Super Lawyer

Tag: Criminal

  • The legal profession offers a vast array of opportunities, and your career journey can be as unique as you are- Bharat Sharma, Advocate at the Supreme Court of India and Managing Partner at Praxous De Legal Law Firm

    The legal profession offers a vast array of opportunities, and your career journey can be as unique as you are- Bharat Sharma, Advocate at the Supreme Court of India and Managing Partner at Praxous De Legal Law Firm

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

    You started your career teaching German and later ventured into the world of finance and law. Can you share the pivotal moments that led you to this diverse career path?

    • “My career path is a tapestry of diverse experiences, woven together by a passion for continuous learning and a relentless drive to excel.”
    • “From the classrooms of language instruction to the high-stakes world of finance and law, my journey has been marked by pivotal moments that have deepened my understanding of diverse fields.”
    • “I transitioned from shaping minds through language instruction to shaping financial futures, where I learned that every success story is a testament to the power of knowledge and dedication.”
    • “The financial and legal sectors exposed me to the complexities of the modern world, where I realized that my ability to help people extended beyond language and education.”
    • “My journey underscores the importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities that align with one’s core values and a commitment to making a meaningful impact.”
    • “Teaching German and guiding students was the foundation of my career, but my foray into finance and law was the bridge that allowed me to connect with people on a deeper level, addressing their financial and legal needs.”
    • “In the world of finance and law, I discovered that my background in education was not a departure but a valuable foundation for effective communication, problem-solving, and client advocacy.”
    • During this period, I honed my skills and managed investment portfolios for high-net-worth clients globally. The corporate banking and insurance industry taught me the value of customer-centricity, and I climbed the career ladder with eight consecutive promotions, earning numerous accolades and certifications. Being recognized among the top 10 managers in the entire Delhi region was a significant milestone.
    • “My diverse career path has taught me that success is not confined to a single field; it is a reflection of one’s ability to adapt, learn, and embrace new challenges with enthusiasm.”
    • However, a pivotal moment occurred when I encountered a distressed client who had fallen victim to insurance fraud. This incident awakened my desire to help individuals facing white-collar crimes and misconduct. It led me to transition into the field of law and join my father’s law firm, where I could provide legal aid and support to those in need.
    • In summary, my diverse career path is a culmination of my experiences in teaching, entrepreneurship, finance, and law. Each phase has contributed to my growth and shaped my commitment to making a positive impact on people’s lives. My journey has been guided by a passion for learning, a desire to help others, and a drive to excel in diverse fields, ultimately leading me to where I am today.”

    There was a significant turning point when you helped a client recover a substantial sum from fraudulent insurance policies. What was the most challenging aspect of this case, and how did it inspire your interest in legal aid for white-collar crimes?

    • “The turning point in my career occurred during a profoundly challenging case where I assisted a client in recovering a substantial sum from fraudulent insurance policies. This experience not only tested my problem-solving abilities but also ignited my passion for providing legal aid in the realm of white-collar crimes.
    • The most challenging aspect of this case was uncovering the extensive web of deception that had ensnared my client. He had fallen victim to individuals who had impersonated IRDA management Officials, engaging in misconduct and selling fraudulent insurance policies with false promises of bonuses and RBI Bonds worth a staggering amount.
    • What made this case particularly daunting was the sheer magnitude of the deception – my client carried a trolley bag filled with 167 insurance policy bonds from over 10 insurance companies, totalling a premium amount of 3.8 Crores. It was a complex and overwhelming situation.
    • As I delved deeper into the case, I realized the depth of despair that had befallen my client and many others who had been similarly deceived. He had even attempted suicide, which added an emotional layer to the already intricate legal aspects of the case.
    • The process of uncovering the fraud and assisting my client in recovering his investments was an arduous journey that required meticulous research, legal expertise, and unwavering dedication. I worked tirelessly for over six months, tirelessly navigating the intricacies of the insurance industry, and coordinating with various insurance companies to secure the refunds. Ultimately, 159 out of 167 policies were successfully refunded, amounting to 3.54 Crores. Witnessing my client’s relief and gratitude was an incredibly rewarding moment in my career.
    • This experience profoundly affected me and kindled a deep-seated desire to assist individuals facing white-collar crimes, where unsuspecting victims often suffer substantial losses. It made me acutely aware of the prevalence of such crimes in India and the need for legal professionals to step forward and provide support.
    • This case became a pivotal moment that guided me towards transitioning into the field of law, ultimately leading me to join my father’s law firm. It underscored the importance of legal advocacy and the critical role that lawyers can play in safeguarding the rights and interests of individuals in the face of financial misconduct and fraud. My commitment to this cause has only grown stronger since, and it continues to drive my dedication to providing legal aid and support to those in need, particularly in the realm of white-collar crimes.”

