Super Lawyer

Tag: Corporatelaw

  • “Marrying Facts and Law for Practical Counsel & understanding the intricacies of business alongside legalities ensures effective client execution and success in today’s dynamic market.” – Nayantara Devaya, Founding & Managing Partner of Catkin Legal

    “Marrying Facts and Law for Practical Counsel & understanding the intricacies of business alongside legalities ensures effective client execution and success in today’s dynamic market.” – Nayantara Devaya, Founding & Managing Partner of Catkin Legal

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

    You’ve had an impressive journey from working in prestigious firms like Khaitan & Co and AZB & Partners to founding Catkin Legal. Could you please walk us through your journey and share how each phase of your career contributed to your growth as a legal professional and entrepreneur?

    AZB & Partners and Khaitan & Co, are important institutions in my growth as a professional. It provided me with the experience and finesse that a corporate lawyer requires to navigate the era where lawyers are considered valid in board rooms and business transactions, other than just court rooms. While I was working with the firms, they provided me with opportunities to work on some important transactions in the business world. The firms gave me an idea of acceptable global standards and exposure to global working environments. The pedigree I got from the firms has shaped a lot of how we do business in Catkin Legal.

    Given your extensive experience in Corporate & Commercial laws, what unique challenges have you encountered in advising companies on Information Security Privacy Law and Cyber Risk Management amidst the digital surge in various industries?

    AZB We are seeing a surge in the relevance of lawyers in the new business era. Business heads are recognising the importance of working with lawyers on a day-to-day business to ensure smoother operations of their businesses. While old business houses are passing on hands to the new generation new leaders are very encouraging of legal support to their business teams in closing transactions and operational issues. While real time businesses are going digital sensitizing leaders on the security of information they are procuring, and the importance of certifications is increasing.

    As a strong advocate for mental health, how do you integrate initiatives for well-being within Catkin Legal, and what impact do you believe it has on the overall performance and satisfaction of your team?

    At Catkin, we propagate mental health and well-being. Our employees may avail of mental health leave once a month for a day which can be extended. The associates do not need to cite their reason for being on MHL. Additionally, the partners are very aware of not overburdening our associates with manic hours. Associates have the freedom to tell their leaders that they need a break. As leaders, we are responsible for the work but not for deciding when one need a break. The career is very demanding, and we want our associates to run long not fast.

    Considering your multifaceted experience, what advice would you give to aspiring legal professionals aiming to build a successful career that transcends traditional boundaries and embraces new dimensions of law and business?

    With the energy and enthusiasm the young blood brings to the profession, I would always advise not just new but any lawyer to marry the facts and understand how the business or product runs along with the law. If this does not happen the advice we are dispensing to the client becomes redundant as they cannot execute it on the ground. Due to this gap, there have been numerous judgements that are impossible to implement.

    Mentors often play a crucial role in one’s professional development. Could you discuss the influence of any mentors or role models who have inspired and guided you throughout your career journey?

    My career is basically me being a living proof that I have had the most amazing mentors. They have helped me navigate the legal profession and understand how to manage teams and clients. But more importantly in their understanding of the law, people management skills, negotiating skills, and life skills

    Founding Catkin Legal marked a significant milestone in your career. What motivated you to establish your own firm, and what were some of the initial challenges you faced in setting up and establishing its reputation in the legal industry?

     I think starting my own law firm was always a goal. My parents- who have always been the wind beneath my wings were very encouraging of starting my own practice even though I do not come from a family of lawyers. Believing in my goal every day in the last 15 years and working on that goal every day and working on myself made me start my firm. One of the key challenges we face is to keep being relevant. We keep upgrading our skill set and recrafting our working models to ensure we are a relevant and sustainable firm

    Building a clientele and reputation from scratch can be daunting. Can you share some strategies or initiatives you implemented in the early days of Catkin Legal to attract clients and differentiate your firm in a competitive market?

    Balancing multiple responsibilities as a managing partner, legal advisor, and advocate for mental health advocacy can be demanding. How do you prioritize your time and commitments to ensure both professional excellence and personal well-being? I think all these roles are interdependent. I try and understand the urgency and support required for each situation on a weekly basis and set my priority on a need basis. I believe in a physically fit and mentally healthy life, so for me, that comes first. I do not work alone. I have teams for all tasks and project- Home-work -or anywhere else where I want to contribute. Creating and cherishing capable leaders and individuals within or teams, helps us go a long way.

    Your career has seen transitions from working in prestigious law firms to in-house legal roles and eventually founding your own firm. Could you share your experience of navigating these transitions and highlight the differences in working environments between law firms, corporate settings, and running your own legal practice?

    Law firms and business houses systems are already in place. You come in and integrate into an already existing system and grow with the system. Starting a law firm or any business involves starting or creating systems that others can integrate into. As a business owner, the biggest challenge is not creating that ecosystem but ensuring its sustainability. A huge part of my role is troubleshooting to ensure the ecosystem of catkin remains healthy and sustainable in all areas.

    With your busy schedule and diverse professional engagements, how do you unwind and recharge outside of work? Could you share some of your favorite relaxation techniques or activities that help you maintain balance and rejuvenate your energy?

    A good cardio workout and yoga is my favourite kind of unwinding. I try to pack in this at least six times a week. I enjoy a good movie. I like to read, but we read a lot at work and usually, it becomes my last option. Oh, recently I’ve been enjoying reading storybooks to my two-year-old son.

    Get in touch with Nayantara Devaya-

  • “By combining specialization, practical experience, and effective networking, aspiring legal professionals can lay a strong foundation for a rewarding career in intellectual property law or corporate governance”- Rajarshi Bhuyan, Principal Attorney at CB&I 

    “By combining specialization, practical experience, and effective networking, aspiring legal professionals can lay a strong foundation for a rewarding career in intellectual property law or corporate governance”- Rajarshi Bhuyan, Principal Attorney at CB&I 

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

    Could you share a bit about your educational journey, particularly how you transitioned from your LL.B. degree to pursuing LL.M. in Intellectual Property Law at The George Washington University Law School?

    While completing my BA.LL.B, I enrolled in a diploma course in Intellectual Property Laws at the Indian Institute of Law during my third year of law school. It was during my fourth year, as part of my curriculum, that I delved deeper into Intellectual Property law, sparking a keen interest in the subject. By the time I reached my final year, my aspiration for higher education had crystallized, leading me to forgo immediate employment in favour of pursuing advanced studies. I applied to several esteemed law schools in both the US and UK renowned for their offerings in Intellectual Property Law. Upon receiving admission to George Washington University, widely recognized for its excellence in this field, my decision was made without hesitation.

    Your LL.M. focused on Intellectual Property Law, among other areas. What sparked your interest in this field, and how has this specialization influenced your career path?

    I became interested in intellectual property law (IP) while studying it during my undergraduate studies. It is fascinating because it mixes law, technology, creativity, and new ideas. During my LL.M., I became even more interested in the subject. In today’s corporate landscape, whether working as a corporate lawyer for a multinational corporation in industries such as oil and gas, IT, pharmaceuticals, or others, it’s imperative to have a keen awareness of the intellectual property (IP) owned by your company. Understanding how to safeguard these assets from infringement is paramount. My master’s degree in Intellectual Property Law has played a pivotal role in meeting this requirement. I’ve found that understanding and safeguarding intellectual property is crucial for the success of any company. It’s been instrumental in my ability to comprehend and effectively protect the intellectual property assets of the organization I work for.

    You’ve had significant experience in both law firms and corporate legal departments. How did these varied experiences shape your understanding of legal practice, especially in the context of intellectual property law and corporate governance?

    Upon completing my master’s degree, I sought advice from industry peers and well-wishers who advised me against exclusively focusing on IP at the outset of my career. As a result, I began my career in litigation. After gaining experience in litigation for several years, I transitioned into a role as a corporate lawyer within a software company. It was within this company that I once again engaged with IP matters. Particularly during negotiations for licensing agreements, my prior experience with IP proved invaluable.

    Can you elaborate on your role as a Principal Attorney at McDermott, specifically in the domain of sustainability and governance? How do you integrate legal expertise with sustainable practices within a corporate environment?

    As Principal Attorney at McDermott, my responsibility is to assist our supply chain team in their endeavours to procure materials and services essential for project execution. In addition to contract negotiation, my team and I provide legal training to enhance their understanding of relevant clauses, thereby empowering them during negotiations. Ensuring adherence to the code of business conduct is paramount in all our activities, particularly concerning sustainability and governance initiatives.

