Super Lawyer

Tag: Counsel

  • “All industries today are bound by numerous applicable laws, rules and regulations and strict compliance is not only the need of hour from regulators perspective but also from a perspective of maintaining good business hygiene”- Akanksha Khanna, Senior Legal Counsel at Flipkart

    “All industries today are bound by numerous applicable laws, rules and regulations and strict compliance is not only the need of hour from regulators perspective but also from a perspective of maintaining good business hygiene”- Akanksha Khanna, Senior Legal Counsel at Flipkart

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

    Can you walk us through your journey into the field of law, particularly focusing on how you found your niche in brand protection and litigation counsel?

    Law as a subject had never been on my mind until school. It was a passion for my mother who due to her corporate profile at a major multinational bank and regular interactions with seasoned professionals inspired me to take up law. So, I can easily say law wasn’t planned for me; however, it just happened to me. Having said that, now 11 years down the line, I feel it was a beautiful accident which helped me shape my life both personally and professionally for the better. Being born and brought up in Delhi, I embarked on my journey of law through Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi. 

    My first professional assignment was with Kochhar and Co.; however, owing to my area of interest in IP rights right from college, I made a switch to Saikrishna & Associates, a very well known name in the field of IP laws. It was my stint at Saikrishna & Associates that helped me identify my passion towards brand protection and enforcement of IP rights and eventually into associated litigation. I would take this opportunity to thank my mentor, Mr. Bharatvir Singh (Partner at Saikrishna & Associates) who led me through this journey of brand protection and made me aware of this vast space where brand owners and their niche brands are always at risk due to rampant counterfeiting. His vast experience, expertise and leadership and constant encouragement into direct client dealing made this otherwise difficult ride a smooth one.

    Thereafter I had a stint with Semita Legal, Advocates & Solicitors specializing in litigation and brand protection. It was during the tough COVID-19 times that the brand protection industry faced a tough challenge with ground movements and investigations being restricted. However, it was a great learning time as the industry re-invented with a major focus towards online counterfeiting. While strengthening the IP portfolio at Semita Legal, I was offered an interesting position with Flipkart to look after their litigation and regulatory issues. Hence, I moved to an in-house role to better equip myself with the corporate side of the legal challenges and to better appreciate the business angles and legal nuances.

    With your extensive experience across various industries such as e-commerce, FMCG, media, and apparel, what common challenges have you observed regarding brand protection, and how do you approach addressing them?

    Counterfeiting or sale of dubious quality products is a rampant issue being faced across all industries in general. The foremost sensitization should come to the brands that their goodwill which has been built over years of efforts and constant hustle is at major risk with brand dilution caused by counterfeiters by offering low quality products and ultimately putting the public at risk. Second major challenge is identifying and setting up a robust ground team and training them for identifying both offline and online counterfeits. The primary challenge kicks in when after successfully completing the two stages, the task of involving the law enforcement authorities comes into play. This involves strong liaising with enforcement authorities including Police, sensitising the authorities from time to time about the importance of copyrights and trademarks and the law which empowers them to undertake appropriate actions to curb this menace. We need to have regular interaction with authorities and keep them abreast about the latest developments and training in this space. The major fallout sensed by me when interacting with the authorities is that they feel once brands get their complaints registered, they don’t adequately support the further process of answering notices or attending Court dates. This to a large extent can be controlled by being vigilant to all requests related to complaints received from the authorities and providing them prompt support so that they are also not caught off guard before the Courts. Lastly, regular checks in the market and follow up actions on enforcements already conducted can help mitigate this evil to a large extent.      

    Given your background in handling regulatory matters, could you share some insights into navigating the complexities of compliance in industries with stringent regulations, such as food safety and legal metrology?

    All industries today are bound by numerous applicable laws, rules and regulations and strict compliance is not only the need of hour from regulators perspective but also from a perspective of maintaining good business hygiene. Firstly, we need to set up separate teams to look after the food safety and legal metrology compliances. They need to regularly conduct training at the ground to ensure awareness about the compliance requirements. Having said this, regular checks on the already compiled parameters need to be maintained to ensure non-expiry or any additional requirements that are required to be met. Constant tabs on the daily regulatory updates need to be kept so that the same can be promptly synced in with the business activities to avoid any actions from regulatory authorities by way of combining actions etc.

    Your role involves coordinating with law enforcement authorities and external stakeholders. How do you effectively manage these relationships to ensure swift action against counterfeit activities while maintaining a positive rapport?

    A4. Strong coordination and regular liaising with law enforcement authorities can take you a long time in initiating swift actions against the counterfeit activities. The most effective way to handle this is to always be prompt and responsive to any support being sought from the authorities, whether understanding the law, conducting regular training, providing them prompt responses to notices which ultimately aids in timely filing of chargesheets. Once the authorities develop confidence that proper support has been provided, they equally support in nabbing down the counterfeiters. Basically, it’s two-way traffic and to foster a positive roadmap to curb this menace, we need to be transparent and responsive to each other’s requirements.

    Could you elaborate on your strategies for identifying brand-specific threats and formulating proactive brand protection measures, especially in an increasingly digital landscape where counterfeiting is rampant?

    This requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some strategies: 1. Monitoring and Surveillance – employment of advanced tools and services such as keyword monitoring etc to track online mentions on social media and e-commerce platforms 2. Collaboration with Online Marketplaces for reporting counterfeit listings and consequent takedowns 3. Legal Measures to actively monitor infringements and take legal action against counterfeiters to protect brand’s goodwill and market share 4. Consumer Awareness to identify genuine products and distinguish them from counterfeit ones; provision of information on official websites and packaging about authentication methods etc. 5. Supply Chain Transparency and Security– to prevent unauthorized access to products or intellectual property. Implementation of technologies such as blockchain to track and authenticate products from manufacturing to distribution 6. Dedicated Brand Protection Team to work with specialized professionals that have expertise in identifying and combating counterfeit activities 7. Engagement with Law Enforcement– to investigate and prosecute counterfeiters 8. Continuous Improvement and Adaptation– regularly review and update the brand protection strategies to stay ahead of emerging threats and technologies used by counterfeiters.

    In your experience, what are some key considerations when devising litigation and brand protection strategies for corporate entities, and how do you ensure alignment with their overarching business objectives?

    When devising litigation and brand protection strategies, several key considerations should be taken into account: 1. Intellectual Property Portfolio Assessment including trademarks, copyrights, patents, and trade secrets 2. Risk Assessment to evaluate the potential risks and vulnerabilities faced by the company, including threats from competitors, counterfeiters, and unauthorized use of intellectual property; assess the likelihood of litigation and the potential impact on the company’s reputation, market share, and financials 3. Proactive Monitoring and Enforcement to detect and address instances of infringement, counterfeiting, and unauthorized use of the company’s intellectual property 4. Litigation Strategy Development that aligns with the company’s business objectives and risk tolerance; Factors to be borne in mind include strength of the company’s intellectual property rights, the nature of the infringement, the potential costs and benefits of litigation, and the likelihood of success in court 5. Alternative Dispute Resolution such as mediation or arbitration, as cost-effective alternatives to litigation 6. Continuous Evaluation and Adjustment of brand protection and litigation strategies and make adjustments on a need basis depending on changing business conditions, legal developments, and emerging threats.

    Can you share a memorable case or project where you successfully mitigated risks related to thefts, frauds, or process violations through timely legal intervention? What were the key factors contributing to its success?

    There was a huge theft and shrinkage of materials at the warehouse of a large corporate house wherein prime suspects were internal and contractual workers. A thorough enquiry was conducted, and an FIR was registered. Thereafter with promptness of Police officers and liaising with the legal team, the Police filed a chargesheet before the Court. This enabled the Company to recover the losses through insurance in a time bound manner. 

    Drawing from your journey and expertise, what advice would you offer to fresh law graduates aspiring to specialize in brand protection and litigation counsel roles?

    Fresh law graduates aspiring to specialize in brand protection and litigation counsel roles should foremost develop a strong foundation in IP Law and have a solid understanding of trademarks, copyrights, patents, trade secrets, and related areas of law. They should seek gaining as much practical experience as possible by way of internships, clerkships, or entry-level positions at law firms, corporate legal departments that specialize in intellectual property law or brand protection. Effective brand protection and litigation counsel needs strong research and writing skills to analyse complex legal issues, draft legal documents, and advocate on behalf of clients. Attend industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities to connect with practicing attorneys, legal professionals, and industry experts which helps to stay Informed about industry trends and developments. Most important in this field is to stay ethical and strictly professional in all enforcement related interactions. Integrity and ethical conduct are essential qualities for success in not only the legal profession but any field of work.

    Get in touch with Akanksha Khanna-

  • “Always remember, our credibility is something that will yield the best work and results in the profession for us. Without it, we cannot truly consider ourselves to be in the noble profession.” – Bhavik Lalan, Counsel at Bombay High Court(Chambers of Sanjay Jain)

    “Always remember, our credibility is something that will yield the best work and results in the profession for us. Without it, we cannot truly consider ourselves to be in the noble profession.” – Bhavik Lalan, Counsel at Bombay High Court(Chambers of Sanjay Jain)

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

    Could you please introduce yourself to our readers and share the journey that led you from your early days as an Articled Clerk to your current role as a Counsel, Mediator, and Arbitrator?

