Could you please share with us the pivotal moments or experiences that led you to pursue a career in law, particularly your journey from your undergraduate studies at National Law Institute University, Bhopal, to earning an LL.M. from Cornell Law School?
I just went with the flow and ended up where I did. When I was in school, I was very sure that I’ll be studying English Hons. in Delhi University. Most of my classmates in school were heading to DU and I felt like that is where I want to be as well. But I cleared CLAT and allowed myself to be talked into studying law – and boy, am I glad I did! Although I was quite average academically, the five years I spent at Bhopal were very fulfilling. The decision to apply for Masters was also one without a lot of planning behind it –I was in the final year of my course, I had no job and I had no idea what I wanted to do. I made a last minute decision to apply for LL.M.. In fact, some of the admission deadlines for colleges had already passed by the time I got around to applying. My LL.M. year was very enriching and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
As an Advocate-on-Record at the Supreme Court of India, you have a diverse range of experiences, including representing political parties and government departments. What motivated you to specialize in areas such as commercial law, service law, constitutional law, and election law?
I like the variety that comes with being a practising advocate. I did not deliberately choose these practice areas, most lawyers don’t get that choice– at least not initially when you’re starting out. You say yes to all kinds of work. For me, this diversity is what keeps the work exciting and interesting.
During your time at Cornell Law School, you served as an Associate Editor for the Cornell International Law Journal and as a Researcher for the Center on the Death Penalty Worldwide. How did these roles shape your perspective on the legal profession, and how do they contribute to your current work?
My work as an Associate Editor for the Cornell International Law Journal felt like a natural extension of my work at the NLIU Law Review when I was in Bhopal. I had been a part of the journal since the first year, and continued up till my final fifth year when I was effectively in-charge of the Editorial Board – Content Review. At CILJ, I had an exposure to how much more professional these journals are; you work on tight deadlines, the articles and publications are by well-known academics, the editing is strict, the citations must always be as per the Bluebook. I feel like my editing experience helps me write and draft better. It instills an ability to discern good writing quickly.
My time as a Researcher with the Death Penalty Worldwide was shorter. I felt like I had taken on too much, what with all the credits and extra-curricular activities, and could not continue it for longer.
Drafting and researching constitute a big chunk of my professional responsibilities, so I’d say, yes, these experiences definitely help me now.
From your extensive internship experience, including working at Parekh & Co., Amarchand & Mangaldas & Suresh A Shroff & Co., and others, which experiences had the most significant impact on your development as a legal professional, and how did they influence your career choices?
I did not do as many internships as some of my classmates and colleagues. But from the ones I did, I got a fair look into the workings of litigation chambers, litigation law firms and corporate law firms. I also got to work with an Intellectual Property Rights team, specifically the patents team of a law firm. Through these experiences, I realised that (A) I’m probably better suited as a litigating lawyer over a transactional one, and (B) I’d rather work with a small team of a few colleagues than with a large team of people. The internship experiences brought that clarity at some point.
You’ve been involved in varied cases relating to Constitutional matters, and also many election disputes involving RP Act, symbol order etc. Can you share a specific case or experience that challenged you professionally and how you navigated through it?
I think each case is a new challenge in itself. I cannot think of anything specific at the moment but I am looking forward to a few 7-judge bench matters that are scheduled to be listed where I am involved as the Advocate-on-Record.
What made you decide to take the New York Bar Exam? Have you had the experience of handling cases before US Courts as an Attorney and Counselor-at-Law in the State of New York.
Most international students in my LL.M. cohort were very keen on taking the New York Bar Exam. On finding that I can easily fulfil the eligibility requirement by taking certain credits from a list of a few select courses, I decided that I will also take the exam and see where it takes me if I pass. I was open to exploring work opportunities outside but I didn’t know what kind of law I wanted to practise.
I passed the NY Bar, but I came back to India soon thereafter and joined the litigation chamber of an Advocate-on-Record. The NY Bar qualification is now just an embellishment on my CV. My feet – and practice – are firmly planted in the Supreme Court of India.
Lastly, considering your rich and varied experiences, what advice would you give to recent law graduates who are embarking on their legal careers?
There is no straight line to success and everybody’s experiences are different. Don’t compare your path to others’. Stay motivated and stick it out. Showing up is half the battle.
Starting with the basics, can you share a bit about your journey into law and what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
I started as a litigating lawyer with Mr. Vivek Chaudhary who was elevated as a HC Judge from Allahabad. Thereafter, I worked with Sr. Adv. Aman Lekhi for some time and went on to become an in-house counsel with CREDAI. Worked with CREDAI for a span of few years and realised that I could call myself a real estate lawyer. I got an offer from MAX subsidiary Antara Senior Living and joined Antara in 2021. I worked with MAX for two years and got an offer from an MNC to lead their real estate team in India. I resigned from Antara only to find out that the company’s culture is bad – hence, instead of finding another job, I ended up making MAYSS Partners with two other colleagues.
As the Founder of MAYSS Partners Law Offices, can you tell us about the ethos or guiding principles that define your law firm and set it apart in the legal landscape?
We wish to make a law firm that understands its Client’s business. Very soon, we will be taking up interns and freshers from Tier 3 colleges and try to give them exposure to good Clients and Courts in New Delhi
You transitioned from the role of Legal Counsel at Antara Senior Living to becoming the Managing Partner at MAYSS Partners. What motivated or inspired this transition, and how has your perspective on the legal profession evolved as a result of taking on a leadership role in your firm?
Honestly, it was never planned, it all accidental – A coffee meeting with my Promoter made me think if I should really work for a company that does not have very good intentions for its employees, I resigned immediately after the meeting and thanked the Promoter for being so honest on day one – Ended up making MAYSS Partners
As a Managing Partner, you lead a team of ten lawyers. What qualities do you look for in team members, and how do you foster a collaborative and productive work environment?
I honestly believe that everyone can learn and anyone can be trained. Therefore, the idea is to help young professionals from Tier 3 cities come to Delhi and Mumbai and learn the art of practice in these cities.
Given your expertise in regulatory compliance, what are some key considerations for businesses dealing with RERA, RBI, SEBI, IBC, and other relevant regulatory frameworks?
The only thing that businesses should bear in mind is that they cannot cheat the investors anymore.
Looking ahead, what are some trends or developments in the legal landscape that you find particularly intriguing or that you believe will shape the future of legal practice?
I think AI will bring in a massive change and it is high time that we start learning to use AI.
With your extensive experience, what are your thoughts on the dynamics of working as legal counsel compared to being a managing partner? How do you navigate the challenges and find fulfilment in these distinct roles?
In employment, you work for business teams who are your clients and the same goes for a law firm. As long as you are committed to solving a problem, it’s all the same.
For aspiring law students, internships are often pivotal in shaping their understanding of the legal profession. In your experience, what kind of internship do you believe is crucial for a law student, and what advice would you give on how students can make the most out of their internship experiences?
I think students must intern with good companies, law firms and lawyers. Students should learn how businesses are run and how do we reach out to the Clients.
Beyond the legal realm, what are some of your personal interests or hobbies that you find relaxing or rejuvenating?
I am trying to run five km every day. I love to cook and hang out with my family.
Considering your extensive experience, what are your thoughts on aspiring legal professionals choosing to intern or work with Tier 1 law firms as opposed to Tier 2 or Tier 3 firms?
How do you believe the choice of the firm tier can impact one’s career trajectory in the legal field? I think all three are important. Learning happens with all sorts of firms in different ways and means.
Reflecting on your journey from the initial days after college to where you are now, could you share some insights into the challenges or struggles you faced when starting your career, and how you navigated through them to reach your current position as a Partner at Mansukhlal Hiralal & Co.?
When I look back at my early days, I faced several challenges, the foremost being establishing myself in a competitive legal landscape. I started working at the grassroot level and navigated the system while learning the legal skills. People believe that litigation is about drafting and arguing, but a huge part of litigation is the process that each of the courts implement.
In hindsight, starting my career at Mansukhlal Hiralal & Co. felt daunting. Balancing the steep learning curve with client demands was challenging. It was a centenarian firm with an impeccable reputation to vouch for. But I embraced mentorship, built relationships, and developed resilience. Each obstacle became a stepping stone, fuelling my growth and leading to my current role as a Partner. The most challenging part for me was networking. As lawyers, we are not trained to network. Personally, I had to work hard to come out of my shell to expand my network. =I focused on continuous learning, and sought mentorship from seniors and experts. I worked in different roles to develop new avenues and set a solid base for the years ahead. This act of building a strong network and fostering positive relationships within the legal community also played a pivotal role in my journey. Being able to adapt and never give up was vital. This helped me overcome hurdles and move forward in my career to the position I am in today.
Congratulations on being named ‘Woman Legal Leader of the Year’ by the Future Digital Summit 2022! Can you share with us what this recognition means to you personally and professionally? Also, given your achievements, including being part of the Asia Super 50 Disputes Lawyers, what motivates you to continue pushing boundaries and excelling in your field?
Thank you for your kind words. These recognitions are truly an honour and a testament to the hard work of not just myself, but my entire team at M/s. Mansukhlal Hiralal & Co. In fact, it is humbling as well as intimidating since now the bar is set higher and I know I need to do even more than I have been, to stay on these lists.
It was a pleasant surprise being named the ‘Woman Legal Leader of the Year’ by Future Digital Summit 2022. It is a substantial honour for me, both on a personal and professional level. Personally, it signifies that the determination and effort I have invested in my profession have been recognized and rewarded. Professionally, this accolade serves as a motivation to continue contributing to advancements in the legal sector, reinforce my commitment to diversity and inclusion, and to inspire other women to pursue leadership roles.
Furthermore, being part of the Asia Super 50 Disputes Lawyers adds another layer of motivation. It reinforces my dedication to pushing boundaries and excelling in my field and contributing meaningfully to the legal community. It’s a constant reminder that excellence is a journey, not a destination, and one cannot get carried away with it.
As a TEDx speaker, we’re curious about your experience. What topic did you speak about, and how did sharing your insights on that platform influence your perspective on your legal practice?