    You’ve worked extensively in drafting and negotiating various contracts, including those related to engineering procurement. How do you navigate the complexities of legal frameworks across different jurisdictions, given your experience in regions like the Middle East, India, Europe, and Africa?

    In our contractual agreements, we opt for common law as our governing jurisdiction. This choice is deliberate, as contracts governed by common law principles share remarkable similarities across various jurisdictions worldwide. This uniformity simplifies our navigation of legal frameworks and enhances our ability to manage contractual obligations effectively across different regions and jurisdictions.

    As someone deeply involved in legal compliance and risk management, how do you stay updated with evolving regulations, especially in areas like intellectual property and corporate mergers?

    As someone deeply involved in legal compliance and risk management, staying updated with evolving regulations, especially in areas like intellectual property and corporate mergers, is crucial. I employ various strategies to ensure I’m informed about the latest developments. This includes continuous learning through workshops and seminars, staying updated with legal publications and journals, active participation in professional networks, regular engagement with legal counsel, and monitoring government and regulatory websites for official updates. These efforts enable me to proactively manage legal compliance and mitigate associated risks for our organization.

    Transitioning from law school to your current role, what were some of the challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them? Are there any lessons you learned along the way that you would like to share with aspiring legal professionals?

    It has been over a decade since I graduated from law school, and I must say, it has been a journey of continuous learning for me. Transitioning from litigation to corporate law posed its challenges. Initially, my experience in litigation wasn’t fully recognized, and I found myself starting from scratch in the corporate world. However, as time progressed, my background in litigation has proven to be advantageous. Today, it gives me a unique edge over other corporate lawyers.

    To all aspiring legal professionals, I offer this advice: remain open to learning every day. Be like an empty vessel, ready to absorb new knowledge and experiences. This mindset is essential for growth and success in the legal field.

    Finally, considering your journey and expertise, what advice would you give to fresh law graduates aspiring to build a successful career in intellectual property law or corporate governance?

    For fresh law graduates aspiring to excel in intellectual property law or corporate governance, specializing and staying informed are paramount. Choose a specific area within these fields and immerse yourself in its intricacies, constantly updating your knowledge with the latest developments and regulations. Practical experience is equally crucial; seek internships or entry-level positions to gain hands-on exposure and insight into real-world applications. Additionally, effective networking is key to building a successful career. Engage with professionals in the industry through events and associations, fostering relationships that can provide valuable guidance and opportunities for growth. By combining specialization, practical experience, and effective networking, aspiring legal professionals can lay a strong foundation for a rewarding career in intellectual property law or corporate governance.

    Get in touch with Rajarshi Bhuyan-

  • “Working in emerging areas presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges that make work both exciting and demanding”- Nandini Nambiar, Senior Corporate Counsel, Amazon

    “Working in emerging areas presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges that make work both exciting and demanding”- Nandini Nambiar, Senior Corporate Counsel, Amazon

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

    Could you please share a bit about your journey into the fintech sector and what initially drew you to this industry?

    My journey in the fintech space started with Ola Money. When I joined Ola, I was initially working on Ola cab and other core Ola businesses. But soon an opportunity presented itself for me to take up the Ola Money charter. I wasn’t sure about what it involved (since I hadn’t worked on financial products before), but took it up as a challenge and a chance for me to learn something new. Since then, there has been no looking back for me – with Ola Money (now Ola Financial Services) and now Amazon Pay. The excitement I felt when I first started working in the fintech space, is something I still feel today. The fintech space has seen tremendous growth in the past decade, a trend that I expect will continue. I am grateful I had the opportunity to explore this sector, and work on a range of fintech products over the years, including wallets, postpaid payments, insurance, payment aggregation, mutual funds and more.

    You’ve had experience working both in-house and with law firms. How do these experiences differ, and how have they shaped your approach to legal counsel?

    That’s right, I started my work experience in law firms, and then moved to in-house roles. I personally think I got to experience the best of both worlds. The law firm experience is what helped me understand and learn the intricacies of law, and its application to everyday issues. This formative experience laid the groundwork for my subsequent transition to in-house roles. When I moved to an in-house role, I had to further learn how to translate legal advice into on-ground executable inputs, and how to deal with ambiguity. I had to analyze situations from multiple perspectives (business, tech etc.), evaluate risks, and make informed decisions in the absence of absolute certainty. I believe these experiences have made me a much better lawyer as I am able to understand and appreciate both the business and compliance aspects of operating a business.

    With your extensive background in regulatory compliance, particularly in emerging areas like fintech, what challenges have you faced, and how have you navigated them?

    Working in emerging areas presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges that make work both exciting and demanding. There is a constant exposure to the unknown! Almost every day brings forth a new scenario, a fresh set of variables, or a problem that requires novel solutions. This situation demands a combination of creativity, critical thinking, and a willingness to explore new paths.

    In the absence of established precedents, the ability to exercise sound judgment becomes paramount. Making informed decisions in the face of ambiguity requires a deep understanding of the subject matter, a thorough analysis of available information, and the capacity to weigh potential risks and benefits. It is a skill that is honed through experience and continuous learning.

    I have also found that regulators are very open to engagement and discussions. This creates a collaborative environment where regulators, industry participants, and stakeholders can work together to shape policies and regulations in a manner that promotes innovation, while ensuring public safety and welfare.

    So if I had to summarize, working in emerging areas offers a dynamic and ever-evolving environment where the unknown becomes a catalyst for growth and innovation. It is a space where individuals with a thirst for learning, a knack for problem-solving, and a commitment to excellence, can thrive and make a meaningful impact.

    Could you elaborate on your role as a strategic business advisor for legal compliance in new business operation areas? How do you stay ahead of the curve in such dynamic environments?

    As a legal counsel, it is crucial to operate as a strategic partner, collaborating with business to ensure we navigate the regulatory landscape successfully, and supporting innovation at the same time. This involves providing comprehensive advice and guidance that goes beyond the letter of the law, encompassing the spirit and intent behind regulations as well. In most instances, I have seen the goal of the regulations and business to be the same – give customers a product/ service offering, which is safe, secure, and easy to use. 

    To stay ahead of the curve, it is important to stay on top of new regulations, actively engage with the industry and regulator, and track what is happening in the industry. To balance what business wants, what customers want and what regulations mandate, is a fine balance.

    Having worked with giants like Amazon and Ola, what have been some of the most significant legal considerations unique to these tech-driven businesses?

    I have realized that each company is unique, having its own set of distinctive characteristics and objectives! For instance, I have worked on the wallet business in both Ola Money and Amazon Pay, but the kind of work I have done in both organizations is very different. Like I spoke of earlier, the advice varies considering what a particular business wants to achieve, the applicable legal considerations, technology build and so on. So, my advice would depend on various such factors. 

    These varied experiences have taught me that there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to designing and implementing business and legal solutions. Each company has its unique set of requirements, customer base, and business model, which necessitates a tailored approach. Understanding these nuances is important in providing effective counsel. Also, one needs to apply the right judgement and understanding of what the regulations require, in letter and spirit, including what changes to expect, and how customers may perceive something. Factoring all this into my guidance is a critical part of how I work.

    Your educational background includes an LLM from the London School of Economics. How has this academic pursuit influenced your career trajectory?

    Education has always been a fundamental aspect of my life. Growing up, my family instilled in me the significance of acquiring a quality education. I think I always knew that pursuing a Master’s degree would be a natural progression for me. After my studies at Symbiosis, I applied for a Masters in the UK and was fortunate enough to get into LSE, where I completed my Masters in Law in Corporate and Commercial laws. My LLM experience was truly remarkable. I tried to make the most of it not just by focusing on studies (with some amazing professors), but participating in extra-curriculars, absorbing new cultural experiences, and making friends from all corners of the globe! Meeting individuals with varied backgrounds at LSE was a transformative experience. Their experiences and perspectives broadened my understanding of the legal profession and exposed me to various career options available to me. These interactions played a pivotal role in shaping my professional aspirations and goals.

    From drafting and reviewing contracts to undertaking due diligence, you’ve covered a wide spectrum of legal tasks. Can you share a particularly challenging or rewarding project from your career?

    I know it will sound like a clichéd response, but honestly, I don’t think I can pick something in particular. Each experience I have had so far, has helped shape me into the person/ legal counsel I am today. What is most rewarding for me is to work to solve problems/ challenges for customers, and every day that I am able to do that, it keeps me going! I have been working in the fintech space for almost a decade now, and I have been blessed to see this space grow and innovate. Being part of this journey has been very rewarding to me!

