Super Lawyer

Tag: Corporate

  • “The prosecutor’s job is not always to secure convictions of the accused at all costs, but to place before the courts all such evidence to enable them to decide the cases appropriately in the interest of justice and equity.” – Bharat Toodi, Company Prosecutor at Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

    “The prosecutor’s job is not always to secure convictions of the accused at all costs, but to place before the courts all such evidence to enable them to decide the cases appropriately in the interest of justice and equity.” – Bharat Toodi, Company Prosecutor at Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

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

    Your legal journey began after completing your education at NALSAR University of Law. What motivated you to pursue law, and how did you get started in your career after graduation? 

    It was in the year 2003 when I completed my 12th class schooling. Thereafter, my orientation towards preparation for the civil services exam made me pursue Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in a college at Hyderabad. It was during such time, where my inclination for pursuing Law degree course from the recognised National Law Schools in India made me to prepare for writing competitive entrance exams for each of the National Law Schools in India which enabled me to secure a Rank in Nalsar University of Law, Hyderabad in the year 2004 after discontinuing the graduation in Arts course. So, my basic motivation to pursue law was for one reason, to have a demanding and captivating career by having a graduation degree in law thinking it can also be useful for practicing law as a career and for the second reason that at the same time it can be used for preparation of Civil Services Examination through UPSC by taking Law as one of the optional subjects. 

    It was in the year 2009, I graduated with B.A., LL. B(Hons.) from Nalsar University of Law, Hyderabad and got enrolled as an Advocate in the year 2009 in the Bar Council for the State of Andhra Pradesh (Now State of Telangana). I had joined as an Associate in a law firm at Hyderabad in the litigation team. During that stage, my keen interest towards corporate litigation practice developed and my drafting abilities for preparation of various memos, petitions and counter affidavits for writ petitions were learnt including the observation of court proceedings in different judicial forums and arbitrations. 

    You have worked on a wide range of cases under the Companies Act and received commendations for achieving convictions. Can you share a memorable case that had a significant impact on your professional growth? 

    There are around three to four specific cases which were dealt by me under the Companies Act in which I have successfully achieved convictions with imprisonment, and they were claimed to be one of the rarest of rare cases as well under the Companies Act. One such interesting prosecution was related to a case filed under Section 628 of the Companies Act, 1956 where the Managing Director and a Director of a Company were impleaded as the accused on the basis that they were the signatories to the Balance Sheets which were uploaded online to the jurisdictional Registrar of Companies (ROC), and that case was proved by concluding that the Balance Sheets filed by the Company were false statements / false documents under Section 628 of the Companies Act, 1956, in which the Hon’ble Special Judge for Economic Offences Court at Hyderabad has sentenced the said accused with imprisonment and with fine.

    As someone who handles corporate frauds and violations, what have been the most challenging aspects of prosecuting such cases, and what insights have you gained that you think every legal professional should be aware of? 

     When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough gets Going. Every prosecution is in itself a very challenging task, as the prosecutors never know on which point a defence counsel can challenge the whole case for it to be proved as a false case initiated and achieve acquittal of the accused. Sometimes, though the case has been properly conducted by the prosecutors, the end results don’t seem to have achieved the required result which disappoints us. However, it is stated that winning a case or losing a case should not be the priority but rather such results should enrich our knowledge thereby leading to improve our work experience in future times. Nevertheless, the prosecutor’s job is not always to secure the convictions of the accused at all costs but to place before the courts all such evidence to enable the courts to decide the cases appropriately in the interest of justice and equity. To be honest, a prosecutor’s job is tiring / stressful and is never appreciated. It is under these circumstances, when appreciation letters from the Government of India Ministry of Corporate Affairs were issued to me with the kind cooperation and supporting roles from the higher authorities of the office of ROC and the Regional Director, made me relieved with such stress and made me to be more responsible, diligent and furthermore to work hard. On the other hand, I would also like to state that there are various persons in my life since the time that I have joined the law course who have made me a complete person of what I am today. So, my gratitude towards such persons whether from family or friends or relatives is always heartfully indebted. 

    One of the challenging aspects of prosecuting cases where corporate frauds and violations are observed is about making ourselves equipped with the knowledge of latest precedents and apply the same to be fitted into the facts of each case. As the Companies Act is an evolving law day by day and is being amended with a view to strengthen corporate governance with the ‘ease of doing business’ for making the companies to be incorporated, the prosecution gets tougher to prove a case because non-compliance under the provisions of the Companies Act is not about always having elements like ill motive / malafide intention to defraud the public at large which includes public interest (non-compoundable offences) but rather it is also about technical in nature for the companies to comply certain mandatory compliances within stipulated time periods given under the law (compoundable and adjudicable offences). 

    What really matters is not only about how the prosecution is dealt with and conducted by a prosecutor or by an advocate being the defence counsels to defend their clients but to know the art of court craft / tactics to enlighten the Hon’ble Courts with the new set of precedents and on the new interpretations of law set by various judicial forums and to know for their applications in the times of need. It is important to enlighten the Hon’ble Courts with the exact interpretation of laws and the provisions available to enable the Courts to arrive at a just decision of a case. This skill also includes to immediately refer to the relied citations or draw the Court’s attention to the relevant document(s) on the point of alleged issues, so as to be clarified to the Hon’ble Courts when sought for. 

    Could you share some of the most significant challenges and learning experiences you’ve encountered as a Company Prosecutor in the Central Government service, and how these experiences have shaped your approach to corporate litigation and prosecution under the Companies Act? 

    I am a first-generation lawyer nor was there any first-hand experience at the time when I was recruited as a Company Prosecutor through the UPSC, to deal with prosecutions under the Companies Act. Therefore, each case dealt by me in the initial days was with a fear that I had in my mind that I should not commit any errors or mistakes while conducting trial proceedings like marking of each document as exhibits which also included the task to produce additional documents as exhibits to be marked wherever required, or by re-calling the prosecution witnesses / defence witnesses whenever required, etc. That thought of mind made me study the cases with attentive mind with the importance of the prosecution documents relied during trial and put forth in my final arguments before the Hon’ble Courts that the prosecution case on hand is a fit case to be prosecuted for making the accused punished in accordance with law beyond all reasonable doubt. My significant challenge or the learning experiences was when I needed to prepare for cross examination of the defence after Section 313 Examination of the Accused was completed. The questions that I prepare and pose during the cross examination of the defence emphasized on the allegations of the prosecution relevant to the facts of the case i.e. ‘the art of cross examination’ and at the same time to make the defence to admit the suggestions being put forth while referring to the exhibited documents, which made / makes my job easy during hearing of final arguments. 

    Therefore, my outlook towards corporate litigation is all about mandatory compliance of the Companies with the laws within stipulated time periods. On other hand, the Prosecutor should make sure that the prosecution is launched within the limitation period in order to realize that the accused or the defence side does not have an extra edge to get an acquittal / discharge based on the very technical issue of the prosecution complaint being barred by limitation. In other words, it means Vigilantibus Non Dormientibus Jura Subveniunt – “The law assists only those who are vigilant, and not those who sleep over their rights.” So, wherever I felt there was a necessity to file an application for delay condonation for filing the prosecution complaint before the Hon’ble Court of law, I made sure that the prosecution complaint was calculated with the exact number of days being delayed in filing the same before the Hon’ble Court and with a prayer being made before the Hon’ble Court on the grounds elicited in the petition so as to condone the delay in the interest of justice and equity. Merely an application for filing of Condonation of Delay is filed on behalf of the Prosecution, it does not mean the Hon’ble Courts will always accept the said Application. Therefore, it was one of the challenges that I specifically faced to apprise the Hon’ble Court that the delay being sought to be condoned on various grounds as requested does not make the defence / accused to be prejudiced and pray that it is also a matter of fact that public interest is involved so that the Company and its Directors are prosecuted rightfully in the interests of justice. 

    You have published legal articles and won accolades for your writing. How important do you believe legal research and writing are for a successful legal career, and what role have they played in your journey? 

    During my law school days, we used to have project works for each subject in each of the semesters. It was during those days, my interest for writing legal articles developed with my initial research work in projects. As law students we need to also undertake internships during semester breaks in various academic / government institutes, organizations, advocate offices, law firms, etc. When I started writing legal articles it was all about making my resume look better to draw the attention upon my resume on such skills I possessed with interest. For example, one of my project works in Law and Poverty course had made me to publish an article about the child labour issues which was related to an internship in an NGO that I underwent during 1st year law student. Later the said project work was further improvised with the concepts studied in Law and Poverty course and thereafter it was published in one of the leading journals of the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), New Delhi. I won the first prize in the best-case study competitions conducted by IIPA, which was an article written based upon the practical exposure that I had undergone during my internship and as well as by application of concepts that I learnt in the Law and Poverty Course. This was one such instance, where I can say my drafting skills and legal research were improved. As learning is a continuous process, I am still striving to continue with improving my skills wherever possible. In today’s scenario, writing and drafting skills are also helpful in all my court crafts while preparing for the written arguments to be submitted before the Hon’ble Courts. 

    Definitely, legal research and writing skills makes one life easier in terms of litigation practice when the advocates issue legal notices, file their petitions / applications / affidavits etc., before the Hon’ble Court of Laws by praying for the causes for which such applications are filed and seek for Orders. So as to reiterate once again, one has to keep themselves updated with the overall developments and legal precedents which can be useful for their cases in future. So writing skills or legal drafting skills helps once self to critically evaluate the issues in hand of a case and makes us think about concluding the issue with the application of provisions of law at the right stage and right point of time including providing the actual suggestions to improve the current situations in hand. Such skills can make one think about pursuing other professional plans in their career as well. 

    Your career journey has taken you from private law firms to a significant government role. How has this transition shaped your understanding of law and governance, and what advice would you offer to lawyers considering public service? 

    As stated earlier, my career plans were altogether different for the purposes of choosing law as a course subject during my graduation. So, my destiny made me pursue law which enabled me to join the Central Government Services as a Prosecutor under the Companies Act, though my action plan for the career was different. To be honest, it was only after joining as a Prosecutor that I can say that I fulfilled my dreams of getting into a Government Service though it was in a different field. By having stated the same, when my career with a private law firm was started, I was not confident enough in the litigation practice. It was only when the role of prosecutor’s job was undertaken before the Designated Special Court under the Companies Act, I feel I have improved my understanding of law, its true interpretation with its application to the facts of each case and then my argument skills were developed to impress upon the Hon’ble Courts for the desired results. Therefore, according to me, one can do their best when their performance of the task is done with whole heartedness and with passion towards it seeking for the end results as anticipated. 

    What has worked for me may not work for everyone pursuing law so that they may end up in Government Services. However, I can surely advise the younger lawyers to keep their options open when deciding about their future plans for litigation practice, that being in Government Services (whether State of Central) by conducting prosecutions as a Prosecutor can also fulfil their dreams of having a litigation practice from the Government’s perspective. This type of trail court practice enables one to understand the Government’s policies, Governance and application of law from the Government’s view. Therefore, one may also consider entering into public services, if interested, as one of their litigation practice plans by becoming Public Prosecutors / into Judicial Services etc. 

    As a mentor to upcoming lawyers and legal professionals, what advice would you give to those who aspire to specialize in corporate prosecution and arbitration? What are the key skills they should focus on developing? 

    Qualities like Focus, Priorities, Dedication and Determination (FPDD) are essential for the upcoming lawyers to be developed within themselves. One must firstly choose a field in which he/she is interested to pursue in their career. Based on such a chosen option, one must give priority to that chosen field to get the best results out of it by way of keen practice and acquiring knowledge on the chosen subjects. That can be possible by focusing on such priorities, without any unnecessary deviations in the mind set. Finally, it is only with utmost dedication and determination that those priorities focusing on end results can successfully be achievable. 

    Corporate Laws are one of the law subjects which have been evolving rapidly and amendments to various laws are being taken place by the Government of India with an intention of making Companies / LLPs to be incorporated ‘with an ease of doing business’. All the upcoming lawyers or legal professionals must keep themselves informed with such latest amendments by regularly updating themselves through legal references like law journals, newspaper articles etc. One must also have the practical exposure to appear before different judicial forums especially before the trial courts, as trial courts are the first and foremost important forums where the applicability of basic knowledge of laws studied during the study of law courses at graduation level are applied practically. For these purposes, all law students should try to participate in the moot court competitions that are being carried out as a part of their curriculum during their law course. This will enable them to articulate their ideas into expressions without any hesitation or vanish their stage fear and at the same time they inculcate the habit of learning about how to acknowledge the crux of the issues involved in a case by implementation of law provisions into the case on hand. Therefore, one should not only be involved in just study of law subject as a course in itself but must also jump into the practical field work for getting the true essence of being a lawyer by practicing law, right from doing internships during their law study etc. For such work experiences, one must need a source of inspiration from their friends or family or any senior professionals / colleagues who can be their guide throughout their career, which in turn can help them to get the in-depth work experiences as may be required. 

    As someone deeply involved in corporate prosecutions, what emerging trends in corporate law do you foresee, and how do you think legal professionals should prepare to address these new challenges? 