    In 2009 I was a judicial intern with the then Bombay High Court Judge Mr. V. C. Daga that was the period when I decided to practice as a litigation lawyer upon my graduation. In the year 2010 I joined a Solicitor Firm M. S. Bodhanwalla & Co. as an articled clerk and had 4 years of work experience in the practice areas such as conveyance, civil and commercial litigation, legal opinions and advisory assignments from corporates like Hindustan Times, Lowe Lintas, RCF Ltd. etc. I recommend the young and buddying law students to undergo such a training process. In Mumbai, we have the option to appear for the Solicitors examination which is conducted by Bombay Incorporated Law Society. I appeared for said examination after which I joined Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas (“CAM”) in their dispute resolution team in Mumbai. My experience of working at CAM was very enriching. Handling litigations of high stakes involves tremendous readiness and preparedness in the back end. Also, in Mumbai, we follow a dual system of practice where Solicitor firms brief an arguing counsel and therefore, firms have to be always ready with briefing notes, compilation of judgments, and ensuring court records are updated and in order. My practice at law firms is of 6 years after which I started my counsel practice at Bombay High Court. I first joined the Chambers of Justice Mohit S. Shah (Former Chief Justice of Bombay High Court and Calcutta High Court) where I gained my Tribunal Secretary training and also had wide exposure to large stake arbitration matters. I then joined the Chambers of Mr. Sanjay Jain. Mr. Jain is an arguing counsel at Bombay High Court with a standing of 26 years. As an arguing counsel, my entire approach towards the practice has changed. I had to undergo a process of reformation where my basics of law were refreshed and my skills of drafting pleadings and evidence affidavits were sharpened to a great extent. In my view, these are the fundamental learning for every lawyer who desires to practice dispute resolution/ arbitration. In the year 2022 I completed my Masters in Mediation and Conflict Resolution from MNLU, Mumbai. It’s a two-year full-time course with a magnificent syllabus to enrich skill sets in mediation practice. After completing this Masters Course, I started getting references to act as an arbitrator and mediator in civil disputes. I have also been appointed as an Arbitrator by the Bombay High Court recently in a few matters and I consider myself to be fortunate that the Hon’ble Bombay High Court has entrusted with such a responsibility. While performing my role as a counsel, arbitrator and mediator I have to be constantly conscious that my responsibility is to assist the courts and parties in this process. We have to think about professional ethics and etiquttes while we take up our role as we are directly working in a public field/ domain and our actions and steps matter a lot to our clients and society at large. In the last 12 years of my practice, I have learned a lot from my seniors and colleagues. Law is a practice where learning does not stop till we retire. Our openness to learn even from our juniors testifies to our real approach towards problem-solving. 

    Could you walk us through what a typical day in your professional life looks like? What are some of the tasks and responsibilities that fill your day as a Counsel, Mediator, and Arbitrator?

    As litigation counsel, we have a long day of about 10-12 hours of working which involves court and arbitral hearings, conferences with client and senior counsels, reviewing/ settling of the pleadings and conducting legal research to keep ourselves updated. While doing this, I do spend time at our Advocate’s Bar Association Hall in High Court where interacting with senior counsels and colleagues provides me with an opportunity to exchange ideas and knowledge with them. I have seen that in the last 15 years, the trend of young Advocates sitting in the Bar Association Hall has drastically reduced. According to me, it’s a loss to such junior Advocates as they miss opportunities of gaining first-hand interactions with senior counsels and colleagues at the Bar. Having a little know-how of the practice and profession adds to the skill-set of lawyers which makes them multi-facet in approach.

    As a trained Mediator and Arbitrator, you’ve been involved in resolving several disputes. Could you tell us about a particularly challenging case you’ve handled and how you navigated through it to achieve a resolution?

    During my training process, I was taught that the goal of a good mediator is not to arrive at a settlement but to move the parties from their rigid position to a flexible one and provoke them to think about the solutions by encouraging dialogue between the disputing parties. My endeavour had always been to follow this teaching. So far I have handled about 150 mediations referred through the ODR platform SAMA to me and a couple of arbitrations that involve Bombay High Court-referred matters as well. Being a young practitioner sometimes I do find my role as a Mediator and Arbitrator challenging, but once we start practising to be a good listener and adopt neutrality it helps us a lot to navigate the parties towards solutions. This requires a lot of patience and controlled temperament. In one of the mediation matters (I cannot disclose particulars of parties due to confidentiality) where the dispute was between a multinational bank and a customer, the bank constantly tried to use the mediation meetings to pressurise the customer to pay back the alleged outstanding loan with interest. This was during the COVID period. The customer alleged that the bank was charging a higher interest wrongfully. Instead of speaking to each other parties initially resorted to the issuance of strong-worded legal notices, which triggered their egos. When the matter was referred to me, I had the challenge of bringing both the parties on same platform for a dialogue as they were not willing to see each other’s face. However, gradually with the mediation process moving further parties started attending mediation meetings. There was a time when they started exchanging verbal talks during the joint caucus. That was the time when I encouraged them to exchange some without prejudice written proposals. The parties did that and the dispute was resolved amicably. In this matter I see the victory of both parties, however, to bring them on same table to start the communication was a herculean task, by putting open ended questions to them, I had to prepare them mentally to leave their ego aside and come forward to have a joint talk.

    Transitioning from working at Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas (“CAM”) to starting your own practice must have been quite a journey. What motivated you to take this leap, and what are some key lessons you’ve learned along the way?

    My tenure of working at law firms was 6 years. I joined CAM after I worked at M. S. Bodhanwalla & Co. for 4 years. I was conscious that my role at CAM is going to be challenging as I was hired as a direct lateral and not through their campus recruitment annual training program. However, my earlier experience of working at a mid-size Solicitor firm helped me to navigate the work challenges of big law firm. At a big law firm, the infrastructure and support team provided to us is very helpful and efficient. Team learning and working is the main feature there. Delivering work before time is always expected on high mandate matters and that keeps us on our toes. If one cannot do this at the age of 25-26 when else will we do such action learning. This golden opportunity provided me the launch pad for leaping independent counsel practice. As a litigation counsel in Mumbai, the initial years are quite challenging in terms of getting briefed and generating revenue on your own. At the same time, the role of a counsel is of much more responsibility than the role of an Associate of a law firm. As counsel, we are all on our own when we appear before the court to argue a matter. We are shouldered with the responsibility to present the case before the court by applying the best of our abilities. Some cases have merits few don’t but our readiness to face the court and ensure best assistance to the judge is far more challenging. I got my inspiration from my spiritual mentor His Holiness Spiritual Sovereign Jainacharya Yugbhushansuriji Maharaj Saheb to take up this challenging role of an arguing counsel. His Holiness has entrusted upon several significant matters pending before the Supreme Court and High Courts/ Trial Courts in India, involving the rights of the Shwetamber Murtipujak Jain community. This role was challenging initially but later on after gaining good learnings from my seniors and colleagues I now do not find any challenge while appearing before the Supreme Court in such significant matters. The lessons which I have learnt so far is that we must first have faith in ourselves before we start looking for help outside. Litigation is a practice which provides fruit at a later stage but the sacrifice and rigours of initial days makes us efficient and better individual/ professional. So far I have had opportunities to assist legal stalwarts like late Mr. Fali Nariman, Mr. K V Viswanathan (presently a Supreme Court Judge), Mr. Harish Salve, Mr. Dushyant Dave, Mr. Arvind Datar, Mr. Darius Khambata, Mr. Navroze Servai, Mr. Ravi Shankar Prasad, Mr. C S Vaidyanathan in various matters involving tricky constitutional and such other legal issues. This was possible only after I chose to practice as a litigation counsel.

    You’ve been a frequent contributor on various issues, including public policy, diplomacy, and the use of technology in the legal field. Could you share your thoughts on how technology is shaping the future of dispute resolution and legal practice?

    Technology and law can go hand-in-hand. I am working from a paperless office post-COVID rollout. According to me, we lawyers will have to adopt technology wherever possible in our day-to-day practice as it has resulted in ease of doing practice. Imagine it was due to this advanced video conferencing technology that our Supreme Court and High Courts were able to function uninterruptedly even during the COVID lockdown. Today majority of my arbitration and mediation meetings are conducted virtually. Not limiting it to meetings, but data storage and utilisation are also done through cloud cloud-based system. Effectively, all my briefs are accessible to me 24×7. This has resulted in improved efficiency and quick delivery of solutions to the Attorneys/ clients. I am confident that in the next 5 years, we will have the majority of our Trial Courts providing us with virtual hearings and e-filing facilities. This will not only make the legal practice more inclusive and wide but will also cut down the pendency of cases.

    Balancing a legal career with personal interests can be challenging. Outside of your legal practice, what are some hobbies or activities you enjoy to unwind and recharge?

    Honestly, my first 10 years in the practice have been completely devoted to my work and training process under the guidance of my seniors and mentors. However, I have found my interest in reading the autobiographies of legal luminaries from India’s legal practice. I also read spiritual books regularly as it motivates me to take up higher challenges. Post-COVID health and fitness have been my priority and I ensure that I have physical exercise or morning walk sessions daily along with yoga. I have realised that those who do not take care of their mental and physical health during the early days of practice have to face tough times in the later phase. Our legal practice is such that with the rising age number of dockets keeps increasing, in such a scenario it is necessary to focus on health and mental well-being from the initial days. My thoughts for all my young colleagues is to stay away from addictions of smoking, drinking alcohol and drugs or any such harmful habits that shall severely affect our mental, physical and financial well-being. To be vocal about this, to some extent smoking a fancy cigar or cigarette might have been glamourised in our profession by some stalwarts but young lawyers should be mindful to understand that besides addictions we have many more other good qualities to adopt from them. I also, dedicate some time to pro bono matters which have been my activity to pay back to society. I am empanelled with the Bombay High Court Legal Services Committee where I am entrusted with cases to argue for the underprivileged and marginalised individuals. Appearing in these matters gives me a feeling of satisfaction.