My passion for empowering women extends beyond the courtroom. I recently gave a TEDx Talk titled ‘Equality Begins at Home,’ where I explored how fostering gender equality within families can be a powerful catalyst for broader societal change.
During my years of practice, I have represented several women who are ill-treated at home, be it mentally, physically, emotionally or financially. While I help them legally, I can say that in this evolving world, the term equality is used very loosely. There are so many facets of equality that need to be looked into. It is easy to understand that if you don’t grow up understanding what equality is, you will have difficulty in implementing it.
I am sharing the link as well.
During my talk, I emphasized the importance of looking into people’s mindset. It is a change that is required to bring equality in life. Equality is only spoken about superficially. It’s not just about educating a girl child or her having a successful career. It is how girls and women are treated at home and outside and breaking societal stereotypes to empower women. I shared stories of resilience, determination, and success, highlighting how only a change of mindset can have the transformative impact that empowering women can have on families, communities, and societies at large.
As a lawyer, my experience speaking on the TEDx platform influenced my perspective on my legal career. It reinforced the important role of the legal system in promoting gender equality and protecting women’s rights. It highlighted the need for lawyers to actively participate in projects that promote women’s empowerment and advocate for policies that address gender inequality.
On a personal note, my 13-year-old son was the proudest to have his mother be invited to be a TEDx speaker. He also related to the topic and understood its essence. He helped me throughout my preparation. So, for me, that itself was a big win.
As a leader heading the corporate, real estate, and dispute resolution team, how do you foster a collaborative and innovative work environment among your team members? Can you share an example of a successful collaborative effort that had a positive impact on a project or case?
As the leader heading the corporate, real estate, and dispute resolution team, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment is critical to success. One effective way I encourage collaboration is by encouraging open communication and creating a culture where team members feel comfortable sharing their ideas and opinions. I believe in the power of ideas and actively seek opinions from individuals of different backgrounds and expertise. Additionally, I encourage continuous learning and professional development and motivate team members to stay abreast of industry growth and development. We hold in-house update sessions once a month where all the team members educate the other members with critical updates.
One outstanding example of a successful collaborative effort in our group was during a real estate transaction for the sale of two adjoining plots of land with two separate structures. The interesting part of this land holding and the structure holding was that the ownership belonged to one family, and was divided into several entities being:
Individuals,
Several HUFs
Private Limited Company
Partnership firm and
Trust
Along with this, there were several disputes inter-se between the co-owners including testamentary disputes, corporate actions, and partners-inter se, and there were several tenants in both the structures. All these land-holding structures and the disputes led to a very low valuation of the property.
For the sale of this property, my real estate team, my dispute resolution team and my corporate team not only worked together but put a joint face before the clients and all the adversaries. With such seamless collaboration, all the disputes and challenges were resolved and the client got a substantially high consideration for this property.
For aspiring lawyers and law students looking to excel in corporate law, real estate, or dispute resolution, what specific skills or areas of knowledge do you believe they should prioritize during their education and early career? Considering your diverse expertise, what types of internships or practical experiences would you recommend for students to gain a well-rounded understanding of the legal field and enhance their employability?
For aspiring lawyers in corporate law, real estate, or dispute resolution, prioritizing skills such as legal research, negotiation, and communication is crucial. I personally believe that whatever practice area you choose, one should always have hands-on experience in litigation and dispute resolution. One may be brilliant at drafting contracts and commercial documents, but execution of the agreement is not the measure of good drafting. The measure of good drafting is the test of the court. If the document does not speak for your intent in drafting in the Courts, the draft is not good enough. I strongly recommend having hands-on litigation experience early on in your career and then deciding your area of practice. I also strongly recommend judicial internships.
Needless to say, staying updated on industry trends, and developing business acumen is essential. Practical experience through internships and networking can provide a holistic understanding of the legal profession and enhance employability. To gain a well-rounded understanding of the legal field, students should pursue internships in diverse areas, including law firms, corporate legal departments, and government organizations. Practical experiences in drafting and research contribute to a comprehensive skill set. Exposure to different legal environments helps students adapt to various scenarios, making them versatile professionals.
You hold licenses as a Solicitor in the U.K. and Wales as well as in India. How has being a member of both legal communities enriched your professional perspective, and how do you navigate the differences in legal practices between these jurisdictions in your daily work?
Being a Solicitor in the U.K. and Wales as well as in India has enriched my professional perspective. It allows me to move seamlessly between legal systems, giving clients a global perspective. Having recognized the differences between legal practices, I use the strengths of each jurisdiction to provide comprehensive solutions. It provides me broader understanding of the nuances of international law and enhance the quality of legal services.
Considering your extensive experience, are there any key changes or developments in the legal landscape of India that you find particularly noteworthy or impactful for the legal community?
The Indian economy and landscape is changing every day. The laws we have also need to be updated at the same speed. There are several noteworthy changes in the legal sphere as well. As the world takes steps into the world of Artificial Intelligence and constant digital upgradation, the challenges of privacy have increased multifold. To mitigate the same, Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDPA) is a crucial development in the Indian legal landscape. It is the very first comprehensive data privacy law in India with focus on individual rights. It empowers individuals with rights like access, correction, and erasure of their personal data, granting them greater control over its use. It also imposes obligations on data fiduciaries i.e. businesses collecting and processing personal data with respect to data security, transparency, and accountability. It also establishes the Data Protection Authority to oversee data protection compliance and investigate potential violations.
The Indian government is actively working to update and improve its regulatory framework across various sectors. This includes initiatives like the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), the Goods and Services Tax (GST), and the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA)
The Indian legal system is embracing technology at an accelerating pace. Increasing use of technology in legal practice, including virtual court proceedings, has streamlined processes and increased accessibility. This shift presents both opportunities and challenges, emphasizing the need for legal professionals to adapt to the evolving landscape.
Initiatives like the eCourts Mission and the introduction of online dispute resolution (ODR) platforms are transforming how cases are filed, managed, and adjudicated.
Outside of your legal career, what are your favorite ways to unwind and relax? Do you have any hobbies or activities that you find particularly rejuvenating?
I am a big advocate for work-life balance. Outside of my legal career, spending time with my son and my family are my biggest stress busters. I also find relaxation through various activities. I love reading, it gives me a break and a new perspective. I have re-connected with Bharatnatyam and it is really fulfilling to perform again on the stage. Traveling and exploring different cultures also rejuvenates me, and gives me new perspectives that positively impact my professional life.
Can you share with us what initially inspired you to pursue a career in law, and how did your journey in the legal field begin?
My father who is a practising lawyer inspired me to become a lawyer. He believed that my analytical skills, command on languages and oratory skills would get me immense success in the legal profession. During my college days I interned with some of the best senior lawyers of the country and was mesmerised by their personalities and their court craft. I aspired to become a senior counsel one day and that’s why I started my career as a litigator. I started my career with my father but shortly thereafter joined the office of a young and successful lawyer in Tis Hazari District court. With my mentor and first boss I got the opportunity to work on some very high stake white collar crimes cases as off-counsels for tier 1 law firms. I was taking up my own matters as well as assisting my senior in his matters. After 4 years of litigation I felt I was stagnated as I had ready playbooks for all kinds of criminal and civil litigation and the cases progressed very slowly. I felt I should expand my horizons and learn a little bit about corporate legal work before I can decide which way to go.
At this time I got the opportunity to work in the legal department of a popular Indian mobile phone company (Micromax) where I got to draft,review and negotiate commercial agreements for the first time. During my two years of working with the said company I learnt immensely about business and the role of lawyers in ensuring good business hygiene. I would work directly with business heads of various departments and get to learn in detail about their respective departments. I understood the scale of legal operations that are there in big corporations and how to manage them using available digital tools. I also learnt how to get things done by making interpersonal bonds with people which I could never learn as a litigation counsel. Later, I started my own boutique law firm with a few of my friends from law college and started providing comprehensive legal services to startups in NCR including disputes resolution, general corporate, M&A, IPR, compliances etc. In the year 2022 I decided to finally start working on my long standing dream of starting my own business in legal-tech space and that’s when i incorporated my own company to develop a B2B legal tech SaaS platform under the brand name “TrueCounsel”
Versatility in Legal Practice:
Legal profession is more art than science and although I do believe in the importance of specialisation, I feel a good lawyer can do anything and everything. Many great lawyers choose to specialise in one area of law but if needed they can take up any kind of challenge. A lawyer who has the capability of representing a client before the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, can also represent a client in an international arbitration, can also negotiate a high stake deal, can also become a politician, can become a great entrepreneur etc. The level of preparedness, meticulousness, foresightedness and oratory skills that are expected of lawyers, make us ready to take any challenges head-on and with ease. We are mostly performing and at best of our behaviour be it before a court or in a virtual meeting or even when casually meeting anyone in our social circle.
You have expertise in both litigation and corporate legal work. How did you find yourself navigating both these aspects of law, and which area do you find more challenging or rewarding?
I find myself navigating between all aspects of law quite smoothly. I believe good research is the key to do well in any area of law or business or technology. I like to take on challenging problems and solve them by sheer hard work. All areas of law are equally challenging and rewarding in my experience and I feel that I thrive under pressure. Whenever I feel that I have become comfortable and bored, I try to take on a new and bigger challenge for myself. Presently I am focussed on learning how to mentor and train the young generation of lawyers which is very different from my generation and becoming a good leader. Also I am facing the challenges of being a tech founder and running a highly competitive business which is very different from being a lawyer.
You mention a strong aptitude for managing large volumes of corporate disputes using the latest technology. How has technology played a role in your legal practice, and how do you see it shaping the future of dispute resolution?