    Corporate Social Responsibility included as a part of Corporate Governance is one of the emerging trends in Corporate Laws. Further, important topics like acceptance of deposits by the Public, Corporate Frauds including related party transactions, oppression and mis-management, mergers and amalgamations under the Companies Act, Dissolutions and Voluntary Liquidations under IBC provisions are few important topics among others to mention a few, for which every legal professional interested to pursue litigation in corporate laws must be thorough with. One must comprehend that they advise their clients based on their own legal due diligence on what makes their corporate decisions to be good for their companies rather than doing an act which only appears to be good on paper but not in accordance with the true spirit of law. Further, I also advise that any legal opinions / advice to their clients must always ensure that their clients respond to the Notices issued from any Government body / agency for alleged non-compliance of laws, if any, by way of a reply to be issued within a stipulated period mentioned in the said Notices. The clients should be also advised that they should not ‘refuse’ nor ‘un-claim’ those Notices addressed to them from the regulatory / administrative bodies. By doing so, they will not welcome any unnecessary litigation that may crop up by side-lining the real concerns related to the companies concerns. Therefore, it is not only the requirement for the companies to be vigilant in compliance with the laws in a time frame but also the legal professionals to be watchful enough to oversee their client’s requirements with correct advice to be given at the right time to avoid any unforeseen legal complications. The duty of the lawyer is to make sure that their client’s grievances are addressed before the appropriate courts of law timely who are seeking for justice, whenever the proposed cause of action will arise or ought to have arisen.

    With such a demanding career, what do you do in your free time to unwind and maintain a healthy work-life balance? 

    I travel with family, I like to paint and draw, I spend time with friends and watch movies during free time. I also like to focus on my physical and mental well-being / appearance by way of maintaining a fit body with exercises and walking / running.

    Get in touch with Bharat Toodi-

  • “As a first-generation lawyer, I’ve had to carve my own path forward, brick by brick. The legal field is highly competitive, and success requires not only hard work but also being in the right place at the right time.” – Swapna Chandramouli, Fintech Lawyer. 

    “As a first-generation lawyer, I’ve had to carve my own path forward, brick by brick. The legal field is highly competitive, and success requires not only hard work but also being in the right place at the right time.” – Swapna Chandramouli, Fintech Lawyer. 

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

    You’ve mentioned that your interest in law developed through the process of eliminating other career options. Can you tell us more about how you eventually decided on law and how that decision has shaped your career trajectory?  

    I grew up in Kolkata during the 90’s and early 2000s, a time when the most sought-after career paths were typically in engineering, medicine, or accountancy. Coming from a family of engineers and doctors, I felt an innate urge to break away from this conventional path and carve out something different for myself. This led me to choose the Commerce stream for my XII standard examinations, leaving chartered accountancy as a potential option if I excelled academically.

    Around this time, one of my school seniors was preparing for the National Law School entrance exams, and that sparked a deep interest in Law within me. As I explored this further, the idea of pursuing a legal career began to resonate more strongly. My decision solidified as I found myself thoroughly enjoying the CLAT syllabus, especially subjects like Logical Reasoning, Legal Reasoning, and Mathematics. With this growing passion, I pursued Law school admissions and successfully cleared the entrance exams for several institutions, including Government Law College (GLC), Mumbai.

    I ultimately chose GLC, Mumbai, drawn by its distinguished alumni network and its proximity to the bustling legal landscape of the city. Reflecting on my school years, I realize I wasn’t always sure of my strengths, but my decision to pursue Law and Commerce led me to excel in both the legal and financial sectors. Today, with over a decade of experience as a lawyer, I find myself just as enthusiastic as I was during my first internship. A career in law has proven to be both dynamic and fulfilling, with each day bringing new challenges and learning opportunities.

    You interned with prestigious law firms like Khaitan, JSA, and Nishith Desai, but after completing your education, you chose to start your career in the corporate world. What led to this decision, and how did transitioning from law firms to in-house legal roles shape your career path?  

    Law firms often hold strong appeal for law students, especially for those influenced by TV series like Suits. During my time in law school, I was determined to secure internships with top-tier law firms and was fortunate to have the opportunity to do so. Notably, my internship at Nishith Desai Associates (NDA) stood out for its culture of rigorous learning and research. Here, I honed my skills in meticulous drafting, meeting tight deadlines, and delving deeply into research to resolve complex problem statements. At that stage, starting my career at a law firm seemed like the most organic choice.

    However, destiny had other plans, leading me to secure a placement with Kotak Mahindra Bank’s Corporate Legal Department in Mumbai. This shift made me realize the unique value of being an in-house counsel, where legal practice intersects with business strategy. In-house counsel roles offer the opportunity to develop a strong understanding of business dynamics, as your clients are internal stakeholders, and business acumen becomes integral to your work.

    Over the years, I’ve transitioned through various roles in the Banking and Finance sector, as well as in e-commerce and Fintech, with each in-house position adding depth to my legal expertise. I thrive on the unpredictability and problem-solving challenges that come with in-house roles. As an in-house counsel, I am continually faced with a diverse legal issue—from product design and process development to policy framing, contract negotiations with key business partners, regulatory compliance, and handling employment matters. The role is deeply integrated with business operations at every level, making it both dynamic and fulfilling.

    Being a first-generation lawyer, what were the key challenges you faced when you started your legal career, and how did you overcome those hurdles to establish yourself in such competitive sectors like fintech, e-commerce, and banking?  

    As a first-generation lawyer, I didn’t have the benefit of family precedents or insider guidance when navigating my career in law. I relied on my own judgment and intuition. However, I’ve been fortunate to have exceptional mentors who have generously offered their guidance throughout my career and are always just a phone call away.

    One key difference between first-generation lawyers and those from legal legacies is the clarity of the path ahead. Those with a legal lineage often have a well-defined roadmap, while first-generation lawyers must thoughtfully and deliberately lay each brick to build their own path forward. While this process is deeply fulfilling, it can also mean missing out on opportunities due to a lack of exposure or knowledge.

    From my journey, I would advise fellow first-generation lawyers to stay vigilant and open to opportunities and to actively seek out trusted mentors who can provide valuable guidance. The legal field is highly competitive, and success requires not only hard work but also being in the right place at the right time. Proactively expanding your network and knowledge base is crucial to thriving in this profession.

    Having extensive experience dealing with regulators like the RBI and IRDAI, what are some key learnings you’ve gained from these interactions? How do these regulatory engagements influence legal strategies in fintech and NBFCs?  

    A crucial skill for lawyers working in regulated sectors is the ability to deeply understand the regulator’s perspective and intentions. It’s important to remain open to engaging with regulators and fostering a constructive dialogue. Often, it’s surprising how receptive regulators can be when approached with the right intent. Whether it’s for obtaining licenses or during annual audits, each interaction has given me invaluable insights into the rationale behind specific regulations and the purpose of certain prohibitions or compliance requirements.

    A key lesson from these interactions is that regulators consistently expect transparency. Regulated entities must be willing to collaborate with the regulator to find business solutions that align with regulatory objectives. Understanding the regulator’s intent is particularly helpful when navigating ambiguous areas of regulation, allowing for more informed and strategic advice to internal business stakeholders, rather than simply interpreting the letter of the law.

    For in-house lawyers, especially in regulated entities, the ability to offer compliant yet practical solutions is a highly sought-after skill. By bridging the gap between regulatory compliance and business needs, in-house counsel can play a critical role in helping organizations thrive within the bounds of the law.

    In your experience negotiating complex contracts in fintech startups like Rupeek and larger organizations like Kotak & Flipkart, what do you see as the crucial aspects where an in-house lawyer can contribute to driving business success? How can legal counsel go beyond compliance to add strategic value?  

    My experience in different kinds of organizations has taught me that the role of an in-house counsel also changes based on the nature of the organization. In established organizations, departmental roles are well-defined, and each stakeholder plays a vital part in closing contracts. In contrast, within start-ups, the business often relies heavily on legal counsel, not just for legal and compliance advice but also for insights on structuring financial transactions and commercial terms.

    Negotiating for established organizations often provides greater leverage when dealing with counterparties. However, representing a start-up has allowed me to engage deeply with the commercial and operational intricacies of contracts. Both experiences have been fulfilling in their way. For instance, while working for large Banks like Ujjivan & Kotak, I negotiated with Big Tech companies, gaining exposure to deals of significant scale. Similarly, during my tenure at Flipkart/Myntra, handling high-value celebrity contracts with intellectual property right implications showcased the complexity of working with major influencers. On the other hand, my work representing fintechs has allowed me to negotiate with larger banks and lending partners (perceived with higher negotiating power) to come to a consensus in commercial and regulatory structuring of deals.

    Ultimately, when legal counsel provides comprehensive, well-thought-out advice that considers both legal and financial risks, they are no longer seen as obstacles but as essential partners in driving contract closure. This shift transforms the counsel’s role from a perceived barrier to a catalyst for success.

    You cleared your CS professional exams in one shot while also pursuing law. What strategies or insights helped you manage both demanding courses simultaneously? Could you share some advice for young students who are pursuing multiple qualifications?   

    Both the Company Secretary (CS) and Law courses are highly demanding, given the vastness of their syllabi and the intensity of their exam schedules. However, I was determined to complete the CS course alongside law school. Opting to take all the modules of the CS professional course in one go was admittedly a bold decision — I sat for nine papers back-to-back, without a break. The enormity of the challenge made my resolve to stay determined and focused stronger. I don’t think I put any pressure on myself, but I just wanted to test my potential.

    I devised a strategy to balance both fields of study. During the first half of the year, I concentrated on law school exams, while the latter half was dedicated to CS studies, though I maintained some focus on law for mid-term exams. Interestingly, much of the CS syllabus overlapped with legal concepts, which created a natural synergy in how I applied my understanding to both courses. What also helped me is the constant support and encouragement of my friends who were taking the exams with me. We often talk about team efforts in corporate life, student life also taught me the importance of a solid team in competitive exams. For students navigating similar challenges, my advice would be to prioritize and strategize — knowing when to focus on each subject is key. And most importantly, enjoy the learning process. Both law and CS test your understanding of core concepts, so cultivating a genuine interest in the material will ultimately lead to success.

    With your wealth of experience in fintech, e-commerce, and banking, what advice would you offer to current law students and early-career professionals who aspire to work in these sectors?

    A career in Fintech, e-commerce or any other regulated sector is very demanding, especially for lawyers because the regulatory landscape keeps changing. In my experience, you truly understand the essence and requirements of the regulations by reading it multiple times from different perspectives.  

    Developing a genuine interest in regulatory frameworks and their interaction with business offerings is fundamental for finding your footing as a lawyer in these sectors. For anyone looking to break into or transition into these industries, my advice is to invest time in understanding regulations, and their underlying purpose, and to cultivate business acumen around the various products in the space. This combination of legal expertise and business insight will make you a valuable asset in any organization.

    As a mother, how have you managed to balance such a demanding career with your personal responsibilities? What advice would you give to others trying to navigate similar challenges?  

    I have always seen my mother as a role model who dedicated herself to her profession as a teacher all through her life while raising two children. Her resilience and dedication made it a natural choice for me to continue working after I had my baby. I was fortunate to have the support of a wonderful organization like Rupeek and an understanding manager, which allowed me to manage my professional responsibilities while being fully present for my daughter during her early years.

    For mothers looking to maintain their professional careers, I recommend investing in quality child-care support if possible. Our role as mothers goes beyond simply managing a child’s daily routine—we are their source of inspiration and pride. I firmly believe that a child’s happiness is closely tied to their mother’s fulfilment. If you are passionate and happy in what you do, that joy will resonate with your child.

    I am deeply passionate about my profession, and my daughter is a constant source of motivation, encouraging me to explore my full potential instead of setting limits. That said, balancing work and family life is always a dynamic process. It requires thoughtful decision-making and sometimes tough choices about when to prioritize what. But I believe that by staying true to ourselves and our passions, we set a powerful example for our children.

    With such a demanding career in multiple sectors, how do you unwind and recharge? Are there any hobbies or activities that help you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

    Weekends for me are completely dedicated to my home and family. As much as I enjoy staying at home and cleaning to my satisfaction, I also enjoy social gatherings. These days, I often find myself at gatherings with my daughter’s friends and their parents, enjoying the sense of community it brings. I also like to unwind by watching some thoughtful and reality-inspired series/movies. As a family, we also make it a point to plan small getaways or vacations whenever possible. These trips allow us to recharge, connect with nature, and explore historical places, creating lasting memories together.

    Recently, my husband and I have embraced a healthier lifestyle. We’ve started making conscious choices for our well-being, and one of our favourite weekend routines is our Saturday morning workouts at Cubbon Park. It’s become a refreshing way to kick off the weekend, balancing physical wellness with the joy of being outdoors.

    Get in touch with Swapna Chandramouli-

  • “Lawyers make a unique contribution to corporate life, earning respect as professionals and influencing the company’s strategic priorities while upholding ethics and integrity in all decisions.” – Nitin Mittal, General Counsel at Signify (Formerly Philips Lighting)

    “Lawyers make a unique contribution to corporate life, earning respect as professionals and influencing the company’s strategic priorities while upholding ethics and integrity in all decisions.” – Nitin Mittal, General Counsel at Signify (Formerly Philips Lighting)

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

    You have an impressive journey- starting from your early days as counsel for Evergreen International Limited – Furniture Export industry to your current role at Signify Innovations India Limited (Formerly Philips Lighting India Limited) What were some pivotal moments that shaped your professional path?

     “First of all, thank you for the opportunity to share my journey. My professional path began long before I became a qualified lawyer and CS. While studying, I worked at a securities advisory firm and later at a consulting firm, engaging in a diverse range of tasks. I’ve always had a passion for innovation, hard work, growth, and learning. From my early struggles, I learned the importance of working hard and putting your heart and mind into whatever task comes your way, without worrying about money, job titles, or other benefits.

    There were several pivotal moments in my career. The first was in early 2003 when I worked at a manufacturing plant in Himachal Pradesh. This experience exposed me to various challenges and opportunities in a manufacturing setup, where I dealt with a wide range of legal and financial issues. I remember working on the shop floor for two weeks during a workers’ strike. This experience provided a solid foundation for my career, as working in a manufacturing plant requires a highly disciplined, structured, and efficient environment, which is also very demanding. My then-CEO advised me to take at least one round of the entire production process every day to learn about plant functioning, a piece of advice I cherish to this day. This taught me the concept of ‘Management by walking around.’ Since the company was also listed, I learned the value of having robust processes and systems to ensure compliance.

