursing Council to issue proper guidelines and circulars to address this issue. Later, we filed another PIL in the Supreme Court, which led to a national resolution of the matter.

    This case was one of the first significant issues Pravasi Legal Cell tackled. Afterward, we gradually expanded our reach to other countries. We started with the Middle East and now have offices in almost all major countries in the Middle East, Europe, and the U.S. Pravasi Legal Cell has established chapters worldwide, and our primary objective is to provide legal aid to those in need and to advocate for policy changes related to immigration.

    What an accomplishment, sir! It’s truly amazing to hear about the changes you’ve brought forward. The kind of discrimination that was prevalent and the way you’ve addressed it is remarkable. I sincerely hope we have more dedicated individuals like you in this field, and that many more will follow. These changes are not only necessary but crucial for ensuring that India becomes one of the best countries on the global stage, both for work and immigration. This is something we constantly face, and addressing it is vital.

    Sir, considering you’re also an avid writer, how do you view the intersection of education and law, particularly the teaching aspect? As the Chairman of Paideia Institute in Delhi, how do you feel legal education in India has improved? Is it paving the way for a better future, and how are we working to make it even more competitive on an international level?

    What are your thoughts on ensuring that our legal education system becomes even more globally compatible than it was before?

    Yes, I have seen a lot of changes and improvements in the legal education system over the last decade, especially with the establishment of national law schools in multiple locations. This has significantly enhanced the quality of legal education in India. During my own law graduation, a systematic education was lacking. There were many law colleges that existed only on paper, and by spending some money, anyone could obtain a law degree. I had heard about many such instances at that time.

    However, as you rightly pointed out, the system has changed. Now, we can see a more structured approach to legal studies. Students who approach us for internships today are highly qualified. The standard of legal education has improved dramatically, thanks to various authorities, including the Bar Council of India and the State Bar Councils. Additionally, multiple orders from the Supreme Court have helped streamline legal education. Now, like IITs and IIMs, law schools are also offering campus placements, and bright students can secure high-paying jobs straight out of college.

    This is a very encouraging scenario. I am also heading an institute called Paidiea Institute, where we provide extensive training focused on capacity building, particularly in areas like POCSO, POSH, and RTI. RTI is one area where we have done a lot of work in spreading awareness about the Right to Information Act. In fact, we filed a PIL before the Supreme Court last year, which led to an order directing all High Courts and state governments to establish online RTI portals. Now, citizens can file RTI applications online, making the process more accessible.

    Paidiea Institute aims to provide training and capacity building to empower ordinary citizens.

    What has your experience been like while practicing in the Supreme Court, the High Court of Kerala, and other High Courts? What differences have you observed in the legal processes? And what are the challenges between these two levels of the judiciary? There seems to be a misconception among people who don’t fully understand the legal system. They often feel scared or think the case could have been resolved earlier, without moving to the Supreme Court. It’s difficult to explain to clients why a case had to escalate to the Supreme Court. How do you handle such questions, and how do you ensure your clients are satisfied with the solutions you find for them?

    In our legal system, we have multiple jurisdictions. At the district level, we have trial courts, at the state level, we have High Courts, and at the top, we have the Supreme Court. The skill set required to practice in these courts can differ significantly. For example, the skills needed in a trial court are different from those required in a High Court, and at the Supreme Court, it’s even more refined.

    In the Supreme Court, especially on an admission day, the court may hear around 80 to 90 petitions in just three to four hours. A lawyer only gets two or three minutes to present a case, and within that time, the court decides whether to admit the case. This requires a very specific skill set to handle such cases at the admission level.

    However, in a High Court, especially in its original jurisdiction, the process is not as fast-paced, and there is more room to present the case. So, yes, different courts require different skill sets. You also mentioned clients who question why a case wasn’t resolved at the first level itself, or why it had to move to the appellate level.

    As lawyers, we can only do our part, but for various reasons, justice may not be achieved at the first instance. That’s why we have a robust legal system with appellate jurisdictions. If there has been a misunderstanding or misapplication of the law, we can seek correction from a higher court. This is the beauty of our legal system.

    Yes, different platforms may require different skill sets, but my personal opinion is that it’s crucial to gain experience at the trial court level. The trial is the heart and soul of litigation, the foundation. If a lawyer can gain trial court experience early in their career, they will have a better understanding of the legal system—how to draft a plaint, how to file a complaint, how to conduct examinations and cross-examinations.

    This trial experience makes the transition to practicing in the High Court or even the Supreme Court much easier. I’ve seen some very talented colleagues in the Supreme Court, but because they lack trial experience, they sometimes feel a sense of incompleteness. On the other hand, a lawyer who has trial court experience often carries a higher level of confidence. That has been my experience.

    There are many aspirants for the AOR exam, but they often don’t know the right approach to prepare or understand the importance of being an Advocate on Record. We would request you to share some of the key details about the kind of preparation one should do, the resources they can use, and the strategies you followed that helped you become an Advocate on Record at such an early stage in your career.

    An Advocate on Record (AOR) is a designation given by the Supreme Court, allowing the advocate to file matters before the Supreme Court. This designation is an added advantage for getting cases in the Supreme Court. Yes, clearing the AOR examination requires significant preparation and effort. The passing percentage is around 10 to 15%, which shows that it requires thorough preparation to succeed.

    Most of the questions or syllabus for the AOR examination are related to the practical aspects of drafting, practice, procedure, and leading cases. These can be mastered through at least one year of practice in the Supreme Court, which will equip you with the skills needed to draft Special Leave Petitions (SLPs), Article 32 petitions, and transfer petitions before the Supreme Court.

    The key to passing the AOR exam is developing practical skills rather than relying solely on theoretical knowledge. Understanding leading cases is also crucial, as it equips you to draft well-supported petitions with settled laws or authoritative pronouncements of the Supreme Court.

    Additionally, knowledge of practice and procedure will inform you on when to file or approach the Supreme Court and how it handles matters under Article 136, Article 32 petitions, or even original jurisdiction cases. The Supreme Court can sometimes entertain original suits directly. These are all practical aspects of litigation in the Supreme Court.

    A year of sincere preparation will certainly help in clearing the AOR examination. The Supreme Court’s website provides access to previous question papers, materials, and the syllabus for the exam. There is a dedicated AOR section with a separate link where all this information can be accessed. I believe even interviews and other helpful resources may be available on other websites or in similar repositories of information.

    Now, I would like to move on and talk about work-life balance, which is such an important topic nowadays, especially when it comes to mental and physical health. How do you balance all of this with the kind of busy schedule you have with your cases? Is it just about hobbies and interests outside of law, or how do you make sure to carve out time for your family as well? I believe that’s one of the most important things, and we’d love to hear your perspective on it. Additionally, I’d like to ask about your views on mental health, especially for lawyers, as we are definitely under a lot of pressure.

    That’s a very interesting and relevant question. A balanced life is essential for any professional. Of course, all of us aim to be successful lawyers, but at the same time, we should also strive to be successful fathers, sons, and brothers. A balanced life enables success in all areas—personal, professional, and community life.

    You see, there are many “super lawyers” with wonderful practices, but some struggle to maintain their family relationships because they can’t make time for their loved ones. There are also lawyers who, by the time they reach 40 or 45, may have impressive careers but are physically weak due to neglecting their health. So yes, Divyaji, your question is very important. We must learn to balance our personal, private, and professional lives. Only then can we truly achieve success. There’s no point in sacrificing one for the other.

    Regarding mental health, it is indeed a growing concern, even for young children. The COVID pandemic gave us opportunities but also challenges, especially with technology. The increase in screen time has reduced personal interactions, whether with family or friends. While technology has its advantages, we must use it wisely to maintain a balanced and successful life. A content and happy life, in essence.

    Beautifully said, sir. Yes, screen time has definitely increased, and there are many perspectives we need to keep in check as the world, and India, continues to evolve. As a successful advocate, what advice would you give to first-generation lawyers who are just starting their practice? What kind of challenges do you think independent litigators face, and how can young lawyers stay motivated? Because often, we have a tendency to give up too early. You didn’t give up and made a name for yourself. Could you share your insights on that?

    Divyaji, it’s always a bit uncomfortable to talk about oneself. And I don’t claim to be a “successful” lawyer, but as a student of law and someone who has been in this profession for 17 years, I can offer a few observations.

    To succeed in this noble profession, certain skill sets are essential, and those can be developed through a committed and dedicated lifestyle. If you are sincere in your profession, it will reward you. Don’t worry if you’re a first-generation lawyer or come from a humble background. These factors don’t matter. A lot of young lawyers come from families with judges or senior lawyers, which may help them in the initial stages, but even for them, this profession requires continuous dedication, hard work, and commitment.

    This is a wonderful profession. Every day brings new challenges—new cases, new judges, new legal issues. The legal system is constantly evolving, so we must update ourselves regularly. Being a successful lawyer requires a unique set of skills, including excellent communication, both in drafting and oral arguments. It’s important to learn how to draft effectively and argue convincingly.

    Maintaining a good relationship with your clients is another key skill. There will be a lot of pressures—financial, familial, and emotional—but you must be able to manage these while staying focused. This profession, which deals with human issues like family matters and disputes, not only shapes us into successful professionals but also helps us become better human beings. That’s one of the most fulfilling aspects of being a lawyer.