    Joining your father’s law firm was a significant step in your career. What did you find most rewarding about working in a family law firm, and how did it influence your perspective on legal practice?

    • “In addition to serving our existing clients at my father’s law firm, I set out on a mission to elevate our practice into one of Delhi’s Top 20 law firms. To achieve this, I took a proactive approach by tapping into my extensive network of old clients from my prior career in banking and insurance.
    • I recognized that these clients could benefit from comprehensive legal support, so I offered pro bono assistance tailored to their specific needs. Initially, many approached me with banking and insurance disputes, given my background in the industry. However, as word of our firm’s capabilities spread, our caseload expanded to encompass corporate, civil and criminal matters.
    • Each day brought new challenges and opportunities for growth. I embraced this learning curve wholeheartedly, continuously improving my legal skills. This dedication allowed me to provide efficient and effective legal solutions to my clients, ensuring their legal issues were addressed promptly and comprehensively.”
    • This showcases your proactive approach, commitment to growth, and adaptability in expanding your law firm’s practice areas.

    You mentioned pursuing international law certifications, including the IBMI program in Berlin. How has your international legal education shaped your approach to commercial and corporate law, especially in the Indian context?

    • “Pursuing international law certifications, such as the IBMI program in Berlin, has significantly influenced my approach to commercial and corporate law, particularly in the context of India. It provided me with a global perspective and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of legal systems, which has been extremely valuable in my legal practice.
    • Broader Perspective: International legal education exposed me to a wide range of legal frameworks, practices, and case studies from around the world. This broader perspective has allowed me to approach commercial and corporate law in India with a more open mind, integrating international best practices and innovative solutions into my strategies.
    • Cross-Border Transactions: Understanding international law is essential in today’s globalized business landscape. It has equipped me to handle cross-border transactions more effectively, facilitating smoother negotiations and compliance with international regulations. This is particularly important as Indian businesses increasingly engage in global trade and investments.
    • Legal Innovation: International legal education emphasized the importance of legal innovation and staying updated with evolving legal trends and technologies. This mindset has encouraged me to adopt innovative approaches and leverage technology in the Indian legal context, enhancing efficiency and client service.
    • Adaptability: International legal education has taught me the importance of adaptability in the face of rapidly changing global legal dynamics. In the Indian context, where laws and regulations can evolve swiftly, this adaptability is a crucial asset for both clients and legal practitioners.
    • Diversity and Inclusivity: It has also deepened my appreciation for diversity and inclusivity in legal practice. Recognizing the multicultural aspects of international law has made me more attuned to the diverse needs and perspectives of clients in India, helping me provide more comprehensive and tailored legal advice.
    • In summary, my international legal education has not only enriched my understanding of commercial and corporate law but also empowered me to offer more comprehensive and globally informed legal solutions to clients in the Indian context. It has broadened my horizons, encouraged innovation, and fostered adaptability, all of which have proven to be invaluable assets in my legal practice.”
    • Conflict Resolution: International legal education emphasized various methods of conflict resolution, including arbitration and mediation, which have become increasingly relevant in India’s corporate landscape. These alternative dispute resolution mechanisms have allowed me to guide clients towards quicker and cost-effective resolutions.
    • Global Compliance Standards: International certifications have made me well-versed in global compliance standards and regulations, which I can apply to ensure that Indian companies adhere to international norms, enhancing their reputation and global competitiveness.
    • Cross-Cultural Communication: Dealing with international legal matters has honed my cross-cultural communication skills. This proficiency is beneficial when representing Indian clients in negotiations or transactions involving foreign counterparts, where effective communication can be a key factor in achieving successful outcomes.
    • International Networking: My international legal education has expanded my professional network across borders. These connections have proven valuable for collaborating with legal experts from different jurisdictions, allowing me to provide comprehensive advice when clients have multi-jurisdictional legal needs.
    • Risk Assessment: Understanding international legal frameworks has equipped me with a nuanced approach to risk assessment. I can better identify potential risks and opportunities for Indian businesses operating globally, aiding them in making informed decisions.
    • Legal Research and Comparative Analysis: International legal education has enhanced my skills in legal research and comparative analysis. This proficiency enables me to stay updated with global legal developments and apply relevant international precedents and case studies to Indian legal scenarios.
    • Adherence to Ethical Standards: International legal education underscores the importance of ethical standards and professional conduct, which I have integrated into my practice in India. Upholding these principles ensures that clients receive not only legally sound advice but also ethical guidance.