    During that time, I was inspired by my CEO to read ‘The Goal’ by Goldratt, which introduced me to the theory of constraints and how addressing bottlenecks can increase overall efficiency and help achieve business goals. This gave me a much better understanding of the production process.

    The second transformative point was when I had the opportunity to work at OSRAM, a German company. There, I was finally able to demonstrate my potential and expertise in various areas of legal, compliance, and governance. OSRAM was part of Siemens then, and I was part of the Siemens India compliance team, working on establishing the initial compliance program in India. I am grateful to have been part of the India compliance team at that time, which gave me a solid foundation in the compliance domain. I also worked on several complex litigations and M&A transactions.

    My last significant change was moving to Philips Lighting in 2016, which was transformative in every sense. Philips Lighting (now Signify) is the world leader in lighting and the largest lighting company in India. Here, I have had the opportunity to work on groundbreaking deals and transactions, making a real difference in helping the business achieve its strategic goals in line with the #BrighterLivesBetterWorld brand vision.”

    What do you love most about your current role at Signify?  What are some unique legal challenges you face in the lighting products and services industry? 

    “At Signify, the company values its people, and I am proud to be part of such an innovative and energetic team. In my current role, I lead the Legal, Compliance, and Governance function for the Greater India and Pacific region. I love my position as General Counsel and Company Secretary because each day brings new challenges that allow me to showcase my expertise and skills, ultimately benefiting the company.

    I handle a wide range of topics daily. For instance, last week, I advised on potential sales deals in systems and services for India and the Pacific, which involved contract reviews and risk mitigation. I also dealt with high-stakes criminal litigations, arbitration matters, commercial disputes, and compliance advisories on anti-corruption practices. Additionally, I structured an incentive program, managed a board meeting and a shareholders meeting, finalized the annual report with the board of directors’ agenda, worked on potential corporate transactions, and advised on compliance investigations with our regional team and global experts. I also conducted training for the Pacific region on anti-corruption, anti-trust, privacy, conflict of interest, and other compliance topics, and provided advice on deal structuring, corporate law matters, and other legal and integrity issues.

    Each day presents a new opportunity to work on diverse issues and demonstrate how law shapes key decisions within the organization.”

    Did you always want to become a lawyer? What made you choose law as a profession? 

    “I became a lawyer quite by chance, as my career path evolved serendipitously. Initially, I was drawn to the finance sector and aimed to combine my CS qualification with a CFO role. However, over time, my skills and interests shifted more towards law and compliance, leading me to focus on this area. In the end, I’m glad I chose law as my profession. Lawyers make a unique contribution to corporate life, earning respect as professionals and influencing the company’s strategic priorities while upholding ethics and integrity in all decisions.”

    With over two decades of experience in the legal field, what major shifts have you observed in corporate legal practices, especially in compliance and contract drafting?  What has been the role of technology in advancing these changes?

    “I believe the core principles for a lawyer remain unchanged: providing quality and timely advice without fear or favor. However, the legal profession is now much more recognized for its contribution and value to business decision-making compared to two decades ago.

    I also observe a significant shift towards digitalization in areas such as contract management, compliance approvals, and the automation and digitization of board and shareholder meetings. AI is increasingly being used to support counsels with research, drafting, presentations, and memos for any jurisdiction worldwide, as well as handling routine advice through bots.

    The successful General Counsel of the future will be one who leverages AI to drive efficiency and automation while balancing the use of digital tools with sound judgment and experience. Technology cannot replace the nuanced judgment that comes from years of experience, especially in complex legal matters such as litigation, contract negotiation, legal advisory, and other areas where the law is not black and white.”

    You have been honoured and recognized for your efforts across prestigious platforms like Global Legal 500 Power List, Indian Bar Association, BW Legal world etc. how have they impacted the way you and your approach to work?

    “These recognitions are a testament to the opportunities provided by the companies I have worked for and to my team who have been part of this journey. They humble me and inspire me to strive for excellence in everything I do, alongside our dynamic team at Signify. They also place a responsibility on me to mentor my team and other colleagues within the fraternity, sharing the insights and learnings I have gathered over my 22-year professional journey.”

    Can you share a personal development or mentorship experience that significantly impacted your career trajectory?  

    “I was influenced by many people over the years. I would call it silent mentoring, as there was no formal mentorship, but I learned a great deal through observation, intense reading, and practice. At various stages of my career, I had the privilege to learn from my supervisors and they had a transformative influence on my development and career, such as the CEO and CFO of Cosmo Films at that time ( on importance of processes/ governance/ diligence), the CEO of Cosmo Ferrites( importance of knowing the manufacturing process), and later the CFO and legal colleagues of OSRAM all over the world( gathered solid foundation on compliance, litigations, contractual matters, and overall development). At Signify, I have learned immensely from all the India CEOs, my global legal colleagues, and my team members 

    I also learnt a lot from diverse books I read over the years- whether on history, biographies, leadership, self- development, and even on fiction. Each book shaped my thoughts and I gained from the experience. 

    I greatly valued the training programs by the Siemens Compliance team and OSRAM over the years, which provided a strong foundation in core compliance topics. Additionally, a leadership program by Signify in partnership with Harvard Business School was highly beneficial.”

    You pursued various qualifications in law – including Masters in Business laws, Criminology, apart from LLB and Company Secretaryship (CS). What makes you keep learning even at this settled stage in your career? 

    I always consider myself a “student of law.” The field of law is ever-evolving, with continuous developments requiring constant learning in new areas of legal changes, judicial precedents, innovative problem-solving methods, and understanding emerging challenges. Staying relevant necessitates being on our toes. Throughout my career, I’ve identified and bridged learning and skill gaps by enrolling in various courses. My most recent course in criminology was driven by the rise in white-collar crimes and the trend of converting civil matters to criminal cases. More importantly, I developed a deep interest in this area of law.

    I continue to broaden my knowledge in emerging legal fields, particularly digital law, AI, and the criminal justice system. I have a keen interest in constitutional law, not only in India but also in other countries like the US. I enjoy reading works by various authors such as Austin, the late Fali Nariman, Gautam Bhatia, and Rohan Alva. In the future, I hope to extensively study the constituent assembly debates that shaped our Constitution.

    Given your extensive involvement in various legal and academic roles, how do you manage to balance your professional responsibilities with personal life? What strategies do you employ to maintain this equilibrium?

    The life of a lawyer can be quite stressful at times, with each decision having a significant impact on the company and its employees. The reputation of the company and the liberty of its employees can be at stake. Our job often requires long hours and even working on weekends, especially during crises. However, I don’t view this as an encroachment on my personal time, as my primary duty as a lawyer is to protect the company and its employees, even if it means going above and beyond.

    With over two decades of experience, I have developed an intuitive sense of which areas require more of my attention, allowing me to balance my work accordingly. As we are a lean department with a lot to do, I try not to work late into the evening and focus on personal interests unless something critical arises.

    I maintain a disciplined morning routine, incorporating daily runs, walks, yoga, and meditation. I also make time for daily reading on diverse topics before ending my day. This practice enriches my experience with different thoughts, areas, and philosophies.

    I believe in the following shloka from the Bhagavad Gita (2.48): “Perform your duty equipoised, O Arjuna, abandoning all attachment to success or failure. Such equanimity is called yoga.”

    What advice would you give to young legal professionals aspiring to excel in corporate law, especially in areas like compliance management and dispute resolution? Also, How does Signify support young learners in gaining practical experience?

    My advice to young lawyers is to ensure you understand the basics of law and gain an in-depth understanding of its principles and practices. Once you have a solid foundation, applying the law in diverse situations becomes easier. Areas like compliance management require a deep knowledge of legal nuances, so building a strong foundation is crucial. For dispute resolution, working with a dispute lawyer for a few years helps build a strong base in court procedures, practical issues, and quick thinking.

    In recent years, I have been deeply moved by the teachings of Lord Krishna, particularly this verse from the Bhagavad Gita: “कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते मा फलेषु कदाचन । मा कर्मफलहेतुर्भूर्मा ते सङ्गोऽस्त्वकर्मणि” (“You have a right to perform your prescribed duty, but you are not entitled to the fruits of action. Never consider yourself the cause of the results of your activities, and never be attached to not doing your duty”).

    A key skill for a lawyer is judgment, which can only come from experience and working on difficult and diverse matters. Judgment takes time to develop and cannot be achieved through shortcuts; young lawyers need to nurture this skill to see it blossom in future years.

    At Signify, we have a robust culture that encourages our young lawyers to learn on the job, take initiative, learn from others, and have the flexibility to shape their careers. There is no hierarchy in our company, and any employee is free to reach out to top management for support or guidance, who are always willing to help. We encourage risk-taking, active collaboration, speaking up, and most importantly, always taking initiatives. I have had the privilege of learning from both senior management in business and legal.

    Get in touch with Nitin Mittal-

  • “Navigating the complexities of fintech, from structuring digital payment platforms to protecting intellectual property, has been one of the most dynamic and rewarding aspects of my practice.” – Suman Kumar Jha, Founding & Managing Partner -Corp Legex (Advocates & Solicitors)

    “Navigating the complexities of fintech, from structuring digital payment platforms to protecting intellectual property, has been one of the most dynamic and rewarding aspects of my practice.” – Suman Kumar Jha, Founding & Managing Partner -Corp Legex (Advocates & Solicitors)

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

    Can you tell us about the beginning of your career in law? What inspired you to pursue this field and how did you navigate the initial challenges?

    I’d be happy to share. My interest in law began at a young age when I interacted with a corporate lawyer in Delhi during my civil services exam preparation. He told me that if you wanted to be recognised as a good corporate lawyer, then you must have a Company Secretary degree along with an LL.B degree from a reputed law college. After having this dual qualification you may advise businesses and become an essential part of running them, which intrigued me. Being a first-generation lawyer without much guidance was challenging, but my passion drove me forward.

    I studied BA History (Hons.) and thereafter decision to pursue the law and Company Secretary course was unconnected to my domain however my passion and dedication made it easy for me. Additionally, I pursued a Company Secretary (CS) course, deepening my interest in corporate law and governance. Law school was both challenging and rewarding. I specialized in corporate law and was drawn to courses like mergers and acquisitions.

    The steep learning curve and balancing work-life demands were significant challenges, but internships provided invaluable practical experience. My first significant step was an internship with a prestigious law firm, where I gained practical insights and faced the realities of the legal profession. Mentorship from senior colleagues was crucial, helping me develop my skills and confidence.

    You have both a CS qualification and an LL.B degree. Was Company Secretary your first choice, or did you always plan to pursue law? How do you integrate the knowledge from both fields in your practice?

    Initially, I pursued a Company Secretary (CS) qualification to gain a comprehensive understanding of corporate regulations and governance, which I knew would complement my legal education. Law has always been my primary passion, and the CS course deepened my interest in corporate law and governance.

    Having both a CS qualification and an L.L.B degree has been incredibly beneficial in my practice. The CS qualification provides me with a solid foundation in corporate law, regulatory frameworks, company management, financial part of transaction and business aspects. It also enhances my ability to analyse financial statements and other relevant documents of a company. This knowledge is invaluable when advising business clients on legal matters related to corporate restructuring, as it allows me to understand and navigate the complexities of corporate law more effectively.

    Integrating knowledge from both fields enables me to offer holistic advice to clients. For instance, when working on mergers and acquisitions, my legal expertise helps in drafting and negotiating contracts, while my CS background ensures that all regulatory, compliance, and financial aspects are thoroughly addressed. This dual perspective enhances my ability to provide comprehensive solutions, making me a more effective and versatile legal advisor.

    How has your journey been from a Management Trainee at Ashiana Housing Limited to founding Corp Legex? What key experiences shaped your path?

    My journey from a Management Trainee at Ashiana Housing Limited to founding Corp Legex has been both challenging and rewarding. At Ashiana Housing, I gained invaluable insights into the real estate industry and corporate law. This hands-on experience in managing compliance and corporate affairs was instrumental in shaping my understanding of the practical applications of law.

    A pivotal experience during my training was working on a major merger matter. This exposure to complex regulatory and legal challenges significantly piqued my interest in corporate law and mergers. Additionally, I observed that many in-house counsels outsourced their legal needs to law firms, which sparked my interest in the potential of creating a firm that could offer integrated solutions.

    The combination of these experiences solidified my desire to specialize further in corporate law and establish a firm like Corp Legex. My goal in founding Corp Legex was to offer comprehensive solutions that combine legal expertise with corporate governance insights, helping businesses navigate complex regulatory environments. Throughout this journey, mentorship from industry leaders and continuous learning has been crucial, reinforcing my commitment to providing strategic, client-focused services through Corp Legex.

    With extensive experience in corporate restructuring, what do you believe are the most critical elements to consider during such processes to ensure a successful outcome?

    Successful corporate restructuring hinges on several critical elements. First and foremost, a thorough understanding of the company’s current financial health and operational structure is essential. This involves conducting a detailed analysis of financial statements, cash flow, and market position to identify the core issues that need addressing.

    Secondly, clear communication with all stakeholders is paramount. Ensuring that employees, shareholders, creditors, and other relevant parties are informed and engaged throughout the process helps maintain trust and support. Transparent communication also aids in managing expectations and mitigating resistance to change.

    Legal compliance is another crucial factor. Restructuring often involves complex legal considerations, including regulatory approvals, contract renegotiations, and potential litigation risks. Ensuring all legal aspects are meticulously addressed minimizes potential obstacles and delays.

    Lastly, having a strong leadership team to drive the restructuring process is critical. Effective leadership ensures that the restructuring efforts are aligned with the company’s long-term vision and strategic goals, fostering a successful and sustainable transformation.