    Thank you, Divyaji, for giving me this opportunity to share my thoughts. You’ve asked all the right questions in such a way that I felt comfortable sharing my experiences. Thanks again.

    Thank you so much for your humility and for agreeing to join us, sir. On behalf of the SuperLawyer team, Namrata, and myself, we sincerely thank you. You’ve shared your story so beautifully, even though we often hesitate to talk about our personal lives and motivations. I believe that those watching this video will learn so much from you—how to better themselves in life and in this profession. Once again, thank you for your time.

    Thank you very much, Divyaji, for giving me this opportunity. You are doing such important work by supporting young professionals. Please keep it up. You’ll always have my support, and best wishes to all the participants. Thanks again.

    Get in touch with Jose Abraham-

  • “Mediation is about finding common ground—something I strive for not just in disputes, but in all my professional relationships.” – Sunil Jose, Founder & Managing Attorney at SUNS LEGAL

    “Mediation is about finding common ground—something I strive for not just in disputes, but in all my professional relationships.” – Sunil Jose, Founder & Managing Attorney at SUNS LEGAL

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

    Could you walk us through the pivotal moments and decisions that shaped your career path, from your early days in college to landing your first job, and ultimately, to where you are today? What inspired you to pursue a career in law, particularly specializing in Intellectual Property?

    I have always loved reading and listening to the news and have been deeply interested in politics and social issues. Naturally, becoming a lawyer seemed like the right path for me. After finishing college, I developed an interest in company law and moved to Chennai to start my legal career. The turning point in my career came in 1995 when I happened to watch a court case involving a trademark dispute by chance. I attended all the hearings of that case and had the opportunity to listen to arguments in a few other cases as well. I had a fair understanding of Intellectual Property, but witnessing a court argument over IP for the first time was a pivotal moment for me. This was when India became a member of the WTO, and the controversy surrounding India’s WTO membership and TRIPS agreement conditions was a hot topic. Observing these cases sparked my curiosity and deepened my interest in the subject. This inspiration led me to pursue a master’s degree in IP in 1999.

    After completing my master’s, I had the opportunity to work for a new law firm in the Middle East that sought lawyers with expertise in then trending subject, Intellectual Property. This firm had several foreign clients dealing with IP issues, marking my initial exposure to Intellectual Property disputes. Later, I joined Abu Ghazaleh Intellectual Property (AGIP), which opened doors to working with Forbes 500 clients. My experience at AGIP significantly shaped my career as an IP lawyer.

    Your professional journey includes solo practice as well as working with leading IP firms. What motivated you to establish Suns Legal, and what unique value proposition do you bring to your clients as a solo practitioner?  

     Being a solo practitioner has its perks. For one, I can give each client my full attention, which means I can create legal strategies that are just right for their specific problems. I can quickly adapt to any changes and offer flexible solutions. Running my practice also lets me keep my prices competitive while maintaining high quality. With my expertise in Intellectual Property law and the experience I have gained from working with top firms, I can provide clients with expert advice and solutions. Building long-term relationships based on trust is very important to me. All these factors help me deliver high-quality service and show my commitment to meeting my client’s legal needs with professionalism and care. 

    Beyond your professional accomplishments, you’ve also been recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice for your contributions to thought leadership in Intellectual Property. What motivates you to share your expertise and insights with a wider audience?

    I am not a social media expert, but I love creating content. LinkedIn is the only platform I am active on. My strong belief in the power of knowledge sharing and the incredible reach LinkedIn offers drives me to share my expertise and insights.

    Intellectual Property (IP) is such a complex and evolving field, and I feel a real responsibility to make it easier for others to understand. My passion for teaching plays a big role in my eagerness to write on LinkedIn. By sharing my experiences and insights, I aim to help individuals and businesses get a better grasp of IP issues.

    Engaging with a broader audience helps me stay updated with the latest trends and developments in the field. It also creates a community of like-minded professionals and enthusiasts who can learn from each other. Through LinkedIn, I have connected with many such individuals who regularly interact with me.

    I often get direct messages from people who appreciate my efforts to explain these complex topics in simple terms. It makes me especially proud when teachers tell me they use my insights to help them teach the subject more effectively. That kind of recognition means a lot to me.

    I often find my associates and interns through this platform. While generating leads was not my primary goal, many of my clients have come through LinkedIn. Plus, the platform has allowed me to connect with the vibrant Kerala Creators community, which has been fantastic.

    Being recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice was such a pleasant surprise! I humbly accept it as a testament to my efforts, and it inspires me to keep contributing to the IP community.

    Your extensive experience spans across various countries and cultures. How do you navigate the nuances of Intellectual Property laws in different jurisdictions, and what challenges do you commonly encounter?

    Dealing with Intellectual Property (IP) laws across different countries and cultures can be quite challenging. However, many advantages made the experience rewarding. The basics of intellectual property are the same worldwide, which provides a solid foundation. The support from bilingual lawyers was invaluable. Working with Forbes 500 companies and their lawyers was a rare and valuable experience.

    That said, the challenges were more significant than the advantages. Most Middle Eastern countries follow civil law, while many of my clients are from common law countries. This difference needed careful adjustment. Additionally, Arabic is the main language in most Arab countries, which introduces additional complexities. The judicial systems in these regions were still developing, with few established precedents. IP was a new subject, and there were only a few judges or officers with knowledge of it. Many countries were monarchies, making it difficult to resolve disputes, especially when the other side had the support of the ruling families. The bureaucracy was often not transparent or easily accessible, and there were significant differences in culture and values that needed to be addressed.

    Despite the challenges, I survived and thrived, gaining incredible learning and exposure. It was a journey filled with learning and growth, and I continue to overcome the challenges.

    In addition to your legal expertise, you’re also a Certified Mediator and a Distinguished Toastmaster. How do you think these skills complement your role as a legal professional, and how have they influenced your approach to advocacy and negotiation?

    I have been a Toastmaster for around 15 years, and it has helped me improve my public speaking and leadership skills. In law, effective communication is crucial, whether it is presenting a case in court, negotiating with opposing counsel, or talking with clients. Toastmasters has made me more confident and articulate. It has also significantly boosted both my verbal and non-verbal communication skills, and my ability to handle unexpected questions or situations gracefully. It also taught me how to manage my time effectively and handle spontaneous questions during seminars, classes, and training programs.

    I love mediation. It has always come naturally to me, but I decided to get certified later in my career to validate my skills. Mediation is all about finding common ground and facilitating communication between parties. It has taught me to listen actively, understand different perspectives, and work towards solutions that benefit everyone involved. This approach not only helps resolve disputes but also prevents them from escalating. It plays a special role in settling Intellectual Property disputes, which often demand time-bound solutions.

    These skills have changed how I handle advocacy and negotiation. They have made me more understanding, patient, and thoughtful. I can better understand what everyone needs and worries about, which helps me make stronger arguments and find effective solutions. Overall, these skills have made me a better and more effective legal professional.

    You’ve been involved in numerous high-profile cases, such as advising multinational corporations and assisting in preventing unauthorized use of copyrighted material. Can you share a particularly challenging case and how you navigated through it?

    One of the toughest cases I handled was quite unusual. A Ministry in a Middle Eastern country, which was responsible for handling copyright matters, ended up using a copyrighted design from an internationally known magazine. The irony was that we had to contest a copyright violation against the very government department that oversees copyright issues! This made the situation delicate and complex. 

    After a lot of negotiation and presenting a strong case, we managed to convince the Ministry of the violation they had committed. They eventually agreed to rectify the mistake by removing the copyrighted design. This case was particularly challenging due to the involvement of a government entity, but it was incredibly satisfying to reach a successful resolution. 

    Given your experience in portfolio management strategies, what advice would you offer to businesses looking to safeguard their intellectual property assets in an increasingly digital and globalized world?

    It is very important for businesses to regularly review their IP portfolio to keep track of all assets and identify any areas that might need attention. Registering IP, such as trademarks, patents, and copyrights, in all the places where they do business provides legal protection and makes it easier to defend their rights. 

    Monitoring the market for any unauthorized use of IP is essential. When working with third parties, using clear contracts that outline IP ownership and usage rights helps prevent disputes and ensures proper use. Leveraging technology is another great strategy. 

    Staying informed about changes in IP laws and regulations, both locally and internationally, helps you adapt your strategies to stay compliant and protect your assets effectively. Finally, seeking professional advice from IP lawyers and consultants can provide you with expert advice tailored to your specific needs and challenges.

    On a personal note, what do you enjoy doing in your leisure time? Any hobbies or interests that help you unwind and recharge outside of your demanding legal practice?

    In my free time, I love spending quality moments with my family. Watching movies together is always refreshing, especially when we find one everyone enjoys. I also value the time I spend with close friends; their company is always a joy. Listening to spiritual talks helps me find peace and balance, and I find it very calming. I also enjoy reading psychology books, which offer interesting insights into human behaviour. Attending Toastmasters meetings is something I look forward to as well. It’s a fantastic way to connect with like-minded individuals. 

    You’ve mentored many young law graduates and interns throughout your career. What advice would you give to the current generation aspiring to build a successful career in Intellectual Property or law in general?