The first time I started managing huge volumes of agreements, consumer disputes and recovery matters as an in-house legal counsel, I realised this was completely different from being a litigator. This was the first time I used Microsoft Excel with the help of my boss and second mentor who is also a Chartered Accountant. I understood the importance of using digital tools effectively in order to manage large volumes of data. I had been using technology for legal research during my litigation days already along with OCR tools for extracting data easily for drafting but beyond that I did not know much about the need of tech in the legal profession. This was the time when companies such as ProVakil, Vakilsearch, MyAdvo, Mikelegal etc. had also come up with the objective of solving major pain points in the legal industry using technology. These companies provided solutions for easy discovery of legal professionals, contracts workflow management, automatic updates on court cases, enforcement of IPR etc. This caught my interest immensely as I could see that any problem can be solved using technology and that India is booming with a tech workforce which can create any kind of tech very fast. During the Covid times, the necessity for incorporating tech in legal practice got highlighted and we saw fast advancement in this direction.
I feel that increased technological advancement in legal practice will create better opportunities for young lawyers, will lead to increased transparency, lower rates of disputes, faster dispute resolution, standardisation of legal fees and overall improvement of the legal system which directly impacts ease of business.
Could you share one or two experiences representing clients in high-stakes disputes that have left a lasting impact on your approach to legal representation?
During my initial litigation days and also when I was working as an in-house counsel, I got to work on some very high stake disputes involving foreign entities. I got the opportunity to work with foreign lawyers and I was highly inspired by their inquisitive approach towards understanding Indian law. I drafted memos and legal opinions which were then vetted by tier-1 Indian law firms and finally shared with these foreign lawyers and that taught me how to appreciate law from an outsider’s perspective. I became more critical and inquisitive about statutes and legal provisions. Also I learned the importance of strategising in detail at the very commencement of a dispute and factoring in all possible outcomes of every step well in advance so that you are never caught by surprise. It also taught me how to manage voluminous documents and data effectively in order to succeed in any dispute because more than law, the facts make or break a case.
Moving on to your current role as a Partner at Ortis Law Offices, what prompted this transition, and how has this role differed from your previous experiences?
When I merged my law firm with Ortis Law offices, I made a hard decision to stop doing everything and focus completely on corporate legal work. This decision was prompted by the need for specialisation. I had been doing everything that would come to me and even actively generating work in all possible directions but I realised that although this keeps me motivated, it is not very effective in many ways. I realised that once you have more than 10 years of experience, you must pick an area of law and focus completely on it while generating other work for your partners in the law firm. This creates a good structural foundation for scaling up your legal practice. At Ortis Law Offices I learnt how to be a good mentor and senior. Earlier I would expect a bit too much from my juniors and as a result would become very frustrated with them. This led to low motivation and a toxic environment in my team but my senior partners at Ortis Law Offices taught me how to keep your team happy and motivated and give them space to blossom. Also, while working with other partners at the firm I learnt a lot more about working with MNCs and big clients than I had in my earlier experience.
You’ve been involved in various acquisitions, funding rounds, and legal proceedings. Could you highlight a recent case or advisory role that stands out to you and share some key lessons or insights gained from it?
Recently I worked on the acquisition of a company undergoing financial distress wherein I had to represent the said company and its founders. At the same time I had to negotiate settlements with the creditors of the company. This was a very stressful and hectic project wherein I learned how to keep calm and stand your ground under tremendous pressure while representing the losing side in a transaction.
As someone with over a decade of experience in the legal field, what advice would you give to law students or recent graduates who are starting their careers in law? What lessons have you learned that you believe would be valuable for them?
My only advice to young law students and lawyers is to do as much freelance work as possible. I believe that while working with seniors or in a law firm structure or as an in-house lawyer one tends to have huge scope for error and a lot of cushion but when you freelance you are directly answerable to the client which teaches you professionalism at a whole different level. It teaches you how to value their time and provide the highest quality of services that you can.
Another important advice is that you must keep adding skills in your arsenal. The moment you stop updating your skills you become obsolete and redundant. I recommend that the young lawyers should use as much technology as possible while doing their research, drafting or any other work to increase efficiency and quality of their product and keep a lookout for the latest advancements in legal tech.
Looking back at the journey from your CA articleship to becoming the Group General Counsel at NIIF, how did you initially decide to pursue a career in law, and what pivotal moments shaped your decision to specialize in corporate law and investment funds?
My career path has been a case of pure serendipity. I chose the CA course as my group of friends collectively decided this was the path forward for us. After qualifying as a chartered accountant, I thought of giving civil services a shot. Hence, I picked “law” as a second subject. I joined Government Law College (GLC), as it was convenient to attend morning college and get to work at my chartered accountancy firm by 11 am. I had encountered Nishith Desai Associates (NDA) in my work-related research, and hence when they came to GLC for campus recruitment, it was a no-brainer to sit for their interview. From what the interviewer told me later, I came across as a no-nonsense nerd, and when they made an offer, I accepted. That’s how my journey in the professional field of law started.
In those days, NDA was a leading firm in India in the fields of international tax and investment funds. I joined the tax team and being a CA-and-lawyer, I got pulled into the funds team. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at NDA and lapped up every challenge / opportunity thrown at me, be it international tax advisory, international tax policy, fund formation, fund documentation, corporate transactions work, pro-bono advisory etc.
Looking back, I can only conclude that whenever I was at the fork of a decision in my career path, I took that leap of faith and successfully ploughed my way with self-belief and hard work as my tools. And as for the challenging days, I had the blessings and patience of my family and guidance from friends and well-wishers to pull me through.
As the Group General Counsel at the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIF), what are some unique challenges and exciting opportunities you encounter in your current role?
When I joined NIIF, I already had over two decades of experience behind me. The niggling feeling was, what next. I had been an external lawyer as well as in-house, so what more could I look forward to. In NIIF I found the next chapter in my professional life.
During my interview for the post, my boss-to-be asked: what is it that makes NIIF an appealing opportunity to you? My answer was, NIIF as a sovereign anchored fund is a unique experiment in the history of India and it would be an honor to be a part of this history.
As Group General Counsel and Head Corporate Affairs (GGC-CA) at NIIF, the unique task I had to dive right into was ‘stakeholder management’. NIIF is 49% owned by the Government of India and balance 51% by sovereign, quasi sovereign, and other institutional investors (domestic and offshore). The Board is a representative of these diverse stakeholders as well as independent directors. Hence, as GGC-CA being trusted advisor to the stakeholders is key. A routine day is a combination of being the voice of reason, providing clear legal advice, addressing compliance challenges, providing guidance on governance matters, being sounding board for new ideas, and supporting business teams in executing strategic decisions. As fiduciary for investors’ monies, it is imperative to approach every legal/compliance conundrum with thorough technical analysis, test alternate outcomes, closely monitor execution and reporting.
NIIF offers exciting opportunities for professional growth and intellectual curiosity as we continue to scale our various investment platforms (across various infrastructure sub sectors), expand our private markets footprint, roll out new fund products (including our maiden India-Japan Fund) and much more.
From your extensive experience in structuring funds to managing acquisitions and joint ventures, you’ve covered a wide spectrum of legal aspects. Is there a specific area within your expertise that you find particularly fascinating or enjoy working on the most?
My first love has, and continues to be, taxation. As a student, I aced the subject and had penned “be a core member of the team to re-write the Indian income-tax act” on my vision board! Well, I haven’t achieved that goal but I have enjoyed my tryst with various taxation matters. Researching on and writing tax opinions has been tremendously rewarding, tax structuring of funds, managed accounts, fund investments, strategic ventures and other collaborations helped me to deftly leverage my passion and expertise. Through my focus on ‘policy advocacy’, I have also made representations (and drafted proposed amendments) on tax, legal and regulatory issues.
Another fascinating aspect of my professional life (which am sure, other deal junkies like me will also confess) is negotiating complex contracts. On the execution day of any transaction, it is absolutely satisfying to check your score card and find that the deal breakers were addressed suitably and the terms of the resultant contract have emerged as clear and unambiguous, thus being capable of performance as well as enforcement.
In one of my early transactions, when I ended up being chosen as the common counsel for the buyer and seller of a large real estate transaction, I asked the seller-client (who had approached me first) that aren’t you worried a common lawyer may find a middle path rather than fight for your side? His reply has stayed with me since: there is never a good contract with a bad counterparty and never a bad contract with a good counterparty. A clever lawyer is one that doesn’t miss the woods for the trees. Stay focused on why that transaction is important for your company and thereby make the right legal calls for the longevity and success of the business.
As a seasoned counsel, my approach is not to treat the negotiation room as a war zone. Rather take it as an opportunity for parties on both sides to negotiate in good faith and with the objective of finding the best workable solution for any deadlock in the commercial imperatives. Having worked on several transactions in my career, I have realised that a deal can take a life of its own and it is very easy to get caught in the vortex to make the deal happen. However, knowing when to keep going and when to back off from a transaction is a critical skill to cultivate. “Sometimes your best investments are the ones you don’t make”1.
As a jury member for awards recognizing Alternate Investment Professionals in India, what qualities or achievements do you look for in professionals that make them stand out in the field of investments and legal advisory?
When Aditya Gadge of Equalifi reached out to me to be a member on their jury for “40 under 40, Alternative Investment Professionals in India”, it felt like coming of age and as if we the jury members were handing over the baton to the next generation stars. The nominees definitely lived up to this expectation. The nominees had dedicated years to their respective fields with passion and had strived to make a mark for themselves.
The qualities that I appreciate are: consistency in performance, staying focussed when faced with a challenge, ability to spot opportunities and own the space, and bias towards quality in execution. For professionals in the legal and compliance function the qualities that will make them stand out are: solid foundation (educational / practical training), ability to navigate the grays, a strong backbone to withstand pressures/not take short term calls, foresight to spot legal/regulatory changes on the horizon and impact on the company/business and having an affable personality.
Being a member of SEBI’s Working Group on AIF Regulations and other regulatory committees, how do you see the evolving landscape of investment regulations in India, and what role do you think legal professionals play in shaping these changes?
There is no doubt that we are functioning in a complex and dynamic legal and regulatory environment. Change is the only constant. Laws are being redrawn, regulations are being upscaled and regulators are being conferred with enhanced powers. It is no surprise that in such a scenario, the experienced senior and her freshly minted lawyer are reading the new law at the same time!