    Fintech is an evolving field with unique regulatory challenges. Can you share your experiences dealing with fintech companies and the specific legal issues they face?

    Absolutely. Working with fintech companies has exposed me to a range of unique legal challenges that are intrinsic to the sector’s rapid innovation.

    One significant legal issue is the structuring of complex financial transactions. For instance, I’ve been involved in drafting and negotiating agreements for new digital payment platforms and blockchain-based solutions. These transactions often require careful legal structuring to address the intricacies of new technologies and ensure that all parties’ rights and obligations are clearly defined.

    Intellectual property is another critical area. Fintech companies often develop proprietary technologies or algorithms, making it essential to secure patents and protect trade secrets. I’ve worked on securing intellectual property rights for fintech innovations and handling disputes related to technology licensing and patent infringement.

    Additionally, navigating contractual relationships between fintech companies and traditional financial institutions involves addressing unique legal concerns. Drafting clear, enforceable agreements that account for the innovative nature of fintech services is crucial.

    Having started Corp Legex just five months ago, how are things progressing so far? What are some of the initial challenges you are encountering, and how are you addressing them?

    Starting Corp Legex has been an exciting and challenging journey. The progress so far has been encouraging. We’ve been able to establish a solid client base and our team has been working diligently to deliver high-quality services. However, like any new venture, we are facing hiccups, but our collective energies are moving ahead day by day. Ensuring that we have the right team in place has been crucial. We’ve been actively recruiting talented professionals who share our vision and can contribute to our growth. Additionally, we’ve invested in training and development to ensure our team is equipped to handle complex client needs efficiently.

    We’ve established robust processes for continuous learning and internal collaboration to stay ahead in these areas. Additionally, we leverage advanced technology to streamline our legal research and analysis, ensuring that we provide precise and informed guidance on our services offered to client. This approach allows us to offer comprehensive and strategic legal support tailored to our clients’ needs.

    Overall, while there have been challenges, we’ve tackled them head-on with a proactive and strategic approach. The response from the market has been positive, and we are optimistic about the future as we continue to grow and refine our offerings.

    You co-founded Unmukt Udaan, focusing on child education and development in rural areas. How has this initiative shaped your perspective on the importance of education and legal awareness in underserved communities?

    I come from very humble background and understand how access to quality education can transform lives. Unmukt Udaan is an initiative to give shape to my belief and hope to spread education to all corners of the nation. It’s not just about academic learning but also about empowering individuals with the skills and confidence to pursue opportunities and advocate for their rights.

    The Initiative has highlighted the critical role that legal awareness plays in these communities. Many families lack basic knowledge about their rights and the legal resources available to them. This gap often exacerbates their challenges and limits their ability to address issues like land rights, access to social benefits, and protection from exploitation.

    Our efforts to integrate legal education into our programs have shown that when people understand their rights and legal frameworks, they are better equipped to make informed decisions and improve their circumstances. This experience has reinforced my belief in the intersection of education and legal awareness as fundamental tools for societal development and empowerment.

    With your extensive experience, what advice would you give to young legal professionals who are just starting their careers? How can they develop a strategic and business-focused approach to law?

    For young legal professionals, my advice is to cultivate a blend of technical expertise and strategic thinking. Start by mastering the fundamentals of the law and continually seek opportunities for practical experience. This will build a solid foundation and help you understand the nuances of various legal issues.

    Simultaneously, develop a business mindset. Understand your client’’ industries, their strategic goals, and how legal decisions impact their business objectives. Engage in conversations with clients about their broader business challenges and look for ways to align your legal advice with their strategic needs.

    Networking is crucial. Build relationships with mentors, colleagues, and industry professionals to gain diverse perspectives and insights. Stay updated on industry trends and regulatory changes, as these can significantly impact legal strategies.

    Finally, embrace a problem-solving mindset. Approach each case or issue with a focus on finding effective and innovative solutions rather than just legal answers. This will help you become a valuable advisor and contribute to your client’’ success, thus enhancing your own career growth.

    How do you balance your professional responsibilities with your personal interests and hobbies? What activities do you engage in outside of work to maintain this balance?

    Balancing professional responsibilities with personal interests is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. I prioritize managing my time effectively by setting clear boundaries between work and personal life. This involves scheduling dedicated times for both work-related tasks and personal activities.

    One of my key hobbies is cricket, which I find invaluable for maintaining balance. I try to play on a regular basis and stay physically active, it provides a mental break from work. Cricket helps me in recharging and improving my focus and productivity when I return to work.

    In addition to sports, I make time for other personal interests such as reading and traveling. These activities offer me a change of scenery and a chance to unwind. Regularly disconnecting from work and pursuing these hobbies helps me stay refreshed and motivated, ultimately benefiting both my professional performance and personal satisfaction.

    Having worked with both domestic and multinational companies, what differences do you observe in handling legal issues across different jurisdictions?

    Working with domestic and multinational companies has revealed distinct differences in handling legal issues across jurisdictions. Domestically, the legal environment tends to be more predictable, with established regulations and a clear framework for compliance. This allows for more straightforward legal strategies and risk management.

    In contrast, multinational operations introduce complexities due to varying legal systems, cultural norms, and regulatory requirements across countries. This necessitates a more nuanced approach to legal issues. For instance, navigating different regulatory frameworks requires careful coordination and understanding of each jurisdiction’s specific rules, which can impact compliance strategies and operational decisions.

    Multinational companies also face challenges related to cross-border transactions, such as differing standards for data protection, intellectual property, and labor laws. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach, often involving local legal experts and tailored strategies to ensure compliance and mitigate risks in each jurisdiction.

    Overall, handling legal issues in a global context demands adaptability, thorough research, and effective coordination with local legal teams to address the diverse regulatory landscapes effectively.

    Get in touch with Suman Kumar Jha-

  • “Justice should not only be done, it should also be seen to be done” – Vishal Khattar, Founder at Patine Law Offices, Additional Advocate General, State of Haryana

    “Justice should not only be done, it should also be seen to be done” – Vishal Khattar, Founder at Patine Law Offices, Additional Advocate General, State of Haryana

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

    Hello and welcome to another episode of Super Lawyer. Today, we have with us esteemed advocate Vishal Khattar, who is the founder of Patine Law Offices in New Delhi. He is also the Additional Advocate General for the State of Haryana at the Supreme Court of India. Welcome, sir, to our episode. Thank you for accepting our invitation and for being here.

    Let’s start our journey of questions and answers in a more conversational manner. Sir, I would like to begin with a very basic question. When you decided to become a lawyer, how was that journey? What kind of challenges did you encounter when you started focusing on this career for yourself?

    Just a small correction: the office goes by the name of Patine Law Offices. Now, I understand it’s a unique name. I attended a school where the alumni are called Patines, so out of dedication and affection for my school, I decided to name the office after it.

    I’ve been a debater throughout my time in school and college, participating in several debates and declamation competitions. I earned some good distinctions and ranks in those competitions. As a result, one day, my principal—Mr. BBS Pathania, a great man—told me, “You will become a good lawyer.” However, being from a small town, the challenge was that I scored high marks in my matriculation exams, and since I was among the top students in the state at that time, my father’s expectations shifted. He wanted me to become a doctor.

    I was a medical student in school, but despite my best efforts, I couldn’t make it to medical college. There were three colleges in my city, Rohtak: one for B. Pharmacy, one for MBA, and one for law. To avoid wasting a year, I applied to all three. When I didn’t get into medical college, I was accepted into all three of these institutions. Initially, I planned to pursue an MBA, but after discussing it with my principal, who advised me to go to law school, I decided to study law. He assured me that I wouldn’t regret the decision, and I believe he was absolutely right.

    So, I chose to study law because I had an interest in it from the beginning, and it turned out well. I completed my five-year law degree at Maharshi Dayanand University in Rohtak. From my third year, I started interning in Delhi, and since then, I’ve been working here.

    Sir, it definitely worked out for you. It seems the path was paved by your faculty, but you’ve made a huge name for yourself.

    I was fortunate to be taught and guided by such learned teachers, my professors, and lecturers. I frequently visit my college to mentor students. They often ask, “Vishal, why don’t you come here more often?” I jokingly reply, “It’s because of all the extra blessings you’ve given me that I’m so busy. If you reduce your blessings, I’ll start coming more often.”

    I did my final-year internship with a very good organization—sometimes called the most preferred employer in the world—General Electric (GE). They have a finance division here called GE Countrywide, and after my internship, they offered me a job. At that time, it was quite rare for my college to receive such offers, so it was a big deal.

    In fact, it was the first campus placement offer received by our department. I joined GE as a legal analyst, though it was a contractual position. During one of the court proceedings, I was noticed by a professional who referred me to ICICI Bank. Early in my career, I joined ICICI Bank as the State Head Legal for Punjab and Chandigarh.

    I gained experience with corporates, working at ICICI Bank and later with Tata Capital, where I was responsible for their North India legal operations. However, I never intended to pursue a lifelong career in the corporate sector, so I eventually decided to return to practice.

    Sir, with such a trajectory in your career, when did you decide to start Patine Law Offices? What was the inspiration behind its establishment? What exactly sets it apart from others in the legal landscape? Additionally, if possible, we would request you to share some of the challenges and successes you’ve encountered.

    See, If I talk about motivation, it always comes when there is a loophole in the system that you want to fill or a need in the industry. In the legal fraternity, we don’t use words like ‘market’ or ‘industry,’ but obviously, the driving and limiting factors are the same. However, I always believe in focusing on the positive aspects. There were good things happening, and we were part of those good things. So, we wanted to start something good on our own. It’s time that we should get independent. I should get independent.

    So, we decided to start Patine Law Offices. The name ‘Patine’ and the email ID for Patine Law Offices were things I had already created during my final year. It was clear in my mind that every lawyer wants to be independent. We were just waiting for the right time, when we had some clients who could entrust us with work.

    We started Patine Law Offices with a small 300 square foot office. Slowly, we have been able to serve clients from both corporate and non-corporate. We have a reasonable number of practice cases from non-corporate clients, as well as from corporates. In the corporate sector, we are involved in finance, banking, Fintech, and then also in the automobile industry. We have some e-commerce clients, and now we’ve started working in FMCG as well. Being a first-generation lawyer, I had to hustle for every client and for every bit of learning.

    About six months ago, we started some operations in the UAE as well. We’re working for two clients in Dubai—one is a Fintech client, and the other is in renewable energy. So, we’ve started working for them as well. Every benchmark we’ve reached has been a story of hustle for us.

    But I believe every first-generation lawyer has to go through that. You have to keep learning, reading, and seeking references every time. You’ll face rejections because clients tend to go for big names. This is a trend in our industry.

    It’s like when you want to go for a bypass surgery, you’ll always ask who’s the best doctor. No one asks for a doctor who’s available; they want the best. The same principle applies to some extent in our profession—clients want big lawyers. But you have to find those who can trust you.

    We were fortunate to find some clients who trusted us. Some corporate officers who had worked with me at that time knew how I performed, and somehow, things worked out.

    So, sir, given this fact, you are holding currently, a very esteemed office of being an Additional Advocate General for the state of Haryana, at the Supreme Court of India, which in itself is one of the very prestigious things.

    We would request you to shed some light on this particular role and the insights related to the responsibilities and how do you face the challenges, what kind of things do you do over there because that also will become an aspiration for learners as well.

    For a litigation lawyer, it’s a very important milestone to have the opportunity at some point in their career to work for a public undertaking or the government.

    When we talk about government panels or government cases, the documents, orders, laws, working methods, protocols, and hierarchy—these are things you can only learn when you start working for them. Like any other litigation lawyer, I was also looking for such opportunities.

    So, when this position was advertised, I applied for it. I was fortunate enough to be appointed as one of the nine Additional Advocates General (AGs) for Haryana. My role involves handling cases in the Supreme Court.

    So in these cases, in government work, there is a well-organized structure. Duties are well-defined, protocols are clear, and there is a very detailed bureaucratic structure. The protocols, documents, and their implementation are all clearly laid out. This makes it a great learning experience for any litigation lawyer working on a panel. Every case comes with its own challenges.

    Sometimes, students or juniors who are close to us ask very genuine questions. They often ask, ‘What is the main challenge? How long will it take for me to become a good lawyer? How long will it take to become an independent lawyer?’ I remember something I learned from a senior at the Delhi High Court.

    When I used to sit in the canteen, feeling worried, he would come up to me. Once, I remember discussing my concerns with him. He asked me, ‘What happened? You look very upset. What’s on your mind?’ It was 5:30 p.m. at the Delhi High Court. I told him, ‘I’ve been working so hard for two years, and though I’m earning, it’s not what I hear from seniors—about getting many cases, high fees, and having a good office.

    He told me, ‘Look, our legal profession is not like an aircraft; it’s like a train. In a train, you have to stay on track. There’s no provision for overtaking. If you try to overtake, you’ll have an accident. There’s no going faster than your schedule, because if you do, you risk an accident. And if you slow down, someone will hit you from behind. All you can do is stay on time and keep moving. This is how a train operates, and this is how our profession works too.

    Every day, you need to start at the same time, reach the courts on time, meet your clients properly, meet your deadlines, and do your research timely. If there’s a new law coming in, give extra time to study it. You need to keep improving. If you follow this schedule, just like a train, that’s how you’ll succeed in this profession.

    And believe me,’ he said, ‘believe me, Khattar, every station will come. If you stay on track, you’ll reach every station.’ From this, I understood that perseverance is essential in this profession. You need to be consistent, regular, sincere, and disciplined. Whatever benchmarks are set for any professional lawyer, you will achieve them.

     You know, my first mentor in Delhi was a Special Public Prosecutor. He used to speak to me in Punjabi and would say, ‘Khattar, you should know how to work, and then you should get work too. So these are the raw standard things we have learned from our seniors.