    Staying curious and always learning is crucial, as the legal field is constantly changing. Keep your eyes open and stay updated on the latest developments. Networking is crucial, so build strong relationships with peers, mentors, and professionals in the industry. These connections can provide valuable insights and opportunities. Gaining practical experience through internships helps you understand the field better and apply what you have learned. Patience and persistence are essential, as building a successful career takes time and effort. Being a self-starter and giving one hundred percent dedication to your work will make you unique. Loving what you do and always striving to improve will set you apart. 

    Suns Legal has recently completed six years, marking a significant milestone. Could you share some of the key achievements and challenges you’ve experienced during this journey, and how they have shaped the firm’s growth and vision for the future?

    Celebrating six years at Suns Legal is indeed a significant milestone for us. We have had our share of achievements and challenges that have shaped our journey and vision for the future.

    One of the biggest challenges has been keeping up with fast-changing technology, which requires huge investments. During our early growth stage, we were hit by the pandemic, which forced us to adapt quickly to remote working. We also faced extremely high competition, with undercutting and fly-by-night firms making the market tough.

    Despite these challenges, we have had some remarkable achievements. We have built a diverse client base and formed extensive friendships along the way. Stepping out of our comfort zone has allowed us to grow, and we have focused on training young talent and absorbing them into our team. Building trust with our clients has been crucial, and we are now known as experts in our field. This journey has also allowed us to do things we could not do before.

    Looking forward, we aim to develop the firm by focusing on quality and expertise. We plan to expand our team, embrace updated technology, and broaden our service areas. Our goal is to continue growing while maintaining our commitment to excellence.

    Get in touch with Sunil Jose-

  • “Whether in litigation or corporate advisory, balancing dynamic challenges requires not just legal skills but also an entrepreneurial mindset.” – Ramaiya Narayan Sharma, General Legal Consultant at R&R Advocates Law Office

    “Whether in litigation or corporate advisory, balancing dynamic challenges requires not just legal skills but also an entrepreneurial mindset.” – Ramaiya Narayan Sharma, General Legal Consultant at R&R Advocates Law Office

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

    Could you please share what initially sparked your interest in law and how your early experiences at ILS Law College and Crawford Bayley & Co. shaped your legal career?

    Well, an interest in law sparked since it was a technical field for students after high school (12th) who did not want or rather could not become doctors or engineers, could join five five-year integrated law courses. I wanted to pursue a technical field rather than going for a simple graduation of three years and then preparing for civil services (UPSC) or any State government jobs, etc.  The five-year integrated law course was in trend at that time in the year 1998. Further, the third year of the law degree i.e., Bachelor of Socio-Legal Sciences (BSL) of the five-year law course was considered and treated as equivalent to any graduation degree. Hence one had the flexibility to switch from law and pursue a job, take government examinations, etc. after completing the third year of the five-year law course. Lastly, the five-year law course also saved an additional year for those who did not want to graduate from any stream for three years and then pursue the conservative law course for an additional three years.

    As regards ILS Law College Pune, I must say it is a complete institution for shaping someone who wants to make his or her career in law. The campus, the Library and the faculty were at our time and even now the best. At that time in 1998, I also had an offer to join Symbiosis Law College, Pune but I chose ILS for the reasons above.

    After passing out law from ILS Law College Pune, I got placed in Crawford Bayley & Co. Mumbai in their customs and central excise department. It was a Solicitor’s firm where I learnt about how do firms practise and functions. As a novice, I had to do lots of research work, file reading, notes preparation, and brief keeping and assist seniors both in courts as well as back office. Initially working here taught me a lot. 

    From starting as an Advocate Assistant to holding senior roles in renowned companies, how has your understanding of the legal profession evolved over the years?

    I pursued law as a means to earn my bread and butter. Initially, like many, I was unsure of where I would land in this profession because it is such a diverse field. One thing was clear: I had to learn and earn. In my view, what we study or do during our law degree is primarily for passing exams and obtaining a license. The real challenge begins when we have to apply that knowledge practically once we start working. The learning process is never-ending in this profession. Everyone will agree that we are learning every day because the law is always evolving based on facts, needs, and circumstances. Laws are amended, updated, and are dynamic.

    I have learned throughout my journey, starting as an Advocate Assistant in law firms, moving to corporate houses as an in-house counsel and head, and even now as an independent legal counsel. As an in-house counsel, my role focused more on addressing business and commercial needs with the laws applicable to the industries I was supporting. On the other hand, as an independent counsel, I am responsible for ensuring the overall execution of legal strategies.

    As an in-house counsel, I relied heavily on timely feedback and inputs from the business team to achieve the best results. Therefore, networking and maintaining good relationships with the business team were crucial. In both in-house and independent roles, the application of any law, strategy, or action in a given scenario can only be effective when we have the correct and relevant facts.

    Having been part of both in-house and independent setups has given me valuable insight into what is expected from me in any given assignment. Additionally, as lawyers, whether in-house or otherwise, we must stay up-to-date with technology, computers, legal software, and MS Office, as these tools enhance our efficiency and boost overall productivity.

    What motivated you to establish R&R Advocates Law Office in 2020?  

    I have been in a job for a long time either in law firms initially or as an in-house and head legal later with domestic and multinational corporate houses. I wanted to give it a try to independent work. Some of my well-wishers from the industries I worked with, their trust and networking motivated me to establish my office fully in January 2022 although I had initiated the setup in October 2020. 

    With your extensive experience in arbitration, can you share key strategies that have helped you successfully resolve complex disputes without resorting to court battles? 

    The strategies would depend on the stage of the arbitration proceedings one is involved in. If we are defending or initiating arbitration, it may ultimately be difficult to avoid a court battle, as either party is likely to challenge the arbitration award. In my experience, I have not encountered a situation where the parties involved in arbitration have fully accepted the award without further dispute. However, from a commercial standpoint, there may be opportunities for the parties to negotiate before the commencement of arbitration proceedings and mutually agree on a way forward, rather than pursuing arbitration or other legal recourses. This would depend entirely on the commercial aspects, the agreement in place, and the specific facts and circumstances of the case.

    The construction of the agreement is crucial. As an in-house legal professional working with corporates, I always ensured that business agreements were thoroughly vetted, with legal clauses carefully aligned to meet both commercial and industry requirements. This approach left very few loopholes for the other party and allowed us to enforce or negotiate the terms of the agreement in the event of a dispute, thus securing the organization’s rights and minimizing the chances of legal battles in court.

    You’ve worked on matters involving international collaborations, like with IFFCO-TOKIO. How do you navigate the complexities of cross-border legal issues in today’s globalized business environment?

    Before addressing the main part of the question, I would like to mention that while working with IFFCO-TOKIO, I also pursued my Master’s degree in Law (LLM) in 2017 from K.R. Mangalam University. The classes for my Master’s were held after office hours.

    IFFCO-TOKIO operates in the General Insurance sector, and it was crucial to regularly review and adhere to relevant government policies and regulatory circulars to avoid any non-compliance issues that could affect both domestic and international stakeholders.

    Regarding the complexities of cross-border legal issues, it’s essential to ensure that stakeholders and regulatory compliance are properly managed to minimize business risks. Today, technology has advanced to the point where connecting with offshore partners is no longer a challenge. This allows for comprehensive strategies to be planned well in advance, effectively foreseeing and mitigating risks within a set timeframe.        

    You have experience in both litigation and corporate advisory. How do you balance the dynamic challenges of litigation with the strategic nature of corporate legal work?

    The best part of having worked as an in-house counsel with various corporate houses is the exposure to a diverse range of legal issues related to different businesses. This experience has been invaluable in my independent practice, allowing me to better manage the dynamic challenges of corporate legal work. As an independent practitioner, one must also embrace an entrepreneurial mindset. You are responsible for overseeing all aspects of the work, whether you handle it personally or collaborate with others. In this role, you’re not just functioning as a lawyer—you also take on responsibilities in PR, office management, administration, and promotions.

    For current law students or early-career professionals, what areas of law do you think will be most crucial or in-demand in the next decade? 

    In my views there are many but to name few, corporate and commercial laws, Human Rights & labour laws, tax laws, Intellectual Property Rights, Criminal Laws, Consumer Laws, Competition Laws and Arbitration will be in demand. 

    What advice would you give to young legal professionals who are starting their careers? How can they effectively navigate the challenges of today’s legal landscape?  

    In my views there is no fit formula. It is all based upon an individual as to how does he want to mould his career in law. If we go by conservative mechanism, sincerity and continuity in whatever one is doing is important without thinking about what others are doing. One has his own potentials, hence he or she should give the best out of it. To know what is happening around or to say be aware of the environment around him or her to evaluate, calculate and take decision will be important at any stage. Identify your strengths and weaknesses and work upon them but do not waste much time thinking because may are in the race and no one is indispensable.     

    With such a demanding profession, how do you unwind and maintain balance in your life? What activities or practices help you recharge?  

    I have always starved for time management. The more I try, the difficult it gets. While in job there is a fixed schedule of reporting to office with punch in and punch out and many work even after office hours. But till I was in job, I tried not to carry pending work home unless it was unavoidable. I focused on being physically active from very beginning of my career and even before that. Every day for past 20 years I have spent one and half hour daily either going to gym for light exercises and cardio, running, jogging and playing different sports like badminton, cricket, etc. This has helped me staying fit both physically and mentally as not only this profession but any demand good health. I am a teetotaler. I do party very occasionally but not late nights. I spend time with family and my near and dear ones mostly. These are the few things that has kept me going.