    As someone with rich experience in the legal field, what advice would you offer to fresh graduates aspiring to pursue a career in law, especially in the realm of corporate and commercial law?

    Firstly, one size won’t fit all! So my advice is purely based on what I have experienced. As a fresh graduate, I would say your main focus should be on learning. Find opportunities where you can do that, and build a strong foundation. Embrace opportunities to learn from senior colleagues, attend workshops/ seminars, and engage in continuous professional development. Also, don’t feel pressured to pick a specialty area of work right out of college. Experiment and try new things. When you do end up specializing down the line, you will be clear on what you want.

    What has also helped me during this entire journey, was having some great mentors. If you are fortunate enough to have a mentor, actively seek out their knowledge and learn as much as you can from them.

    Get in touch with Nandini Nambiar-

  • “Effective mentorship involves mutual respect, open communication, and practical insights. Aspiring legal professionals, remember: Pursue excellence and professionalism, and money will follow.” – Shruba Bhattacharya, Counsel at ivari Canada

    “Effective mentorship involves mutual respect, open communication, and practical insights. Aspiring legal professionals, remember: Pursue excellence and professionalism, and money will follow.” – Shruba Bhattacharya, Counsel at ivari Canada

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

    Your career has taken you from India to Dubai and now to Toronto. Transitioning between legal landscapes and cultures can be both professionally and personally transformative. Can you share insights into your journey and how you navigated these transitions, both in terms of your legal practice and adapting to new environments?

    UAE opened up a new world of personal and professional opportunities. I moved to UAE with about few years of work experience from India and with god’s grace, I was quickly able to find a position in one of Abu Dhabi’s oldest law firms. Though I had apprehensions about moving from a common law hybrid jurisdiction to a civil law hybrid jurisdiction, however, none of my apprehensions came to fruition, as the firm had amazing people who were happy to help and guide me. The addition of ADGM and DIFC, which are common law jurisdictions also helped. On a personal front, our stint in UAE was amazing, we started our family and made lifelong friends. However, owing to the non-permanent transient nature of the stay in UAE, we chose to move out to Canada, where I did my masters and licensure and am presently a Counsel at ivari. I am blessed to be working with an amazing team and a very competent and compassionate General Counsel. Moving countries takes and restarting life, gets harder with time. However, an indomitable spirit, ability to adapt, ability to keep an open mind and resilience are key to success. 

    As Counsel at ivari, you provide legal guidance on insurance-related issues and collaborate with internal clients. Can you share a recent project or challenge you’ve worked on at Ivari that stands out, and how did you navigate it to achieve positive outcomes for the company?

    While I can leverage my past work experience and at present predominantly work on the corporate commercial side of insurance, insurance is multifaceted– reinsurance, segregated funds, pension laws – and the list goes on.  While I have ample guidance with work, the biggest challenge for me is the transition from private practice to in-house. The challenge presents itself in dealing with various internal clients, while balancing out business needs with legal advice. To surmount these issues, I use a two-pronged approach – first I aim to identify the needs of the client, what are they looking for, have a chat with them if need be and then commence the work and second, properly manage internal client expectations.

    Your experience includes dealing with diverse legal areas such as corporate law, employment law, and foreign investment law. Is there a specific project or deal that stands out as particularly memorable or challenging in your career?

    One transaction that stands out was a settlement agreement I was working on for a French banking giant. One of the conditions involved vacating a “mortgage” on a ship which was one of the securities. While a tangent work, I do not deal with maritime law – therefore it was particularly memorable and enjoyable given that the ship was not in port, the intricacies of UAE law and formalities required by the authorities, the nature and timing required to complete the transaction.

    As someone who has worked on a range of transactions, from joint ventures to business purchase agreements, what aspect of corporate law do you find most fascinating or intellectually stimulating?

    I find acquisitions to be fascinating. It is dynamic in nature involving strategic planning – including financial considerations, negotiations, structuring, due diligence and drafting/negotiating definitive agreements. Acquisitions have an implication and impact for the stakeholders, the companies, operations and the broader business and legal landscape – and this adds another layer of complexity in what is already a complex matter.

    In your role as a lawyer in Abu Dhabi/Dubai, you managed deal/transactional teams and conducted sessions to develop transaction strategies. How do you foster collaboration and effective communication within a legal team working on complex transactions?

    The framework of effective communication is built on organisation within the team, defining the roles at the inception, regular/daily check-ins depending on the complexity and urgency of the matter, encouraging open communication wherein team members to bring in diverse perspectives and fostering a culture of respect (which is key when working in an ethnically and linguistically diverse workspace).

    You pursued a Master of Laws (LLM) at Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto. What motivated your decision to undertake this academic journey, and how has this experience enriched your legal perspective, especially considering the transition from Abu Dhabi/Dubai to Toronto?

    The motivation was very personal. I was moving from UAE to Canada and therefore needed to relicense myself. I could have taken the exams route which would have been economical and less time-consuming – but instead, I went in for the longer route of LLM. Getting back to academia was hard. However, I wanted to ingratiate myself with Canadian laws. I would recommend that to anyone moving to Canada to pursue law – just gives you a better understanding of the legal system and legal community. The LLM brought me up-to-date with what is going on in the Canadian legal space.

    As a member of the 2022-2023 LPPCA Executive, what goals or initiatives are you particularly excited about, and how do you see these contributing to the legal community in Toronto?

    This was a student body at the LPP. Nothing major here.

    You have been involved in various extracurricular activities, including being a Vice Chair for the School Council. How do you balance your professional commitments with your community involvement, and what motivates you to actively contribute to the community?

    I have always wanted to give back to the community. In Canada, there is a huge thrust towards volunteering. It starts right at school. Doing something for the community and building a sense of community are part of the school curriculum. I too have always wanted to give back to the community. Education and the future of kids is an interest of mine. So, I volunteer my time at the school council. I also volunteer my time with the LPP program at Toronto Metropolitan University (previously Ryerson University) to give back to the profession. I am also in the process of getting involved with United Way – an organisation that my office supports.

    Outside the legal realm, you’ve mentioned being a food and K-drama enthusiast. Can you share a favourite dish you enjoy preparing or a K-drama series that you found particularly captivating, and how do these hobbies contribute to your work-life balance?

    Love eating, cooking and entertaining friends. I do not have a favourite dish – but love trying out new cuisines. At present, I am obsessed with Hong Kong Chinese cuisine, particularly Youtiao. I have been trying to make it at home with little success.

    Having mentored and coached interns during your time in Abu Dhabi, how do you approach mentorship, and what advice would you give to aspiring legal professionals starting their careers?

    For me effective mentorship involves guiding mentees through a legal issue – irrespective of the complexity, sharing practical insights, and sharing feedback (including taking feedback too).  The most essential element for a good mentor-mentee relationship is mutual respect followed by open communication.

    Advice to new lawyers, as I recently stated in an alumni panel discussion for the current batch of LPP candidates,:

    Identify what you can do/are good at. Can you get clients – private practice then; cannot get clients – consider in-house, do you like the academia, do you want to go into law adjacent careers?

    Once you have done that, try your hands at many things. Have some experience in litigation – that is the foundation for a good solicitor practice.

    Pursue excellence and professionalism, and money will follow.

    Get in touch with Shruba Bhattacharya–

  • “In the pursuit of legal excellence, a commitment to continuous learning, a higher purpose, and a passion for sharing knowledge become the cornerstones of a fulfilling journey.” – Satwinder Singh, Founder and Managing Partner, Aekom Legal

    “In the pursuit of legal excellence, a commitment to continuous learning, a higher purpose, and a passion for sharing knowledge become the cornerstones of a fulfilling journey.” – Satwinder Singh, Founder and Managing Partner, Aekom Legal

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

    Mr. Singh, your journey from Jalandhar to the establishment of Aekom Legal is truly inspiring. Can you walk us through the key moments that shaped your path in law, from your commerce graduation to founding your own firm last year?

    Thank you for acknowledging my journey. Initially, the prospect of practicing law was not a consideration during my undergraduate years. However, a strong desire for attaining a professional qualification drove me forward. To support my parents, I decided to pursue law through evening classes while working during the day. Simultaneously, I successfully completed my Company Secretary (CS) course while serving at the State Bank of India, stationed near the border towns of Punjab. After completion of my CS qualification, I left the bank and joined as a company secretary and then headed the office of a merchant banking firm in Chandigarh. My journey took a turn when I found myself amidst the challenging financial landscape following the collapse of the capital market. It was then that I recognized the enduring potential in practicing in the field of corporate and commercial laws.  