Legal professionals play a pivotal role in such times. Legal acumen and clarity in drafting are the two key skill sets that a legal professional brings to the expert group / committee. With her experience, the legal professional can also help the ministry / regulator sift through the clutter and narrow down the mischief that needs to be addressed through the new law or regulation. The new law / regulation needs to address the ostensibly contradicting objectives of keeping the industry in check (from malpractices) and support growth of the industry. Thus, being effective through the policy drafting process becomes very important.
Unfortunately, clear drafting is becoming a dying art. Have encountered many lawyers accessing the myriad library options and walking the easy ‘copy-paste’ path. There was a time when our seniors would dictate complicated clauses off the top of their heads. The technological advancements and legaltech solutions have unfortunately stymied the creativity and thinking on your feet skills of young lawyers.
You transitioned from working at a law firm, Nishith Desai Associates, to joining Kotak Investment Advisors Limited. What factors or considerations influenced your decision to make this switch, and what notable differences did you experience in working with a firm versus working directly with a company like Kotak?
My primary reason for the transition was to learn the industry from the inside. As an external counsel, you are sometimes like an ‘armchair advisor’. You provide the advice, give the pros and cons of each option and you move on. What makes your client chose one option versus the other, how the risk chips stacked up for each scenario and finally did the option yield the desired result or not – are all unknown to you as you have already shut that file and moved on to the next deliverable on your to-do list.
Joining Kotak gave me that opportunity to learn the business side of asset management industry. Building and growing the business by standing shoulder-to -shoulder with the leadership made me the business lawyer that I am today. I am privileged to have worked across multiple business / economy cycles impacting this industry. There are lawyers I have heard say, “in my experience….” but most of these have not had any practical experience and are merely shooting off theoretical knowledge as experience. If one is serious about dedicating their professional life to a particular specialisation it is imperative that one sees that industry from the inside-out.
“When you come out of the storm, you won’t be the same person who walked in. That’s what this storm’s all about.”2 – so is the case with going in-house. You come into your own – you are a sharper lawyer and decision-maker, you can provide 3600 analysis of the issue at hand (legal, tax, regulatory, compliance, governance, risk and probability of success if challenged), and you eventually build your own name/brand within your company and the industry. For all those who have asked me the question, should they try an in-house role, my answer has always been – just do it, you won’t regret the decision.
Having navigated through prominent roles at Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas and IDFC Alternatives, what unique insights or perspectives have these experiences offered you, shaping your journey and imparting valuable lessons to enhance your growth as a legal professional?
I joined Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas (CAM) after 10 years of being in-house. Hence, I will admit I had my apprehensions. However, I buckled up for the ride, decided not to look back until I had achieved a short-term goal that I had set for myself and thereafter it was as easy as getting the hang of building your Lego masterpiece! Through my stints at each of my law firms and employers, the learnings I have gathered are:
Hire wisely: Take your time to find the right mix of professionals to be on your team. A team is as strong as its weakest link. When you hire right, the members will up the game for each other, will learn from each other, will work collaboratively and create a lasting professional camaraderie. The corollary also implies that you need to let go of the one that don’t make the cut, bring the morale down or don’t work as one team.
Be generous with your time: not just with your clients but also your team. The clients and team are your twin responsibility as the team head. You need to make time and effort to understand them well in order to succeed.
Learn-Unlearn-Relearn: keep an open mind. There are learnings to pick up from every interaction. When tackling a challenging matter, empty your cup and restart to find the right solution for the client. When juniors are going through personal challenges, be kind and patient. If the junior is a sound and committed lawyer you don’t want this talent to get lost, be supportive and collaborate with her in navigating the path.
Don’t indulge in a race to the bottom: Don’t compete on price. When you know your expertise and experience lead to a superior output then command that premium. Work with the people who will pay the value for your worth.
Clarity and forthrightness: Provide clear view based on fine reading of the law and supported by appropriate underlying research. The number of “should” opinions are increasing, so what is the client getting from such opinions. Another one of my favorite quotes is: contradictions don’t exist, check your premises.3 Do your best in navigating the greys and narrowing down to the right answer / solution. Stay your ground and don’t compromise.
Don’t get complacent: “On a stone that doesn’t roll, moss grows certainly”. Keep investing in yourself and your intellectual growth.
With over 25 years of experience, you’ve witnessed the evolution of the legal landscape. Could you share some challenges you faced during your early career, and how do you perceive the changes in the education system and internship opportunities for aspiring legal professionals today?
I neither came from a family of lawyers/judges nor did I spend enough time at law college as I had to hurry back to work post lectures. I remember bungling my first (and only) moot court appearance! I learnt the ropes along the way. From education system wise, some of the law schools are doing an excellent job at building the foundation of sound legal knowledge in students. However, the ‘business’ of education comes in the way at times and churning out graduates in large numbers takes over. Law firms too hire 100-200 students from law schools and throw them at the deep end of the pool. The legal fraternity then loses talent as either the young minds burnout or leave the profession due to lack of mentors, sponsors or support in carving their own niche.
Currently, there is an evident short supply of talent in the middle (5 to 10 years PQE) segment. Most corporates are hesitant as in the short internship stints one is neither able to extract value nor make effective use of an additional resource. However, it is imperative for corporates to take on the ownership of providing more internship opportunities and these opportunities could be created not just in legal and compliance functions but also in the business teams as it would be a wonderful opportunity for the young minds to be exposed to a ring side view of corporate India. To the students, my advice is to do as many diverse internships as possible. Don’t box yourself too soon, in one field or another. Try out multiple fields/businesses/practices, you may or may not choose that field eventually but the learnings you will gather would be transportable and will stand you in good stead.
You’ve been recognized in various lists, including BW Legal World’s Top 100 General Counsel Power list. What does such recognition mean to you, and how do you think it contributes to the representation of women in leadership roles in the legal domain?
Being named on the BW Legal World Top 100 General Counsel Power List 2022 was a very humbling and rewarding experience. When one’s work is validated by a jury of eminent seniors from your field and you stand amidst peers that you hold in high esteem, it works like a booster shot and makes you power on with renewed energy. The women comprised ~ 35 out of the Top 100. Surely, there is scope for many more women professionals to make their mark in leadership roles. May our tribe increase!
Improving the representation of women in leadership roles in the legal domain requires concerted efforts to not lose talented women. To begin with, recognising that most women professionals still carry a disproportionate burden for domestic deliverables despite both spouses having similar demanding jobs. She goes through phases where going the family way, rearing the kids and providing elder care will raise demands on her time. So long as the woman professional is committed to career, it would be helpful to provide flexible options / customised solutions with respect to role, office timings or pace of career growth. Another solution would be to provide a path for women to return to fulfilling roles post their career breaks.
Apart from your professional achievements, we’re curious to know if you have any hobbies or interests outside of the legal world. How do you unwind and recharge outside of work?
While my professional work satiates the left side of my brain, my hobbies leverage the right side of my brain. Hence, if I wasn’t a lawyer, I would have been an artist. I enjoy dabbling in acrylic and oil painting (on canvas) and generally indulge in creative projects around my house. I enjoy music and in fact when tacking a badly drafted document, I switch on my playlist and hack through the document at the beat of my favorite songs! Being a Mumbaikar has also been a boon, as I love going for longs walks along the sea face after a tiring work-day as the cool sea breeze and hum of the city immediately recharge my batteries.
The legal profession is constantly evolving. What advice would you give to young legal professionals who are just starting their careers, especially in navigating the complexities of corporate law and investment funds?
A lawyer’s life is not easy. It is a demanding career and my first piece of advice is don’t venture in this field unless you are passionate about law. Choosing to be a lawyer because it is a safe financial bet will lead you to disengage very soon and you will end up dragging yourself to work unhappy and bored. You will achieve your true potential only when you enjoy what you do. If you are a good lawyer, you can distinguish yourself from your herd of fellow lawyers by being curious, reading the text of law / regulation thoroughly, challenging the premises, researching underlying legal principles and absorbing from the conversations when participating in clients meetings / leadership meetings.
There is no textbook / handbook on the funds industry. So, the more time you invest in learning about the industry the better lawyer you will be. Invest time reading about the industry players (there are many corporate biographies / founders biographies), understand the business of investing, research the legal structural options in India and across the globe, study the commercial clauses of fund documents closely, understand the trends / preferences of capital allocators (investors), get an exposure to work in other jurisdictions, and research on laws/regulations (and their evolution) in relation to the funds industry in other countries. When in doubt, ask for help. Reach out to your partner and request time to discuss and understand better your work, your work output and ways in which you can improve and grow. Further, attend training sessions conducted by industry bodies (e.g. IVCA, CII, FICCI etc.) and above all network and interact with lawyer peers as well as peers from within the industry. Lastly, when you become successful and reach the top, remember to send the elevator back down for the others i.e. be a patient mentor and guide to your juniors.
1Donald Trump, in the article available at https://www.niveza.in/stock-news/learn-investing/sometimes-your-best-investments-are-the-ones-you-dont-make-donald-trump#:~:text=Sometimes%20your%20best%20investments%20are,don%27t%20make%20%2DDonald%20Trump
Sir, could you please share with our readers how your journey in law began and evolved, leading you to specialize in commercial litigation, arbitration, and mediation?
I had intended to join the Indian Air Force as a reconnaissance pilot rather than practice law. The National Defence Academy in Pune required unaided 6/6 eye vision as a visual criterion and a passing grade in mathematics and physics in 12th standard as an educational requirement for admission to the Air Force wing. However, when I was in my early teens, I developed myopia and found that I struggled with mathematics. It implied that I wouldn’t even meet the eligibility criteria to take the entrance exam. At first, I was dejected, but as they say time is a great healer!
Years passed by and in my high school years, I developed an interest in civics and business studies which contained chapters on constitution, business law and ethics which propelled me to take up commerce stream in 11th standard and eventually I pursued undergraduate course in law. I took up internships with an independent counsel, LPO and law firms to understand different facets of law and organizational structure of lawyers. Initially, I worked on a bouquet of dispute resolution matters,
My work included inter alia real estate, testamentary, writ, arbitration, commercial, company, banking, labour and with the passage of time, I realised that my area of interest was in commercial litigation, arbitration and mediation.