    Get in touch with Ramaiya Narayan Sharma-

  • “Teaching is one of the best ways to learn. It gave me the ability to view complex cases with a broader perspective and has immensely helped in my practice.” – Surya Senthil, Partner at Surana & Surana International Attorneys India

    “Teaching is one of the best ways to learn. It gave me the ability to view complex cases with a broader perspective and has immensely helped in my practice.” – Surya Senthil, Partner at Surana & Surana International Attorneys India

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

    You began your legal journey under the mentorship of Advocate Radhakrishnan. How did that experience shape your foundational years, and how have those early lessons influenced your practice today? Could you please walk us through your journey?  

    To say the truth, I am fortunate to have two learned seniors who have mentored me. As soon as I passed out of law school, I was propelled by a passion for justice and was initially attracted towards Criminal law practise. My first Senior Late Advocate R. Radhakrishnan used to say that, though I may not continue my law practise in Cuddalore, a district headquarters in the State of Tamilnadu and will eventually move out to Madras High Court, nevertheless, the short stint of Law practise in District and lower courts where one will learn basic advocacy, nuances of conducting a trial and client handling, will help me in the long run career of an advocate. Today I realise the foresightedness of my Senior, when I practically see that I have an edge over others while conducting the trials.

    My first senior helped me understand the art of choosing the right questions to be asked in cross-examination by identifying the loopholes in the evidence given by a witness and drawing a comparison with the documents and statements made by them. Further, I learnt from him the exercise of mentally charting the course of a cross-examination rather than writing it on a piece of paper in question format, unlike most practitioners.

    I used to keenly observe the trials he conducted in criminal cases, wherein he would walk the witness through simple questions based on accepted facts and slowly make the witness comfortable. At this point, he will lead the witness to walk into the trap of reliability where the witness will become at his ease and real self. Subsequently, he will gradually shift the gear and ask about the pertinent contradictions in his statement to elucidate the truth of the witness. Though in criminal cases it worked well I was very sceptical as to how it would work in civil or commercial cases, but to my astonishment, it has worked very well and notably even in a few of my cases the opposite party whom I have cross-examined, has immediately after the cross-examination has proposed for a settlement and the matters have been settled.

    I started my second innings of advocacy under my Senior PS Surana before the Madras High Court in the year 2004 focussing on Intellectual Property law practice. My second senior not only taught me the nitty-gritty of civil litigation, but also the importance of attention to detail and essential qualities to become a successful lawyer. On the personal front, he is also my spiritual guide who has made a significant awakening in realising my inner potential, by practically living through the values of detachment, fearlessness and minimal materialistic needs. For example, though he could afford a luxurious car, he used to always have value-for-money cars. These observations made me realise that there are bigger and better achievements in one’s life rather than going for materialistic comfort.

    As someone who transitioned between academia and active practice, what unique insights did you gain from teaching law, and how did it enhance your approach to complex cases later in your career?  

    Though I was to resume my Court Practice, after the completion of my Master’s in Law, I was pulled into teaching, by my mentor in the NLSIU, Professor Dr. N L Mitra who was not only an academician of excellence but also a Jurist with profound thinking and deep understanding of commercial laws. Just after completing my master’s from NLS, I was offered a teaching job by Professor Mitra at the newly found National Law University, Jodhpur in the year 2003. This was his dream project where for the first time in India courses including BSc LLB and BCom LLB were offered in addition to the traditional BA LLB. 

    I was offered to teach the law of Torts and Commercial Transactions for undergraduate students and Trademark and Copyright laws for Post Graduate students. Though I have taught only for a short stint of 18 months, it was a great experience for me and those students whom I taught are still fond of me and maintain a good relationship with me even today. In my opinion, the teaching profession has still not received its due recognition with lucrative pay and societal respect, which in turn will attract the best talent. It is noteworthy to mention the commendable move by the Bar Council of India to relax its rules in making leading practitioners’ contributions to academia, by way of recognising ‘Professors of Practice’. This transition is only a beginning, and I strongly believe that we still have a long way to go.

    My first takeaway from my teaching experience comes from my exposure to International Jurisprudence, especially the evolution of law from the American courts and the English courts, which immensely helps me to trace the evolution and march of law in a particular subject. This understanding gives me a better perspective, which when presented before our Courts aids them, in interpreting the law more convincingly.

    My second takeaway from the teaching experience is the learning of effective use of case law research tools and the habit of being updated with current legal events. In the era of the internet and the availability of an enormous amount of knowledge in any given field from online resources to students, modern Teachers of law must use these online tools.

    Further, I always feel that ‘Teaching is one of the best ways to learn’.

    Your pro bono work, such as the case advocating for the retrospective regularization of a Tamil Nadu government driver, is commendable. What lessons did this case teach you about the power of law in changing individual lives?

    There are two driving forces I get as a lawyer, when I do pro bono works. Firstly, I get the satisfaction that by using my legal knowledge and acumen, I can get a relief for a person whose rights have been affected by the system since he is not able to defend himself or get the services of a lawyer due to his economic and/or social background. This also comes from my brought up, where my mother always supports the underdogs in any given situation. The next level of satisfaction arising out of pro bono work is when I attempt to challenge a particular law or proposition of law propounded by a case law which in general perception is not conformity with the equity and good conscience. 

    My first pro bono case was for a driver, who was working in Government of Tamil Nadu and has worked under my father, when he was in service. He came to meet my father knowing that I have become an advocate, and he wanted my help to fight his case, as he is not a financial position to engage a lawyer. I fought that service matter for retrospective regularisation from the date of his joining in the service and got a successful order before the Madras High Court.

    I realised the power of the Court especially the Constitutional Courts, to alter a person’s destiny when I handled a case in 2011. A second-year student from Madras Dental college approached me saying that she has scored 200/200 in physics and chemistry and 196 in Biology but was not able to secure an admission in MBBS and therefore got admitted in BDS in Madras Dental College. Subsequently the TN Govt had brought in a G.O wherein any student studying in a professional course and has Witten an improvement exam conducted by TN Higher Secondary Board gets an improved score , then he/she can secure admission in a better professional course on merits as per his/her choice, without having any impediment of studying in another professional course. In that student’s case, she gave the improvement exam and scored an improved score of 200/200 in Biology also. She then applied for MBBS, and she was called for counselling to get admitted in Madras Medical college for MBBS. In the middle of counselling, her candidature was cancelled, based on an order passed by the First Bench of Madras High Court quashing the said Govt. Order as unconstitutional.  I was able to relate myself personally to this as I myself joined an engineering course but had to forcefully discontinue that when I wanted to pursue medicine, as the law at that point stated that one has to discontinue a professional course before the commencement of the semester exam, if they wish to pursue another professional course or one has to wait for 3years after the completion of the first professional course to pursue the 2nd professional course. 

    The rationale given in support of this rule is that if anyone discontinues a professional course in the middle of the Course then that seat cannot be filled and goes waste. Further, another argument put forth was that Government spends a considerable amount to make any student study a professional course and by quitting in the middle, the student is wasting the money spent on his/her studies by the Government. 

    However, the said GO, Government had relaxed that rule and allowed any students to discontinue in the middle of his/her first professional course to join or pursue another professional course of his/her choice if he/she is otherwise eligible. However, the First Bench of the Madras High Court believed that GO was unconstitutional and struck it as violative of Article 14 of the Constitution of India. 

    The student was not keen on challenging as she was already into BDS and bet the odds-on uncertainty. Therefore, I took up the matter as pro bono and convinced my friend Mr. Senthil Jagadeesan who was an AOR then, now a designated Senior Counsel in Supreme Court, and engaged Retired Justice Nageshwar Rao, then a designated Senior Counsel to appear in this matter. We were able to convince the then Chief Justice of India Justice K.G. Balakrishnan, on the point that if a person is determined to study a particular professional course, then he/she would anyway do it after the mandatory cooling off period and therefore such restriction does not seem to be rationale and serve any purpose.

    This particular case was an eye opener for me and I realised the enormous power vested by the Constitution on the High Courts and Supreme Court to mould a suitable relief to the deserving, which made me realise the power of the court to alter a person’s destiny and in which along with the judge, a lawyer also gets to plays a small but vital role.

    Serving on the Intellectual Property Appellate Board (IPAB), you played a key role in landmark decisions, including setting royalty rates for music composers and lyricists. How did these decisions impact the intellectual property landscape in India, and what challenges did you face during such high-profile cases? 