    With this foundational expertise, I found my stride as a corporate lawyer, starting as an associate in one of Delhi’s notable law firms. Over time, I climbed the ranks to become a Partner. After accumulating over 24 years of valuable experience, I made a pivotal decision – to establish our own law firm, ‘Aekom Legal.’

    The journey from Jalandhar to founding Aekom Legal has been fueled by a deep-rooted sense of purpose and is a story of continuous learning, professional growth, and an unwavering commitment to excellence in the field of law. 

    The name “Aekom” is derived from the first word of Gurbani, “Ek Onkar” or “God is One.” Can you share a bit about the significance of this name and how it reflects the ethos of your law firm?

    The name ‘Aekom’ holds a profound spiritual significance for our law firm, drawing inspiration from the sacred Gurbani phrase ‘Ek Onkar’ or in Hindi “एक ॐ” which translates to ‘God is One and all pervasive’. This name choice reflects not only my personal spiritual inclination but also a deep belief in the principles of unity and divine presence. 

    Choosing the name ”Aekom” was a deliberate decision, driven by a desire to transcend self-interest. It symbolizes our commitment to infuse our legal practice with higher purpose and a dedication to ethical and principled legal services. In essence, ‘Aekom’ encapsulates the core values of unity, integrity and a profound sense of responsibility and righteousness. 

    Moreover, the ethos of our firm is rooted in the belief that the pursuit of knowledge is integral to success. We hold a steadfast conviction that for every problem, a solution exists somewhere.

    This guiding philosophy shapes our practice, fostering a culture of continuous learning and problem-solving to better serve our clients and the community at large. 

    You’ve authored and co-authored books and articles. What drives you to contribute to legal literature, and can you share a memorable experience related to your writing?

    Engaging in legal literature has been a deeply gratifying journey, propelled by my unwavering commitment to disseminating knowledge. My extensive experience as a regular faculty at ICSI, where I taught corporate law matters, including corporate restructuring and stamp duty to aspiring company secretaries, laid the foundation for this endeavor.  Additionally, I’ve had the privilege of being a speaker at various forums, such as different chambers of commerce, where I shared insights on Corporate Law, delving into topics like joint ventures, mergers, and acquisitions. 

    The inspiration to actively contribute to legal literature stems from these interactions, providing not only a platform to share expertise but also fostering a meaningful engagement with evolving legal concepts. My driving force has always been the ceaseless pursuit of knowledge – an ethos underscored by a personal motto influenced by the belief that seeking the blessings of Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, will naturally attract the blessings of Goddess Laxmi, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. 

    This reciprocal process of learning and sharing underscores the significance of contributing to legal literature as not just a professional duty but a continuous and rewarding endeavor for personal and professional growth.

    Over your extensive career, your expertise has expanded from corporate law to insolvency matters. What motivated you to diversify, and how has this expansion enriched your professional journey?

    The introduction of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code in 2016 in India served as a pivotal moment, motivating a deliberate shift towards the intricate domain of insolvency matters. With a strong foundation in company law and having successfully navigated over 300 matters in the area of corporate restructuring, right from conceptualizing to execution, and working on  various Company law realms, including joint ventures, acquisitions etc. I recognized the transformative potential of this new legal framework. 

    Driven by my deep passion for company laws, I proactively sought certification as a Resolution Professional, becoming one of the earliest individuals to achieve this distinction. This strategic move was fueled by a desire to remain at the forefront of the evolving legal landscape.

    This strategic move has proven invaluable in real-world cases, allowing me to apply my enriched understanding of company laws to the dynamic challenges presented in insolvency proceedings. Early involvement in diverse matters has conferred a unique advantage, positioning me as a pioneer in this evolving field.

    In essence, the introduction of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code acted as a catalyst, seamlessly merging with my background in company law and inspiring a purposeful pursuit of insolvency matters. This strategic alignment has not only enriched my professional journey but has also empowered me to offer comprehensive and effective legal solutions to clients navigating the complexities of corporate challenges and financial distress. Some of the notable achievements in the stressed assets acquisitions is navigating the acquisition of Ruchi Soya for Patanjali Group, Orchard Pharma acquisition for Dhanuka Group and many other acquisitions in M&A space. It also helped us to build a strong Dispute Resolution team. 

    You’ve been appointed as a member of the Appellate Authority under various acts. How does this role contribute to your broader vision for the legal profession, and what challenges or successes have you encountered in this capacity? As the Chairman of the NCLT/NCLAT Task Force, what initiatives do you envision to enhance the efficiency of these tribunals, and how do you plan to address current challenges in corporate litigation?

    The Government by notification appointed me as a member of the Appellate Authority for a period of three years. It’s an authority constituted under CA, CS and ICWA Acts. I feel privileged to take up this honorary role where you get the opportunity to dispense justice and also play the role as reformist. As the Chairman of the NCLT/NCLAT Task Force constituted by ICSI, my vision revolves around recommending the ways and means to streamline and enhance  the efficiency of these tribunals. The Task Force has submitted a comprehensive report to the President -ICSI. Once it is approved by the Council of ICSI, it will be submitted by the ICSI to President NCLT and other relevant authorities. This report focuses on vital initiatives to reform the system and address current challenges in corporate litigation. The emphasis is on reforming the process to make it more accessible and responsive to the dynamic needs of corporate litigation. The proposed initiatives seek to create a framework that not only expedites proceedings but also encourages a more collaborative and efficient resolution of disputes within the ambit of the NCLT and NCLAT. A key aspect highlighted in the report is the incorporation of mediation in the NCLT framework. By introducing mediation, we aim to unclog the current system and provide a more efficient alternative for resolving disputes. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of enhancing the overall efficiency of NCLT and NCLAT, ensuring a more expeditious and effective resolution of corporate litigation. I would also like to take the opportunity to thank ICSI for believing in me.

    Being recognized as a Notable Practitioner in M&A and Private Equity by IFLR1000 is a significant achievement. How did you celebrate this recognition, and what does it mean to you personally and professionally? 

    Being acknowledged as a Notable Practitioner in M&A and Private Equity by IFLR1000 is a momentous achievement that holds both personal and professional significance. Personally, I celebrated this recognition by taking a moment to reflect on the journey that led to this recognition. Gratitude fills my heart for the collaborative efforts and unwavering dedication that played a pivotal role in reaching this milestone. From a professional standpoint, this recognition is a testament to the commitment and expertise invested in the field of M&A and Private Equity.  The acknowledgment from IFLR1000 underscores the importance of consistently delivering high-quality legal services and upholding a standard of excellence in practice. 

    This achievement not only bolsters personal confidence but also elevates professional credibility, creating new avenues for opportunities and collaborations within the legal realm. 

    When you’re not immersed in legal matters, what are your favorite activities or hobbies that help you unwind? What inspires you outside the legal realm, and how does it influence your approach to your work?

    In my early part of life, playing Tabla at Gurdwara was an activity of my life and over time, it has become a cherished hobby that evolved into a source of joy and relaxation. My love for playing Tabla is not just a leisure activity but a source of inspiration that brings balance to my life. It infuses a sense of achievement and a well-rounded perspective into my professional endeavors, enhancing my effectiveness in the legal world. Engaging in heartfelt conversations with friends is another way I find solace. Meaningful exchanges with friends provide me insight and a refreshing break that helps me to continue to work in a positive manner. 

    You’ve been actively involved in various roles, including the past Chairman of NIRC of ICSI. How do you see your legacy in the legal profession, and what advice would you give to aspiring lawyers and company secretaries? 

    Active engagement in diverse roles, including my tenure as the past Chairman of NIRC of ICSI, has been a defining force in shaping my professional journey. These leadership roles have not only honed my skills in public speaking but have also cultivated essential leadership traits that prove invaluable in navigating the intricate landscape of the legal profession. In essence, my legacy in the legal profession reflects the importance of a balanced approach—blending academic excellence with hands-on exposure and continually striving for both personal and professional growth. Opportunities like these should be embraced, as they not only provide a platform to showcase your strengths but also contribute significantly to your overall development.