    As the Managing Partner at PRAXOUS DE LEGAL LAW FIRM, you oversee a wide range of legal services. Can you highlight some of the most challenging and rewarding cases or projects you’ve worked on in recent years?

    In recent years, my role as a Legal Counsel and Retainer for prominent Indian and international corporations has provided me with the unique opportunity to represent clients in a variety of legal settings. I’ve had the privilege of appearing in District Courts across seven to eight different states in India and have also presented cases in the High Courts of eight Indian states, including Delhi, Bombay, Allahabad, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab & Haryana, and Uttarakhand. These experiences have allowed me to serve my corporate clients effectively and meet the legal needs of international clients with branches in India.

    “As the Managing Partner at PRAXOUS DE LEGAL LAW FIRM, I have had the privilege of overseeing a diverse portfolio of legal services. In recent years, several cases and projects have stood out as both challenging and profoundly rewarding. I won’t be able to disclose the names of the cases but allow me to highlight a few of these significant experiences:

    Complex Cross-Border Merger: One of the most challenging and rewarding cases involved facilitating a complex cross-border merger between an Indian company and a multinational corporation. Navigating the intricate web of international regulations, compliance, and negotiations required a meticulous approach. Successfully closing this merger not only demonstrated our firm’s proficiency in international corporate law but also contributed to fostering foreign investments in India.

    High-Stakes Litigation: We recently took on a high-stakes litigation case representing a client facing a multi-million-dollar dispute. The intricate legal complexities and the pressure of the substantial financial stakes made this a challenging undertaking. However, achieving a favourable resolution for our client was immensely rewarding, reinforcing the significance of thorough legal research, strategic planning, and advocacy.

    Intellectual Property Rights Protection: Protecting the intellectual property rights of an innovative Indian startup in the technology sector posed a unique set of challenges. We successfully navigated patent and trademark issues, both in India and internationally, securing our client’s innovative ideas and products. This case highlighted the crucial role that intellectual property plays in modern businesses and the importance of safeguarding these assets.

    Pro Bono Advocacy: Beyond corporate cases, our firm is committed to pro bono work, and one of the most rewarding experiences involved providing legal support to an underprivileged community facing land disputes. Our efforts resulted in securing land rights for numerous families, providing them with a sense of security and a place to call home. This case exemplified the profound impact that legal advocacy can have on marginalized communities.

    Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Compliance: With the growing emphasis on data privacy, we embarked on a challenging project involving cybersecurity and data privacy compliance for a multinational corporation operating in India. Crafting a comprehensive compliance framework that adhered to global standards while meeting local legal requirements was a noteworthy accomplishment. It reinforced our commitment to staying ahead of evolving legal landscapes.