    Your work involves advising clients on an array of transactional matters, including contracts and tenancy laws. What are some common misconceptions clients have about these areas, and how do you address them?

    Since I am practicing as a counsel in Mumbai my direct exposure to dealing with clients is very minimal. Conferences through a Solicitor with a client are a very easy thing to handle. But, there are occasions when I am entrusted tasks either through the Legal Aid Committee or through such pro bono service or social obligation where I have to come across direct interaction with clients and at such times I have to be mindful to keep very simple and lucid language while interacting with them. Using legal jargons during client counselling is not at all necessary. What matters is to give a simple solution within the framework of law. I have needed to recuse myself from situations where my advice was sought on some issues which to my mind were not legally feasible. I have made a point that I take a strong stand in such a situation rather than surrendering to the situation for the consideration of fees. Ours is a noble profession nobility of which is to be maintained by we people as the famous saying is “charity begins from home”.

    Reflecting on your experience as an Ad Hoc Committee Member of the Students’ Council and your participation in moot court competitions, how do you feel moots help students in their legal career or enhance their skills? Can you share some insights into the practical benefits you gained from participating in moot court competitions during your law school days?

    I was fortunate to have good exposure to moot court competitions at Government Law College, Mumbai (“GLC”). My college has been at the forefront in producing great mooters who have won several national and international moot court competitions. I participated in about 10 moot court competitions which are state, national and international. My first-hand experience in drafting a memorial for such a moot court competition is the foundation of my drafting skills. The mannerism to argue at moot court competition forms the bedrock of my present arguing skill. Conducting legal research by reading commentaries and journals was taught to us during our moot court preparations. I feel every law student must participate in at least 2-3 moot court competitions during their academic career. Also, today I cherish those days of preparing for the moot court competition where we used to fearlessly argue the propositions and by doing so regularly we developed a skill to argue real-life matters. I had many friends in my law school days who had stage fear and benefitted a lot due to their participation in moot court competitions. Being part of the Ad-Hoc Committee of the Students’ Council I feel it provided me with an atmosphere to develop a leadership skill and work in a team with modesty for shared goals. We executed several remarkable events (M C Chagla Lecture Series and many more) in GLC through the Students’ Council.  I was also part of the legal aid committee at GLC during my college days. I have had an opportunity to visit central jails and help the poor needy under trials to make their representations and letters for bail application.

    Starting a career in law can be daunting for many young professionals. What advice would you give to the current generation aspiring to make a mark in the legal field?

    Unlike other professions, ours is not a profession to only earns money. Rather ours is a “practice” which word is predominantly used to address the legal profession (a noble profession). May it be litigation or non-litigation; the practice provides us with several opportunities to serve the society. If we go back in the past, the majority of our freedom fighters and founders of the independent India were lawyers. They played a pivotal role in nation-building through their legal knowledge and acumen. Just like doctors we lawyers are also pillars of the society. My message to the current generation aspiring to make a mark in the legal practice is that have an ethical practice with honest conviction of the work which we do. Even the top practitioners and law firms in India and abroad have highlighted the importance of ethical practice in legal profession. This is because ethics and values play a big role in what we advise and perform. I often come across my Solicitor’s complaint regarding law students abruptly changing law firms during their internship/ para-legal period. I feel this practice should be discouraged as while doing these students create an image of being not reliable and credible. Always remember our credibility is something that will get the best work and results in the profession for us without which we cannot consider ourselves to be in the noble profession. Also, there is a hot issue in discussion these days whether interns/paralegals should be paid hefty stipends or not. I feel that generally during the internship days our priority should be learning. We should be thankful to those seniors who take up the responsibility to teach us initially at the cost of their time and resources. Few cases of exploiting interns cannot overshadow the process prevailing in our practice i.e. teaching and investing time in a junior/ student to make them efficient lawyers. If we observe the history of our profession in Mumbai, several of the stalwarts have undergone this process of training during their initial days without getting paid any salary/ or hefty stipend. At times, non-issues are glamourised more than the significant issues and that results in setting a wrong narrative in society. What I see now and for the next 50 years in India, the legal profession will have a paradigm shift i.e. 360 degree change. The systems are becoming more transparent now. We have a live streaming of court proceedings. The introduction of digital filing and virtual hearings has made things easy and economical for everyone. Those lawyers who are afraid to adopt technology may find it difficult to sustain with time, therefore, an open mindset to adopt technology wherever feasible is the only solution.

    Get in touch with Bhavik Lalan-

  • “Protecting intellectual property is not just about rights; it’s about enforcing them effectively. In the world of IP, diligence and honesty are non-negotiable. They’re the pillars of trust.” – Nishi Shabana, Founding Partner of Lume Legal

    “Protecting intellectual property is not just about rights; it’s about enforcing them effectively. In the world of IP, diligence and honesty are non-negotiable. They’re the pillars of trust.” – Nishi Shabana, Founding Partner of Lume Legal

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

    Your educational background includes a Bachelor’s in Science (B.Sc.) followed by a transition to law. Could you share the journey of how you made this switch and embarked on your legal career? What were the challenges or struggles you faced during this transitional period, and how did you overcome them?

    In 2008, I moved to Delhi to pursue a Diploma in Clinical Research with weekend classes. While looking for a job, I ended up at a law firm specializing in intellectual property (IP) with the help of a friend. Initially I was assigned with creating a database for 300 patent cases they were handling, I became familiar with the patent process and began identifying deficiencies in the files. Upon expressing my observations to my boss, who noticed my science background, I was encouraged to try patent prosecution. This marked the beginning of my journey, and within the same year, I successfully cleared the Patent Agent exam and there was no looking back after that.

    Understanding the legal language, it took me some time to get the flow of it. I think constant exposure to it by reading every day helped me get used to the flow.

    Nishi, with a background in toxicology, law, and extensive experience in IPR, what sparked your interest in this unique combination of fields, and  how has your background in toxicology influenced your approach to handling cases related to intellectual property and food laws?

    It’s all about curiosity. When I started in this field, everything was new to me. Learning about inventions and brands before they hit the market really fascinated me. For example, back in 2009, I worked on a patent application for a mobile wallet, which felt like a big deal at the time. Now, we use it for almost every transaction.

    An extensive research oriented program of toxicology helped me a lot in handling and understanding patent applications. 

    Being recognized as a “Top 50 emerging IP Player” by IP Gorilla is a remarkable achievement. Can you share a pivotal moment or case in your career that you believe contributed significantly to this recognition?

    During my time with my previous firm, I was honoured to be recommended twice by RSG rankings as the most recommended lawyer in the firm. Additionally, I received recognition as one of the recommended lawyers in IP by Legal 500 and was acknowledged as one of the most read authors on Mondaq. I believe these recognitions played a role in my selection by IP Gorilla.

    As a founding partner at Lume Legal, you handle various aspects of intellectual property rights, including patent, design, and trademark issues. What inspired you to establish your own firm, and  what unique vision or approach do you bring to the legal landscape through Lume Legal?

    Honestly, it wasn’t a planned move. I took a break from my job, but I continued to get work through recommendations. That’s when I thought, why not start something on my own? That’s how it all began. We aim to adapt to the evolving legal landscape influenced by changing technology and assist our clients in navigating these changes.

    As an advocate for IP rights awareness, you’re actively involved in speaking at various seminars and conferences. What message do you often find yourself emphasizing to businesses and entrepreneurs regarding the importance of intellectual property?

    Protecting intellectual property (IP) is crucial for any business, but I stress the importance of enforcing IP rights. Business owners need to be clear about where they stand. It’s essential to avoid infringing on others’ IP and, at the same time, ensure that their own rights are not violated. Setting these boundaries is key for a successful business

    Having advised Fortune 500 companies on the protection and use of trademarks, could you highlight a key strategy you employ when working with such high-profile clients to ensure the safeguarding of their intellectual property?

    Diligence, staying informed, and maintaining honesty have consistently been my guiding principles, and they have proven to be beneficial in various situations.

    You’ve written for various national and international law journals. Could you share the motivation behind your writing, and how do you believe it contributes to the legal community and public understanding of intellectual property issues?

    I follow the principle of writing for those who aren’t familiar with legal terms and need straightforward answers. Coming from a science background, I realize that grasping legal jargon can be challenging. My goal is to communicate in simple language so that even the average person can easily understand the content.

    Maintaining a successful career in law requires a high level of self-discipline. Can you share your thoughts on the importance of self-discipline in your professional journey and any strategies you use to stay focused and organized in your work?

    Thanks to IP prosecution, whether it’s dealing with patents or trademarks, it’s a field that operates on tight deadlines. Missing a deadline means having to explain, so being self-disciplined is crucial. When you genuinely enjoy your work, you don’t need elaborate strategies; it simply becomes part of your daily routine.

    Beyond your legal pursuits, what are your hobbies, and how do you like to spend your free time?