    To aspiring lawyers and company secretaries, my advice is simple yet profound: work hard, have a thirst for more knowledge, and adhere to the motto that drives your passion. The legal profession demands a relentless pursuit of excellence, and a strong foundation of knowledge coupled with dedicated effort is a key to success. Embrace every opportunity for learning and active participation, as they will serve as stepping stones toward a fulfilling and successful career in the dynamic and ever-evolving field of law. 

    Get in touch with Satwinder Singh-

  • I would strongly suggest my peers and other senior colleagues to dedicate some time every month to speak to some law students/younger lawyers and address their queries/concerns. Trust me, you will get more than you will give- Suadat Ahmad Kirmani, Partner, IndusLaw

    I would strongly suggest my peers and other senior colleagues to dedicate some time every month to speak to some law students/younger lawyers and address their queries/concerns. Trust me, you will get more than you will give- Suadat Ahmad Kirmani, Partner, IndusLaw

    This interview has been published by  Priyanka Karwa and The SuperLawyer Team

    Sir, please tell us about your journey and how you ended up pursuing a career in law, specifically in the field of dispute resolution and advisory services?

    Law was not something that I planned to pursue. In fact, when I was in school, I wanted to join the Air Force and hence took up Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics as my subjects. However, I could not pursue that. Then the obvious choice was engineering, given my PCM background although I was not excited about the same. Having been an avid debater in school with a flair for writing, my friends and family used to joke about me becoming a lawyer someday. After a few discussions with my family, I decided to study law. 

    The journey has been full of ups and downs as with most of us. However, I have had the privilege of working with some fantastic lawyers who mentored me and helped me learn the ropes. I started back home in Srinagar in the trial courts which is the bedrock that I have built my career on. After spending little over a year in Srinagar, I moved to New Delhi and took up a corporate job. This was for two reasons – one was to get a flavor of something different than litigation and secondly, to be able to support myself while I found a decent chamber/firm which would take me. My focus, though, was always dispute resolution. In fact, in my college years, I interned only with Disputes teams. I have always loved litigation and arbitration right from my college days and that is where I always wanted to be. Further a lot of the clients that I represent include public sector undertakings which, apart from regular litigation and arbitration work, rely a lot on us to guide them in contract management and claims management which form a part of the advisory services. Advisory is not limited to only providing legal opinions but has many facets like analysing the merits of the case before initiating any form of Dispute Resolution mechanism, and sometimes dispute avoidance advisory etc. In fact, nowadays, advisory has become an important part of our work which no lawyer can escape from.

    With over 11 years of experience in arbitration, construction disputes, civil commercial litigation, and other areas of law, what initially attracted you to these areas of specialization?

    While I always knew that I wanted to be a litigation lawyer, I did not think of any specialisations. In fact, I still don’t think I have ‘specialised’ in any one stream of Dispute Resolution but certainly have done some types of matters more than others. The process of getting involved in arbitrations and construction disputes was very organic though unplanned. The team that I was a part of was involved in many high-stake construction arbitrations and that’s how I was introduced to this area of law. I was intrigued by the techno-legal aspects of these disputes which developed my interest further.

    As a highly experienced legal professional, you have represented a wide range of domestic and multinational clients in various courts, tribunals, and arbitrations. Could you share some notable cases or experiences that have shaped your career?

    Each case has taught me something new which had a huge impact on my career. However, there were few cases which were more challenging than others and required not only law related solutions but grasp of technical aspects as well. In this context, I would share the first case that I worked on where we were representing a very important Public Sector Undertaking which was tasked with developing the test tracks and related facilities in India. This case was unique for many reasons but most importantly this kind of work was being executed for the first time in India and the contractors had no prior experience in executing such contracts. Therefore, there were many issues ranging from scope of work to procurement to civil works etc and the claim amount was also huge. At the beginning, I had no clue about anything but as the time went on, I picked up things including the technical ones. I had a very supportive Partner that I was working with, and the clients were there to answer my queries as well. This was the case that drifted me towards infrastructure disputes and rest, as they say, is history. After observing my work for a couple of years, I was nominated by the Firm, that I was a part of at that time, to undertake a course on construction project management from RICS Academy which was very helpful in further understanding the deeper concepts of infrastructure projects.

    You have advised foreign companies on their projects in India and represented them before arbitral tribunals and courts. What unique challenges or considerations arise when working with international clients and navigating cross-border legal disputes?

    Advising international clients is always a different experience and comes with its own set of challenges. For example, when I was part of the China Desk at one of my previous offices, one of the major issues was the language barrier. It can be more challenging than we think. Then comes the difference in legal systems. It becomes difficult to explain how the courts work in India. Further, managing expectations is also a challenge like when they bring the knowledge of their legal systems and try to implement that in our system. One incident I remember is while I was advising a Chinese company in a case for recovery of some dues from an Indian company, the client asked if I could file an application seeking directions from the court that the debtor company’s promoter cannot fly business class, go to expensive restaurants or party in high end clubs until he has cleared his debts. It took a lot to explain to him that we do not file such applications in India. I must add that cross border arbitrations are smoother than litigation matters though. However, I strongly suggest that whenever an opportunity to work on a cross border dispute is presented, lawyers must take it up. This will give you an insight into the foreign legal systems as well as provide valuable experience of working with international clients which nowadays is required as the world continues to shrink into a global village.

    In addition to your legal practice, you have also been actively involved in speaking at conferences, delivering lectures, and co-authoring legal publications. How do these activities contribute to your professional growth, and why is it important for you to share your knowledge with others in the legal community?

    I believe it is imperative for all of us to share our knowledge with the younger generation of lawyers. Personally, I enjoy speaking to young minds at colleges and younger lawyers. They are full of energy and have so much to offer and the sheer passion in them is inspiring. They have a lot of brilliant ideas but lack the experience which is where an experienced professional can contribute to their growth. This also helps me in keeping up with what is happening in their world which enables me to be a better colleague specially to my younger colleagues. I also believe it is my way of giving back to the legal community, be it in the form of speaking at seminars, conferences or writing articles. I would strongly suggest my peers and other senior colleagues to dedicate some time every month to speak to some law students/younger lawyers and address their queries/concerns. Trust me, you will get more than you will give. 

    As a partner in IndusLaw, one of India’s premier law firms, could you tell us about your current role and responsibilities? What are some of the key aspects of your work that you find most fulfilling or challenging?

    Response: Being a part of the Disputes team, my day is like that of any Disputes lawyer, i.e., courts, conferences, meetings, reviewing of drafts etc. Apart from the regular court work, as a Partner, you lead a team which looks up to you for your experience and guidance. So, guiding the team, helping them out and the overall management of the team form an essential part of the work. Different members of the team come with different experiences and skill set. So as a Partner, I must be conscious of the same and ensure that we take everyone along and provide proper guidance and help to the team members. 

    I think what I find most challenging and fulfilling at the same time is the work we do. When you help a client in resolving their issues, it is extremely fulfilling. I also feel happy when I see my younger colleagues taking on more responsibilities and doing well in the courts. The challenges aren’t different from what you would face at a chamber, for example., ensuring quality work while meeting the committed timelines. 

    Throughout your career, you have worked on a wide range of legal matters, from commercial litigation to mergers and amalgamations, infrastructure projects, and white-collar crimes. How do you manage such diverse areas of practice, and what skills or qualities do you believe are crucial for success in handling such complex cases?

    Response: There is no shortcut or a fixed formula to be able to work on such diverse areas of practice. One of the most important virtues that one must inculcate is patience. It is not possible to achieve everything at the same time. Give it time. Take up one thing at a time. Give it your best and master it. Law practice is like a marathon and not a sprint. The required skills are, of course, the knowledge of relevant laws, ability to research and formulate the points in a cohesive and easy-to-understand manner, and good drafting skills. The good thing is that these skills are coachable, and you will have a lot of help to learn these skills. However, what you must have in addition to these skills are certain qualities, i.e., ability to work hard, integrity, and honesty. If you lack these, no amount of skill or knowledge would come to your rescue. 

    Given your experience in the legal field and your involvement in the Young IAMC Steering Committee, what advice would you give to fresh law graduates who are starting their careers? Are there any specific skills or areas of focus that you believe would be beneficial for them to develop?

    ADR mechanisms like arbitration and mediation are now preferred modes of dispute resolution. However, there is a huge dearth of professional mediation practitioners in India as well as subject matter expert arbitrators which means that there are ample opportunities for the upcoming lawyers to take up these areas and eventually become experts in them. Mediation is different from litigation as well as arbitration as it requires shunning the rigid ‘win or lose’ mentality which the younger lawyers who have a very fertile and open mind can do quicker as compared to lawyers like me who have been in the profession for some time now. My advice would be to take these subjects seriously in college, go for training wherever possible, take up internships which focus on ADR mechanisms, write papers which would help them understand the subject better. 