    Intellectual Property Appellate Board served as a specialized tribunal to adjudicate matters pertaining to intellectual property laws and as an appellate body it provided for appeals against decisions of IP offices. I served under Hon’ble Mr. Justice Manmohan Singh of the Delhi High Court (Retd) and gained a significant experience in contributing the bench towards the effective adjudication of complex intellectual property issues. In my tenure of 8 months, was part of the bench deciding on the rate of royalty and the right of claiming it by the IPRS in respect of the broadcast of lyrics and music underlying sound recordings by FM Radio Stations in India. The hearings took place continuously for 28 days and all leading Senior counsels like Mr. Mukhul Rohtagi, Mr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Mr. Neeraj Kishan Kaul among others, appeared for the parties to present their arguments. We have judiciously examined their legal arguments, analysed the case laws stated and interpreted the legal provisions pertaining to copyright licensing in India and delivered an order recognising the rights of lyricists and music composers to claim royalties based on the 2012 amendments to the Copyright Act, 1957.  I am glad that the Chairman of IPAB had allowed me to pronounce the order.    

    As a Copyright member of IPAB, we were mandated to fix the Royalty rates by 31-12-2021, before the expiry of the rates fixed by Copyright Board. During that exercise, under the able guidance of Hon’ble Mr. Justice Manmohan Singh, Chairman of the Board, we have not only fixed the royalty rates but also applied the position of law as it stood by recognising the right of the music composers and lyricists through the Copyright Amendment Act 2012. Notably, this order was subjected to judicial scrutiny by way of writ petitions before the High Courts of Bombay and Delhi and subsequently has received affirmations from these Hon’ble courts attesting to the soundness of the decisions made by the IPAB.  

    While adjudicating as a member of IPAB, though for a shorter period, I felt that I have a strong sense of justice and a desire to play a direct role in upholding justice and ensuring the fair application of the law. Though as a member of the bar, I made my earning for my living and contributed my bit to the society and legal fraternity, I have not got the fullest personal satisfaction of making a positive impact on society when compared to my sitting as a part of the Bench.

    Your work has touched both legal practitioners and the broader community. How do you believe your role as a litigator and advisor contributes to helping businesses and individuals protect their intellectual property while fostering innovation?

    As IP practitioner, my foremost duty is to sensitise my client on the value of creating an IP, the significance of lawfully protecting it and to reap the benefits out of it. As it is a negative right, creating a limited monopoly rights for one’s intellectual efforts, it is also my bounden duty to give a fair warning to my client, not to abuse such power by trying to create an absolute monopoly out of it. This delicate balance must be imbibed in the minds of an IP creator/client to fully utilise the IP laws to its letter and spirit. This is the role of an advisor played by me towards my client for fostering innovation and strategic growth in their business. 

    Once, my client’s IP right has been rightfully oriented under the existing IP regime, thereafter my role as a litigator begins in guarding the IP of my client at all possible ways. In my experience, either at the Cease-and-Desist stage or at the Pre suit mediation stage (as mandated by Section 12 A of the Commercial Courts Act) itself matters have resulted in settlement due to the rightful presentation of facts on how the infringer is infringing my client’s IP.

    With the current generation of legal professionals seeking to specialize in areas like intellectual property, what key skills and knowledge areas do you think are crucial for their success in this domain?  

    According to me, specialising in an area like IP needs a broader perspective and an in-depth understanding of the laws. Further, IP laws constantly evolve due to the ongoing International Trade talks through WTO and subsequent normalisation of IP laws in addition to the emerging jurisprudence of IP due to the interpretation by Courts in accordance with the Countries’ specific needs. 

    As a practitioner, one must subscribe to latest journals or website which keeps updating the latest jurisprudential developments along with commentary or viewpoints of the eminent authors. One should also organise/attend conferences and seminars where peers in the field are given a platform to share and brainstorm ideas that have evolved in IP practise. 

    As a legal expert in intellectual property law, how do you see IPR playing a critical role in today’s business landscape, especially in India’s growing tech and innovation sectors?  

    Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) plays a crucial role in shaping the business landscape, especially in a rapidly growing economy like India. Here are some key points highlighting the importance of IPR in India’s technology and innovation sectors.  IP laws encourage innovations by providing legal protection for inventions and innovations, which incentivizes individuals and companies to invest in research and development. This is particularly significant in sectors like Information Technology, Biotechnology, Health care and Renewable Energy. 

    A robust IPR regime is essential for the growth of startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs play a vital role in stimulating the economic growth, providing employment opportunities for large number of people and promoting grass root level innovations which normally results in lot of products which will ease our living and improve our comfort. This potential of the SMEs as a trigger for economic boom is realised by the Government and has the Govt taken lot of measures to promote and support MSME’s at the State and the Central level through various policies and implementation of beneficial schemes.

    By harnessing Intellectual Property and protecting it, companies can have a competitive edge over others in the market. A strong IP culture in their organisation is essential for Indian companies that are looking to leave their footprint Globally and to compete with the MNC giants.

    When we talk about IPR regime and IPR enforcement they are two parts of the same structure. While India has made significant strides in strengthening its IPR regime, challenges remain in terms of enforcement and awareness. A sound strategy to address the issue of enforcement can further enhance the effectiveness of the IPR regime in India, which in turn will attract FDI that will result in economic boost leading to creation of high value jobs. 

    Introduction of commercial courts is one such bold step taken by the Government of India to bring in an effective and efficacious dispute resolution mechanism for the business disputes including IPR related disputes. In my opinion, India’s evolving Commercial Court’s litigation and practice is a strategic move that will promote an environment of growth for technology and innovation sectors. As the country continues to grow, a robust IPR system with proper enforcing mechanism, will be pivotal in sustaining this momentum and ensuring long-term economic prosperity.

    With such a dynamic and demanding legal career, how do you unwind in your personal time, and what hobbies or activities do you pursue to maintain balance and recharge?  

    I unwind by watching movies regularly on weekends, mostly humour or action genre. I also have the habit of listening to music on the way to home and office. Once in 3 or 4 months, I venture out for Trekking, Hiking or biking which rejuvenates me. I have completed the Leh to Manali bike expedition with my wife in 2006 and alone in 2023, which I would say one of most enchanting as well as enduring trip. I have also travelled by car from Chennai to Chardhams with my Parents for a 22-day long pilgrimage tour covering many temples on the way including the famous Siddheswara temple, Kashi, etc. I have climbed multiple times Chaturagiri hills, Agasthya hills, Parvatha malai, Velliangiri hills, Tirupathi hills etc. to name a few.

    Trekking allows you to connect with nature, experience diverse flora and fauna, and enjoy breathtaking view and reminds us about the destruction mankind has done to mother nature in the name of unsustainable development and growth. The serene and picturesque environment of hill stations can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. Being in the nature and breathing the fresh air, boosts mental clarity, improve the general mood and brings inner peace. Once you practise this regularly then you will develop a connection with the universe which will provide a deep sense of fulfilment which cannot be expressed by words until one experience it personally. From health perspective, trekking or hiking in hilly uneven terrains is equal to a tough work out and burns more calories and develop endurance the body. Trekking can be a family activity also, I used to go with my friends, niece and nephews. After marriage, my wife who is a pillar of strength and a guiding factor in all my activities either professional or personal, used to accompany me. 

    You’ve had the opportunity to interact with both senior legal luminaries and upcoming law students throughout your career. What common threads do you see between these generations of legal minds, and how do you think legal education should evolve to address future challenges?

    Definitely, more sharper minds are coming into the profession after the emergence of 5 year Integrated professional course and National Law Schools. Common threads between these generations of legal minds are to protect the rights and defend the vulnerable section of the society. Legal Education also tries to modernise its curriculum to be more practical and legal practitioners should be brought in to interact with students to share their practical knowledge.

    Compared to 30 years ago, when I completed law, the internship opportunities offered by universities today are more structured and systematic whereby it gives a plethora of exposure and versatile experiences. For example, nowadays universities provide a structured guidance wherein first year students are expected to do an internship with an NGO, second year students are expected to do an internship with companies and from 3rd year onwards they can intern with a lawyer or law firm, and they can intern twice a year. Universities should play a vital role in continuous legal education in collaboration with Bar Council/ Bar Association for a structured two-week course on specialised areas such as Arbitration Practise, IP Practise etc for the practising advocates to keep them updated in their respective fields. Further, just like how medical colleges have attached hospitals and patients treated by the final year house surgeons, Law Universities should also facilitate legal aid clinics in law colleges, in which under the guidance of professors, students can provide free legal aid. 

    Get in touch with Surya Senthil-

  • “A positive approach is a must while working in a team. ‘You’re almost there’ is always better than ‘you cannot do it.'” – Ritin Vatrana, Legal Counsel -Corporate Litigation, Piramal Capital & Housing Finance Limited

    “A positive approach is a must while working in a team. ‘You’re almost there’ is always better than ‘you cannot do it.’” – Ritin Vatrana, Legal Counsel -Corporate Litigation, Piramal Capital & Housing Finance Limited

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

    You started your legal career in 2007 after completing your BALLB (Hons.) from Kurukshetra University. What motivated you to choose law as your career, and could you walk us through your journey from those early days to where you are now?  

    My entry into the Legal field was very much certain since I am a third generation Lawyer. My grandfather practiced in Labour Laws, my father is still practicing in District Courts Patiala and hence my parents had already decided during my childhood about my profession and hence I entered the field. Initially, I started learning the procedures followed in court and the ground realities of the Legal field where I came to know about how to apply what I learnt in my degree. For this, I actually went through the entire degree subjects 4-5 times again doing self-study in order to get a deep knowledge of the subjects so that I can have better understanding of the cases I got to handle. Slowly and gradually, I developed my own understanding in law and by that time I was able to handle the cases independently. Being a trial lawyer, handling the evidence part was most challenging and most interesting as well. I started cross examining the witnesses independently and luckily many cases went my way. However, in Patiala there wasn’t much to learn about since there was hardly any variety in the cases we got; mostly there used to be Cheque bounce matters, matrimonial disputes, NDPS etc. and those cases were very much cyclostyled and my eagerness to learn wanted me go out and do something new in the field. 