    I enjoy experimenting with various activities, ranging from music and dance to reading, and my interests tend to shift over time. Currently, I’m engrossed in watching documentaries.

    For students aspiring to specialize in Intellectual Property Rights, what would be your top piece of advice or a recommended approach to gain a strong foothold in this field while still in law school or early in their legal careers?

    My approach is simple: read, read, and read. Staying updated on current events, brands, and new innovations is crucial. Reading case laws helps me understand how the court addresses different sections or aspects. I firmly believe in the power of perseverance and the importance of continuous learning.

    Get in touch with Nishi Shabana-

  • “E-commerce in India is moving forward by leaps and bounds. With it , there are  bound to be cyber crimes”- Aviral Saxena, Advocate-on-Record at Supreme Court of India

    “E-commerce in India is moving forward by leaps and bounds. With it , there are  bound to be cyber crimes”- Aviral Saxena, Advocate-on-Record at Supreme Court of India

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

    Can you share the journey of how you decided to pursue a career in law,  especially with a focus on Government Litigation ? 

    Firstly I would like to thank Superlawyer for this interview and convey  my deep appreciation for their endeavor. Law graduates would find my insights  useful while planning their professional journey. 

    Being the second generation lawyer, law was the obvious choice as I have been  watching my father attending court. Also the fact that law is one such mechanism  which touches human lives .It is one such avenue which can bring about positive  changes in this inequitable world. 

    I got through the National Law Institute University , (NLIU) Bhopal in 2007.I  started my practice at Allahabad High Court. After the elevation of my father as a  High Court Judge, I shifted to Delhi to practice at the Supreme Court in 2013.  One does not start with government litigation in the  formative years . I landed with ‘government panels’ after spending considerable  time in private practice. By God’s grace , I have been continuing the work for the past many years before the Supreme Court and different tribunals across Delhi. It’s  indeed a privilege to be part of a competent team of government lawyers where I  get to work on complex and high profile cases. I have gained considerable  experience while representing State Governments and Corporations. 

    With extensive experience in dealing with both State Governments and  Corporations, can you highlight a particular case that has been the most  challenging or memorable in your career so far?

    I have been extremely fortunate to have worked on a wide range of  cases.While every case I argue is close to my heart , but the one that stands out is  the service matter in which I appeared as a standing counsel on behalf of the Delhi  Transport Corporation before Delhi High Court. An Employee had resigned after  rendering 29 years of service.The court was inclined to grant relief on equitable  ground. I could successfully convince the court that the word “resignation” and  “voluntary retirement” cannot be used interchangeably in the case of an employee  and thus not entitled to retiral benefits. 

    Another satisfying case has been of a gazetted government officer wherein I was  able to secure the quashing of criminal proceedings as well as divorce under  Article 142 of the constitution from the Supreme Court . There were multiple cases lodged by his wife in different districts. 

    I have had the opportunity to assist the Senior Advocate/Advocate-on-Record(s) in several high profile cases like CBI autonomy ,Triple talaq Article 370 etc to  name a few. 

    How did your academic background shape your perspective and  approach towards practicing law? 

    Apart from my legal background , I believe my law school NLIU  played an important role in shaping my personality.Be it moot court participation or time bound completion of research papers involving rigorous research or  internships with top law firms have all contributed to my professional growth .  The interdisciplinary approach taught there has also enabled me to develop a  broader perspective which is helping me to diversify my practice .No wonder , I  never found any hurdles in adapting to the distinct practice culture of the Supreme  Court after shifting to Delhi from Allahabad (now Prayagraj) in 2013. I cracked  the Advocate-on-Record (AOR) exam in my very first attempt in 2019.

    It has been an enriching experience to represent the Government of India ,Uttar  Pradesh and Uttarakhand before the Supreme Court of India. I also appear before  different High Courts like Allahabad , Chandigarh etc frequently. 

    You have an LL.M. in Cyber Laws and have published articles in  prestigious journals. How has the specialization in Cyber Laws influenced  your practice, and what challenges do you often face in this dynamic field? 

    After some years of practice, I wanted to pursue post-graduation  However it was not possible to leave active practice and pursue studies.  Coronavirus Pandemic provided me an opportunity to pursue a two year masters’  program in Cyber Laws from School of Law and Legal Studies, Guru Gobind  Singh Indraprastha University [GGSIPU], Delhi. These two years not only gave  me invaluable insights, but also provided me with an alternative perspective  that is going to benefit my career as a lawyer. 

    E-commerce in India is moving forward by leaps and bounds. With it , there are  bound to be cyber crimes.We all have seen critically acclaimed web series  ‘Jamtara-Sabka Number Ayega’ where the phishing, a type of cybercrime, is undertaken in an organized manner by the village teenagers . I believe that the role of  Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the realm of cyber security looks promising.The  challenge remains to be seen in respect of effective implementation of AI systems  given the fact that such systems are going to be trained in safeguarding data. 

    As an Advocate-on-Record, you’ve appeared before various courts and  tribunals, including the Supreme Court and High Courts. Could you share  some insights into the differences in presenting cases in these forums and  how you navigate through them?

    I believe the approach varies from court to court.This is due to the fact that  the jurisdiction of each court is different . For instance, the Supreme Court is not  only the highest court of the land but also the final court of appeal.This mandates lawyers taking a different approach which one would not take before High Court  or Tribunal(s). It is like identifying the error committed by Court /Tribunal below  and presenting it in a limited time frame before Supreme Court judges. The case  with the High Court(s) is different as lawyers have the liberty to argue at length. 

    Practice in Trial courts involve more procedure laws while Higher courts involve  mostly appellate or writ jurisdiction dealing with legal issues relating to  substantive law. Facts are the main weapon of choice before the Trial courts  while Higher courts deal with nuances of law.However, I would add a caveat.  Facts are the backbone of every case irrespective of courts involved and lawyers should always be well versed with them .If left to me , I would say that every case  is decided on the facts and law helps in unearthing the truth and reaching at the  correct conclusion to promote justice. 

    Given your interest in writing articles and being invited by universities  to judge legal events, how do you balance your advocacy work with these  academic pursuits, and how do they complement each other in your  professional growth? 

    Being an Advocate actually provides the satisfaction of directly  representing the ‘aggrieved’ before the court. Whereas writing legal articles or  mentoring law students reflect my commitment of giving back to the legal  fraternity. 

    Both Advocacy and Academic pursuits might be distinct but they are essentially  complementary. Writing articles or mentoring allow me to engage with burning  legal topics on a broader scale. It provides me a platform to share my knowledge 

    and insights with my peers. It would be wrong If I don’t admit that writing brings  about an in-depth understanding of the legal principles. Meeting ‘like-minded’ professionals is another advantage. 

    Thus balancing practice with academic pursuits is challenging but immensely  fulfilling. 

    You’ve worked with different government bodies, including the  Government of India and various state governments. What unique  challenges or considerations arise when representing government entities  compared to private clients? 

    I have been appearing before the Supreme Court of India , Delhi High  Court, NCLT, NCLAT, and NCDRC. With over a decade of experience, I  personally feel that the case of Government bodies is often strong legally but  lacks either professional advice or proper representation. For instance, crucial  evidence is not adduced or documents vital for adjudication of the case are  not annexed before the Court/Tribunal(s) .Such instances have led to the  dismissal of cases before Supreme Court having financial ramifications. 

    When entrusted with a case , I try my best to go through the records thoroughly  and ensure superfluous claims are nipped in the bud and genuine claims, if any ,  remain for adjudication. Professional fee offered by the Government bodies is although meager but the volume of cases give consistent opportunity to appear before the Courts which enhances one’s nuanced understanding of law , not to  forget court craft. 

    Private clients on the other hand approach lawyers after taking painstaking  research about the reputation one enjoys in the market. I found such clients smart and attentive. But the problem crops up when it comes to managing their 

    expectation especially at a place like the Supreme Court where the dismissal rate of  cases is high at the admission stage. 

    I have been fortunate enough to get the best of both worlds. It has been so far a  transformative experience that has broadened my horizons and equipped me with  the skills necessary to handle extremely challenging propositions. 

    As a Managing Partner of Avika Law Offices LLP, and with reported  judgments to your credit, what advice would you offer to law graduates  entering the profession, particularly those interested in government  litigation ? 

    My journey from a law student to Managing Partner of Avika Law  Offices LLP has been a rewarding experience. I would urge law graduates aspiring to enter this dynamic profession to look for good mentors. It is extremely  important to have a good chamber in initial years which lays down a strong  foundation. Embrace lifelong learning considering the vastness of law as a  discipline. Constant updation is sine qua non .Go for additional qualifications to  hone skills .There are no shortcuts in this profession. Always uphold integrity.  

    Lastly, frequent interaction with peers and legal professionals is a fruitful idea as

    It provides both guidance and opportunities in the profession.

    Get in touch with Aviral Saxena-

  • ” I like the variety that comes with being a practising advocate. I did not deliberately choose these practice areas, most lawyers don’t get that choice– at least not initially when you’re starting out”- Devyani Gupta, Advocate-on-Record, Supreme Court of India

    ” I like the variety that comes with being a practising advocate. I did not deliberately choose these practice areas, most lawyers don’t get that choice– at least not initially when you’re starting out”- Devyani Gupta, Advocate-on-Record, Supreme Court of India

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

    Could you please share with us the pivotal moments or experiences that led you to pursue a career in law, particularly your journey from your undergraduate studies at National Law Institute University, Bhopal, to earning an LL.M. from Cornell Law School?