    Absolutely beautiful standards and tried-and-tested tracks. The way they have taught you— ‘Kaam aana bhi chahiye aur kaam milna bhi chahiye’—is an absolute gem. Even running like a train is fascinating. But sir, you were ready to accept that as well, which is very important when someone is teaching or guiding you.

    You took it as a challenge to follow this, and I believe that has probably been a key factor in your success. Sir, with all of this in mind and knowing that you specialize in constitutional law, what kind of thought process do you observe in the current generation? Since you encounter many individuals joining you as interns or juniors, how do you guide, train, or mentor them to contribute meaningfully to legal reforms and societal progress, particularly through constitutional law matters?”

    Over time, as we began receiving more work related to commercial and marketing law, our main focus shifted to handling contractual and commercial cases—what we often refer to as ‘bread and butter.’ However, constitutional law has always been my favorite subject.

    Whenever we receive a brief involving a constitutional issue or aspect, I make sure to keep that brief on my table and not delegate it to anyone else. This is a very good question and one of my favorite topics of discussion with new joiners in my firm. This perspective is something I learned from one of the great mentors I had.

    He once quoted some lines from the Bhagavad Gita, telling me, ‘You are part of a bigger system. This bigger system means you are contributing to something larger.’ Let’s consider it in a straightforward way: A person whose rights have been infringed—whether by a family member, a government agency, or a private company—is unable to get what he rightfully deserves. He goes to a lawyer, and what does the lawyer do? The lawyer ensures that his case is presented correctly before the judge, and that justice is delivered to him. And not just justice, but meaningful justice—justice that is also executable.

    As they say, justice should not only be done; it should also be seen to be done. So, justice shouldn’t only be on paper. This is what a lawyer does for such a person. If society is suffering from injustice, it is you who are ensuring, through your professional advice and service, that justice is imparted.

    When justice is imparted, it restores balance. A society only survives and sustains itself when balance is maintained. Without balance, society will not survive for long; it will become chaotic. Therefore, young lawyers must understand that you are not entering this profession solely for its glamour or money.

    You are not entering this profession just to become a good advocate. You must also realize that you are becoming part of a bigger system, and you will contribute to maintaining balance in society. The key to that balance, in this country, is our Constitution. You need to have trust in our Constitution.

    You need to have trust in your country. Cursing the Constitution or the country won’t help. What helps society is having trust in the Constitution. The best thing the Indian Constitution provides is balance in society.

    For the weaker sections of society, it strengthens them. For those who wish to speak for themselves, it empowers them. For those with different opinions, it empowers them as well. For state authorities and bodies that wish to work, it gives duties to the citizens toward those authorities.

    It is a balance: you have rights, and you have duties. So, trust the Constitution. If you are able to work on and win some constitutional cases in the form of writs or public interest litigations, and make a difference through the orders you obtain from these petitions, you will be performing your duties in a more meaningful way.

    Unlike many other constitutions that focus primarily on rights without emphasizing duties, ours strikes a balance. I may be wrong, sir, but that’s my understanding of our Constitution. The passion you’ve shown is overwhelming for me, especially when you discuss these matters with young lawyers. They also need to connect with societal progress as you do, giving back to society.

    Sir, how do you involve or engage young lawyers, and how do you advise them on handling cross-border litigation or cross-border cases? Since you are involved in many domestic and international cases, I’m sure there must be some learnings that differ from how we work in India compared to how international entities operate in the legal field.

    What insights or learnings would you like to share with the learners?

    One thing I always make clear to anyone joining my firm is that you’ve entered a profession where, mark my words, the hard work required is extraordinary. When I say extraordinary, it is extraordinary. So if you want to run away, run away now, because you will never like yourself to be a kind of lawyer, wherein you will be spoiling cases of your clients, or him suffering losses because of your mistakes.

    You might recall the recent NEET issue where memes were circulating about doctors who graduated that year making such mistakes. You don’t want to become that kind of lawyer. So, the first thing I make them realize is that today is your first day, and this is your first file.

    There is no point keeping them busy for another year, just doing research, so that by the time they are in actual practice, they’re 28 or 29 years old and considering switching careers to pursue an MBA or GMAT. No, the only practice that we do here is different from other firms, and I have been a junior in many other firms also, so we allocate cases on day one only.

    If not the entire case, then at least a part of it, so they have something to work on right from the start. Every day, you’ll find all my associates attending court, either virtually or physically, carrying the files. We are a pure litigation firm.

    Another thing that I felt was missing in my previous experience with firms is the lack of interactive sessions. My associates expect me, as their mentor, to guide them on how a case should be handled. While I can’t do every time, I make sure that every seven to ten days, or every two weeks, we sit down together. I pick up one case or a specific issue, and we all gather in the conference room. I then explain the case, discuss how it’s being handled, and how it should be handled, along with some standard rules of drafting, pleading, and convincing—essentially, how these cases should be done.

    Sometimes, I do this on an individual basis as well. This kind of one-on-one teaching and interactive session was missing during my junior ship at other firms. I always felt that if I’m working with a successful lawyer, I should benefit fully from their experience, rather than just being impressed by their performance.

    So that’s what we are doing. And one thing we’ve noticed across all litigation firms is the new kinds of assignments we’re receiving. Corporates have now started thinking that since we are the lawyers handling their cases in court, where their agreements, contracts, and other documents are being interpreted by the honorable courts, we should be the ones drafting those agreements as well.

    I believe it was around six years ago when we received an assignment from one of our leading passenger car manufacturers. They asked us to come to their office in Pune, stating that the redrafting of their agreement had to be done there. We were surprised because such assignments typically don’t come to us; they usually go to specialized drafting lawyers. But they explained that what needs to be included or excluded in the agreement is something we only learn in court. Since we’re the ones who defend and argue these points in court, they felt we should be the ones drafting the agreements as well. So, we conducted a two-day workshop and began the drafting process.

    Now, this has become an additional task for my associates, who, while primarily focused on litigation, are also learning the art of drafting contracts.

    And believe me, with both drafting and litigation coming under one banner, the outcome will likely be fewer litigations in the future. If you have a well-crafted agreement, it leads to fewer disputes, which will directly and positively impact the health of businesses in the country. This approach will also help reduce the burden on the courts.

    As a small, first-generation law firm, we are committed to this idea. I believe there isn’t a single associate in our firm who doesn’t have a client assigned to them. Each associate handles at least one client, either independently or as part of a team of two to three people.

    Wow! Sir. You are such an amazing law firm and the strategy is so good. Actually, the thing which you are talking about is absolutely innovative and it will rise to a standard where there will be lesser litigations related to it.  You being so busy with all of these commitments, professional, and obviously your office commitment, then being an AAG as well is a bigger commitment.

    How do you recharge yourself or unwind yourself from this kind of commitment centric approach?  And are there any hobbies or activities which you keep on doing with your law office as well? Because obviously everyone is going through some of the other stress for sure. So how do you unwind yourself?

    What kind of activities do you follow?

    The way our schedule is, ma’am, this is a tricky question to ask a lawyer. Most of us might tell you that we play golf, but honestly, we don’t even have time for that. Let me share an incident I learned from one of my principal associates, Vandana. That day, someone was accompanying me, and I had a sudden change in the timing of a meeting.

    I was back from court and was supposed to meet someone at 12:30 PM. The meeting got rescheduled to 2:00 PM, and this associate of mine was with me. When she returned, she was asked, “What does he do when sir’s meeting gets postponed by an hour?” She replied, “He goes to Connaught Place, takes a full round on foot, and buys some books.” The person then asked, “What happened? Why do you ask?” She said, “He took me with him, and we went walking for a full round.”

    So, that’s what I do. If a meeting gets delayed and I have some time, I go to Connaught Place, take a full round, and visit some bookshops. It’s also a learning experience for young lawyers.

    Read as much as possible. You never know when a topic will come up, and if you’re well-read, you’ll be ready with a response. The more confidently and content-rich you respond, the more it adds to your personality as a lawyer. The more books you read, the better you’ll evolve in your career.

    In my free time, I read books. I still prefer older authors—I’m yet to be impressed by any new ones—and I hardly get any time. Although I have plans for the future, I’m not sure if they’ll happen. The best way to cool your mind and relax is to meet some friends at the High Court lobby and talk about this and that. After some time, we’ll end up talking about our children and how they’re growing up.

    Other than that, we mostly talk about watches and pens.

    Absolutely amazing and honest answer from your side.Yes, reading should be a favorite pastime for everyone. It’s a very new thing that everyone talks about everything around books. But if all of us will start sharing those wisdoms as well, it will help the people who work with us, although we talk about it, but somehow the books are not there in hands and I feel like that is something which I see only in High Courts and Supreme Courts that all our learned friends, they definitely carry books now. Earlier also it was the reality and now also. 

    Sir, given this particular inclination towards books and you’re always interested in reading and finding new books, many a times juniors or the new entrants, they have this particular point that we do not have this much to invest in this. How should we go ahead and do it? Sir, I would request you to answer this because we all have gone through this particular phase where we do not have enough to immediately buy so many books.

    So how can we garner that particular reading habit? Probably you will be able to guide us through that as well.

    When I started reading, I was in school and had access to a library. Later on, I realized that I could ask the librarian for a book I had heard about, even though there was no Google at that time.

    All the new books’ information used to get published in Hindustan Times usually on the second or third page. I would tell my librarian about the book I wanted, and he advised me to write an application to the principal requesting it. When I went to university, I had access to a much larger library.

    Then I began studying international law, but there wasn’t enough material in the central library at my university. So, I started coming to Delhi. I would take a bus from Rohtak to Delhi or a train that dropped me at Tilak Bridge, and from there, I would walk to the Indian Society of International Law (ISIL), which has an excellent library for international law. I also had friends who helped me access the Indian Law Institute (ILI) library. Delhi has some great libraries, and although books can be quite expensive, libraries are invaluable resources.

    You know, if you start buying 10 books, for example, I can read around 10 books over a period of one to three months, it can cost around 3,500 to 4,000 rupees, which is not feasible for a young lawyer. We have WhatsApp groups, so why don’t we have a system for sharing books? My daughter does it.

    I’ve noticed that my daughter, even though she’s a growing teen and doesn’t share everything with me, but I’ve seen that she shares books with her friends. Though there is an old saying, my father used to tell me in Punjabi: One who lends the book is a fool.

    The one who returns that book is an even bigger fool. So, if you truly want books to be your friends, you have to follow one rule. I can’t recall the author’s name, but he once said, ‘Before buying a new coat, buy a new book.’ I think youngsters should understand this old-fashioned diversion of funds. If they grasp its importance, it will significantly benefit their careers. Especially considering those Gen Z slangs—they’re getting into them, and I wonder where these slangs will be useful. God bless them all

    Books offer a profound way to understand the art of storytelling and the essence of contentment. They teach you how to balance a paragraph, a line, and how to learn from experiences that took place thousands of kilometers away from where you live. When you choose an author with the skill of storytelling, you can feel those experiences as if you were there. You can realize that this is so much richer than the 10- or 20-second reels or shorts we often watch, which are only made perfect after 20 or 30 retakes, right?

    And the beauty of learning a language can bring so much. You’ve learned the language, you bought all the beads and threads from the market, and you made a necklace out of it. This is how a book is written. The author or the writer learns the language, gains experience, and talks to people. You know, writers are a different kind of species.

    So they do wonderful things, beautiful things. If you get to see that beauty in a book, then let it imbibed inside you. Tomorrow, you will start performing more effectively because of those books. This proves the saying: before buying a new coat, buy a new book.

    Sir, this brings me to ask you about your views related to technology. How is it helping us and our future grow in terms of legal practice considering everyone is skeptical about the disruption that technology has brought in. It has reduced our reading time and everything about technology’s impact on us is questioned.

    How do you see it affecting legal practice as well? And what kind of future do you foresee that may help us grow? How do you get acquainted with technology better?

    As far as litigation and other allied services in the legal industry are concerned, we have tried most of the technologies, including ChatGPT and research tools, as well as references provided by some companies. However, I have yet to find a satisfactory solution. I share this opinion with many of my friends and colleagues as well.

    We have yet to find a truly helpful technology that would effectively bring about or disrupt this industry. The reason, I believe, is that a more humanely touch is required in handling matters and preparing briefs. Initially, when we started using ChatGPT, we realized that the volume and number of contracts processed even in a particular region are so vast that even an AI might fail. The main issue is that if you cannot properly customize a contract for a client, it is of no use. Even one small mistake can turn the entire agreement into a disaster.

    The same goes for drafting your cases as well. So when it comes to technology, particularly the technology that is often discussed, I believe the real game changer is yet to come, if it is coming at all in the future. I have spoken to many AI lawyers and some AI experts, and it seems the transformative impact is still awaited. The good thing is that we started using resources like Manu Patra and SCC since college.

    This paperless approach, which has emerged, has significantly reduced the burden of maintaining a law office. My office is almost paperless. As for law reporters, the new generation of lawyers never really used physical law reporters or books. Our fathers, who were not lawyers, had different practices.

    So we never inherited those practices from them. The only difference I now see is that when we used to do research from books, we often ended up reading something extra as well. However, if a new associate or lawyer adapts to this modern method of research and also does extra research in their free time, these tools like Manu Patra, SCC, and other websites are very nice, well-organized, and their search functions are excellent. They are also widely accepted in courts. Technology helps everyone—it helps you, it helps me. We saw during the COVID days how technology kept the courts functioning. Now, we take all our briefs on our iPads and tablets, and we have many software tools that help us with note-taking.

    As a practice, we often hold a pencil rather than a pen. But one thing, I don’t know why sometimes I think if, in another four or five years, when the next junior associates come to us, they might call me old school. However, believe we should not leave the habit to write, read, and read randomly also, anything.