    You began your law practice at the Patiala district courts, where your father was a well-established professional. How did working in the district courts shape your approach to law, and what key lessons did you take away from those early formative years?    

    My time in the Courts was extremely important. Being a legal professional, the most important thing is to know how to draft a legal document and an in-house Counsel is always expected to have very crisp drafting skills which would go on to protect the interest of the organization. Further, being meticulous, attention to detail, presence of mind, patience and calculated aggression were the key qualities I learnt during my practice days.

    You mentioned your encounter with the Legal Head of CIPLA, which inspired your transition into corporate law. What about that interaction made you decide to shift from litigation to becoming an in-house counsel?  

    As I had stated, in one of my cases related to CIPLA, I met the in-house counsel of the company and had a great conversation with him about how things go as an in-house counsel and what are the prospects. He told me that as an in-house, he came across several types of different cases and that made his knowledge in the field vast and comprehensive and to add to that the biggest incentive was the opportunity to travel. Afterwards, I discussed it with my elder brother, who was already working in corporate and he also reiterated a similar view. That was perhaps the trigger point of me looking to shift to the Corporate. It took me quite a while to get my first opportunity in a large organization. The first one month was like a roller coaster but gradually I managed to get into the system and started understanding corporate governance and that was perhaps the turning point of my life both professionally and personally as it gave me so much energy to work and live round the clock. Leaving the comfort zone was tough initially but once you are out of it, THERE BEGINS THE LIFE.

    What advice would you give to young legal professionals who aspire to transition from litigation to corporate in-house roles, especially those aiming to work with large multinational corporations?

    Ever since I have started my journey with the corporate, I have met many legal professionals eager to know how things work in the sector. Many are under the myth of “Corporate Slavery”. I shared my experiences with them of how I managed PAN India litigation and contracts of my first Company single handedly. From working for 4-5 hours a day in practice to working 16-18 hours in corporate was an eye opener and a huge confidence booster. I only advise the youngsters to look for excellence and not results early on. Law is a vast field and to move on in this field, not only you need to know the law, but how and where to apply it and this requires both theoretical as well as practical knowledge. In-House Counsels do a whole lot of drafting work including contracts, complaints, notices etc. Litigation lawyers hardly get to know about drafting of contracts and hence i advise them to find some good books pertaining to contract drafting if they have any plans to shift to the sector.  

    You’ve been involved in arbitration cases with values ranging from ₹50 lakh to ₹300 crore. What are some key skills a lawyer needs to successfully handle such high-stakes cases, and how do you manage the pressure?  

    When the stakes are high, the pressure is high as well but as a legal professional, my job is to find the law point and the circumstances favouring my organization so that I can benefit them or at least prevent any loss. The skills I learnt in practice also lets me foresee the tentative result sometimes and that helps us to plan accordingly. The thing with high stake matters is that you need to thing out of the box sometimes to get the desired results and for that you need to have strong legal knowledge but also to know the ground realities. 

    With over 17 years of legal experience and handling high-pressure cases, how do you manage work-life balance, and what advice would you give to legal professionals to avoid burnout?  

    In my previous organization, I did go through that burnout because of the urgencies involved. The stakes were high and time was less and that is when you learn and develop a strong temperament. Sometimes, there were late hour calls and emails but I had set a time for my “homework” so that I can give time to family and household works too and me being a travel bug, occasional holiday was always going to be there. To add to that, I am an early riser and a cyclist so every morning an hour’s ride would freshen me up with all the energy to go hard for the day.

    In your view, how important is interdisciplinary knowledge, such as understanding business or finance, for a successful legal career in the corporate world?

    Corporate is all about business and finances and whosoever is working in corporate needs to know about it. During my stint with Isgec Heavy Engineering, I learnt a lot about International Business processes as to how contracts of supply work and how the conditions are set by the companies and where to negotiate. I was naive back then but going through so many Contracts of Supply, Erection and Commissioning and those tender documents was another experience. Especially when I was told that the documents drafted by me are going to Russia or Dubai; it sometimes gave me goosebumps but it made me work harder and to get a better understanding about the subject. 

    You’ve managed a team of 40 lawyers in your current role. What leadership qualities do you think are essential for managing a successful legal team, and how do you mentor young lawyers under your guidance?  

    My job is to allocate the work to empanelled lawyers. Generally, I have a 5-10 conversation with the lawyer to understand his understanding on the subject and if he is a newcomer or unaware about the topic, I provide him/her with the relevant information along with legal provision and let them prepare the draft and as they say, a lawyer’s calibre can be judged by his drafting skills and so i always advise youngsters to draft the document from scratch and avoid doing copy paste; you’re never going to learn copying and pasting. Drafting skill to a lawyer is like a sword to a warrior.  Further, a positive approach is a must while you work in a team. “you’re almost there” is always better than “you cannot do it”. 

    Looking ahead, what emerging legal trends do you think will significantly impact the corporate legal landscape, and how should aspiring legal professionals prepare for them?  

    The advent of technology has really brought a huge window for legal professionals to enter the corporate world. Earlier, the legal professionals were limited to law practice, judiciary or teaching but now the upcoming generation is proactive and are perhaps 5-7 years quicker than ours. Nowadays, in-house Counsel’s job is not limited to civil, consumer, criminal laws or contract laws; Technology laws, Artificial Intelligence, Intellectual Property Rights, Data Privacy laws have taken over and in the coming times, knowledge about these is going to play a key role. So, I always advise the aspiring professionals to keep getting some knowledge in the fields as they are going to play a pivotal role in carving them a successful in-house Counsel. 

    Get in touch with Ritin Vatrana–

  • “In the courtroom, it’s not about the length of arguments but the merits—crisp and to the point is my mantra for success.” – Neetica Sharma, Partner at MV Kini Law Firm

    “In the courtroom, it’s not about the length of arguments but the merits—crisp and to the point is my mantra for success.” – Neetica Sharma, Partner at MV Kini Law Firm

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

    Can you take us through the journey of how you started your legal career, from your early days at Maharishi Dayanand University to becoming a Partner at MV Kini Law Firm?  What made you choose law as your career initially?

    I come from a small city, and I completed my LLB from a small town as well, though Maharishi Dayanand University has always been considered a reputable institution for law courses. Growing up in a small town presents its own set of challenges. When I pursued my LLB, a career in law was typically seen as either practicing in district courts, securing a government job like ADA, or preparing for the judiciary. But I had bigger dreams — I wanted to move to Delhi and carve a different path for myself.

    As a first-generation lawyer, I had to find my own way. The lack of proper resources and guidance, especially compared to those from metro cities, made things difficult for me. My journey began with working in an LPO (Legal Process Outsourcing), where I worked for a brief period. At the time, LPOs were booming.

    After a year, I transitioned to the corporate sector, but I quickly realized it wasn’t where my passion lay. I’ve always been drawn to the courts, so I made the decision that for me, law meant “litigation,” and that’s what I truly wanted to pursue.

    I eventually applied to my current firm, and after years of hard work and dedication, I am now a Partner here. However, the journey was far from easy — it wasn’t a bed of roses. What kept me going was my commitment to hard work, my dedication, and my unwavering love for the courts.

    You’ve appeared before various legal forums, including the Supreme Court, High Court, and Arbitral Tribunals. Could you share the key differences in how cases are presented, argued, and decided across these different courts, and how you adapt your approach based on the forum you’re in?  

    Definitely, there is a difference in how we present and argue cases before different forums, such as Arbitral Tribunals, High Courts, and the Supreme Court. In my view, the key difference is that with each advancing stage, arguments become more concise.

    For instance, when presenting a case before an Arbitral Tribunal, a counsel needs to lay out the case in as much detail as possible. Every relevant factual detail must be presented to the Tribunal without fail. However, when it comes to the High Court, the focus shifts to explaining why an award is flawed in law and how the challenge fits within the legal grounds or criteria.

    Finally, when arguing before the Supreme Court, the presentation should be as brief and precise as possible. The synopsis of the Special Leave Petition (SLP) essentially encapsulates the entire case, and it should be drafted in a manner that allows the judge to grasp the case without needing to delve further.

    As someone who is proficient in handling mainstream commercial litigation, what are some of the emerging challenges in this field, and how should legal professionals prepare to tackle them?  

    Nowadays, commercial dealings are centred around arbitration. Almost every contract agreement includes an arbitration clause, with one of the primary objectives being to secure a speedy remedy that avoids the procedural complexities of court proceedings. However, we are gradually drifting away from the advantages of arbitration. Arbitration proceedings are increasingly resembling court processes, as arbitral tribunals adopt similar procedures. In my view, this should not be the case. If arbitration starts functioning like a court, what is the point of having an arbitration clause?