    I just went with the flow and ended up where I did. When I was in school, I was very sure that I’ll be studying English Hons. in Delhi University. Most of my classmates in school were heading to DU and I felt like that is where I want to be as well. But I cleared CLAT and allowed myself to be talked into studying law – and boy, am I glad I did! Although I was quite average academically, the five years I spent at Bhopal were very fulfilling. The decision to apply for Masters was also one without a lot of planning behind it –I was in the final year of my course, I had no job and I had no idea what I wanted to do. I made a last minute decision to apply for LL.M.. In fact, some of the admission deadlines for colleges had already passed by the time I got around to applying. My LL.M. year was very enriching and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

    As an Advocate-on-Record at the Supreme Court of India, you have a diverse range of experiences, including representing political parties and government departments. What motivated you to specialize in areas such as commercial law, service law, constitutional law, and election law?

    I like the variety that comes with being a practising advocate. I did not deliberately choose these practice areas, most lawyers don’t get that choice– at least not initially when you’re starting out. You say yes to all kinds of work. For me, this diversity is what keeps the work exciting and interesting.

    During your time at Cornell Law School, you served as an Associate Editor for the Cornell International Law Journal and as a Researcher for the Center on the Death Penalty Worldwide. How did these roles shape your perspective on the legal profession, and how do they contribute to your current work?

    My work as an Associate Editor for the Cornell International Law Journal felt like a natural extension of my work at the NLIU Law Review when I was in Bhopal. I had been a part of the journal since the first year, and continued up till my final fifth year when I was effectively in-charge of the Editorial Board – Content Review. At CILJ, I had an exposure to how much more professional these journals are; you work on tight deadlines, the articles and publications are by well-known academics, the editing is strict, the citations must always be as per the Bluebook. I feel like my editing experience helps me write and draft better. It instills an ability to discern good writing quickly.  

    My time as a Researcher with the Death Penalty Worldwide was shorter. I felt like I had taken on too much, what with all the credits and extra-curricular activities, and could not continue it for longer. 

    Drafting and researching constitute a big chunk of my professional responsibilities, so I’d say, yes, these experiences definitely help me now.  

    From your extensive internship experience, including working at Parekh & Co., Amarchand & Mangaldas & Suresh A Shroff & Co., and others, which experiences had the most significant impact on your development as a legal professional, and how did they influence your career choices?

    I did not do as many internships as some of my classmates and colleagues. But from the ones I did, I got a fair look into the workings of litigation chambers, litigation law firms and corporate law firms. I also got to work with an Intellectual Property Rights team, specifically the patents team of a law firm. Through these experiences, I realised that (A) I’m probably better suited as a litigating lawyer over a transactional one, and (B) I’d rather work with a small team of a few colleagues than with a large team of people. The internship experiences brought that clarity at some point.

    You’ve been involved in varied cases relating to Constitutional matters, and also many election disputes involving RP Act, symbol order etc. Can you share a specific case or experience that challenged you professionally and how you navigated through it?

    I think each case is a new challenge in itself. I cannot think of anything specific at the moment but I am looking forward to a few 7-judge bench matters that are scheduled to be listed where I am involved as the Advocate-on-Record. 

    What made you decide to take the New York Bar Exam? Have you had the experience of handling cases before US Courts as an Attorney and Counselor-at-Law in the State of New York. 

    Most international students in my LL.M. cohort were very keen on taking the New York Bar Exam. On finding that I can easily fulfil the eligibility requirement by taking certain credits from a list of a few select courses, I decided that I will also take the exam and see where it takes me if I pass. I was open to exploring work opportunities outside but I didn’t know what kind of law I wanted to practise. 

    I passed the NY Bar, but I came back to India soon thereafter and joined the litigation chamber of an Advocate-on-Record. The NY Bar qualification is now just an embellishment on my CV. My feet – and practice – are firmly planted in the Supreme Court of India.

     Lastly, considering your rich and varied experiences, what advice would you give to recent law graduates who are embarking on their legal careers?

    There is no straight line to success and everybody’s experiences are different. Don’t compare your path to others’. Stay motivated and stick it out. Showing up is half the battle.

    Get n touch with Devyani Gupta-

  • “Law aspirants should familiarize themselves with this disruptive technology  and understand its implications in a wide array of areas such as contract law, regulations, data privacy,  intellectual property, and digital currencies”- Anshuman Gupta, Counsel, Fox & Mandal

    “Law aspirants should familiarize themselves with this disruptive technology  and understand its implications in a wide array of areas such as contract law, regulations, data privacy,  intellectual property, and digital currencies”- Anshuman Gupta, Counsel, Fox & Mandal

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

    Sir, could you please share with our readers how your journey in law began and evolved, leading  you to specialize in commercial litigation, arbitration, and mediation? 

    I had intended to join the Indian Air Force as a reconnaissance pilot rather than practice  law. The National Defence Academy in Pune required unaided 6/6 eye vision as a visual criterion  and a passing grade in mathematics and physics in 12th standard as an educational requirement for  admission to the Air Force wing. However, when I was in my early teens, I developed myopia and  found that I struggled with mathematics. It implied that I wouldn’t even meet the eligibility criteria  to take the entrance exam. At first, I was dejected, but as they say time is a great healer! 

    Years passed by and in my high school years, I developed an interest in civics and business studies  which contained chapters on constitution, business law and ethics which propelled me to take up  commerce stream in 11th standard and eventually I pursued undergraduate course in law. I took up  internships with an independent counsel, LPO and law firms to understand different facets of law  and organizational structure of lawyers. Initially, I worked on a bouquet of dispute resolution matters, 

    My work included inter alia real estate, testamentary, writ, arbitration, commercial, company,  banking, labour and with the passage of time, I realised that my area of interest was in commercial  litigation, arbitration and mediation. 

    You’ve achieved significant recognition, being enlisted by Forbes India and acknowledged by  The Legal 500 and with experience across various industry sectors, from aviation to real estate, you’ve  covered a wide array of legal areas. How do you manage to navigate and excel in such diverse practice  areas? 

    I believe to excel in diverse legal practice areas, a thorough understanding of facts and  legal issues, effective strategy and planning, and time management are crucial. Keeping abreast of  recent updates through legal publications is also essential.  

    A successful lawyer should adopt a personable approach, comprehensively understanding the client’s  business, and creatively using resources to address the legal issues. In my view, continuous learning  and dedication to provide quality support to my clients drives my motivation to excel. In addition to  this, a successful lawyer must imbibe the spirit of learning throughout one’s career and be able to  creatively use its resources to fulfill the requirements of the client. 

    Your academic background includes an LLM in International and Commercial Law from King’s  College London. How has your international education shaped and influenced you?   

    Pursuing a master’s degree in London on a scholarship gave me a great deal of exposure  to a relatively different university pedagogy and to students from diverse backgrounds. The subjects  were more advanced and in-depth than those I studied in the undergraduate law program and writing  assignments and thesis helped me develop my research and analytical skills. Most of the assignments  which were given to us revolved around practical legal issues compelling us to apply our legal  knowledge in real-world settings. 

    Pursuing a degree abroad also made me become self-reliant and independent. I think when you face  challenges independently, you develop resilience and confidence which benefits you in various  aspects of life. 

    Interacting with fellow international students and locals enabled me to expand my network. Building  friendships establishes a global alumni network, expanding your horizons and introducing you to  diverse ideas and perspectives that may not have been part of your previous considerations.

    From your independent practice to your current role at Fox & Mandal, you’ve navigated various  professional settings. How has this journey contributed to your personal and professional growth,  and what key lessons have you learned along the way? 

    Working in diverse work environments enabled me to understand the perspectives and  challenges one goes through in its legal practice. For example, in an independent counsel setting,  one needs to pay attention to the legal cases as well as take care of administrative tasks such as billing,  operational requirements of the setup and HR aspects etc. However, in a law firm you might be  spared from the administrative responsibilities and focus only on your work that has been assigned  to you.  

    It is essential to know and understand your role in each professional setting. Once this is clear in  your mind, it will be easier to handle and navigate the work and the expectations of your seniors and  your team. Another thing to remember is that the learning in this profession never stops. The law,  and the practice, is constantly evolving. You either evolve with it or be left behind.  

    In my short professional journey, I have learnt that one must be open to embrace new opportunities. It is only when you open yourself up, wonderful opportunities come your way to help you polish  your skills and be instrumental in your professional and personal growth. 

    For law students and recent graduates aspiring to build a successful career, what advice would  you give based on your own experiences and observations within the legal industry?   

    I believe law students and graduates should act like a sponge trying to absorb knowledge  and information from wherever they receive, be it reading an article/newspaper/blog, or listening to the submissions advanced by counsels or observations made by the judge in a courtroom or  discussion on a legal topic with colleagues over lunch.  

    I also believe that one must have the hunger and passion to excel in his/her field of specialization.  In addition, one must also be honest towards the work assigned to them. When you give your all to  the matter, whether you win or lose, it does not matter, what matters is – did I give my best? If your answer is yes, you will get immense gratification, there will be no regrets. 

    I’ve learned that being organized and having your case files at hand is crucial, whether you’re  conducting your own study or research or briefing a senior counsel. 