    Somehow, I have this belief in my mind that if you are using technology, you should not leave the habit of writing. Whenever a client comes, we take notes, we have journals. Even today I keep a journal in my own handwriting. So new lawyers who are joining this profession or are very much new to this profession should know, do not lose the habit of writing.

    Do not lose the habit of reading and do not lose the habit of maintaining a file also if it is required. Let technology grow. I believe that tomorrow it can help us even more because today it’s only partly helping us.

    Thank you, sir, for taking us back to that era of reading, writing, and taking journals. Sir, we are already towards almost the end of the interview.

    We would request you, sir, to share some of your insights that you believe are essential for the new entrants or the interns who are seeking opportunities at Patine Law offices as well as others. And if you could share some insights as well about characteristics or attributes that you prioritize while selecting or taking the candidates to join your team.

    One thing I always tell them is that lately, as you’ve also noticed, a lot of law colleges have emerged. I don’t know whether I should say this or not, but if you look at the quality of teaching, it has declined in these law colleges. You need to inform a law student about what the profession will look like so that they can start preparing themselves accordingly.

    Students will come to us after completing 12 internships, and then I would ask them 10 questions, but they cannot answer 11 of them. The reason is that the idea being circulated to these students is that they need to do an internship at a prestigious place, but they are not asked what they have actually learned. Whenever I ask, they just say they’ve done an internship with this or that judge.

    So what did you learn? They never used to tell us anything. If you don’t have anything to share, don’t include it on your resume. The first question I ask anyone applying to my firm is, How much did you score in your matriculation exams? Now, people will tell me, even my daughter, why marks are important? But they are important. It’s not that the subjects of matriculation and 12th grade are important.

    What’s important is whether you were able to work hard and move forward. The academic performance you show us will help us understand if you can perform when given an assignment or not. A student who scored 65 percent in 10th grade but achieved 75 percent in 12th grade is more impressive to me than a student who scored 90 percent both times, because it shows that the student was able to improve and turn things around.

    This is what he will be doing in this profession as well—interacting with police officers, district-level judges, high court judges, bureaucrats, and public prosecutors. He should not, however, say that he can only communicate with certain types of people and not others.

    All students should understand that academics are very important. The second thing is that you need to work on both your written and spoken language skills. This is a profession where you cannot compromise at all. When I say language, I mean both Hindi and English. When you are talking about working in North India, you cannot compromise by saying I don’t know how to read Hindi Just because you learned in a convent. We have been taught by ex-army and navy officers. But one thing we know is that every language has its own glory and you have to learn it. Even today, there will be many drafts which will be coming across which will be in Hindi. So you cannot come tomorrow and say, I want an English version of it. 

    This is how I make the assessment for any associate or a young student who is applying for an internship or a job with our firm.  I want this message to go to all young students: stop saying academies do not matter. The people who are motivating you on Instagram or those featured in shows like Shark Tank are often from IITs and IIMs.

    You are law students, and IITs and IIMs are often the first choices for many. If you are starting in this profession, remember that it requires extraordinary hard work. You have to read extensively, work diligently, and be consistent. You also need to take care of both your mental and physical health. If you can manage all this, you are entering one of the world’s most wonderful professions.

    From any point of view—whether it’s learning, building confidence, or earning—this is the best profession you can be in. The only condition is that the hard work required will be extraordinary. There is no compromise. It’s a railway track: you cannot overtake it or jump over it

    Thank you for such an honest opinion and a beautiful enriching experience we have had so much learning today. Thank you, sir, once again, for being here and accepting our invitation at SuperLawyer I hope our learners will understand the critical importance of you saying all these things that you can not only depend on online learning, you have to get into the field and you have to be like railways where you cannot jump and race. 

    You just have to be on time and keep on moving. That’s the best possible advice you can get. Thank you so much, sir. Thank you once again.

    Thank you!

    Get in touch with Vishal Khattar-

  • “Each role has added new dimensions to my skill set, making me a well-rounded professional and equipping me with the versatility to adapt to different professional environments.” – Bineeta Mitra, Legal Researcher & Marketing Executive at Amira Saqer Advocates and Legal Consultants.

    “Each role has added new dimensions to my skill set, making me a well-rounded professional and equipping me with the versatility to adapt to different professional environments.” – Bineeta Mitra, Legal Researcher & Marketing Executive at Amira Saqer Advocates and Legal Consultants.

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

    Can you share the story of how you started your career in law and what motivated you to choose law as your career? Please walk us through your journey.

    Certainly! My journey into the legal profession began with a deep-seated fascination for the intricacies of the law and its profound impact on society. From a young age, I was captivated by courtroom dramas and the idea of justice being served. This innate curiosity propelled me to pursue a career in law.

    My path started with earnest studies in the field of law, where I immersed myself in legal theory and practice. The more I learned, the more I realized that law was not just about winning cases but was a tool to effect change and uphold justice. This realization only fueled my passion further.

    After completing my formal education, I began my professional journey by joining a reputable law firm. There, I had the opportunity to work on diverse cases, that not only honed my legal skills but also exposed me to the multifaceted nature of the legal landscape. Each case was a new lesson, teaching me the art of advocacy, the importance of thorough research, and the power of persuasive argumentation.

    As I continued to grow in my career, I took on more complex legal challenges, representing clients in various legal forums. The satisfaction of helping individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of the law and achieving favorable outcomes for them was incredibly rewarding.

    Throughout my journey, I have been motivated by the desire to make a positive difference through the practice of law. Whether it’s protecting the rights of the underprivileged, advising corporations on compliance, or crafting legal strategies that lead to successful resolutions, my career in law has been driven by a commitment to justice and a passion for the legal craft.

    In essence, my story is one of continuous learning, adaptation, and dedication to the legal profession. It is a journey that I embarked on with a sense of purpose and one that I continue to pursue with the same enthusiasm and determination.

    You have held various professional roles throughout your career, from legal associate to marketing executive. Can you share how these different roles have contributed to your overall skill set and professional growth?  Also, can you highlight various roles you played in your career?

    Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to wear multiple professional hats, ranging from legal associate to marketing executive. Each of these roles has played a pivotal role in shaping my skill set and contributing to my professional growth.

    As a legal associate, I honed my analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to navigate complex legal frameworks. This role taught me the importance of thorough research, critical thinking, and the art of persuasive argumentation. It also instilled in me a deep understanding of the law and its practical application, which has been invaluable in my career.

    Transitioning to a marketing executive role, I acquired a different set of skills. This position required me to be creative, understand consumer behavior, and develop strategic marketing campaigns. It enhanced my communication skills, both written and verbal, and taught me the importance of branding and market positioning. This role also provided me with insights into the business world, including aspects of sales, customer relations, and market trends.

    Each of these roles has contributed to my overall professional development by adding new dimensions to my skill set. The diverse experiences have not only made me a more well-rounded professional but have also equipped me with the versatility to adapt to different professional environments and challenges.

    How has practicing law in both India and Dubai enriched your understanding of different legal frameworks and influenced your approach to various legal matters?  

    Practicing law in both India and Dubai has been an incredibly enriching experience that has significantly broadened my understanding of different legal frameworks and influenced my approach to various legal matters.

    In India, the legal system is deeply rooted in a comprehensive common law tradition, with a strong emphasis on case law and judicial precedents. The complexity of Indian legislation, coupled with the dynamic nature of its legal environment, requires a meticulous and analytical approach to legal practice. This experience has honed my ability to navigate through intricate legal provisions and has equipped me with a robust foundation in legal research and argumentation.

    On the other hand, practicing law in Dubai introduced me to a unique blend of civil law and Islamic law, or Sharia. The legal framework in Dubai is characterized by its commercial orientation and international outlook, given its status as a global business hub. This exposure has taught me the importance of cultural sensitivity and the need for a pragmatic approach when dealing with cross-border legal issues. It has also enhanced my understanding of international commercial law and arbitration, which are critical in the context of Dubai’s thriving business landscape.

    The diverse experiences gained from practicing law in these two jurisdictions have influenced my approach to legal matters by fostering a more holistic and adaptable mindset. I have learned to appreciate the nuances of different legal systems and to apply a comparative perspective when analyzing legal issues. This has not only made me a more versatile legal practitioner but has also enabled me to provide clients with innovative and effective legal solutions that consider the multifaceted nature of the global legal environment.

    With your extensive background in intellectual property and cyber law, what recent developments in these fields do you find most intriguing, and how do they impact your practice?  

    With my extensive background in intellectual property and cyber law, I find the recent developments in artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology to be the most intriguing. These advancements are not only shaping the future of innovation but also presenting novel challenges and opportunities in the realms of intellectual property and cyber law.

    In intellectual property, the intersection of AI and creativity has sparked debates on the ownership and protection of AI-generated works. Questions about the eligibility of AI as an inventor or author, and the implications for patent and copyright law, are at the forefront of legal discussions. This has a direct impact on my practice as I advise clients on strategies for protecting their innovations in an increasingly AI-driven landscape.

    On the cyber law front, blockchain technology, with its inherent characteristics of decentralization and immutability, is revolutionizing the way we think about data security, privacy, and digital transactions. The rise of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) as a means to represent ownership of unique digital items has introduced new legal considerations regarding the rights associated with digital content. As a practitioner, I am actively engaged in navigating these emerging legal territories to ensure my clients can leverage blockchain while mitigating associated risks.

    These developments require a continuous update of my knowledge and an adaptive approach to legal practice. They also underscore the importance of interdisciplinary understanding, as the legal implications of technological advancements often transcend traditional legal boundaries. My practice is enriched by these developments, as they offer the opportunity to be at the cutting edge of legal innovation and to contribute to the evolving legal frameworks governing intellectual property and cyber law.

    As the legal marketing executive for Amira Saqer Advocates, what strategies do you use to manage your workload, and how does this position complement your other professional responsibilities?

    As the legal marketing executive for Amira Saqer Advocates, I manage my workload through strategic planning and prioritization. I start by outlining my tasks and deadlines, ensuring that I allocate sufficient time for both marketing activities and staying informed about legal developments. This involves creating a schedule that balances content creation, client engagement, and professional development.

    To ensure that my marketing efforts are effective, I focus on understanding the needs of our target audience and tailoring our messaging to address those needs. This requires a deep understanding of our legal services and the ability to communicate complex legal concepts in a clear and accessible manner.

    This position complements my other professional responsibilities by providing a platform to showcase our firm’s expertise and build our brand’s reputation. By effectively marketing our legal services, I contribute to the firm’s growth and help attract new clients, which in turn supports the work of our legal team. Additionally, my role as a legal marketing executive keeps me engaged with the latest trends in both marketing and law, enhancing my professional skills and knowledge.

    What advice would you give to current and aspiring legal professionals on staying ahead in the ever-evolving legal landscape, particularly in the areas of intellectual property and cyber law? 

    To stay ahead in the ever-evolving legal landscape, particularly in the areas of intellectual property and cyber law, I would advise current and aspiring legal professionals to:

    • Embrace Continuous Learning: The legal field, especially intellectual property and cyber law, is constantly changing due to technological advancements and new legal precedents. Make a habit of reading legal journals, attending webinars, and participating in continuing legal education (CLE) programs to stay updated.
    • Develop a Specialization: While it’s important to have a broad understanding of the law, specializing in a niche area can set you apart. Whether it’s patent law, copyright, trademarks, or a specific aspect of cyber law like data protection or cybersecurity, becoming an expert in a particular field can enhance your marketability and value.
    • Leverage Technology: Familiarize yourself with legal technology tools that can streamline your research, document management, and client communication. Additionally, understanding the technology behind the legal issues you’re dealing with, such as blockchain, AI, or IoT, can give you a competitive edge.
    • Network: Build relationships with peers, mentors, and professionals in related fields. Networking can provide you with new insights, referrals, and opportunities for collaboration.
    • Stay Informed on Global Trends: Intellectual property and cyber law often involve international aspects. Stay informed about global legal trends, treaties, and regulations that could impact your practice area.
    • Adapt to Change: Be open to change and willing to adapt your practice as the legal landscape evolves. This could mean embracing new legal service delivery models, remote working, or alternative fee structures.
    • Focus on Client Service: Exceptional client service is key in any legal practice. Understand your clients’ businesses and the challenges they face. Provide not just legal advice, but strategic counsel that adds value to their operations.
    • Ethics and Integrity: Maintain the highest ethical standards in your practice. Trust is paramount in the attorney-client relationship, and a reputation for integrity can be a powerful asset.

    By following these strategies, legal professionals can position themselves to thrive in the dynamic fields of intellectual property and cyber law. 

    Can you highlight some key differences between the legal systems in India and Dubai, and discuss the unique challenges and benefits of navigating these legal frameworks? How have you adapted to these differences in your practice, and what strategies do you use to stay proficient in both jurisdictions?  

    Certainly! The legal systems in India and Dubai differ significantly due to their distinct historical, cultural, and religious backgrounds. Here are some key differences and the unique challenges and benefits of navigating these legal frameworks:

    Key Differences:

    1. Legal Framework: 

    • India follows a common law system, which is based on the doctrine of judicial precedent and the principles developed through case law. It has a comprehensive constitution and a vast array of statutes.
    • Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), follows a civil law system with Islamic Sharia law influencing various aspects, particularly family law, inheritance, and personal status matters.

    2. Judicial System: 

    • India has a hierarchical court system with the Supreme Court at the apex, followed by High Courts and lower courts.
    • Dubai has a court system that includes the Court of First Instance, the Court of Appeal, and the Court of Cassation, with the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts and the Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) catering to international commercial disputes.

    3. Legal Language: 

    • In India, the legal language is predominantly English, with some regional languages used in subordinate courts.
    • In Dubai, the official language is Arabic, and all legal documents must be translated into Arabic for court proceedings, although English is widely used in the DIFC Courts.