    Like I said earlier, law practice is like a marathon and not a sprint, so do not get disheartened if you don’t have a certain number of internships, paper publications, moots, MUNs etc on your CV. Work hard and be honest. Be critical of yourself but don’t be harsh on yourself. Also, please reach out to your family, friends, and mentors to discuss your concerns. Sometimes, the problems facing us seem big only because we perceive them as such. Therefore, it is necessary to communicate regularly and not the pressure of finding a job, getting a PPO etc get better of you. I understand these things are extremely important but your health – both mental and physical – comes first.

    Thank you once again for giving me this opportunity to share my thoughts with your readers. I wish the SuperLawyer team the very best.

  • Try to step into the shoes of the client who needs to run a business and is seeking advice from you- Toshit Shandilya, Partner (Competition Law) at AZB & Partners

    Try to step into the shoes of the client who needs to run a business and is seeking advice from you- Toshit Shandilya, Partner (Competition Law) at AZB & Partners

    This interview has been published by Priyanka Karwa and The SuperLawyer Team

    To start this conversation, could you please tell us how did you end up in law, and what inspired you to focus on competition law?

    Law was never planned. I was a science student who feared mathematics and was sure that medical was not in the mix because of many years of studies involved. That left a few choices — law still wasn’t an option. I come from Udaipur in Rajasthan, law wasn’t a popular choice in my city at that time, very few people knew about 5-year law course and existence of National Law universities. For me, law happened in the process of trying everything else that was left and during the preparation of entrances it looked interesting. Then I secured a spot at NLU Delhi as part of the first batch.

    Competition law isn’t a mandatory subject in law schools. I developed some interest in the subject after I did a couple of moot court competitions on competition law. In my university at that time, moot court competitions were far more important than they should be, partly because as first batch we had limited things to do and limited guidance. These moot courts helped me secure some internships in the competition law teams of law firms and then I started enjoying it. Competition law is a very practical law and every new case or a proposition requires you to understand how that business works. This is immense learning and the other thing is that this law requires you to understand economics which is very interesting.  

    You’ve worked with several prestigious law firms in India, including Talwar Thakore & Associates, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co., and now AZB & Partners. How has your experience differed across these firms, and what have you learned from each of them?

    I have been privileged to have worked with some of the best competition lawyers. It’s difficult to compartmentalize the learning because I have been at these places in different phases of my career.

    I started my career with undivided Amarchand and continued at Shardul Amarchand. The team then wasn’t large and they were already doing some of the most important cases. The biggest learning for me in my formative years there was agility and pace that law firm practice demands. We used to do multiple diverse things in a day ranging from attending a court hearing, advising on commercial arrangements, preparing merger notifications for many days. Over the period, as the team grew, working with people of different approaches and styles helped developed adaptiveness which has always helped me.

    TT&A competition team was small and doing quality work. My takeaway from this short stint was to develop strategic thinking. In some sense, this was shifting gears from being a pure executioner to a well-rounded lawyer who can be a trusted advisor to the clients.

    By the time I joined AZB I had spent more than 5 years practicing competition law and had experienced two law firms. AZB has been a great platform in honing skills of client management, leadership and providing commercial solutions. AZB as a firm encourages growth in terms of even young people taking up challenging roles and be the front and center of top cases. Obviously, you develop these skills as you go along but there is genuine encouragement and effort in pushing people to take ownership. This continues to be a good thing for me.

    The biggest learning common across the three places I have worked is to continue to keep the hunger to be better, to be part of leading cases, to be involved in policy shaping.   

    As a senior associate and now partner in the competition law team, you’ve worked on a variety of high-profile cases. Can you share some of the most challenging and interesting experiences and outcomes?

    It may sound cliched but every case is challenging, interesting and high-profile for the client you are working for. I have been very fortunate to have worked on a number of precedent setting cases. Regardless of the outcome, I have personally enjoyed working on some enforcement cases in the natural resources sector and technological markets.

    One of the most interesting cases that I had the opportunity work on was a case that defined the boundaries between competition law and sectoral regulators. There are areas between competition law and sectoral regulations that overlap and this interesting debate was settled by the constitutional courts. This was a great learning experience also because we had to deal with other areas of law and try to align them to the competition law.

    This is the age of technology and there are many cases in this area that I am currently working on. Novelty of issues in the tech cases I have worked on pushed us to go the extra mile to bring forth the most lucid way of putting across a point. It is really enjoyable to do that extra research and acquaint yourself to the issues, the product and then the competition concerns. The area is new to the lawyers and the regulators and therefore challenging.  However, the best part about technology related issues is that it is pragmatic, it relates to things happening around you, it feels like you are dealing with real life situations around you. The law is still developing in this field and it is a great opportunity to be part of development of law.

    Merger control is a big part of competition law. Could you walk us through the process of advising clients on securing CCI’s clearance for mergers across various industry segments, including telecom, technology, defence, cinema exhibition, aviation, packaging, and shipping?

    Merger control is a key part of competition law practice. Having narrowed down to practicing competition law, I couldn’t afford to confine myself to antitrust aspects only. Merger control may appear to be relatively straightforward but there are different kinds of challenges there.

    There is a lot of creative structuring of transactions and that makes the aspect of notification itself interesting. There are a series of exemptions which leave some room for interpretation and application.

    Then there is the actual notification part. You need to understand the business for making merger control filings with the CCI. There is a lot of interaction with the business teams while preparing the notification form to define market, to collect data and business specific information. In some complex merger control filings, there is a lot of economic analysis involved. The important thing about merger control is that it is forward looking so the regulator and the lawyers have to both be clear and careful at the same time when analysing a complex merger control case.

    You’ve also advised clients on competition as well as litigation in cases involving complex intersection of competition laws and intellectual property rights. How do you navigate these complex legal issues, and what are some of the key challenges you’ve faced in these cases?

    This is a very interesting intersection of two laws that aim to support innovation and consumer benefit. But on the face of it look contradictory. IP laws say that innovator should have exclusive right over its innovation and the competition law say that exclusivity is bad.

    So, when we faced cases where people complained against IP holders alleging abuse of dominance, it raised really complex issues. Thankfully, there was some guidance from other mature jurisdictions who have seen these issues. But to contextualize them in Indian context before courts was a very interesting experience. Some of these cases are still live and it will be an interesting to see how the CCI and courts decide these issues.  

    You clerked under Justice V S Sirpurkar, Former Chairman, Competition Appellate Tribunal and Former Judge Supreme Court of India. How did this experience shape your understanding of competition law and your approach to legal work?

    This was my last internship in the University. I had done 2-3 internships in competition law before this but undoubtedly, the clerkship at the COMPAT was most rewarding for multiple reasons. Learning the subject, preparing for cases and just general work ethic. I learnt a lot from the close association with Justice Sirpurkar.

    Had the good fortune of seeing some of the most important cases on competition law argued when I was assisting Justice Sirpurkar. In some sense it was my real exposure to the law. Because you could see all kinds of cases and all kinds of lawyers argue cases, I also closely saw the preparation that goes in preparing for a matter. Had a first-hand experience of seeing the difference between a manageable day, a good day and a great day in the court. Judges by definition are keen observers and a good preparation sets the case apart.

    Justice Sirpurkar is a generalist judge so he used to put in extra effort in understanding and studying the law. Consequently, I needed to study, discuss and analyse the legal issues with him regularly. That period was more of a practical education than of first brush with working in competition law for me.

    What are some of the most exciting developments in competition law right now, and how do you see the field evolving in the next few years?

    As I said earlier, this subject is extremely pragmatic and relatable so it is not going out of fashion anytime soon. On a lighter note, businesses as they grow big, they will do things to remain there and cartels date back to the beginning of the civilization so I don’t see that stopping anytime.

    What changes about the law is applicability to the things that are happening around you. Today the buzz in the town is big-tech and their conduct. There is an ongoing debate across the globe on whether the existing tools on competition law are sufficient to address the so-called new age problems around big-tech. In India, we have had our own share of play with big-tech some cases are decided others are under investigation. Policy level changes to have dedicated laws around regulating are being discussed and there is likely to be experimentation around that. So interesting times ahead and happy to be part of this.

    What do you like to do when you’re not practicing law? Any hobbies or interests that you’d like to share with our viewers?