    Another factor which is instrumental in building a successful career is having a mentor to offer you guidance and support when you require the most. I consider myself fortunate to have numerous  mentors in my field like Mr. Sanjay Kumar Pathak, Mr. Kanishk Vardhan Shahi, Mr. Sonal Kumar  Singh and Mr. Kunal Vajani who have shaped both my professional and personal development. My  deepest gratitude to all of them.  

    Considering the evolving landscape of law and legal practice, are there specific trends or changes  that you foresee impacting the field in the coming years? How should aspiring lawyers prepare for  these changes? 

    The Covid-19 pandemic has not only showcased the feasibility of remote work but also  emphasized the flourishing potential through effective work procedures and cutting-edge  technologies, a concept previously unthinkable. 

    This shift emphasizes the increasing significance of technology in the legal sector. Whether you’re a  law student or a legal professional, proficiency in working efficiently in virtual environments and  familiarity with online collaboration tools is essential in the evolving landscape. 

    One trend which is already making its impact felt across the entire world is generative artificial  intelligence (AI). AI is being increasingly used by law firms/companies nowadays for document  review, legal research, contract analysis, communication etc. Aspiring Lawyers should make  themselves acquainted with legal tech tools and understand how technology is transforming the way  we practice law. 

    Furthermore, the use of blockchain technology and smart contracts is increasing across industries, including legal practice. Despite challenges, blockchain has revolutionized the world of  technology and business. Law aspirants should familiarize themselves with this disruptive technology  and understand its implications in a wide array of areas such as contract law, regulations, data privacy,  intellectual property, and digital currencies. 

    Finally, drawing on your extensive experience, what advice would you offer to fresh law  graduates who are just starting their professional journeys in the legal field? 

    The early years of this profession are the formative years and important for the fresh  law graduates. I reckon in my early years of the profession; a senior advocate narrated the importance  of commitment in the profession by quoting United States Supreme Court Justice Joseph Story – “The law is a jealous mistress and requires long and constant courtship. It is not to be won by trifling  favors, but by lavish homage.” One needs to devote a lot of time to the subject and not be casual in  the approach. Commitment and perseverance are inseparable and work hand in hand for success. As a practicing lawyer, I have realized that learning in this profession is perpetual. Embracing the  idea of being a lifelong student is paramount, resonating with the timeless adage, “Once a student,  always a student.”

    Get in touch with Anshuman Gupta-


  •  “I have come to the conclusion that in the intensely dynamic environment that we live in where the laws are revolving on a constant basis, it is imperative to have at least the bare minimum knowledge of all fields of law, so as to best advise your client” – Shashwat Tripathi, Advocate on record at the Supreme Court of India

     “I have come to the conclusion that in the intensely dynamic environment that we live in where the laws are revolving on a constant basis, it is imperative to have at least the bare minimum knowledge of all fields of law, so as to best advise your client” – Shashwat Tripathi, Advocate on record at the Supreme Court of India

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

    Can you share with us how your journey in law began, and what inspired you to pursue a career in litigation and dispute resolution?

    Specialization and Expertise: Commercial Litigation, Insolvency and Arbitration. 

    To be honest, I belong to a family of lawyers, my father and my elder brother are both lawyers, although both have worked/work in starkly different fields. One (my elder brother), being a hardcore IPR expert and the other (my father) who has seen the growth of litigation in the once colonial town of Allahabad and been actively involved in service matters before various High Courts. 

    As they say, you sooner or later become a victim of your surroundings. However, in my case, it worked for the best and I can turn the statement around and say, “I am a true by-product of my enriching and encouraging surroundings”!

    I would often as a child accompany my father to the court or interact with his colleagues and associates at home as well as in social spheres. In my opinion (of course as lawyers we are bred in a manner to specify our opinions !) my liking and fondness towards the profession began then itself, in my formative years. Thereafter I saw my brother go to law school as well, which is when my intentions to pursue a career in law solidified and I was sure that I wanted to become a lawyer. 

    My decision to pursue litigation is however a result of my internships and work experiences at various law offices. The irony is that my first job offer and might I add, with a hefty pay in a big firm, was NOT in litigation but the General Corporate  team. However, even then, I refused to take up that opportunity and decided to start all over with the process so long as I was given Litigation. Thus, inherently, my brain and heart were always drawn towards litigation. 

    With expertise in civil and commercial disputes, arbitration, intellectual property, and more, what specific aspects of law drew you in, and how did you develop such a diverse skill set over the years?

    My personal favourite has always been the constitution, which is why I was driven to even appear for the Advocates-on Record examination, which I successfully cleared in the year 2022!

    However, over the last couple of years, I have come to the conclusion that in the intensely dynamic environment that we live in where the laws are revolving on a constant basis, it is imperative to have at least the bare minimum knowledge of all fields of law, so as to best advise your client. Let’s say you have a client who approaches you for a simple case of corporate fraud, your advice however will start on the basic provisions of companies act in the north pole and span to filing a criminal complaint in the south pole. For the naked eye, one is a civil remedy and one is criminal, but for me, both are equally important. Thus, I feel, skill sets also develop over the years based on the kind of matters and briefs you receive or work on as well as the happenings  and trivia in the legal fora, which in my view, every budding lawyer should keep pace with. 

    Establishing your own law firm is a significant accomplishment. What motivated you to form Aeddhaas Legal, LLP, and how has the experience of working with accomplished legal professionals influenced your approach to legal practice?

    From the time I decided I wanted to pursue a career in litigation, I had my eyes on like a hawk!! on opening my own law firm and setting up my practice. 

    I was fortunate to have met people who I connected and bonded well with, who echoed the same feeling as mine, and thus, we all got together and created Aeddhaas. 

    One thing I learnt the most from all the stalwarts at the bar as well as all the accomplished legal professionals I have worked with is the golden rule of always being prepared. One thing I preach to every lawyer is that you must always read your brief to the fullest  (of course over time you learn the art of swiftly navigating ) as well as prepare your draft after a detailed research to seal any/all loopholes. A good draft in my opinion is not one which runs into 100 pages but one which briefly summarizes the issue in question. At the same time, a good argument is not the one which involved showing to the court every document (in most cases pleadings exceed 10000 pages!!), but one where the advocate runs through the essentials, to touch the heart of the case. 

    I also learnt the benefits of team work and how to be calm and patient even in the time of an urgency to take the right decisions. 

    Thus, Aeddhaas for me is the final dish, of all such ingredients, hard work, team building, patience (most important virtue of a lawyer) and attentiveness! 

    Your experience in handling matters under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code is extensive. Can you share insights into the complexities involved in such cases and the strategic considerations one needs to keep in mind?

    Insolvency and Bankruptcy code is now one of the most commonly invoked statutes in our country. I have always had an affinity towards commercial laws and hence, once the code was published, I was naturally drawn towards the same. 

    To be frank, as it is still fairly new as a law in our country, it still keeps evolving. It’s an extensive statute with various regulations and rules made thereunder. 

    I would recommend that to be abreast, the best way is to read the recent judgments and monthly updates released by various legal media. Nowadays live law and bar and bench upload updates even before the judgments are released online! Life has become easy because of them. So, we must use these mediums to our benefit. 

    For handling matters under the IBC, strategy planning with regard to the end goal at the very initial stage, whether you are for the corporate debtor or the creditors, goes a long way.  

    With a focus on arbitration matters, including those related to construction contracts and commercial agreements, what role do you see arbitration playing in resolving disputes, and how has the landscape evolved during your career?

    Arbitration is the need of the hour. In my opinion an arbitration clause has become as important as a confidentiality clause in any agreement/contract and there has been a paradigm shift worldwide towards arbitrating disputes viz entering into long drawn litigation battles, which in case of international commercial contracts is a nightmare, be it in the initial stages of overcoming the hurdle of jurisdiction or seeking the enforcement of a decree. 

    Having said this, even though the Indian Arbitration Act was enacted to be time bound, today, realistically speaking the Appellate courts are burdened with appeals and challenges to the awards passed by arbitrators, leading to a delay in execution. All in all however, the interim reliefs and ease of dispute management are unparalleled with arbitration. 

    Unlike courts that are often overwhelmed with a high volume of cases each day, comparatively, arbitration provides parties with more time and opportunities to present their arguments. In arbitration proceedings, parties have more flexibility in scheduling hearings and presenting evidence, which can result in a more efficient and streamlined resolution of disputes. This is because arbitration is a private and confidential process, and the parties have more control over the proceedings, including the selection of the arbitrator (who can be a specialist in case of subject matter being technical in nature). As such, arbitration can be a more attractive option for parties seeking a faster and more cost-effective resolution of their disputes.

    Reflecting on your career, what would you consider as the key milestones or turning points, and how have any challenges or setbacks contributed to your growth as a legal professional?

    Well I am fortunate to not come across any setbacks as yet and I hope it continues to be the same. My journey so far has been exactly the way I thought it would be. Turning point is of course setting my own practice and qualifying the Advocates-on Record examination.

    The transition from working for someone else or a law firm to establishing one’s own practice presents numerous challenges beyond just completing tasks. In addition to securing new clients and meeting their expectations, there are other obstacles to overcome such as financial management, marketing, and building a reputation in the legal community. These challenges can be overwhelming, but successfully navigating them is a significant milestone for any lawyer.

    As a legal professional, it is my duty to provide my clients with the most effective solution within a specific timeframe. So far, I have been doing justice to my work and that I think the actual growth one should be aiming for.

    As someone with a wealth of experience, what advice would you offer to law graduates entering the field today, especially those aspiring to build a successful career in litigation and dispute resolution?