    Criminal Litigation – Delhi Riots 2020 Case: We undertook a complex criminal litigation case related to the Delhi Riots in 2020, representing individuals Hindu Community Individuals. The case required a deep understanding of criminal law and a meticulous examination of evidence. Successfully representing our clients and ensuring a fair legal process in such a high-profile case was both challenging and deeply significant. “The trial is currently ongoing.”

    In conclusion, overseeing a wide range of legal services at PRAXOUS DE LEGAL LAW FIRM has allowed me to engage in diverse and complex cases and projects. While each case presented its own unique challenges, the satisfaction of achieving successful outcomes for our clients reaffirms our dedication to delivering exceptional legal services and making a positive impact in the legal landscape.”

    You have a strong background in various industries, including insurance, insurtech, blockchain, and more. What industry trends or developments are you currently excited about, and how do they intersect with your legal practice? Please answer by primarily focusing on Insurtech and Insurance and technology driven companies like gaming , blockchain, ai integrated companies for data privacy and copyright legal assistance.

    “I am genuinely excited about several industry trends and developments, especially in the realms of Banking, Insurtech, insurance, and technology-driven sectors like gaming, blockchain, and AI-integrated companies. These trends intersect closely with my legal practice and present both challenges and opportunities:

    1. Insurtech Revolution: The Insurtech landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Technology-driven innovations, such as AI-powered underwriting, IoT-based risk assessment, and blockchain for smart contracts, are reshaping the insurance industry. As a legal practitioner, I find this trend particularly intriguing because it necessitates a thorough understanding of emerging regulations and compliance in the insurance and technology sectors. My role involves helping clients navigate this evolving regulatory landscape, ensuring they harness the full potential of Insurtech while remaining compliant.

    2. Gaming and Intellectual Property: The gaming industry continues to experience exponential growth, driven by advancements in virtual reality, augmented reality, and esports. Protecting intellectual property and copyright has become paramount in this sector. I find it fascinating to assist gaming companies in safeguarding their creative content, trademarks, and patents. This entails staying abreast of international copyright laws and advocating for our clients’ rights in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

    3. Blockchain and Data Privacy: Blockchain technology holds immense promise, not only in finance but also in areas like supply chain management, healthcare, and digital identity. My legal practice aligns with blockchain’s intersection with data privacy. Ensuring compliance with data protection regulations while leveraging the transparency and security of blockchain is a complex yet exciting challenge. I work closely with clients to establish robust data privacy protocols in their blockchain implementations.

    4. AI and Data Protection: Companies integrating AI into their operations generate vast amounts of data, raising critical data privacy concerns. The evolving landscape of AI and data privacy laws requires continuous vigilance. My legal practice focuses on helping businesses strike a balance between harnessing AI’s potential and safeguarding the privacy of individuals, ensuring compliance with regulations such as GDPR and CCPA.

    5. Evolving Regulatory Landscape: The constantly changing regulatory environment is a significant trend across these industries. Staying updated with new laws and regulations, both in India and internationally, is crucial. As a legal practitioner, I ensure my clients remain compliant while taking advantage of these trends.

    6. Cybersecurity Challenges: With the increasing digitization of businesses, cybersecurity has become paramount. Technology-driven companies face continuous threats, and ensuring data protection and cybersecurity measures are up to par is an ongoing concern. My role involves advising clients on robust cybersecurity strategies and legal compliance to safeguard sensitive information.

    7. Global Expansion: Many technology-driven companies aspire to expand globally. Navigating international laws and regulations, trade agreements, and intellectual property rights becomes essential. My legal practice supports these ambitions, providing guidance on international business operations and regulatory compliance.

    8. Digital Transformation: As companies embrace digital transformation, they often require assistance in drafting and negotiating contracts, ensuring compliance with digital laws, and protecting their digital assets. I specialize in helping clients navigate the legal intricacies of digital transformation.

    9. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Focus: In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on ESG factors in corporate governance. Technology-driven companies are no exception. I assist clients in aligning their practices with ESG principles, which can enhance their reputation, reduce risk, and attract socially responsible investors.

    10. Dispute Resolution in the Digital Age: With technology playing a significant role in business operations, disputes and litigation often involve complex digital evidence. I specialize in helping clients resolve disputes efficiently and effectively in this digital age, including e-discovery and digital forensics.