    I listen to music and constantly try to revive my dying habit of non-law reading. Watching fiction takes most of my time reserved for hobbies and am trying to change that. If I could give one advise to lawyers just joining the profession, it will be that make that extra effort in keeping your hobbies alive, take time out to follow them. It is important to have them otherwise this profession can suck you into it without you even realizing it.

    Finally, what advice would you give to law students and young lawyers who are interested in pursuing a career in competition law, and what qualities do you think are essential for success in this field?

    That is a simple answer for me. Professional competence is important but it is just the bare minimum. You need to have an inquisitive mind and be practical in your approach. Try to step into the shoes of the client who needs to run a business and is seeking advice from you. These qualities are needed across the board for doing well in any stream of law.

  • Perseverance and a strong dedication to expanding one’s knowledge base are essential for success in the field of law- Foram Shah, Partner, King Stubb & Kasiva, Advocates & Attorneys

    Perseverance and a strong dedication to expanding one’s knowledge base are essential for success in the field of law- Foram Shah, Partner, King Stubb & Kasiva, Advocates & Attorneys

    This interview has been published by Priyanka Karwa and The SuperLawyer Team

    Ma’am, please tell us about your decision to pursue law.

    During my preparation for the final year of my Economics Honors degree, I made the decision to pursue a career in law.

    Please tell us about  the hardships that you faced by you in your 18 years of experience in corporate laws and how you overcame them.

    Certainly, as someone with 18 years of experience in corporate law, I can attest that there are many challenges one can face in this field. However, I firmly believe that these initial hurdles can ultimately make you stronger.

    One common challenge for lawyers is obtaining good, high-quality work. In order to overcome this challenge, I have found that knowledge is absolutely crucial to advancing your career. Even during years when I didn’t have many quality clients, I never gave up on my belief in myself. Instead, I focused on continually educating myself by staying up-to-date on new regulations, revised and amended acts impacting corporates, and reading orders. By doing so, I was able to prepare myself to help corporates face new challenges in regulations and compliances.

    In short, perseverance and a strong dedication to expanding one’s knowledge base are essential for success in the field of law.

    Please elucidate about your international experience as a lawyer.

    I have been fortunate to have numerous opportunities to work on international transactions throughout my career. I have been involved in setting up companies and joint ventures in various parts of the world, as well as working on the acquisition of companies in Africa, Far East Asia, Europe, and beyond. In the course of these experiences, I have had the opportunity to work closely with local counsels and legal experts in each respective country, allowing me to gain a deep understanding of their unique internal laws and regulations.

    I consider my international experience to be an invaluable asset to my career in law. It has broadened my perspective and provided me with a wealth of knowledge and expertise that I can draw upon in a wide range of legal matters.

    We would like to know more about the  masters which you pursued from NLSIU in Business Laws and in what ways it has helped you in your corporate career.

    NLSIU Bangalore is a pioneer in offering Master’s program in Business Laws. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the various legal frameworks that are essential for businesses to operate successfully. Moreover, the program is designed in such a way that it not only imparts knowledge on laws but also focuses on developing essential commercial skills. This includes aspects such as understanding businesses of clients, commercial awareness, and negotiation skills.

    The program has certainly helped me in my corporate career by giving me a well-rounded perspective on how businesses operate in the legal sphere. Through this program, I have gained a deep understanding of various legal aspects related to businesses, such as regulatory compliance, corporate governance, and contract law, among others. Furthermore, the commercial skills that I have developed have been instrumental in understanding the businesses of my clients and working with them to achieve their goals.

    In short, pursuing a Master’s in Business Laws from NLSIU Bangalore has been an immensely valuable experience for me, providing me with a strong foundation of knowledge and skills that have helped me succeed in my corporate legal career.

    You have also advised on Data Protection policy and GDPR policy. Please explain your experience. 

    Perceiving the current scenario, the data protection policies in India are still in the phase of the Personal Data Protection Bill, which was introduced in Parliament in 2019. The bill aims to provide a comprehensive framework for the processing of personal data in India, including provisions for data protection, individual rights, and obligations for data processors and controllers. The bill is currently under review and is expected to be amended to address concerns raised by various stakeholders. Once the bill is passed, it will become a law, and all organizations operating in India will be required to comply with its provisions.

    At present, in India, we do not have any strict guidelines; however, industries and companies have started preparing to implement the terms of new guidelines, which are expected to be introduced in the near future. As a partner handling several data protection mandates at King Stubb & Kasiva, my team and I are helping our clients and their departments to ensure that they are compliant with the guidelines from day one.

    On the other hand, GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) is a comprehensive data protection law that came into effect in the European Union in May 2018. The law applies to all organizations that process personal data of EU citizens, regardless of where the organization is based.

    GDPR has several key provisions, including requirements for data protection impact assessments, the appointment of data protection officers, and the reporting of data breaches. The law also provides individuals with several rights, including the right to access their personal data, the right to request erasure of their data, and the right to data portability.

    Our team at King Stubb & Kasiva has worked extensively with Indian companies having a presence in Europe to comply with GDPR by formulating policies for them and ensuring that our clients comply with all aspects of GDPR. The team is well-versed in the requirements of GDPR, and we help our clients to navigate the complexities of the regulation to ensure that their businesses are fully compliant with the law.

    Apart from working, what do you prefer in your free time? 

    In my free time, I enjoy exploring rural areas and helping out in schools or medical facilities. I also like to spend time gardening and listening to music.

    Lastly, what kept you going on in all these years?

    What has kept me going in all these years in the field of law is my passion for the profession and my desire to continuously learn and grow with always motivated and enthusiastic team at King Stubb & Kasiva. I am constantly inspired by the challenges and complexities of legal issues and the opportunities to help clients achieve their goals. Additionally, I am motivated by the positive impact that my work can have on businesses and individuals, and the satisfaction that comes with contributing to the greater good. 

    Get in touch with Foram Shah –

  • Adv. Lalit Suryavansi, Principal Associate at Khurana & Khurana, Advocates and IP Attorneys In Conversation With SuperLawyer On Dealing With IPR & New Opportunities In Legal Profession

    Adv. Lalit Suryavansi, Principal Associate at Khurana & Khurana, Advocates and IP Attorneys In Conversation With SuperLawyer On Dealing With IPR & New Opportunities In Legal Profession

    This interview has been published by Prabhjot Singh, Priyanka Karwa and The SuperLawyer Team

    Being a science student, and then choosing law, what was the idea behind?

    Great Question. Though I am used to this question and answering this question every other day. Actually, this science and law cocktail was not planned. In fact, Law was something I never imagined I would be pursuing. I did my graduation and post-graduation in technological streams and happily started working as an Engineer. Barring a few things, I was satiate with my carrier.

    As destiny had other plans for me, one fine day, I felt something is not right about my job and the kind of work I was doing back then. I started looking for other options and got to know about Intellectual Property Rights and prior art searching. The domain looked different and exciting, so I decided to switch my path and get into Intellectual Property. So, this is how I get into Legal domain, and in this journey, I qualified the Patent Agent examination. Later, I felt like having formal qualification in law, which led me to pursue LL.B.

    Please enlighten our audience about the initial struggles in your career and how you managed to overcome them?

    I’d rather start with initial anxieties. As I started my career as an RF engineer, and I was letting go my 3-4 years of job experience for something new called Intellectual Property, which, at that point in time, people thought to be some sort of real-estate business related endeavour, I had lot of disquiet in my mind, and I was in dilemma about the decision I was going to make.

    Plus, the baggage of what people would say if I failed. But my heart had already accepted it, so it pushed to me to make a bold decision and take that plunge, which I did, and I am elated to say that I made the right decision at that point.

    Of course, there were struggles, but I was very passionate about what I was doing and loved it so much that struggles never felt struggles, they felt like challenges, for which I was determined to go any lengths.

    What are the most important considerations to keep in mind when dealing with IPR and registering patent issues?

    Over the years, I have realized that inventors are mostly concerned about the outcome, i.e., the grant of a patent, not about the events that come along the way of patent grant. I have experienced that most inventors, if not all, are interested in getting their patent granted, and they are either ignorant about the very-very important milestones that starts with patent application filing and end with patent grant/refusal.