    Law is a dynamic field. You could be making policies sitting in the parliament  or  challenging their implementation. You could be the mastermind behind a watertight contract or the person whose job is to find ways to read into the clauses. You could be the one because of whom we resonate a tick to Nike and an apple to Apple) or the one because of whom an acquisition or merger failed.

    My advice is simple, whatever it is that you intend to do, be it corporate, litigation (civil or criminal), be it IPR or policy, one should begin planning their way forward the day you step foot in law school. I am sure there are days when confusion is bound to occur, however, the sooner you surpass that, you will be way ahead of many others by the time you graduate. You would get the advantage of taking up internships in the specific field and building your CV, additional courses, writing papers and attending conferences in the field of your preference. This way, by the time you graduate out of law school, you are not a ripe student looking for direction, but someone who would add value to the place which hires you.

    Get in touch with Shashwat Tripathi-

  • “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–

  • “To be well-prepared, one must consider all aspects of the file. While you may have read it, meticulous attention to every minute detail is essential, depending upon the nature of the case being argued.” – Ayush Negi, Advocate-on-Record, Supreme Court of India.

    “To be well-prepared, one must consider all aspects of the file. While you may have read it, meticulous attention to every minute detail is essential, depending upon the nature of the case being argued.” – Ayush Negi, Advocate-on-Record, Supreme Court of India.

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

    Your family has a rich legal legacy, with your grandfather being the first Advocate General of Uttarakhand. How has this legacy influenced your journey as a third-generation lawyer, and what values or lessons have you carried forward from your family’s legal background?

    I have always been around lawyers at my house and have had the opportunity to be inspired by my grandfather and my father. My grandfather always used to tell me that all I can give you is the family name and the rest is upon you what you make out of it, so till date, I’m trying to live up to his legacy and be a better lawyer every day. The lesson I have learnt is that hard work is the key to success no matter what generation you are if you don’t work hard you will not get work one needs to constantly keep working on his advocacy skills and perform better every day.

    Transitioning from a small law firm to establishing your own practice is undoubtedly a significant step. Can you share a memorable experience or a turning point in your early career that shaped your approach to building your practice from the ground up?

     I learnt the basics of drafting and working with a small team at the law firm. I still remember my senior used to always ask us where do you see yourself in 5 years and I told him that I see myself as an Advocate on Record at the Supreme Court of India, so that was my manifestation and somehow with the grace of god I could achieve it in my first attempt. Thereafter I started hustling and doing small matters at the trial court and kept working constantly at honing my drafting and argument skills. I would like to especially thank Adv Dattatrey Vyas who was my immediate senior in the law firm for constantly helping me by vetting my drafts and guiding me through the drafting process while I was at the firm and later when I was away. I think I was lucky to have good mentors like Adv. Anurag Tomar who gave me constant opportunities to argue and appear before various forums right from the beginning of my career which paved the way for me to argue matters before the Supreme Court of India. One of the few instances I remember is while arguing an admission matter before a division bench presided by Justice Gyan Sudha Mishra at the Supreme Court, it was a MACT matter and I argued all the aspects and informed the court about the injuries on the lower part of the left leg of the petitioner, the court after hearing me asked about the exact part of the leg and the nature of the injury which at that point of time was not very clear in the documents as there was some medical term used which was not known to me or the court. The court then passed over the matter to enable me to take instructions about the same and eventually when the matter was heard I was able to answer the query of the court and notice was issued in the matter. The lesson I learnt is that one has to be well prepared from all aspects of the file no doubt you may have read the file, but one has to be careful about every minute detail depending upon the nature of the case being argued.

    You’ve been practicing law across various courts, including the Supreme Court of India and the National Green Tribunal. How do you manage the dynamics of different legal forums, and do you have a preference for any particular type of cases?

    Practicing across various forums can be tiresome at times as we have a lot of running around to be done apart from the preparation for the matters to be argued at various stages. But having a good team of associates around who help ease the burden by holding the fort while I can travel from one court to the other at times. But yes we have over time developed an effective way of taking separate dates for various courts so there is no clash between cases. But I constantly motivate my juniors to start arguing applications before the trial courts or tribunals so that they build up the confidence and eventually pave way for them to start their own practise later in life. Though I am most comfortable at the Supreme Court of India, but yes I love appearing before trial court and have had the opportunity of appearing before Trial courts and High courts across states like U.P, Uttarakhand, Punjab etc. There is a whole lot of thrill in the process of cross-examination which I truly love about trial court advocacy which requires a different skill set especially compared to appellate court advocacy and appearing before trial court is always enriching.

    As Counsel for the State of Uttarakhand at the National Green Tribunal, you’ve been involved in cases related to environmental issues. How does your role contribute to your personal commitment to environmental sustainability, and do you have any personal initiatives in this regard?

    I have been on the panel of State of Uttarakhand at the National Green Tribunal, Principal Bench Delhi right from 2017 and have been appearing regularly. After the retirement of Retd Justice Swatatantra Kumar from the post of Chairperson the approach of NGT of dealing with matters had changed drastically as they started the process of letter petitions the filing of Original Applications came down drastically and reduced the role of counsels to a large extent which in one way made the court more accessible to the common man, but yes the role of state counsels and other counsels was reduced to very minimal until and unless a specific response was called from a particular authority on an issue. Rest we keep assisting courts as and when we are called upon to file Joint inspection reports or filing responses and explaining the stand of the authorities. Further with regard to my personal view on sustainability I as an individual try to save water and electricity and follow basic civic rules of not littering around on highways or public roads etc. I think if all the citizens of the country follow these rules strictly then our country will be a much cleaner place. I think awareness amongst people about waste management can take our country a long way towards environmental sustainability.

    Balancing criminal trials along with civil trials is not common among lawyers. What motivated you to diversify into criminal trials, and how do you approach the unique challenges they present?

    As I have already mentioned my love for trial court advocacy, especially the part of cross-examination of a witness, so I have done my fair share of civil trials and  Criminal Trials under section138 Negotiable Instrument Act cases and had never thought of delving into criminal trials but, recently in 2021 one client approached me for conducting a criminal trial under POCSO Act at Ghaziabad Sessions court, after going through the file and as the matter was at evidence stage in the peculiar facts and circumstances I took up the matter and eventually the Prosecutrix a 11-year-old girl went hostile which led to the conviction of my client after the incarceration of 3 years. My experience in this trial was worth sharing first and foremost is the non-adhering to the basic principles of an In-camera trial as envisaged under the Section 37 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act 2012, though the same is followed to the teeth in the trial courts in Delhi, but I was shocked to see that the evidence of the prosecutrix including the examination in chief and the cross-examination was all done in open court.

    After this trial, I have taken up a few more matters including a trial under SC/ST act before the Rohini Court and another matter under section 376/354 of the IPC on behalf of the accused before the Dwaraka Sessions Court. But, yes for the readers I have to clarify that while I have taken up these matters I did thorough research on the subject matters of these cases and did a lot of consultation with senior colleagues who have had long experiences in handling these matters before the trial court, it is very crucial that we know the finer nuances of such trials before we start conducting one as life and liberty of person depends on us.

    Apart from this some basic things that I felt were a problem in other states was the lack of judicial infrastructure like stenographers for judges and in some courts, the courts even didn’t have a computer system. I think little changes in the whole justice administration system would affect the quality of the justice being delivered across all courts, especially trial courts.

    Your 45-day judicial internship with Justice Dalveer Bhandari seems to have been a turning point. How did this experience influence your perspective on legal practice, especially in the Supreme Court, and set the course for your career?

    The internship with Retd Justice Dalveer Bhandari is where it all started and it was my first experience at observing the practice and procedure at the Supreme Court of India. I along with my friend had the special privilege back then to join this internship as then the clerkship and the internship program was only for the students of the National Law Institutes and we would have had no chance at getting the internship if our Professor Ms Deesha Meshram had not provided us this opportunity. We were in our 8th Semester of 5-year Integrated law Course and had the basic knowledge of the subjects such as CPC, CRPC, Evidence etc, but this internship changed our perspective. During the internship our tasks included reading briefs of admission hearing matters and preparing a brief note and then finally presenting the matter before Justice Bhandari just like we do now in the Supreme court before the Hon’ble Judges, he would then ask us basic questions about the case about findings in the trial court judgement and things like issue involved etc. This exercise majorly helped me to see up close how the mind of a Supreme judge works and a brief idea of the kind of queries that can entail in a fresh matter. Our tasks also included providing the law clerk with research materials in the after-notice matters apart from observing the matters that we had briefed sir on being argued in court. It was truly an enriching experience and it was only after this internship that I made up my mind about settling down in Delhi and practising before the Supreme Court of India. Some of my positive takeaways from this internship were learning the basic skill of reading an SLP and the relevant papers, preparing a note and relevant case research on the subject matter and knowing how the synopsis and list of dates play a very crucial role in the fate of the matter before the Supreme Court.

    You’ve represented organizations like the National Institute of Technology, Srinagar (Garhwal), and provided litigation support to companies on a retainer basis. How do you navigate the dual role of legal advisor and litigator, and what challenges and rewards come with this multifaceted approach to legal practice?