    In summary, these industry trends and developments intersect with my legal practice in various ways, from regulatory compliance and data privacy to intellectual property protection and global expansion strategies. My role is to provide legal counsel that empowers businesses to navigate these trends successfully while adhering to the highest ethical and legal standards but also to act as a strategic partner, helping clients navigate the evolving regulatory environment, mitigate risks, and seize opportunities. I’m excited to be at the forefront of these transformative trends, offering legal solutions that empower businesses to innovate responsibly and ethically in an increasingly technology-driven world.”

    With your diverse career journey, what advice would you give to fresh law graduates who are just starting out in their respective fields, especially those who might be considering multiple career paths like you did?

    “To the aspiring law graduates just setting foot in the legal profession, especially those who are contemplating diverse career paths, I offer the following guidance based on my own diverse experiences:

    Master the Fundamentals: Start by building a strong foundation in core legal principles and practices. Solid legal knowledge is your bedrock and will serve you well regardless of your chosen path.

    Pursue Passion and Purpose: Law is a versatile field, and there are numerous specializations and niches to explore. Choose a legal path that aligns with your passions and values. When you’re genuinely interested in your work, it becomes a source of motivation and satisfaction.

    Stay Adaptable: The legal landscape is dynamic. Be open to exploring different areas of law, as well as adjacent fields that intersect with law, such as compliance, consulting, or alternative dispute resolution. Adaptability is key to a successful legal career.

    Network Actively: Building a professional network is essential. Attend legal seminars, join bar associations, and connect with experienced legal practitioners. Networking can open doors to valuable opportunities and mentorship.

    Mentorship Matters: Seek out mentors who have navigated various legal career paths. They can provide insights, guidance, and help you make informed decisions about your career journey.

    Continual Learning: The legal profession demands ongoing learning. Stay updated with legal developments, attend workshops, and consider pursuing specialized certifications or advanced degrees to enhance your expertise.

    Embrace Technology: Technology is rapidly changing the legal landscape. Familiarize yourself with legal tech tools and platforms that can streamline your work and improve efficiency.

    Ethical Integrity: Uphold the highest ethical standards in all your legal endeavours. Trust and integrity are the cornerstones of a successful legal career.

    Persistence Pays Off: Building a rewarding legal career may take time. Be patient, and don’t be discouraged by initial setbacks. Each experience, whether positive or challenging, contributes to your growth.

    Diversify Experience: Don’t limit yourself to one type of legal practice. Explore different aspects of law, such as litigation, corporate law, or public interest law. Diverse experiences will make you a more versatile and well-rounded legal professional.

    Consider the Bigger Picture: Beyond legal expertise, develop skills in communication, negotiation, and problem-solving. These skills are invaluable in any legal role.

    Stay Inquisitive: Be curious and inquisitive. Ask questions, seek out novel solutions, and be open to unconventional approaches to legal challenges.

    In summary, the legal profession offers a vast array of opportunities, and your career journey can be as unique as you are. Embrace the journey, remain adaptable, and never stop learning. By combining passion, purpose, and a commitment to excellence, you can build a fulfilling legal career that aligns with your aspirations and values.”

    So,

    “Follow Excellence” “And Success will follow you”

    Get in touch with Bharat Sharma-

  • Kanishk Agarwal, Founder, CriTaxCorp on starting out a criminal law practice and legal entrepreneurship

    Kanishk Agarwal, Founder, CriTaxCorp on starting out a criminal law practice and legal entrepreneurship

    Kanishk Agarwal studied at Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies (VIPS), New Delhi and graduated in the year 2009. He then began his career under Mr. Ashok Batra, and subsequently moved on to PricewaterhouseCoopers India. However, his interest in Criminal Law drove him to establish his own firm, CriTaxCorp. Kanishk is also the creator of the Indian Bare Acts Pack app.