    Let me give you a little more perspective, I believe prior art searching to be the most important thing in the patent proceedings, but inventors hardly show any enthusiasm to get it done. And those who consider prior art searching, they fail to understand why a prior art search is done at all, how it can contribute in shaping his/her patent application. Similarly, patent application or claims drafting is merely considered to be the patent agent job. Of course, it is as you are paying him/her, but I’d like advise that please do not recklessly depend on your Patent Agent and be actively involved in the events/proceedings—-Afterall inventions are inventors’ child, not Agents’.

    My intention is to make the inventors more inquisitive and interactive so that they know what is actually being done by their patent attorney, how the attorney is giving shape to claims, application, arguments, etc.

    IPR and other corporate sectors are evolving like never before, would you like to throw some light on the same? And according to you Lalit, what exciting opportunities it can create for our young lawyers?

    With government initiatives such as “Make in India”, “Self-reliant India”, push for innovations, and programmes like “Start-up India”, protection of innovations is seen as a necessity to compete in the market. With this patenting activities has increased many folds, and patent filing in India is rising at an unprecedented rate.

    As per the Economic Survey 2021-22, the number of patents filed in India has gone up from 39,400 in 2010-11 to 58,502 in 2020-21 and the patents granted in India have gone up from 7,509 to 28,391 during the same time. With so many numbers of patent filings, Patent Prosecution is rising, so is the Patent Litigation. Therefore, one can easily infer the prospects for young professionals.

    Lalit, as per your experience in the legal field, how do you see the legal industry coming up with new concepts and creating exciting opportunities?

    With the constant push for digitization, arrival of faster telecommunication technologies like 4G/5G, invent of communication platforms such as Zoom, Teams, etc., alike every other domain, Legal industry is also witnessing rapid transformation.

    Everyone is now aware how virtual courts have started, how virtual hearings has transformed the way hearings were taken. If I specifically talk about the Indian Patent paradigm, Indian Patent Office (IPO) too has segued from offline system to online system. With conversion of physical hearings into into virtual-call-based hearings, paperless patent application filings, mandatory online filings for Patent Agents, and many other such initiatives, IPO has put in place a lot of new concepts/systems. So, newer opportunities are coming along, we just need the right approach and right temperament to grab said opportunities.

    • What can be some of the toughest considerations while someone from a non-legal background has to see before opting law as a career?

    For someone from a non-legal background, the toughest consideration would be the time window for success. To make a mark in this industry, one must possess the tenacity to climb every rung of the ladder that leads to the success. As they say, there is no shortcut to be successful—legal domain is no different or alien to this saying.

    • Lalit, what is a typical day like for you?

    Well, a typical day is typically typical for me. I get up around 6 AM. Do my daily chores by 8 AM and leave for office by 8.30 AM. Commute to office, reach there by 9.30 AM, and get lost in the pool of matters waiting my arrival. Leave office at 6.30 PM, reach home around 8.30 PM where my son and my daughter (twins) remain armoured to welcome me with the showers of anecdotes, complaints, happenings, and everything in between from their typical day.

    • Could you highlight some of your success habits that enable you to meet your goal?

    ‘Never say no attitude’ and ‘to remain grounded’ at all the times are some of the attributes which I think play pivotal roles in anybody’s success.

    Lastly, what advice would you give to someone starting out?

    Keep your mind, eyes, and ears open for anyone and everyone—you never know who might give you the piece of information that can change your life forever. One more thing, everything progresses at its own pace, so never feel frustrated/agitated if something is not happening at your whims/desires—time and destiny will certainly make it happen for you if you are honest and keen about it.

  • Khushboo Luthra, Associate Partner at Singhania & Partners LLP In Conversation With SuperLawyer On Importance Of Practice Development Department For Growth Oriented Firms

    Khushboo Luthra, Associate Partner at Singhania & Partners LLP In Conversation With SuperLawyer On Importance Of Practice Development Department For Growth Oriented Firms

    This interview has been published by Prabhjot Singh, Priyanka Karwa and The SuperLawyer Team

    Why did you pursue LLB after MBA-Marketing?

    A lot of what happens in our life is because of going with the flow. There were forces around me which pushed me towards law. I finished my MBA during the subprime crisis and had a few friends who were UPSC aspirants, and we used to have enriching discussions around laws, governance, economics, policy, management, international business, and regulatory environment etc.

    Law interested me and I decided to appear for University of Delhi’s Law Entrance Exam without any pressure in my head as I had already secured a PPO from Confederation of Indian Industry after my MBA-internship there. That year most of the law entrance exam was focussed on current affairs and I did not know those socialisations with friends will help me clear the entrance exam.

    You got a job at a Band 1 firm as a professional support lawyer, but you choose law practice development as career?

    I had a good 4 year long and successful stint with industry chambers early in my career. I was fortunate to get international exposure as well. A friend referred my CV for the opening as a Professional Support Lawyer in a renowned law firm and I got an opportunity to work on competition law matters with the finest minds in the country.

    I had thoroughly enjoyed my work in FICCI which involved a lot of marketing-communication, events, writing, and media relations but soon I realised that I was not enjoying being the “lawyer”.

    My heart wanted to pursue a career in management of business of law. Then I got this opportunity with Singhania & Partners which resonated with me and was a perfect opening aligning with my education background (MBA & LL.B.) , interests in communication management, and experience.

    Tell us something about Singhania & Partners and your role as Head- Practice Development at the law firm.

    Singhania & Partners is a full-service law firm and is one of the best places to work. We are recommended in the area of Corporate-M&A, Arbitration & Litigation, Employment Law, Banking and Finance etc. Over the years firm has established itself as an expert in construction disputes and infrastructure sector.  

    I joined the firm as Practice Development Manager in 2015 and was managing communications. Soon after that Mr. Ravi Singhania, Managing Partner entrusted me with implementing his vision which was to ensure that quality and correct legal content should reach information seekers through digital means. Later on, I also led the digital transformation within the organization which is still a work in progress. Over the years my role has expanded to include campus outreach and internships management as well besides other strategic practice development initiatives of the firm.

    What is your two cents of advice for other similar organizations planning digital transformation?

    Having a vision on the objectives of digitisation is an absolute must for driving the digital strategy and creating a digital ecosystem for growth driven firms. No organization would regret investing in technology, each organization is on a different learning curve and systems and processes will continue to improve once we are on this journey. Sooner you start the better it is.

    However, it is must to have a clarity on the objectives of digitisation. For instance, one should know whether through digitisation we are trying to improve marketing and client outreach or reduce duplicity of efforts in matters management, HR process improvement or internal records management or creating a digital ecosystem.

    Lastly, whatever is the objective of investing in technology make sure you click with the service provider. Service provider is as important as the software you are purchasing. Interview and assess the delivery team assigned to you. Make sure that the implementation team is committed, has shown the stability with the company and have genuine interest in understanding your business and its people. Document minutest of details, work on end user feedback, improvise, and check progress regularly.

    Why it has become strategically important to have a practice development department for growth oriented firms?

    We are living in information age; organizations must invest in ensuring that the right communication about their expertise and services reaches to information seeker. Practice development department bridges this gap and play an important role in ensuring visibility across social media, reputation management, and website management through knowledge management of the firm.

    They help create right internal and external communication to create a cohesive experience, and unified message for the prospective customers, prospective employees, internal and external stakeholders, and clients across all digital and physical platforms.

    They do so through various means such as informative content dissemination to demonstrate the firm’s expertise, managing submissions to legal directories, maintaining a record of the firm’s engagement, and facilitating conversations between fee-earners and service seekers.

    There are a lot of start-ups around law practice development consulting. Do you see law firms outsourcing this work to these start-ups?

     Yes, there are a lot of start-ups around practice development consulting of law firm. This is a growing area. However, in my opinion, no outsider can do much to assist in practice development till the firm leaders do not have the buy-in of fee-earners. Planning and execution are two sides of the same coin, the consultants might give good suggestions and plan for you but there is more to it than meet the eyes and at the end execution of these initiatives cannot happen without the involvement of internal stakeholders. If your internal team/ fee-earners are not aligned with you in meeting the practice development objectives consultants won’t be able to deliver much. Those who will be able to bridge the gap between planning and execution will survive and flourish.

    What advice would you give to someone considering a career in the legal field?

    I would recommend aspiring lawyers to do as many internships as possible and take exposure in different practice areas. Even if you have decided on practice area for you, I would recommend that lawyers should do internships in other practice areas as well to develop a holistic perspective.

    I strongly advocate that law students must do internship in the practice development departments of the law firms, and it becomes even more important if they want to establish their own practice after finishing their law degree.

    Get in touch with Khushboo Luthra-