You’ve achieved significant recognition, being enlisted by Forbes India and acknowledged by The Legal 500 and with experience across various industry sectors, from aviation to real estate, you’ve covered a wide array of legal areas. How do you manage to navigate and excel in such diverse practice areas?
I believe to excel in diverse legal practice areas, a thorough understanding of facts and legal issues, effective strategy and planning, and time management are crucial. Keeping abreast of recent updates through legal publications is also essential.
A successful lawyer should adopt a personable approach, comprehensively understanding the client’s business, and creatively using resources to address the legal issues. In my view, continuous learning and dedication to provide quality support to my clients drives my motivation to excel. In addition to this, a successful lawyer must imbibe the spirit of learning throughout one’s career and be able to creatively use its resources to fulfill the requirements of the client.
Your academic background includes an LLM in International and Commercial Law from King’s College London. How has your international education shaped and influenced you?
Pursuing a master’s degree in London on a scholarship gave me a great deal of exposure to a relatively different university pedagogy and to students from diverse backgrounds. The subjects were more advanced and in-depth than those I studied in the undergraduate law program and writing assignments and thesis helped me develop my research and analytical skills. Most of the assignments which were given to us revolved around practical legal issues compelling us to apply our legal knowledge in real-world settings.
Pursuing a degree abroad also made me become self-reliant and independent. I think when you face challenges independently, you develop resilience and confidence which benefits you in various aspects of life.
Interacting with fellow international students and locals enabled me to expand my network. Building friendships establishes a global alumni network, expanding your horizons and introducing you to diverse ideas and perspectives that may not have been part of your previous considerations.
From your independent practice to your current role at Fox & Mandal, you’ve navigated various professional settings. How has this journey contributed to your personal and professional growth, and what key lessons have you learned along the way?
Working in diverse work environments enabled me to understand the perspectives and challenges one goes through in its legal practice. For example, in an independent counsel setting, one needs to pay attention to the legal cases as well as take care of administrative tasks such as billing, operational requirements of the setup and HR aspects etc. However, in a law firm you might be spared from the administrative responsibilities and focus only on your work that has been assigned to you.
It is essential to know and understand your role in each professional setting. Once this is clear in your mind, it will be easier to handle and navigate the work and the expectations of your seniors and your team. Another thing to remember is that the learning in this profession never stops. The law, and the practice, is constantly evolving. You either evolve with it or be left behind.
In my short professional journey, I have learnt that one must be open to embrace new opportunities. It is only when you open yourself up, wonderful opportunities come your way to help you polish your skills and be instrumental in your professional and personal growth.
For law students and recent graduates aspiring to build a successful career, what advice would you give based on your own experiences and observations within the legal industry?
I believe law students and graduates should act like a sponge trying to absorb knowledge and information from wherever they receive, be it reading an article/newspaper/blog, or listening to the submissions advanced by counsels or observations made by the judge in a courtroom or discussion on a legal topic with colleagues over lunch.
I also believe that one must have the hunger and passion to excel in his/her field of specialization. In addition, one must also be honest towards the work assigned to them. When you give your all to the matter, whether you win or lose, it does not matter, what matters is – did I give my best? If your answer is yes, you will get immense gratification, there will be no regrets.
I’ve learned that being organized and having your case files at hand is crucial, whether you’re conducting your own study or research or briefing a senior counsel.
Another factor which is instrumental in building a successful career is having a mentor to offer you guidance and support when you require the most. I consider myself fortunate to have numerous mentors in my field like Mr. Sanjay Kumar Pathak, Mr. Kanishk Vardhan Shahi, Mr. Sonal Kumar Singh and Mr. Kunal Vajani who have shaped both my professional and personal development. My deepest gratitude to all of them.
Considering the evolving landscape of law and legal practice, are there specific trends or changes that you foresee impacting the field in the coming years? How should aspiring lawyers prepare for these changes?
The Covid-19 pandemic has not only showcased the feasibility of remote work but also emphasized the flourishing potential through effective work procedures and cutting-edge technologies, a concept previously unthinkable.
This shift emphasizes the increasing significance of technology in the legal sector. Whether you’re a law student or a legal professional, proficiency in working efficiently in virtual environments and familiarity with online collaboration tools is essential in the evolving landscape.
One trend which is already making its impact felt across the entire world is generative artificial intelligence (AI). AI is being increasingly used by law firms/companies nowadays for document review, legal research, contract analysis, communication etc. Aspiring Lawyers should make themselves acquainted with legal tech tools and understand how technology is transforming the way we practice law.
Furthermore, the use of blockchain technology and smart contracts is increasing across industries, including legal practice. Despite challenges, blockchain has revolutionized the world of technology and business. Law aspirants should familiarize themselves with this disruptive technology and understand its implications in a wide array of areas such as contract law, regulations, data privacy, intellectual property, and digital currencies.
Finally, drawing on your extensive experience, what advice would you offer to fresh law graduates who are just starting their professional journeys in the legal field?
The early years of this profession are the formative years and important for the fresh law graduates. I reckon in my early years of the profession; a senior advocate narrated the importance of commitment in the profession by quoting United States Supreme Court Justice Joseph Story – “The law is a jealous mistress and requires long and constant courtship. It is not to be won by trifling favors, but by lavish homage.” One needs to devote a lot of time to the subject and not be casual in the approach. Commitment and perseverance are inseparable and work hand in hand for success. As a practicing lawyer, I have realized that learning in this profession is perpetual. Embracing the idea of being a lifelong student is paramount, resonating with the timeless adage, “Once a student, always a student.”
You have worked in different places including Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo and Belfast. Could you share some insights into the challenges or struggles you faced along the way, and how these experiences have contributed to your personal and professional growth?
Every jurisdiction has its unique challenges and a different regulatory landscape. There are also differences in market practices and work culture. However, exposure to such differences helps you become a better lawyer and allows you to think outside the box and bring a global perspective to help your clients. On the personal front, I don’t see it as a journey filled with struggles; on the contrary, it has been quite exciting and fun. Yes, you do miss your family, friends, and the familiarity of the place you are from, but I have been lucky to find excellent friends, colleagues, and mentors along the way. I love experiencing new places and cultures, so I have tried to make the most of it.
You’re managing a team delivering outsourcing and transaction management solutions in your current role at Herbert Smith Freehills, ALT Finance. What unique challenges and rewards come with overseeing a team working on such diverse projects?
I enjoy the different hats I need to wear. In addition to core legal skills, my role involves team, project, and stakeholder management. Every day is different; you need to continuously innovate and provide tailored solutions to clients at a large scale. I have been lucky to work with clients who are industry leaders, and I find solving problems for them very rewarding. I am also very passionate about people management, learning and growing together as a team, and celebrating each other’s success, which brings me a lot of happiness.
Having worked with major financial institutions like HSBC and JP Morgan Chase & Co., what are some of the key insights you’ve gained about the intersection of law and finance in the derivatives space?
Derivatives is a complex and highly regulated practice area. To be a good derivatives lawyer, you need to understand different derivatives products and the economic outcomes that they are trying to achieve. You can’t afford to look at things only through the lens of laws and regulations and need to be aware of operational, credit, and reputational risks and limitations. My in-house stints at large investment banks were extremely helpful in improving my knowledge of different derivatives products as well as operational and other commercial aspects of the industry.
You’ve managed large teams of lawyers and paralegals. What strategies do you employ to foster a collaborative and efficient working environment within your teams?
There is no straitjacket formula – every individual is different. Appreciating these differences and creating a positive work environment based on trust and mutual respect is very important. Having fun as a team and celebrating little wins and each other’s success is also essential. To develop a high-performing team, a manager must empower and help teammates grow by giving them the support and space they need.
You worked in different capacities including as an Associate Counsel as well as a Manging Consultant. What adjustments or learnings did you find most valuable when you shifted to a leadership role?
It is an evolutionary process; there are always opportunities to lead the way, even when you are not formally in a leadership / managerial role. Effective delegation and leading by example are crucial. It is about striking a balance between acknowledging that you can’t do everything on your own and knowing that there are certain things that you must learn to do well yourself before delegating to others.
As a derivatives lawyer with a keen interest in legal technology, what advancements in legal tech do you find most promising for the future of transactional law?
No prizes for guessing – AI is the obvious one. However, it is essential to differentiate between tech solutions that add genuine value and solve complex problems from solutions that are more bells and whistles. AI has radically changed how large-scale projects are managed and delivered in the last few years.
The industry will generally see an increase in the adoption of tech platforms for streamlining document negotiations.
I am looking forward to seeing the next leap in generative AI solutions. Currently, the technology is prompt engineering dependent, and there are concerns about accuracy and reliability. These issues will be ironed out pretty soon, and the technology’s ability to learn from and understand us will increase manifold.
You’ve held diverse roles in different geographical locations. How have you navigated the cultural nuances in these regions, and do you believe that understanding cultural differences is essential for success in the legal profession, especially in the derivatives and finance sectors?
Absolutely – at the end of the day, we are in a people-centric profession. Keeping an open mind as well as appreciating and respecting differences go a long way. I have come to realize that the world is smaller than we think it is and navigating cultural nuances or differences is not difficult as long as you keep an open mind. It is also important to appreciate cultural similarities instead of focusing on just the differences!
Having worked across various international offices, is there a particular country that holds a special place in your heart, both professionally and personally? How has your experience in that country influenced your approach to law and life?
Tough question. It would be impossible to single out any place. As mentioned, I have been lucky to find excellent friends, colleagues, and mentors wherever I have worked. The person I am is a culmination of my different experiences. I have learned a lot from and felt welcome everywhere.
With your passion for quizzing, how do you balance your high-stakes legal career with your interests outside of work? Any favorite trivia or quiz moment you’d like to share?