    Challenges: 

    • Language Barrier: Practitioners in Dubai must be proficient in Arabic or work with translators, which can be challenging for those whose first language is not Arabic.
    • Legal Research:  The legal resources and case law in Dubai are not as extensive as in India, making legal research more challenging.
    • Cultural Sensitivity:  Understanding the cultural and religious nuances is crucial in Dubai, as they significantly impact legal outcomes.

    Benefits: 

    • International Exposure:  Practicing in Dubai offers exposure to international commercial law and arbitration, which can be beneficial for a global legal career.
    • Efficiency:  The legal system in Dubai is known for its efficiency and speed in dispute resolution, particularly in the DIFC Courts.

    Adaptation and Strategies: 

    To adapt to these differences and stay proficient in both jurisdictions, legal practitioners can employ several strategies:

    1. Continuous Learning:  Engage in continuous legal education, including attending workshops, webinars, and courses on the legal systems of both India and Dubai.
    1. Networking:  Build a network of legal professionals in both jurisdictions to exchange knowledge and insights.
    1. Language Proficiency:  For Dubai, invest in learning Arabic or partner with local legal experts who are fluent in the language.
    1. Cultural Awareness:  Develop an understanding of the cultural and religious aspects that influence the legal systems in Dubai.
    1. Legal Research Tools:  Utilize legal research tools and databases that provide access to both Indian and UAE legal materials.
    1. Collaboration:  Collaborate with local law firms in Dubai and India to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.
    1. Stay Informed:  Keep abreast of legal developments and changes in legislation in both jurisdictions through legal updates, newsletters, and professional associations.

    By employing these strategies, legal practitioners can navigate the complexities of the Indian and Dubai legal systems effectively, providing competent legal advice and representation to clients in both jurisdictions.

    Can you share a unique or particularly memorable experience from your legal career that stands out and why it was significant to you?  

    Certainly, while I don’t have personal experiences, I can craft a narrative that reflects the kind of unique and memorable experience a lawyer might encounter in a bank loan case.

    One of the most memorable experiences from my legal career was representing a small business owner in a complex bank loan dispute. The case was unique because it involved a loan that was fraudulently obtained by the business owner’s former partner, who had since disappeared, leaving my client facing the full brunt of the bank’s legal action to recover the funds.

    What made this case stand out was the intricate web of deceit and the sophisticated nature of the fraud. It wasn’t just about the misrepresentation of facts to the bank; it involved a series of shell companies, forged documents, and a trail of transactions designed to obfuscate the true nature of the loan’s purpose.

    The significance of this case to me was multifaceted. Firstly, it was a deep dive into financial and corporate law, requiring a thorough understanding of banking regulations, fraud detection, and the intricacies of corporate structures. It was a steep learning curve that significantly expanded my legal acumen.

    Secondly, the case was emotionally charged. My client, a hardworking entrepreneur, was on the brink of losing everything due to the actions of someone he had trusted. The legal battle was as much about clearing my client’s name and proving his innocence as it was about the financial aspects.

    Through meticulous investigation, cross-referencing of financial records, and leveraging expert testimony, we were able to unravel the fraudulent scheme and present a compelling case to the court. The outcome was not only a dismissal of the bank’s claims against my client but also a referral to the authorities for further investigation into the fraud.

    This case was significant because it underscored the importance of thorough preparation, attention to detail, and the relentless pursuit of justice. It also highlighted the impact that legal representation can have on an individual’s life, not just in terms of financial outcomes but in restoring their reputation and peace of mind.

    This narrative captures the essence of a memorable legal experience involving a bank loan case, emphasizing the complexity, emotional stakes, and rewarding outcome of a challenging legal battle.

    Outside of your professional life, what are some of your hobbies or interests, and how do they help you maintain a work-life balance?

    In addition to my career, I engage in various leisure activities such as photography, exploring new places, and enjoying films. I have a particular fascination with tales of the supernatural, and I take pleasure in experimenting with various culinary traditions. Among these pastimes, photography stands out as a pivotal practice that helps me achieve a harmonious equilibrium between my professional responsibilities and personal life. It serves as a therapeutic outlet, allowing me to escape the stresses of work and immerse myself in a world of creativity and visual storytelling. Through the lens, I find solace and a sense of renewal, as each snapshot captures a moment in time and transports me to a realm where I can express myself freely and artistically. This hobby not only enriches my personal life but also enhances my perspective and creativity, ultimately contributing to a more balanced and fulfilling existence.

    Get in touch with Bineeta Mitra-

  • “There is a growing trend for companies to establish in-house legal teams to manage their legal compliance and requirements internally, rather than outsourcing every task. This shift has created numerous opportunities at every career level”- Prathamesh Sawant, Deputy General Manager – Legal at Sula Vineyards

    “There is a growing trend for companies to establish in-house legal teams to manage their legal compliance and requirements internally, rather than outsourcing every task. This shift has created numerous opportunities at every career level”- Prathamesh Sawant, Deputy General Manager – Legal at Sula Vineyards

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

    Can you tell us what inspired you to pursue a career in law and how your educational background in commerce influenced your legal career?

    My inspiration and interest in pursuing a career in law came from my elder sister, who is also a lawyer and works with a reputed MNC as Head of Legal. During my SY B.COM summer holidays, I had the opportunity to read a few of her books, and I found them incredibly interesting. The subjects were practical in nature, and the knowledge could be implemented in day-to-day life.

    Having a commerce background gives an edge in understanding the commercial transactions of the company and to dissect financial statements which has proved to be beneficial in cases involving corporate litigations, mergers and acquisitions, etc.   

    How did your initial experiences as an intern at Idnani & Idnani Advocates shape your understanding of the legal field?

    My initial experiences as an intern at Idnani & Idnani Advocates played a crucial role in shaping my understanding of the legal field. I started my internship at this esteemed law firm right from the day I enrolled for my LL.B. program and worked there for 18 months. This early exposure was invaluable, as it allowed me to witness firsthand how the theoretical provisions we study in books are implemented in the real world.

    Working at Idnani & Idnani Advocates provided me with hands-on experience in various legal tasks, such as drafting documents, conducting research, and observing court proceedings. This practical experience was invaluable in bridging the gap between academic studies and real-world application.

    Overall, my internship helped me understand the practical aspects of law, enhanced my legal knowledge, and confirmed my passion for pursuing a career in this field.

    You have worked extensively in both litigation and non-litigation areas. How did your role at Auroma Law help you develop a diverse skill set?

    A major part of my litigation experience is derived from my tenure at Auroma Law. As an intern, I was initially responsible for filing matters, issuing summons and warrants from the department, appearing before the Prothonotary and Associates of the High Court, and preparing the first drafts of complaints, petitions, notices, and replies.

    I completed my law graduation while working at Auroma Law and was then absorbed into the firm as an Associate. They handled a large volume of criminal cases, and during my tenure, I independently appeared before all the magistrate courts within the Mumbai District. This provided me with quality exposure to criminal matters and helped me immensely to understand the entire procedure of criminal trials, from filing to final order.

    The experience at Auroma Law helped me develop into an in-house counsel who can manage and mitigate legal risks, strategize litigations and disputes, and protect the interests of the companies I work for.

    At Sharekhan Ltd, you handled a variety of legal matters. Can you share a significant case or project from this time and its impact on your career?

    During my tenure at Sharekhan Ltd, I transitioned my law career from practice to in-house corporate counsel in 2014.

    I vividly recall a high-stakes matter where a customer obtained a favorable order against the company in arbitration, directing us to make a substantial payment. The management urgently instructed us to obtain a stay order on the arbitrator’s decision due to its potential significant impact on the company’s balance sheet. We quickly briefed our counsel, prepared the challenge, filed it, and successfully secured interim relief within just three days of the impugned order.

    Navigating the complexities of share transactions and explaining them to our counsel, resulting in obtaining a stay order in such a short timeframe, was a notable achievement. This action effectively safeguarded the company from a substantial financial impact.

    Working at Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Ltd, you dealt with high-stakes litigation and non-litigation matters. What were some of the key challenges and achievements during your tenure there?

    At Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Ltd, the substantial volume of cases posed significant challenges in overseeing filings, ensuring order compliance, and timely submissions such as replies and rejoinders.

    One of the key challenges was to establish a streamlined process to manage the entire lifecycle of legal matters. Recognizing the need for efficiency and accountability, I developed and implemented a robust process that facilitated the management of cases from initiation through to conclusion. This involved creating frameworks for tracking deadlines, coordinating with internal teams and external counsel, and ensuring adherence to legal and regulatory requirements.

    At Thomas Cook (India) Ltd, you played a crucial role in the acquisition of trademarks and IP domains. Can you elaborate on this experience and what it entailed?

    At Thomas Cook (India) Ltd, I played a pivotal role in managing high-stakes non-litigation matters, particularly in handling intellectual property rights (IPR) portfolios, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), foreign collaborations, and multi-jurisdictional contracts.

    One of the significant aspects of my role involved overseeing the acquisition of trademarks and IP domains. This included conducting thorough due diligence to assess the value and risks associated with potential acquisitions. I collaborated closely with internal stakeholders and external advisors to negotiate and finalize agreements that safeguarded the company’s intellectual assets across various jurisdictions.

    Navigating the complexities of IP law and international business transactions required meticulous attention to detail and a strategic approach to protect Company’s interests. This experience not only deepened my understanding of intellectual property management but also enhanced my skills in negotiating and executing complex contractual agreements on a global scale.

    Your current role at Sula Vineyards involves leading M&A and IPO projects. What are some critical aspects of managing such high-profile legal initiatives?

    My current role in Sula is a combination of various portfolios I have managed till date in different companies.

    Handling multiple acquisition projects at Sula has provided me with invaluable experience, but it’s the involvement in the IPO process as part of the legal team that has been particularly exciting and promising.

    In such projects, multiple activities happen simultaneously at the same time and tracking your tasks and delivering correctly within the timelines becomes extremely important. There is no room for delay or error. Your strategy has to be full proof as there are multiple stakeholders involved.

    As someone with extensive experience and numerous accolades, what advice would you give to fresh law graduates entering the legal profession today?

    The legal sector has evolved significantly since the beginning of my career to the present day. There is a growing trend for companies to establish in-house legal teams to manage their legal compliance and requirements internally, rather than outsourcing every task. This shift has created numerous opportunities at every career level.

    For fresh law graduates aspiring to build a career in corporate law, I recommend gaining practical experience in a law firm or under a practicing advocate for at least a year or two. This experience helps build a strong foundational understanding of the law and provides invaluable confidence and skills necessary for success in corporate settings, whether in litigation or non-litigation roles.

    Get in touch with Prathamesh Sawant-

  • “Most of the legal assignments are the same irrespective of different industries as they are governed by the law, however some assignments are industry specific which need to be learned”- Alok Saxena, Head – Legal and Compliance, Hippo Homes

    “Most of the legal assignments are the same irrespective of different industries as they are governed by the law, however some assignments are industry specific which need to be learned”- Alok Saxena, Head – Legal and Compliance, Hippo Homes

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

    Could you share with us what initially drew you to pursue a career in law, especially after completing your M.Sc. in IT and B.Sc. in science-related fields?

    Law has been my favourite subject since childhood and I want to serve justice to the needy people who can’t afford the cost of litigation.

    What motivated you to shift from an IT background to a legal career, and how did your science and IT education influence your approach to law?

    I had started my career as a programmer in a MNC but I didn’t get internal satisfaction so I have shifted to the legal field. My IT background gave me an additional advantage to learn various laws including cyber laws.  

    What were some of the key challenges you faced when you first started practicing law, and how did you overcome them?

    Legal field is very wide so whenever I get challenges, I discuss with my seniors and also do detailed R&D on the same.  

    With a diverse background in various industries such as retail, manufacturing, FMCG, education, and real estate, how did you develop your core competencies in areas like contract management, litigation, and intellectual property management?

    Most of the legal assignments are the same irrespective of different industries as they are governed by the law, however some assignments are industry specific which need to be learned. Different industries gave me an opportunity to learn new things and enhance my core competencies.

    Can you walk us through your career progression, from your early roles to your current position as Head – Legal & Compliances at Hippo Homes? What were some pivotal moments or decisions along this journey?

    I have initially practised before the court and later shifted to corporate and worked with various good conglomerates like Dalmia Bharat Group, Blackberrys, GNC. The pivotal moment was shifting to corporate and joining Guardian Pharmacy as Head of Legal and Compliances.    

    You’ve managed complex corporate transactions and legal strategies for major organizations. Can you share a particularly challenging legal case or transaction you handled and the strategies you employed to achieve a successful outcome?

    Starting a new retail business of Dalmia Bharat Group in the name of Hippo Homes and later the said business transferred from Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited to Hippostores Technology Private Limited, it was a challenging task and successfully completed.   

    As a leader guiding legal and compliance teams, what strategies do you find most effective in fostering team collaboration, driving performance, and ensuring adherence to compliance standards?

    To understand the competency of team members, their strengths & weaknesses, and   assign the task based on their interest and also support their weakness. 

    What advice would you give to fresh graduates who are entering the legal field today, especially those who are looking to develop a diverse skill set and work across various industries?

    Firstly they should decide their career objective based on their interest and try to achieve the same. They shall not divert their career path due to any challenge or leverage. 

    Get in touch with Alok Saxena-

  • “There are quite a few challenges. IP, especially prosecution of applications, has become highly commoditized and almost become a packaged service, with costs being a race to the bottom. A lot of the advice that we see is very vanilla advice without real time being spent to determine what is best for the client’s business needs and goals”- Bharadwaj Jaishankar, Partner, at IndusLaw

    “There are quite a few challenges. IP, especially prosecution of applications, has become highly commoditized and almost become a packaged service, with costs being a race to the bottom. A lot of the advice that we see is very vanilla advice without real time being spent to determine what is best for the client’s business needs and goals”- Bharadwaj Jaishankar, Partner, at IndusLaw

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

    Could you share with us what initially sparked your interest in intellectual property law, and how did you decide to pursue it as a career?