    I began handling arbitrations in 2010 and have attended almost hundreds of proceedings since then. The way arbitration was conducted back then was very different from how it is now. It was more party-friendly than compared to the current scenario. As a lawyer, one must continuously learn and be open to accepting changes, as the arbitration process evolves over time.

    Your successful representation of NHAI in several landmark cases has set significant legal precedents. Could you share the key factors that contributed to your success in these cases?

    For me, the key factor that helped me getting success in the cases is “to be focussed on the issue”. Just be thorough with the facts, updated on the law point and be very relevant in the arguments. I personally don’t believe in the length of arguments; I believe in the merits of arguments. For me “crisp and to the point” is the mantra. 

    Further, when it comes to arbitration/dispute resolution, law is getting stricter with regard to court’s interference so whenever an award is challenged, it’s very important to just focus on the key points of the case where courts can interfere rather just presenting a long history of case when courts can only deal with question of law. Further, I believe to give a right advice/opinion to my clients and do not encourage habitual litigation. 

    You’ve led litigation teams for several years. How important do you think mentorship is in the legal profession, and what role has it played in shaping your career? Do you actively mentor young advocates?  

    Mentorship is very important in every field. It gives a certain kind of confidence and motivation. I remember I was so naïve when I joined this profession. I have also had my own struggles of coming from a small city. So, I always try to make sure that young lawyers joining the firm get my support, mentorship. I believe in Teamwork.   

    Not every case ends in success. Can you share an experience where the outcome was not in your favor? How did you handle that, and what lessons did you take from it?  

    I have been representing government clients mostly and have been appearing on behalf of the government in very high-stakes and complex matters. I will not feel shy to say that success rate of government is less in comparison to private parties in commercial matters. So, I also have an experience of not getting the outcome in my favour. But what I have learnt is that our approach should be defend or fight for our client to a maximum level possible. In dispute resolution/Commercial litigation, specially in Arbitrations, outcome is not always in the form of black-and-white. For eg. defending a client and getting 5 out of 8 claims rejected is also a win to an extent. In the same way, getting an award of 100 crores out of the claimed amount of 150 crores, is also a win. 

    As a leader in your field, what is your vision for the future of arbitration and litigation in India? What reforms or changes do you believe are necessary to improve the efficiency of the legal process?  

    Without any doubt, future of litigation in India is commercial litigation. After acknowledging the need of developing a strong dispute resolution mechanism in India, amendments of 2015 and 2019 were made in Arbitration and Conciliation Act and Commercial Courts act was introduced. The way Commercial Courts Act has simplified the process of litigation in commercial disputes is commendable. 

    Arbitration has been a continuously growing filed. However, it comes with its own challenges which require to be addressed practically. First and foremost is regarding the cost involved in the arbitrations as arbitration these days has become a luxury litigation. In my view, 3 issues which require immediate attention are: Cost effectiveness, procedural simplification and impartiality. 

    As a female partner at a prestigious law firm, what challenges, if any, have you faced in the male-dominated legal industry, and how have you overcome them? What advice would you offer to women aspiring to reach leadership positions in law?  

    I have been lucky enough to not face any gender-based discrimination at my organisation. However, there is one challenge which I have always felt in this profession is Networking. A male lawyer can easily go out with clients, have a professional dinner (which many a times ends up getting more work) but a female lawyer has to consider many things before doing any such networking. So, even if we don’t face any man-made discrimination but some natural discriminations are there in our society. 

    My advice to young women lawyers is that just keep going, no matter how many struggles come in your way. 

    Given your extensive workload and responsibilities, how do you manage to balance your professional life with your personal life? What do you do to recharge and maintain a healthy balance?  

    Legal profession is a very demanding profession and there is no chance of negotiation. So, to balance it out with my personal life, I try to finish up my work by 7.30 pm and that’s only possible with proper planning. Though our profession is full of surprises when it comes to work but I try to plan everything which makes it possible for me to wrap up major portion of my work by 7.30 pm. Another thing is that I always prefer to reside near office area which helps me save travelling time. 

    When it comes to health, litigation lawyers unlike corporate lawyers remain physically active by walking entire day in court which is a benefit to us. I am not a gym or fitness enthusiast, but I try to do 30 mins brisk walk in my colony park. Whenever I get some more time, I try to do little bit of running. I have also successfully run Delhi Half Marathon (21 kms) twice. 

    Apart from physical health, mental health is equally important. Everybody can see your physical illness, but nobody sees your mental illness. And due to “work pressure” and for some “no work”, lawyers are more vulnerable to it. I am a mental health advocate and want to do something more concrete in this area to spread mental awareness.

    Get in touch with Neetica Sharma-

  • “Balancing litigation and corporate advisory is a delicate dance, but both complement each other and contribute equally to my growth.” – Charulata Chaudhary, Advocate on Record at the Supreme Court of India

    “Balancing litigation and corporate advisory is a delicate dance, but both complement each other and contribute equally to my growth.” – Charulata Chaudhary, Advocate on Record at the Supreme Court of India

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

    Can you share what inspired you to pursue law, and how have your early experiences shaped your current practice and how the journey of your legal career began after graduating from Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law?

    I had chosen the Science group in the Higher Secondary education and wanted to become doctor by profession, having inspired by a family friend excelling in Nureo Surgery. Choosing law as a career option was by chance with the constant support and guidance from my father and family who have been my pillar of strength and source for inspiration till date. My father happened to do law but chosen to become a Police officer in State services. Since I have had an immense interest in general knowledge and my family discussions generally revolved around current affairs, politics, history, I guess it had a silent part in helping me preparing for the NLU’s entrance exams. I was introduced to the study material of LST, Universal Publishers and GK books since many familiar acquaintances and seniors were studying in NLU’s and suggested to consider law as a career option. The 5 years B.A. LLB. NLU’s courses entrance examination was conducted separately, I appeared only for a few colleges having a proximity and comfort of my residence.

    By the third year of law, I had decided to appear for the judicial examinations, so the inclination remained towards acquiring in depth knowledge of Civil and Criminal laws. After passing out, on basis of college merit, my profile was shortlisted for interview and led to appointment as Law clerk cum Research Assistant.

    You’ve had an impressive journey from a Law-Clerk- Cum-Research Assistant to becoming an Advocate- On-Record at the Supreme Court of India. Could you share the key moments or decisions that guided your career towards this prestigious role?

    In terms of exposure, the clerkship has opened wide horizons and given an entirely different take to observe, examine and analyse the nuanced approach employed to address the intricacies of law points from the bench side. In terms of the internships I did, they provided me with exposure, varied from a firm’s and/to a senior advocate’s perspective, so these experiences were different and rewarding for me and helped immensely and ignited a yearning in the initial years to pursue law as a profession.

    After working with esteemed law firms and Senior Advocates, you transitioned to independent practice. What challenges did you face during this shift, and how did you overcome them?

    I would say working with the law firm happened to be the best decision in terms of learning various branches of law and access right from trial courts to the Supreme Court of India, that has given a first-hand exposure to argue the matters before various forums and enabled me to brief the senior counsels for the matters.

    While working at senior’s office, the approach was different, and it was predominantly assisting on the case briefs received by senior before the Supreme Court and various High Courts.

    The Advocate-On-Record Examination is known for its rigor. How did you prepare for this exam, and what advice would you give to aspiring advocates aiming to take this path?

    By the time I wanted to take up the AOR Examination, I had already started my practice before the Apex Court. Hence, was having fair amount of exposure towards the practice and procedure of the Supreme Court. Though, at present there is ample literature readily available for clearing the exam, it’s always advisable to undergo 1-year training period seriously with an AOR to gain knowledge and nuances in practice and procedure as this is one amongst the four subjects in the examination. Besides that, the three other papers being drafting, legal ethics and case laws must be prepared meticulously with focus on various intricate details.

    How do you balance your work life between litigation and corporate advisory? Do you find one more fulfilling than the other, or do they complement each other in your practice?

    While working with law firm, I had first-hand experience with drafting notices, due diligence for companies, handling and advising high-profile clients before DRT, BIFR, and CLB helped me in enhancing the skills of corporate advisory practice.

    I would say, a delicate balance must be maintained between the two. I apparently enjoy both fields thoroughly and get a very fulfilling feel while employing the intricacies of one field in terms of execution and implementation in the other.  As per me, a well-drafted advocate will have an upper hand in court crafting and presenting the case. Therefore, I find both complimenting each other.

    As a partner at ABM Chambers, you head the Capital Markets, Compliances & Advisory division. Could you elaborate on the complexities involved in advising corporate clients, especially in dispute resolution?

    Balancing the interest of various stakeholders in the corporate entity is a challenge in itself. For a corporate client, a dispute resolution usually requires taking a multifaceted approach, integrating the legal expertise with the understanding of the business needs. Evaluating the costs of various dispute resolution options and the potential benefits /damages both in terms of cost and time are key in a decision-making process. So, advising a corporate client, is a sum total of various factors before arriving at a decision.

    Considering the diverse areas, you practice in, such as Constitutional Law and Corporate Advisory, did you pursue any specialized courses or training after your formal education to enhance your expertise? How important do you think continued legal education is for a successful legal career?

    It is too individualistic; a different viewpoint always exists and can’t be generic. There is a sub-set, who secure jobs through PPO’s and pursue one field continuously, develop a domain knowledge and commend over that stream out of their extensive experience spanning the years due to exposure through handling a similar set of matters. However, this is solely dependent on individual knowledge, skill set, and extensive experience over discipline.