It is really important to have a passion or a hobby outside of work – especially for one’s mental health. Your work can get quite taxing and stressful, so it is nice to have something to look forward to outside of work. Quizzing was quite a sidelined activity when I was in law school. I and a few friends started the Quiz Club at our university (RMLNLU, Lucknow). Work does get in the way of quizzing, and I don’t get to participate or conduct as many quizzes as I would like, but I try to whenever possible.
During the pandemic, when there were no live quizzes for obvious reasons so I started a quiz podcast with a friend. We made ten episodes on diverse topics. We were pretty surprised with how well it did on platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and we had a lot of fun in the process, and it kept us going when we were trying to cope with the lockdown.
You’ve had international stints in various countries. How do you perceive the differences in legal education between India and abroad, and what insights can you share for someone considering pursuing an LLM in India or abroad?
I might not be the best person to answer this because I did not study law abroad. Back in law school, there were not enough courses if one wanted to be a transactional lawyer, and interaction with experts from the industry was limited. Now, that has changed significantly. Law schools do get experts from the industry frequently and offer specialised seminar courses. Private players like LawSikho have done a great job in making practical legal education accessible.
Based on my interaction with my colleagues and law students abroad, I think firms are more proactive in reaching out and connecting with students. The process for vacation schemes and training contracts is much more efficient, accessible, and consistent across firms.
In India, the industry can do much more to make itself accessible to law students.
Given your successful career trajectory, what advice would you offer to the current generation aspiring to excel in the field of law, especially those interested in derivatives and legal technology?
I am not very good at giving advice. My career path has not been very traditional. It is crucial to find out what genuinely interests you. If you are not lucky enough to do what you love, see if you can love what you do. Don’t succumb to peer pressure and take up something because everyone else is doing it.
For someone who wants to pursue a career as a derivatives lawyer, a good understanding of the financial ecosystem and macroeconomics can definitely help.
The legal tech landscape is evolving rapidly and has a lot of exciting career opportunities. I think developing an acumen for technology to understand how it works is important. The best way of doing it is learning how to code. You can start by playing around with low code / no code platforms and move on to learning coding. There are excellent resources all over the internet.
It is also vital to learn how to network effectively. Don’t be shy in reaching out to people and introducing yourself!
Reflecting back on your college days, could you share your journey from how you thought of doing law to your college days, and how did you navigate the transition from college to the legal profession, especially as a first-generation lawyer? What were the challenges you encountered, and how did you overcome them to establish your career?
I have always been my mother’s “brighter” child. When the time came for me to choose a career path, my mother casually suggested law. Being a first generation lawyer, I had no insights into the profession, its scope or its demands. In fact, I had absolutely no first-hand knowledge about the life of a lawyer, beyond what is depicted in television, movies and John Grisham novels. At that time, after I compared law to the other conventional career choices, being a lawyer excited me the most. As my curiosity drifted towards law, the decision was made. To be honest, when I look back, I think doing law was just a choice I made by chance. But almost 15 years later I can honestly say that it was one of the best choices I have made.
I studied law at Dr. RML National Law University and I am who I am today because of what my time in law school taught me. The five years I spent in law school were very internship centric. After the internships I did in my first year of law school, I realised that they gave me the practical exposure that law school did not. From my second year in law school, I started interning, every chance I got. While not taking away from the importance of academics, I truly feel that internships gave me first-hand knowledge about the profession. They exposed me to the practicalities and realities of a lawyer’s life.
Owing to my internship experiences, by the end of my third year in law school, I was quite sure that I wanted to start my career as a litigation lawyer.
My transition from college to the legal profession was smoother than I had anticipated it to be. Before I finished my last semester, I had job offers from two litigations firms. One offer I got was on account of a long internship I did at the firm and the other one was on account of an interview I gave while I was in my last semester.
In 2013, Lawctopus and Legally India posted several job openings. I remember I applied for the opening of an Associate at Arimus Law. I got an interview call. The interview was assessment based and not just an interaction with the Partner, Mr. Arjun Singh Bawa. A day before the interview I was sent a fact sheet and was told to prepare arguments from both sides. The interview was like a moot court competition. I argued my case and I got the job! It was one of the most exciting interviews I ever gave. In fact, even now, 10 years later, we still follow this assessment interview model while hiring at Arimus Law.
The only difficulty I faced during the transition was the choice I had to make between the two job offers. One was with a very reputed law firm and one was with a comparatively newer law firm. Not having a mentor in the profession to guide me in the right direction, this choice was a tough one to make. I weighed the pros and cons, as I knew them then, and took the decision to join the latter, Arimus Law. My decision was swayed by the fact that Arimus Law had more trial work.
During this roller coaster ride, the biggest challenge I encountered was not having a professional mentor who I could go to for advice and guidance.
You’ve worked with various renowned advocates and senior advocates. Can you share a memorable experience or lesson that significantly influenced your approach to legal practice?
I have been very fortunate to have got the chance to work with several renowned advocates and senior advocates. Every interaction with another lawyer has taught me something but the key learnings I have got over the years that I still keep in mind today are:
Put effort into your list of dates and synopsis. It might be the only thing a Judge reads before dealing with your case.
Pleadings can make or break a case. Draft crisply, there is no need for non-essential verbosity.
Master your brief. Don’t just read it, think about it, dream about it. Make the brief your story.
By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.
You’ve had a diverse and impactful legal career, starting as an Associate at Arimus Law and now being a Partner in the same firm. Can you share a memorable experience or case that has significantly shaped your journey as a lawyer?
While I was still in law school, my mother’s ancestral property in Delhi became the subject matter of litigation. I (and also my mother) strongly believe that this case has played a major role in making me the lawyer I am today. Being a property related dispute, it has a civil law angle, a testamentary law angle and also a criminal law angle.
When I was in law school my mother used to go and attend the hearings of this case before the Hon’ble Delhi High Court. Before each hearing I would have long conversations with my mother about what the case was listed for, what the lawyer’s strategy was, what could be the possible outcomes of the hearing etc. Whenever I was in Delhi for an internship or a break, I used to accompany my mother for meetings with the lawyer and for the court hearings.
The fact that I became a litigant before a litigation lawyer changed the way I deal with my Clients today. I make an effort to be more compassionate, empathetic, honest and available to my Clients.
It is also this case that enabled me to, very early on in my career, familiarise myself with the dynamics of a courtroom. What I have learnt about courtroom dynamics from this case is something that I benefit from, till date. Effective advocacy is so much more than just knowing the law. During the initial years of my career, the exposure I got from this case helped me bridge the gap between the theoretical world of law and the real-world courtroom dynamics.
This case is still pending adjudication and every hearing still teaches me something new.
You’ve been appointed as a Local Commissioner to record evidence in various Suits by the Ld. Judges of the District Courts of Delhi. Could you share some insights into this role and how it contributes to the legal process?
I’d like to start by quoting from the judgment of the Hon’ble Delhi High Court passed in Pushpa Devi Vs. Bimla Devi & Ors. (AIR 2000 DELHI 141) –
“…However sad as it may seem the reality today is that Suits do not reach hearing for a large number of years…Delay therefore defeats justice”
This judgement was passed over 2 decades ago but the situation unfortunately is still the same.
In my active practice before the trial courts in Delhi and on the original side in the Delhi High Court I have witnessed cases languishing for years at the stage of evidence. This is solely because of the sheer burden there is on the Courts these days coupled with the lack of infrastructure. I truly believe that the process of appointing local commissioners to record evidence in suits has considerably cut short the time a suit takes to become ripe for arguments.
You transitioned from an independent practice to becoming a Partner at Arimus Law. What factors influenced your decision to join the firm, and how has this shift impacted your approach to legal work and professional growth?
I started as an Associate in Arimus Law in 2013 and I worked there for almost 3 years.
During my time at Arimus Law, I got the chance to research, draft, participate in client meetings and appear before multiple courts in a day. Within the first 6 months at Arimus Law, Mr. Bawa gave me the opportunity to argue a matter that I had drafted and got filed before the Hon’ble Delhi High Court. One evening before the matter was listed, Mr. Bawa made me practice my arguments before him and the next date he sat next to me and told me to take the lead. Every day after I came back from Court, I had so many questions, about the law, about the procedure or about an argument I heard another lawyer make in Court. Every evening somewhere between 7 PM to 8 PM, Mr. Arjun Singh Bawa, my then boss (and now Partner) used to wrap up his client meetings and take a coffee/snack break. It was during this time that I used to go into his cabin and bombard him with all my questions and doubts. I still remember how he used to patiently answer all my questions and clear all my doubts. Soon this became a ritual. My time as an Associate at Arimus Law was enriching and very rewarding.
After about 3 years, I started feeling complacent at work and that is when I decided to quit Arimus Law and look for other opportunities. Over the next 3 years I worked at various other chambers and gained more experience.
In 2018, when I had a few clients and enough money in my account to make rent for six months, I decided to take the plunge and set up my independent practice. To be honest, it was very daunting at the beginning. There were many unsettling moments of self-doubt, unsureness and fear. But with God’s grace, luck and a lot of hard work, I think I was able to establish a successful independent practice. I never gave myself enough credit but when I survived the COVID 19 pandemic without having to give up my office space, I realised I had done something right.
After I started working independently, I collaborated with Arimus Law for a few matters. In the end of 2022, when we had come out of the pandemic, I began wondering, “what next?”. To my surprise, serendipitously, in the beginning of 2023, Mr. Arjun Singh Bawa offered me partnership in the firm.
The 2 primary factors that influenced my decision to take up this offer were the experience I had working as Mr. Bawa’s associate in Arimus Law and the collaborative work environment that a firm set up can offer more easily as opposed to independent practice.
The shift from being an independent (first generation) counsel to a Partner in a law firm has definitely made me more equipped. With the assistance of the exceptional team that we have built at Arimus Law, I am able to do more work without compromising on quality.
Could you share some insights into the challenges you faced in both roles? What were the unique challenges of working independently, and how have they evolved or changed since becoming a partner in a firm? How do you navigate these challenges while maintaining the high standards of legal practice?