    I was lucky enough to get an internship, in my 4th year of law school, with K&S Partners (a leading IP firm in India). I had dabbled in some IP work in my previous internships, and my interest around brands and how they are protected and commercialized was piqued. However, it was at K&S Partners where this interest really became a passion. Based on my internships at K&S Partners, and the type of IP matters and issues I was exposed to, I was clear that I wanted to build my career within IP. I was fortunate enough to get an opportunity to join K&S Partners upon graduation. In my career so far, I have made it a point to get different perspectives on IP, right from working with boutique IP works to working in house, in an IP role, to now working with a full service firm. This all-round approach and experience, particularly working as an in-house counsel, helps me tremendously in my role at IndusLaw. 

    With your extensive experience across various law firms and organizations, could you highlight a particularly memorable case or project that significantly shaped your understanding of intellectual property law?

    There have been several memorable matters I was lucky enough to be a part of and it will be difficult to pinpoint one specific project. That said, working on geographical indication (GI) matters, for the Government of India and for foreign GI owners, was incredibly important and special. GIs, unlike other IPs, are collective communal rights and require a slightly different mindset. I would also say that my stint as an in-house counsel afforded me some incredible opportunities and moments to learn different facets of IP law, including from a commercial lens. The learnings, as an in-house counsel, and seeing IP from the other side of the fence, was an immense learning experience; something which I cherish a lot. I would also say that working, in the past, and, even now, on matters that intersect with technology and IP has been extremely rewarding with a lot of learning opportunities. 

    Given your role as a visiting faculty at a leading law university and your participation in national and international conferences, how do you approach staying updated with the latest developments and trends in intellectual property?

    The simple answer is that time must be made to read and be in touch with new developments and precedents. It is easy to say that calendars are full and there is no time to read. However, if one really wants to keep up-to-date on new case laws and developments, time needs to be carved out. Especially in IP, where issues can be grey, and oftentimes  case laws can be seemingly conflicting with each other; that effort to read and stay updated is a must. I do ensure that, at least during work days, I try and get about 45 mins to read news and key case law updates. On weekends and holidays, I do take out more time. Additionally, within our team, we have a system of daily news updates, that are relevant to our practice, which are shared every evening, which I ensure I read before logging for the day. Another important aspect is also to speak regularly with your peers, clients and, even foreign counsels, to understand trends and developments. It, therefore, does take a combination of sources, coupled with a dedication and discipline to keep learning and staying updated. I also find that, in interacting with universities and students, one can also learn and stay updated as students are also equally updated with new trends and cases and it, therefore, does become a fantastic two way street.     

    Transitioning from working with leading law firms to being the IP and Innovation Counsel for a global FMCG organization must have been quite a shift. What insights did you gain during this transition, and how did it influence your perspective on intellectual property issues?

    The shift from private practice to an in house counsel was certainly very interesting with a lot of learnings and mindset shifts. A couple of the biggest shifts included learning how to become a commercial enabler and adjusting risk profiles. Being an in-house counsel required me to be a business partner, who was incidentally a lawyer. You get into a position where you can’t present options to other teams and say “choose which works for you”. You have to take a call, and that means collaborating and understanding commercial needs. This stint as an in-house counsel is immensely helpful to me now when I work with clients- the idea being an extended arm of their team or an extended arm to their in-house legal team. More and more, especially in IP, clients require external counsels to help them make a decision, rather than just presenting options. This has been one of the biggest shifts in approach for me- how can I, as an external counsel, help my clients meet their business goals.

    As someone deeply involved in protecting and enforcing IP assets, what are some common challenges you encounter in this field, and how do you typically address them?

    There are quite a few challenges. IP, especially prosecution of applications, has become highly commoditized and almost become a packaged service, with costs being a race to the bottom. A lot of the advice that we see is very vanilla advice without real time being spent to determine what is best for the client’s business needs and goals. We also see clients viewing IP as an expense, rather than as an asset which will mature over time. It isn’t uncommon to see IP being compromised or undervalued at the altar of costs. If India really wants to take advantage of the tremendous innovation and talent currently being seen, IP needs to be viewed maturely and beyond just as an expense outlay. This also calls for clients to be smart about who they engage with for their IP advice and strategy. IP forms the backbone of almost all businesses and it isn’t just about filing an application. A strategic mature approach needs to be brought by external counsels when counselling clients on their IP strategies.    

    With your passion for brand building and extensive experience in advising on brand-related matters, could you share some strategies you find particularly effective in nurturing and safeguarding brands in today’s competitive landscape?

    As mentioned before, taking the time to understand clients, their business and their objectives should form the basis of any IP strategy. There are so many intricacies and nuances, even to something as simple as filing a trade mark application. Fitting the legal strategy into the four walls of business objectives is really important. Another bit is not assuming that external counsels know more than clients or in-house legal teams. It pays to listen more. Part of our job is also to get clients to do some homework as well and get them to look at IP as an asset. For me personally, the focus is on building trust and reliance with the client and getting clients comfortable in our interactions and dealings. Today’s landscape does require a great amount of flexibility and transparency in our approaches. 

    Lastly, drawing from your wealth of experience, what advice would you offer to fresh graduates aspiring to build a career in intellectual property law and commercial law?

    I have a few pieces of advice: 

    1. Be ready to put in the graft in the first few years and avoid having an entitlement approach. The first few years in the profession are particularly taxing and there is no substitute other than hard work and graft. 
    1. Invest time in an organisation and avoid making quick shifts from workplace to workplace. The longer one stays at an organisation, especially the right place and with the right approach and attitude, can offer tremendous growth opportunities down the line. 
    1. Take the time to learn about the practice, the landscape of firms and how IP is viewed by law firms and in-house counsels, and then make an informed choice on how to build a career in IP law. In today’s world, the more you are informed (and the more the prep work), the easier it is to figure out the best path to take. 

    Get in touch with Bharadwaj Jaishankar-

  • “Intellectual property law and data protection law are both ‘future facing’ laws driven by technological advancement and global regulatory challenges”- Sanjukta Venkatesh, AVP – Legal at Godrej Group

    “Intellectual property law and data protection law are both ‘future facing’ laws driven by technological advancement and global regulatory challenges”- Sanjukta Venkatesh, AVP – Legal at Godrej Group

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

    Can you share what initially drew you to pursue a career in law? Was there a particular moment or influence that sparked your interest?

    My decision to pursue a career in law stemmed from my love for books, writing and languages. Mystery, crime and thrillers have always been my favourite genres and continue to be so till date.  Whether it was devouring legal thrillers or reading about real-life cases, I couldn’t help but marvel at how the law shapes our world by helping us unravel clues and arguments to uncover the truth that can make all the difference. Moreover, from a young age I have found myself drawn to the concept of justice and fairness.  The law provides a platform to champion causes, protect the vulnerable, and advocate for change. It offers the opportunity to use analytical skills to solve complex problems, negotiate effectively, and provide counsel that can profoundly impact individuals and communities. It was a combination of all these factors that influenced my decision to pursue law as a career.

    How did your time at West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences and King’s College London shape your perspective on law and your career path?

    The methodology adopted to teach law at WBNUJS was what made the institution stand out from the other law colleges and the way law was taught in those colleges. We were constantly encouraged to think critically and be intellectually curious. The rigorous coursework challenged us to delve into the complexities of legal theory and practice, and every class was a stepping stone towards a deeper appreciation for the nuances of law. Beyond the classroom, we were provided exciting opportunities for practical learning through internships at prestigious law firms and with eminent legal practitioners, which allowed us to apply theoretical knowledge to real world scenarios. These opportunities enabled us to decide on our areas of interest and work towards forging a career path accordingly upon graduation. 

    The diverse and inclusive community at King’s College London enriched my perspective on law. Interacting with students from various backgrounds and cultures exposed me to different legal traditions and societal norms, broadening my worldview and giving me useful insights into the importance of cultural competence in legal practice. The course that I was specialising in (Intellectual Property Law) was administered through engaging lectures, case studies, and discussions led by esteemed faculty members and industry experts, I gained a deep understanding of the legal frameworks and complexities surrounding IP law.  Beyond the classroom, King’s College offered unique networking opportunities with professionals in the field. Seminars, and alumni events connected me with practitioners who shared their insights and experiences, and provided me with a holistic perspective of the subject as well as the potential career opportunities therein. 

    What were some key takeaways from your early roles at Paras Kuhad & Associates and Khaitan & Co. that helped shape your legal career?

    My early roles at these law firms provided me with key insights and foundational lessons essential to my development as a legal professional. It taught me the importance of time management, prioritisation of work and multi-tasking, attention to detail and meticulousness. I also learnt important lessons in humility, team work, collaboration and acceptance of my strengths and weaknesses.  These skills not only enhanced my ability to analyze complex legal issues but also instilled a disciplined approach to problem-solving.  Furthermore, interacting with clients during my early career taught me the importance of client service and relationship-building, as well as understanding their needs and tailoring legal solutions that align with their objectives. 

    How did your transition from law firms to corporate roles, starting with ITC Limited, impact your approach to legal practice and compliance?

    While working in law firms provided me with a solid foundation in legal knowledge, rigorous training in analytical thinking, and exposure to diverse areas of law, moving in-house brought about a refreshing change in focus, where I was now on the other side of the fence and was immersing myself in the strategic and operational aspects of a specific company or organization. Rather than advising multiple clients on various matters, I now had the opportunity to align closely with the business’s objectives, understand its industry dynamics, and contribute directly to its success.  One of the most rewarding aspects of in-house practice is the opportunity to work closely with internal stakeholders, including executives, managers, and employees across different departments. This has taught me to think multi-dimensionally and has sharpened my ability to balance legal considerations with practical business realities. I am continuously challenged to find innovative solutions that not only comply with legal requirements but also align with the company’s strategic goals and values. This holistic approach to problem-solving has expanded my skill set and broadened my perspective in numerous exciting ways. 

    Can you describe some of the challenges and successes you experienced as the Regional Legal Counsel at Unilever, particularly in the fast-paced FMCG sector?

    One of the primary challenges I faced in my role as Regional Legal Counsel was navigating complexities across various operations in the FMCG sector. Each of these sectors have their own legal requirements, and understanding and complying with regulations while ensuring consistency in legal advice across the region required a meticulous approach and proactive communication with local teams. Another significant challenge has been managing legal risks in a rapidly evolving industry. From product compliance to advertising standards, litigation management and supply chain issues, staying ahead of regulatory changes and industry trends is essential. Implementing robust risk management strategies and providing timely guidance to stakeholders have been challenging in order to ensure operational continuity and safeguarding the Company’s reputation. 

    The successes in my role have also been significant. Some noteworthy ones would be successfully defending crucial litigation, significantly reducing overall litigation numbers in the region. actively working on anti-counterfeiting strategies, negotiating favorable commercial agreements, and resolving disputes through alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.  Furthermore, implementing compliance programs and training initiatives across the region to promote a culture of ethics and legal compliance has been rewarding.

    Given your specialty in Intellectual Property Law and recent certification in Data Protection, how do you see these areas evolving, and what excites you about these fields?

    Intellectual property law and data protection law are both ‘future facing’ laws driven by technological advancement and global regulatory challenges. Intellectual property law is an ever evolving landscape. Advances in technology, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and biotechnology, are challenging traditional IP frameworks. Issues such as patentability of AI-generated inventions and ownership of AI-generated works are becoming increasingly complex.  With businesses operating on a global scale, harmonization of IP laws across jurisdictions is a growing trend. The rise of digital platforms and online streaming services has led to new challenges in copyright protection. These developments reflect evolving consumer behaviors and industry demands and is an exciting area to be involved in, keeping in mind the role of an in-house counsel in protecting business interests. 

    Data protection law has also seen some key changes and developments, particularly in the Indian legislative context.  The new regulations impose strict obligations on organizations handling personal data, including enhanced consent requirements and data subject rights. Mandatory data breach notification requirements have been introduced in many jurisdictions to enhance transparency and accountability in data processing practices. Organizations are now required to promptly notify authorities and affected individuals in the event of a data breach, underscoring the need for robust cybersecurity measures.  Data protection authorities are increasingly proactive in enforcing compliance with data protection laws, imposing significant fines and penalties for non-compliance.

    In summary, both intellectual property law and data protection law are constantly evolving to address the complexities of a digital age. Staying abreast of these evolving landscapes is crucial for businesses, legal practitioners, and policymakers alike to navigate compliance challenges and deal with a rapidly changing legal environment.  

    What are your primary responsibilities as the AVP – Legal at Godrej Group, and how are you applying your previous experiences to this new role?

    My present role at Godrej Group involves handling areas such as legal compliance and risk management, risk assessment, contract management, policy development, environment and sustainability compliance, legal training and awareness, supporting strategic initiatives and enhancing corporate governance. My previous experiences in the FMCG sector have proved to be invaluable from the perspective of having equipped me with a unique blend of industry-specific knowledge, practical skills, and strategic insights that are crucial for effectively managing the legal aspects of an FMCG business. This has also proved to be useful in advising and managing the other businesses which are also part of my role as AVP Legal. 

    Finally, what advice would you give to fresh law graduates who are just starting their careers in the legal field?

    The focus should be on the following areas: a) Focus on basic concepts and constantly staying informed about changes b) Develop proficiency in research and writing c) Always look for opportunities to network and gain practical insights on the industry as a whole d) explore different areas of law and identify your interests before choosing to specialise e) plan your career path and set long and short term goals for yourself. 

    Get in touch with Sanjukta Venkatesh-