    Over the span of 12 years of being a litigator i have had the opportunity to represent many corporations and companies before various courts some of them would be Uttarakhand University, NIT Uttarakhand,Transunion CIBIL, Carnival Cinemas etc. the key to working with big organisations and corporations is timely delivery of work and adhering to high professional standards. I completed my 1-year Post Graduate Diploma in Entrepreneurship Administration and Business Laws from NUJS, Kolkatta in 2016 which helped me equip myself with practical skills related to business laws. Later in time, I ventured into providing my services on the advisory side related to Contract Drafting and allied services related to day to day functioning of the companies so that the companies could avoid or at least try to keep their disputes and litigation to the minimum. Time management and organising the work schedule between courts and the advisory work is the key to balancing the work between both the fields and rest having a good team to assist me helps me a lot. The benefit of playing the dual role of litigator and legal advisor helps one to broaden one’s horizon and then you are never short of work.

    In addition to your legal responsibilities, you’ve represented the Cricket Association of Uttarakhand. Are you an avid cricket fan yourself, and if so, do you have a favourite cricket memory or player that you hold dear?

    I like the game of Cricket and follow all the major tournaments, IPL etc., but no I have not played cricket at any level as such. I have been appearing for the CAU before Uttarakhand HC, District Courts and before the Hon’ble Ombudsman which is an internal dispute mechanism at the Association. Associating with the CAU has also been a great learning experience in getting to know the nuances involved in the cricketing field and kind of dispute and the resolution process before the Ombudsman which all is done in terms of the Constitution of the Association which is framed under the aegis of BCCI.

    Clearing the AOR exams is a significant accomplishment. How has being an Advocate on Record at the Supreme Court impacted your career, and what advice would you give to aspiring lawyers aiming for a similar milestone?

    As I mentioned earlier, clearing the AOR Exam was my dream from the day I started practising because I had fair knowledge about the role that is played by an AOR in the Supreme Court of India through my previous internship experience with Retd Justice Dalveer Bhandari. Nowadays we see a lot of people who have not practised at the Supreme Court or intend to practice at Supreme Court think that it’s crucial for one to be an AOR to appear before the Supreme Court which is not the case. The fact of the matter is merely clearing AOR exam doesn’t help one start practise at Supreme Court, but yes my advice would be that one should join some chamber and get to know the basic procedures of the court and functioning of the court and then try to clear the exam it would really help to make the mark may be in your first attempt. Further with regards to the exam I would advise all those who are preparing to start with the Supreme Court Rules and practising drafting petitions on paper as with the advent of computers we are more used to typing on our laptops you may be thorough with drafting but it’s really a difficult task when comes to doing the same manually, so the key is to try and time yourself in solving the previous year’s drafting problems that will give you an edge while you write your paper. My last word of advice is that try and keep the presentation of your answer neat considering the time you have to write the paper and answer all the questions.

    Get in touch with Ayush Negi-

  • “Litigation is 10% intelligence and 90% diligence and Every citizen is capable of understanding the law, provided it is explained in simple language” – Shrutanjaya Bhardwaj, Counsel & Founder, Pravah Law Offices.

    “Litigation is 10% intelligence and 90% diligence and Every citizen is capable of understanding the law, provided it is explained in simple language” – Shrutanjaya Bhardwaj, Counsel & Founder, Pravah Law Offices.

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

    We are extremely delighted to have you with us for this interview. To start, could you please introduce yourself and share the inspiration behind establishing Pravah Law Offices?

    Thank you for having me. I have been a Delhi-based practising lawyer since 2017. The bulk of my practise is at the Supreme Court, which is also the forum where I learnt the maximum work as an associate with my mentors, Ms. Haripriya Padmanabhan and Mr. Gopal Sankaranarayanan.

    ‘Pravah Law’ is the official designation of my law chambers. The primary motivation behind establishing it was to foster a distinct professional identity that resonates with my core values and expertise, to enhance the efficiency and organization of my practice.

    Being awarded the Vice-Chancellor’s Gold Medal for ‘Best Male Student’ is a remarkable achievement. How has your academic journey, including your time at National Law University, Delhi, influenced your approach to law and legal practice?

    Getting the Vice-Chancellor’s Gold Medal was a big confidence booster because of what it signifies: it is awarded to two students from each batch, male and female, who graduate with the best all-round performance. Incidentally, even at my school’s farewell function, I was awarded the ‘Best All-Rounder’ trophy—something I cherish more than any other recognition I’ve received. I enjoy being able to handle multiple activities and projects together. In college, I was an avid sportsperson, musician and mooter (in that order) with an interest in many other extra-curricular activities. 

    As regards academics, those five years were formative. My teachers at NLU Delhi were outstanding in terms of how much they pushed us. For instance, we were made to prepare bulky, complex judgments and other texts within tight deadlines—not just read the material, but also form polished opinions about it. This seemed impossible back then. We kept complaining about being forced to meet unrealistic standards! But I realise with every passing day as to how much edge those exercises can give you in a profession where reading is everything and everything is to be read. I owe a lot to NLU Delhi.

    Your LL.M. at the University of Michigan Law School was accompanied by the prestigious Michigan Grotius Fellowship. How did this international exposure shape your perspective on law, and what key lessons did you bring back to your practice in India?

    It was a terrific experience. UMich gives you the freedom to design your course by choosing any combination of subjects. So, besides my law subjects (media law, freedom of speech & religion, equality law etc.), I selected a few subjects situated at the intersection of law and philosophy, which significantly contributed to my intellectual growth. My teachers were excellent and my classmates were intelligent and accomplished, which made classes engaging and challenging. It was exactly the kind of quality I wanted in my higher education.

    Looking back, my most important learning in Ann Arbor was that there’s always another way—to think of a legal problem, articulate an argument, research case law, and even draft a memorandum—if only one is willing. I find that many colleagues here are used to old methods that may no longer work, at least not as effectively as one would like. The mere willingness to try another way can produce great results. And it requires no earth-shattering effort; sometimes, it is as simple as learning a new technological tool, shortening your drafts, using visual representations (graphs instead of paragraphs), making a LinkedIn profile, or even writing an email that you thought would be futile.

    Law Vaarta is a unique blend of Hindi and English, making legal discussions more accessible. What inspired you to start this podcast, and how has the response been from your audience?

    I believe that law is not as elusive as it is made out to be. Every citizen is capable of understanding the law, provided it is explained in simple language. Unfortunately, discussions around the law on TV and other media are either superficial or too technical-sounding. That is why I felt that a platform is required where complex legal issues are explained in straightforward language without losing their complexity.

    I am delighted with the response the podcast has received. People have been kind in their appreciation as well as criticism, both of which are aimed at improving the quality of the content. I’m learning new things about content creation on the go. In 2024, I intend to increase the reach of the podcast through interactive content that will cater specifically to law students and young litigators, in the hope that litigation can become a more accessible profession.

    Your research covers various topics, from constitutional rights to online gaming legislation. What upcoming research projects or areas of interest are you currently exploring?

    Over the past couple of years, I have picked up an interest in empirical research on judicial behaviour. I am currently working on two projects relating to preventive detention and one on India’s abortion law. All three projects are geared towards understanding the behaviour of the Supreme Court and High Courts in cases involving the fundamental rights of citizens. For instance, in the preventive detention research, I am trying to map the speed with which our constitutional courts act in habeas corpus petitions against illegal detentions.

    The Right to Receive Information is an upcoming publication. Can you give our readers a sneak peek into what conceptual problems you explore in this piece?

    In the post-emergency years, the Supreme Court infused many fundamental rights with expansive content. The right to receive information was a product of this exercise. The Supreme Court held that the right to “speak” under Article 19 of the Constitution includes the right to “know”. I find this to be somewhat of a logical jump. There is no doubt that an informed citizen will exercise their right to free speech more meaningfully, but it is hard to agree with the proposition that there is no right to free speech without full or proper information about the subject matter. Anyway, the paper mainly explores the judicial approach to the right to receive information over the years, first, on whether the right is horizontal or vertical, and second, on whether there are any additional grounds on which the right to receive information can be restricted over and above the grounds listed in Article 19(2). The paper finds that the judicial approach on both counts has been thoroughly inconsistent and requires clarity.

    On a personal note, outside the legal realm, what are your hobbies or activities that bring you joy and relaxation?

    I try and do everything that interests me: poetry, sports, music and beyond. Lately, I have been exploring coding to automate some of my daily tasks as a litigator, which would help me save time on clerical work and focus on the more substantive aspects of the law.

    Looking ahead, what are your future goals or aspirations for Pravah Law Offices 

    As the chamber’s work grows, increasing the size of the team has been on my mind. In fact, Pravah Law recently finished one round of hiring. To my good fortune, I have generous mentors and supportive clients, and I am sure the chamber will grow rapidly with their blessings.

    Other than that, I endeavor that Pravah Law remains ahead of the curve in terms of technological infrastructure and awareness. I believe lawyers must upgrade and upskill every year. Artificial intelligence is making path-breaking advances by the minute, and I do not doubt that lawyers will have to catch up to stay relevant. 

    Considering your multifaceted journey, what advice would you offer to aspiring lawyers, especially those who are interested in a diverse legal practice or engaging in legal academia?

    ‘Advice’ is a tricky concept. Everyone comes from a different context and must figure out their own ways. But I would pass on the following helpful pieces of advice that I have followed:

    1. “Litigation is 10% intelligence and 90% diligence.”
    2. “Don’t settle for mediocrity.”
    3. “Writing is thinking.”

    Get in touch with Shrutanjaya Bhardwaj-