The biggest challenge I faced as an independent practitioner was to acquire new clients. When I started my independent practice in 2018 I had a handful of clients. I remember the time when I had court hearings only 2-3 times a week. This was a tough adjustment after being an associate in chambers where I’d get to appear in multiple Courts in a single day. However, I used that extra time I got out of Court to work more extensively on my briefs and find ways to get my Clients favourable results. Eventually, over the years I was able to do some good work for my initial clients who then graciously recommended me to their friends and family.
At Arimus Law I work with 3 other Partners. Mr. Arjun Singh Bawa who primarily handles commercial and contractual disputes, Mr. Arjun Dewan who primarily handles criminal and medical negligence disputes and Mr. Arjun Mukherjee who primarily handles IPR and criminal disputes. Over the last 6 months, we have built a team of young, dynamic and very talented lawyers. I must say that it has been my absolute pleasure to have a chance to work with all the members of our team.
Learning to balance responsibility, not only as a lawyer but in other roles is a challenge I have faced in my current role as a Partner but I am enthusiastically learning how to be a good lawyer, a mentor, a leader, and a good team player, all at the same time.
You’ve revised the 16th edition of the Pollock & Mulla – Specific Relief Act, 1963. What motivated you to take on this task, and how do you believe this contributes to the legal community and practitioners?
I believe that the legal profession and academia are interlaced. I took up this task knowing that it will complement and enrich my legal practice by providing me with a platform to learn and grow.
I don’t know about others, but even today, in the age of the internet, search engines and legal research tools, whenever I come across a provision of law with which I am not completely familiar, I look up a commentary to find the starting point of my research. I sincerely hope the revised edition of the Pollock & Mulla – Specific Relief Act, 1963 helps members of the legal community familiarize themselves with the Specific Relief (Amendment) Act, 2018.
Apart from your legal pursuits, you’ve trained in Bharatanatyam and performed several Bharatanatyam Recitals under the guidance of Padma Shree Geeta Chandran. Many individuals find it challenging to sustain their passion for the arts as they become busier with their professions or during higher studies. We’re curious to know about your journey with Bharatanatyam—how did your interest in this classical dance form grow alongside your legal career?
I was blessed to have a structured upbringing with academics, dance, sports etc. I started to learn Bharatanatyam at the age of 6. At Natya Vriksha under the tutelage of Geeta Akka, dance was just one of the multitude things I learnt. Geeta Akka filled my young mind with art, music, culture, history, mythology as well as social values of justice, equity an inclusion. Natya Vriksha was my second home. I danced regularly from the age of 6 till I turned 18, when I left to study law at Dr. RML National Law University, Lucknow.
Over the years I developed a passion for Bharatanatyam and all its nuances. During and even after law school I tried very hard to multitask and continue my journey in Bharatnatyam while practicing law. But both Bharatantayam and practising law are hard task masters. The practise of law leaves little time for anything else. Amidst the demands of my career in law, I could not give Bharatanatyam the time and effort it required.
At the age of 24, I made the very tough decision of giving up my dream of becoming a Bharatanatyam dancer. However, thanks to my Guru, Padma Shri Geeta Chandran and the Natya Vriksha Dance Company, Bharatanatyam is still a part of my life. Both my Guru and her dance company perform regularly and I am fortunate enough to have the opportunity to witness these magical performances.
There have been days where I feel that the law took away Bharatanatyam from me, but then, in all fairness, the law has given me back so much more!
As a panel member in various debates aired on Times Now and Mirror Now, how do you see the role of legal professionals in shaping public discourse on legal issues?
In today’s world, the media is playing an undeniably important role in creating and shaping public opinion. There are several instances where the general public is unaware of the correct position of law in respect of certain issues. It is in such situations that legal professionals should be made part of a public discourse in order to enable them to highlight the correct position of law. This in turn gives the public the complete information that they should have to make an opinion.
Internships play a crucial role in a law student’s journey. Can you share insights into the kind of internships you pursued during your college days and how those experiences influenced your career choices? Additionally, what advice would you give to law students when it comes to selecting internships, especially considering the trend where many aspire to intern at tier 1 law firms?
My recollection of my journey and transition from law school to the legal profession is a first-hand example of the importance of internships in a law student’s journey. Being a first generation lawyer I had no insight into the realities of the legal profession. Like I said earlier, my exposure was restricted to only what was depicted in television, movies and books.
When I started law school, I was hopelessly home sick. To begin with, internships were an excuse to go back home to Delhi. In my first year I interned with two NGOs. I bagged these internships through family acquaintances.
In my second year I interned with Mr. Vikas Dhawan (who is now a designated senior). He was then an advocate practicing primarily on the Original Side in the Delhi High Court. He was our lawyer in my mother’s property matter so it was again an easy internship to get. It was my time in his office that got me really excited about litigation. However, I still wanted to intern in different fields of law before deciding which one I was most interested in.
The next few internships were hard to get. I did not know many people in the profession and all my e-mail applications (sent months in advance) remained unanswered. But I did not lose hope!
I remember, in 2011, I printed several copies of my then 1 page CV and roamed the streets of Defence Colony (the hub of lawyers’ offices in Delhi). I walked into so many offices and handed over my CV to anyone who would take it. I bagged my next few internships like this. This exercise got me the opportunity to intern with Mr. P.K. Dubey ( now a designated Senior), Zeus Law, Mr. A.S Chandhiok (Senior Advocate), Sikri & Company etc.
I also briefly interned in the Corporate Division of O.P. Khaitan & Co. After my previous internships in the field of litigation, my short stint here was enough for me to know that I was not meant to be a corporate lawyer. The stifling hustle-bustle inside and outside the courtrooms excited me the most.
I personally did not intern in any tier 1 law firm. This was only because I never got the opportunity. During my law school years I did fret a lot about not having any tier 1 law firm names on my CV but then, there was honestly not much more I could do about it.
I chose to not give up or lose heart. I took up every opportunity I could lay my hands on. I made connections as I went. And, I worked hard, very hard.
Being a first generation lawyer I can be very blunt and say, the journey can be challenging. My only advice to law students and young lawyers is to be brave, be curious, chase experience and continue learning. Take up every opportunity you can lay your hands on, be it big or small. There is no better teacher than experience!
Reflecting on your journey, from pursuing law to your college days, could you share some key moments or experiences that influenced your decision to enter the legal profession? How did your time in law school shape your understanding of the legal landscape and contribute to the path you’ve taken in your career today?
At the outset I must share that pursuing law just happened. I am a first-generation lawyer and hence the thought of doing law never came in discussions during my growing up years. But yes, one thing I knew, my grandfather wanted my father to be a lawyer so when I cleared my law entrance exam and finally got admitted to Amity Law School, I thought to myself how proud my grandfather would be, had he lived to see this day, as I get to fulfil his dreams. Other than that, it was sheer luck and destiny to do law from Amity in as much as I only gave the entrance exam for Amity Law School and cracked it!
Moving on to the first semester of law and the introduction to moot courts was all too overwhelming for me. I was always an active member of the moot court society and loved to participate in moot court competitions. I started admiring the dynamics of law as a field of study and enjoyed my college days to the fullest. A few subjects like International Law, Constitutional Law, Intellectual Property Law and Corporate Law were amongst my favourites. To top it all, I never missed a good internship opportunity which got me more in touch with the profession as it was practiced – being very different from our moot courts and theory we learn in college.
After doing my final semester three-month internship with a top tier law firm in the corporate team, I decided to work in a law firm and in the corporate field rather than dawning the black robes.
Your journey has been quite diverse, spanning from serving as an intern at organizations like Steel Authority of India Limited to your current role as Partner – Corporate Head at AKS Partners. How have these varied experiences shaped your perspective on corporate law, and what valuable lessons have you learned along the way?
Each internship and each role in my previous law firms including the current one taught me a different lesson. As an intern at Steel Authority of India, I was involved with their ongoing arbitrations. As an intern at the International Labour Organisation, an agency of the United Nations, I gained knowledge of different aspects of labour disputes, and so on and so forth. My internship experience, irrespective of the organisation or a firm, have always been enriching ones. However, when one starts practicing, that becomes a different ball game altogether.
What I am today in the professional field I owe to my mentor under whose mentorship I commenced my professional journey in the corporate field around 17 years back. It was truly there that my career shaped the way it has. I assisted and then independently undertook many transactions in diverse industry segments, opined on various industry specific issues, worked on FDI matters which fascinated me a lot at the time. These past learnings have eased my role and responsibility as a Partner-Corporate Head at AKS Partners.
The biggest learning that I take from the diverse experiences I have had is that teamwork always yields good results. You need to have trust in your team, at whatever position you are on the ladder. It plays a big role especially when you are mentoring juniors and delegating tasks to them. When I started out in the profession, my mentor always backed me. At times I would come up with ideas and solutions that my mentor had not thought of. That gave me a lot of confidence, and I have made it a point to imbibe the same confidence in my juniors. Another big learning is that clients often come to you with a ‘solution’ already in mind. Doing exactly as they say is often the easiest way but may not always be the best way. Therefore, you need to look at the problem objectively and guide them in the right direction.
As a partner, you’ve represented clients before the Reserve Bank of India in compounding matters. How do you approach such regulatory challenges, and what strategies do you employ to navigate through the intricacies of regulatory compliance?
I have appeared before the Reserve Bank of India (Mumbai) a couple of times but initially I appeared while I was still a Senior Associate. My mentor had utmost faith in me that I could handle the matter independently. Having said that, there is no shortcut to being thoroughly prepared particularly prior to appearing before the regulatory authorities. The regulatory authorities always appreciate lawyers who have systematically and carefully drafted their application and stated the reason behind a compoundable contravention. A methodically and logically drafted application taking care of all the nuances increases the chances of reaching the ears of the regulatory authorities.
Your horizontal practice areas include Commercial Contracts, Corporate compliance, Joint Venture/ Collaboration/ Acquisition, and more. Is there a specific area that you find particularly fascinating or challenging, and why?