    For me, it has been about the development of interest in capital market through continuous reading and being exposed to the field through my work with the law firm and my own investments that I had acquired over the years. While working, I have undertaken various assignments as to advising policy drafting for startup companies, MSME’s, advising them regularly with the ever changing legal and regulatory landscape, drafting and reviewing various sorts of agreements and contracts tailored for their need, keeping touch base with them and navigating the compliance aspects on regular basis.

    Serving as a Panel Counsel for Railways and ONGC involves significant responsibility. What are some of the unique legal challenges you’ve encountered in these roles, and how have they contributed to your professional growth?

    The issues that involve vast organization like ONGC and Railways are across the broad spectrum from Labour issues to contractual disputes. At an earlier stage in your career, working as a panel counsel for the PSU, you feel empowered and put to task in some of the complex legal issues. Because of the sheer volume of the work executed by these organizations, they invariably have to go through some legal impediments which from a legal perspective you cannot be exposed in any other organization, that to, at the formative stage of your career.

    You practice before the Supreme Court of India, the High Court of Delhi, and Madras, as well as various tribunals. How do you manage the differences in legal procedures and expectations across these jurisdictions?

    I had a brief work experience with an established decade old law firm based out of Chennai, which has helped in shaping my career and always kept me grounded while balancing my professional needs along with keeping empathy with clients and their requirements. In fact, appearing before different High Courts has helped me in observing the approach of judges while dealing the original and appellate side matters in different light altogether and enabled me to learn the high courts practice and procedure and neck of arguing the matter.

    As a partner at ABM Chambers, you are in a leadership position. How do you mentor young lawyers in your firm, and what qualities do you believe are essential   for   leadership   in   the legal profession?

    I believe in integrity and honesty to undertake and complete the assignment with swiftness in a stipulated period. While dealing with any matter be it litigation or advisory, one should adhere to the laws, rules and regulations operating in the field to provide a holistic shape to it before drafting or presenting. I believe being a part of such a vibrant and dynamic field we grow, learn, unlearn and relearn altogether, depending on the needs and requirement. But what’s more important is to have a positive outlook and constant feedback from your circle is key to achieve the goal. Law as a field is quite extensive and has a luring capacity extending an invitation to all for a level field and fair play. It’s just a combination of hard and smart work any individual ready to put in and the rewards would be unique and manifold.

    Get in touch with Charulata Chaudhary-

  • “Justice must be done for atrocity crimes, and it’s the responsibility of international law to ensure it.” — Dr. Matthew Gillett, Senior Lecturer at University of Essex School of Law

    “Justice must be done for atrocity crimes, and it’s the responsibility of international law to ensure it.” — Dr. Matthew Gillett, Senior Lecturer at University of Essex School of Law

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

    Your career has spanned almost 15 years before the international courts, with significant cases including the destruction of cultural heritage. Can you share what initially inspired you to pursue a career in international law and what has kept you motivated throughout? 

    Living in New Zealand as a teenager in the 1990s, I saw the tragedies in Bosnia and Rwanda and wanted to do something about it. As I learned about the international criminal courts, I realised that was a means of taking action against the perpetrators of the worst crimes, including in those countries. Eventually I secured a position prosecuting international cases before those courts. My motivation was fueled by a sense of injustice and then later from meetings with victims who explained the impact these crimes had on their lives. Working with people from all over the world was also an inspiration. From Italy to India and everywhere in-between, you end up on teams with a huge range of backgrounds and legal traditions, which generates creative ideas as well as the odd procedural dispute. The international criminal courts face many challenges and the work can be frustrating. But ultimately there is no question that justice needs to be done for these atrocity crimes and that’s a major motivation.  

    As the Chair Rapporteur of the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, what new dimensions or insights have you gained in the field of human rights and international law that were perhaps less visible in your earlier career? 

    As the Chair-Rapporteur, I see the organisational aspects of improving human rights practices. One of the key insights has been the importance of clear and open communication. A lot of problems can be avoided with regular and frank exchanges of information and communication helps to focus on the most serious issues which are directly affecting the victims. Closely linked to this is the need for inter-personal skills and empathy. When you are dealing with cases of persons arbitrarily detained for months and sometimes years, often in countries where they have no family, you have to picture the world from their perspective in order to understand the gravity of the threats and uncertainty they are facing. 

    Your work has involved prosecuting cases related to environmental harm at the International Criminal Court. How do you see the relationship between international criminal law and environmental protection evolving, and what key lessons have you learned from these cases?

    When I started writing about the International Criminal Court prosecuting environmental harm, it was just a theoretical idea. However, in 2024, prosecuting environmental harm under international law is becoming a reality. Significantly, three small island States (Vanuatu, Samoa, Fiji) have officially tabled the crime of genocide for inclusion at the ICC as the fifth crime along with war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, and aggression. This year has also seen the Office of the Prosecutor initiate a policy on the prosecution of environmental harm. International law is useful to combat threats to the environment, as it typically focuses on large-scale crimes committed by groups of people. However, there are many challenges in transposing international criminal law to the environmental context. The courts are not ecological research centers, and so there will be a lot of lessons to learn. My main observation is that experts from sciences should be brought in to avoid the law being applied on incorrect foundations. I also propose that the definition of ecocide needs to be carefully formulated to ensure that it is clear as to what is covered (and what is not) and that it provides fair notice to people and organisations as to what conduct is included. 

    In your opinion, how can international law be better utilized to combat rising global challenges such as climate change, digital privacy violations, and arbitrary detention, while ensuring justice for marginalized communities? 

    International law requires enforcement. For that to occur, international courts must be strengthened. In particular, States such as the USA, Russia, China and India should join the International Criminal Court. Bodies such as the United Nations Human Rights Special Procedures should be strongly reinforced, with sufficient resources and binding powers to improve human rights adherence. 

    As someone who has published widely and won prestigious academic awards, what advice would you give to young legal scholars who want to balance research, writing, and a practical legal career?

    For young lawyers and legal scholars, I highly recommend taking the time to research and write about legal issues that interest you. It’s one thing to work on a legal case but another to write about the broader context and the meaning of the laws and principles involved. If there are issues which strike your sense of justice or injustice, then there is likely to a scholarly question to examine. Balancing professional work and scholarship can be difficult, but the two facets reinforce each other. And it’s important to pass on what you learn to future generations of lawyers and human rights advocates. 

    For young professionals and students in international law, what would you say are the most crucial skills and knowledge they should develop, considering the evolving landscape of global justice, human rights, and environmental protection? 

    Young lawyers and students need to learn the fundamentals, such as the essential fair trial rights, while also developing an awareness of the emerging digital tools which can help them in their work. In terms of skills, good writing is critical. Take the time to follow a course on writing proficiency, as it is such a central skill in most roles. More importantly, clear writing reflects clear thinking, which is required more than ever at this time of crisis around many parts of the World. 

    You have contributed extensively to scholarly literature, what are the key gaps in international law research that you believe need to be addressed by future legal scholars? 

    Gaps in the literature on international law and human rights exist in relation to the procedures that ensure accurate fact-finding and in relation to measuring the impact of human rights work. All too often, it’s presumed that well-expressed and benignly motivated human rights conclusions will flow into enhanced human rights adherence by governments. However, that is a contestable claim, and more attention needs to be paid to measuring the impact of human rights work.

    As a Senior Lecturer at the University of Essex, how do you integrate your extensive practical experience in international law into your teaching, and what key lessons do you hope to impart to your students about the future of global justice? 

    My teaching at the University of Essex is highly interactive. I encourage my students to extemporize and to be prepared to support their claims with arguments and evidence. I also encourage them to develop the ability to entertain a contrary position in order to fully explore its strengths and weaknesses. Getting on the feet to present an argument animates the students and engages their uptake of the information that I’m trying to convey. Finally, I try to remind students that there are real people at the ends of the procedures, often languishing in detention, and so working efficiently and expeditiously is critical. 

    Looking ahead, how do you foresee the role of international law in addressing global challenges like artificial intelligence and cyber warfare, both of which have the potential to drastically alter traditional notions of conflict and justice? 

    We don’t need to look too far ahead to realise that cyber warfare and AI can revolutionalise major areas of human activity. Already, we have seen cyber strikes used in various conflicts, and increasingly it is being integrated into conventional warfare. AI can add digital steroids to human online activity. The potential benefits and efficiency gains are immense. But the risks of misuse, whether advertent or inadvertent, are real and pressing. Efforts are being made to have international law address AI. But a lot of work will be required to create any form of international law that can enforce restrictions on the misuse of AI – and the axiomatic importance of protecting free expression and liberty must always be borne in mind.

    With such a demanding career in international law and human rights, how do you find time to unwind, and what hobbies or activities help you maintain balance in your personal and professional life? 

    Keeping a balance between work and home life is important, especially when working on grave matters like atrocity crimes. My family keeps me grounded, and I enjoy sitting down with them to hear about their school and work days. Whereas I used to play a variety of sports, most of my activities now revolve around the family. But I still make time to watch the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team play whenever I can.  

    Get in touch with Dr Matthew Gillett-