Acquisitions clubbed with market entry/ investment advisory, inter-alia, is my specialisation and what excites me the most is that each acquisition has a different strategy from the other and that there is no straitjacket formula that fits one and all. Particularly when there is a foreign company involved, FDI advisory clubbed with tax advise becomes very significant and the right structure and entry route is strategically quintessential. Very often, it is this first step which is challenging in addition to negotiating difficult aspects (usually the parked points) for which the principals are on loggerheads at the negotiating table. Having said that, taking the transaction to its righteous end, i.e., completion or closing as one may call it, excites me the most.
The Corporate Due Diligences you’ve undertaken covered a wide range of areas, including Labour and Industrial Laws, Environmental Laws, and Competition Law. How do you stay abreast of the ever-evolving legal landscape in these diverse fields, and how do you ensure your advice is both current and relevant?
As a lawyer, it is one’s job to stay updated with the law at all times. I keep myself updated by reading the SCC every fortnightly and by frequenting regulator websites like RBI, SEBI, CCI, IBBI, MCA for latest notifications, master directions, press-notes, etc. on a daily basis before I begin my work for the day.
To answer the second part of your question, before giving advise I always check the sectoral regulations and any updates on the point including in the form of apex court decisions.
You’ve been involved in publications, including ‘The Drone Dichotomy – A Game Changer.’ What sparked your interest in this particular topic, and how do you see the legal landscape evolving with emerging technologies like drones?
When I embarked writing on the topic, the regulations were yet to come out and the authorities were still grappling with the facts, i.e., the opportunities such a technology presented and challenges that it could pose as the idea of using “Drones” for various purposes was relatively new for the country. It immediately ignited my brainwaves to think of how this potential technology could be used and that too in a regulated way and even more towards the privacy concerns that were hovering in my mind for some time in case of absence of sufficient regulations on this aspect.
Since then, the legal landscape has evolved substantially. The Ministry of Civil Aviation Government of India (MoCA) has framed comprehensive laws to ensure proper regulation of use of drones. The framework addresses concerns like safety standards, airspace management and privacy challenges. Of course there are several other aspects that are bound to crop up with more and more use of the technology and the regulator, i.e., MoCA, will have to come up with practical solutions whether it be on determination of liability in the event of an accident with various jurisdictions involved or accountability in case of remote controlled drones. International collaboration on regulating drone technology is no longer a far-flung concept.
Your sector expertise ranges from Manufacturing to Renewable Energy. How do you keep yourself updated with the nuances of such varied industries, and what role does industry-specific knowledge play in your legal practice?
I reiterate that one should keep reading and stay updated on the legal framework and nuances particularly in the sectors that one practices in. This can be done by reading the statutory framework along with the landmark judgments and articles on the point in the relevant sector.
During your time at Amity Law School, you were an active member of the Amity Moot Court Society. Can you share your perspective on the significance of participating in moot court competitions for law students? How do you believe these experiences contribute to a student’s overall legal education and career development?
I believe moot courts help the students in three ways. Firstly, it teaches the students to research, and not just in a bookish way but how one tackles situations in the profession. Second, it improves the drafting skills and to express oneself in an erudite manner. And most importantly, the arguing skills. Many students may not be natural speakers so it helps them to open up and become comfortable in facing the judges and making their point.
Hence, I believe it is very important for students to participate in moot court competitions. Mere participation gives the students a lot of confidence, irrespective of winning or losing, and frankly, it teaches one how to accept defeat and prepares the students for the tough beginnings that await them.
Internships play a crucial role in shaping a legal professional’s early career. What advice would you give to law students about choosing the right type of internship? For instance, do you recommend working under a senior advocate, in a law firm, or exploring other avenues, and why?
I would recommend the law students to intern in every field and experience for themselves as to what appeals to them individualistically. All students cannot be pigeon-holed into any given category. Given the individualistic mindset, some may like arbitration and pursue a career accordingly, some may like litigation would accordingly prefer to pursue any further internships in the litigation wing of a firm or an individual practitioner and some would like the dynamics of the corporate set-up or some may even take to intellectual property law practice. My only advise for the students is that they should not miss any opportunity to intern and intern sincerely and explore for themselves as to what appeals to them the most.
In addition to your professional achievements, we’d love to know more about your personal interests. What hobbies or activities do you engage in outside of the legal realm to unwind and recharge?
The best way to unwind for me is to spend quality time with my daughter. Other than that, I like to paint and read fictional/ non-fictional books.
Given your diverse experiences, both in law firms and as an independent legal practitioner, how would you compare the learning experiences in these different settings? What unique advantages or challenges do each offer, and how can young professionals leverage them to enhance their skills and knowledge
My diverse experience made the difference between law firm practice and independent practice crystal clear to me. While in the latter, you are your own boss and command accordingly, in the former, depending on which rung of the ladder you are on, you mostly have a senior to poke you out of your slumber and weigh you down with lots of work irrespective of how much you already have on your plate. But then that’s what keeps you on your toes and it gives you utmost satisfaction at the end of the day to tick off things done from the to-do list one made in the morning. However, independent practice, while more lucrative, is not that easy, whether to establish or to command, as one has to be utmost sure of the advise one gives to the client as remember, you are your own boss and there is no cushion in the form of a senior. But this really enthrals you as you keep going and learn and master the art.
Can you share the journey that led you to pursue a career in law, starting from your education at Hidayatullah National Law University? What motivated you to choose law as a profession?
Honestly speaking I stumbled upon law by chance. I was always interested in humanities and social sciences but took up a Science in my plus 2. But I soon realised that I was not very good at it. A friend of mine then informed me that there are these institutions called the National Law Universities and people graduating for these institutions are getting well-paying jobs. It was the first time that CLAT was being conducted for admission to these colleges. I did some research and thought that it might suit my interest. So I must admit candidly that I chose law to avoid doing Engineering and was lured by the promise of a Fat Pay Cheque .
As an Advocate-on-Record at the Supreme Court of India, you’ve handled matters of constitutional and national importance. Could you discuss a specific case that stood out to you, and how it shaped your perspective on legal practice?
Ans. As an AOR one matter which really stood out for me was a case wherein My Client, who is an RTI Activist, was not being allowed to reside within the confines of a District on the basis of false FIR’s registered against him. The FIR’s were registered by the same people against whom action was being taken on the basis of representations made by My Client. The Supreme Court while allowing the Appeal observed and reiterated that the fundamental right of Free Movement and Residence across the Country cannot be curtailed on flimsy grounds.
Your experience involves representing clients in various High Courts, dealing with matters related to the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996. Can you share insights into the challenges and strategies you often encounter in this area of law?
Ans. An Arbitration is nothing but a trial being conducted by a judge chosen by the parties and as per rules chosen by the parties. Therefore every Arbitration has to be approached in the same manner as one would approach a Trial before a Court of First Instance. As is the case with any Trial, even in Arbitration, it is of utmost importance that all the documents and facts, which are essential for establishing the claim, are brought on record. Even though it is said that one should not hide any facts from a doctor and a lawyer, however it is also a part of Human Nature to narrate only those facts which are beneficial to us. Therefore it is our job as lawyers to even extract those facts and documents, which are harmful to us so that we are not blindsided by them during the Arbitration. If you are thorough with your facts then all other challenges are manageable.
In your independent practice, you’ve represented clients before the National Company Law Tribunal and drafted appeals before the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal. How did this experience contribute to your understanding of corporate law and insolvency matters?
As a firm our primary focus is towards commercial litigation and naturally that includes litigation before the NCLT and the NCLAT. Since Insolvency Law is still at a fairly nascent stage, every case brings with it a new set of challenges. That also gives you the opportunity of contributing towards the Insolvency Jurisprudence as a whole. One case that stand out for us, which also then became a landmark judgment with respect to powers of NCLT under the IBC, is the case of E.S. Krishnamurthy v. Bharath Hi-tech Builders Ltd. We handled that case from the NCLT uptill the Supreme Court and therefore it is very close to our Hearts.
As an Associate at Gohil and Singh Law Chambers, you were involved in drafting and researching on petitions before the Supreme Court. Can you share a memorable case and the legal issues you tackled during that time?
Mr. Pradhuman Gohil, has played a big role in my development as a lawyer. I worked with him for four years and extensively worked on matters before the Supreme Court. There were several cases which helped me to hone my skills as a lawyer. However one case which stands out was a Criminal Appeal in which we were defending a person convicted for murder. The case was based purely on Circumstantial Evidence and primarily based on statements of witnesses. We prepared for that matter for over six months and the hearing went on for 3 weeks. That case had all the issues can can think of a in a Criminal Case, ranging from importance of a Statement under Section 313 CrPC, Completion of Chain in a case of Circumstantial Evidence, Veracity of the testimony of a Hostile Witness, etc.
During your association with the office of Mr. Ajit Kumar Sinha, Senior Advocate, you were involved in researching matters before the Supreme Court and High Courts. Can you elaborate on the types of cases you worked on and the legal principles you engaged with?
Mr. Ajit Kumar Sinha is my mentor in the profession. I did majority of my internships under him and eventually started my career with him. I worked under his guidance for 2 and a half year. During my time with Mr. Sinha, I had the opportunity to work on matters pertaining to mining laws, service laws, Land Laws, Tender Matters etc. I also had the opportunity to assist him in the Coal Scam Matter and the NJAC matter.
Given your diverse legal background, from constitutional matters to criminal law and commercial transactions, what advice would you offer to recent law graduates aspiring to build a versatile legal careerandthose interested in practicing law at a high level and dealing with matters of constitutional significance?
My Advice to recent law graduates to not restrict themselves to practising only in one area of Law. The Beauty of the profession lies in its diversity and therefore one must try and grab onto all the work that comes their way. One must be a jack of all trades, because that goes a long way at retaining clients. The aim has to be that for your Client you should be the one stop shop.
Every person has a different journey and one advice that a friend of mine once gave me is to not compare my journey with that of others. Law, and especially litigation, demands perseverance. You just need to stick around and give your hundred percent, and at the cost of sounding preachy, I must say that there are no short cuts.
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