    In this interview, he discusses

    • His career trajectory and the reasons for starting his own firm
    • The development story of the Indian Bare Acts Pack app
    • How to enter a practice of one’s choice for students
    • How to maintain a work-life balance and why it is imperative

     

    How would you like to introduce yourself to our readers?

    I think the term ‘legapreneur‘ best describes me, which basically is ‘legal entrepreneur’, because I like exploring entrepreneurial qualities in the legal industry. Post my graduation I wanted to work in Criminal law, but instead started working with Service Tax law expert Mr. Ashok Batra who is a Chartered Accountant and the author of books on the subject. What drove me into this field was a practical family decision as my father is a Chartered Accountant and he wanted me to follow his lead in taxation laws. I worked with one of the ‘Big 4’ consulting firms in the world, Pricewaterhouse Coopers for about 18 months, but my love for Criminal law never faded and so and after gaining substantial experience in Taxation law, I started working under the flagship of Senior Advocate Mr. Ramesh Gupta (Delhi High Court) and thereafter I worked in the chamber of Mr. Subhash Gulati. Finally I started my own practice in 2013 by the name of CriTaxCorp after I believed that I had gained enough experience to set up my own law firm. The name of the law firm was put up very strategically to cover the three fields of law I gained my exposure in i.e. Criminal, Taxation and Corporate.

     

    What would you like to share with our readers about your time spent at VIPS both within and beyond the classroom? How did the city itself play a part in your legal education?

    Looking back, college times seems so distant yet I can remember it vividly. I have learned a lot from my college life, as I was a very shy boy in my school days, and so got a lot of exposure in my college life. I had always been an average student but was an active volunteer in organizing moots, debates, college events and the best was, organizing the college trip for three consecutive years where I had the nightmare of handling 300 law students. However, the exposure was surely a blessing in disguise. Being a Delhiite was always an advantage, but I never got a change from the city to face different cultures. However Delhi has given me great exposure from internships to working under great members of the senior legal fraternity.

     

    How did your interactions with your peers influence your growth as a law student and a general individual? Did networking and peer mentorship play a big part in defining your student identity?

    I had a good relationship with a few of my seniors and we were a combination of notorious and sincere pupils.  I still remember asking for help with books or notes late at night, or for any other help regarding sorting out a tiff with any student or taking suggestions for my internship plans, and they were always very helpful and I definitely got great help. Once they graduated from college, I got to know about their experiences in independent practices or in law firms and they helped me reach where I am today, owning a firm myself. I always feel pleasure in helping juniors from my college who are worthy by providing them with internships under my tutelage and exposure to a variety of laws.

     

    During your time spent there, what, if any, extra-curricular or co-curricular activities did you take up? How did the same affect your learning experience and prepare you for the legal sector?

    It is true, college life is a golden period in one’s life. I was always very interactive with teachers and was an active participant in college activities like dancing, organising fests, college trips etc. Being involved in extra-curricular activities really helped me at large because I learned the tricks of management, organising, diplomacy and living up to my responsibilities. It really sharpened my skills to understand human behaviour and their reactions to different things, which a good lawyer must know, as reading a client or witness is half of the lawyer’s work.

     

    What would you describe your first experience as an associate at A.K. Batra as, and how did the same affect your career trajectory?

    I opted for Service Tax mainly on account of my father being a Chartered Accountant. It was a practical decision made by me to work with Mr. A.K Batra, and it was a great learning process as he provides a lot of exposure to the lawyers and CA’s working with him. He is still a great mentor and I know I can reach out to him whenever I hit the wall in Service Tax query.

     

    What prompted your shift to PwC India in 2010?

    Anyone and everyone who works in the field of Taxation law has this desire to work with a ‘Big 4’ firm, be it a lawyer or a CA. I am glad I took the step to join PwC as it exposed to me how the real big corporates work, their billing structure, their culture etc. I left PwC because of my love for Criminal law and since I wanted to make an identity of my own. I met some great people who are partners in the firm and still encourage me towards my achievements. It was a good learning experience.

     

    As the founder of CriTaxCorp, what were the initial challenges you faced as a legal start up in India? What was your competing strategy for taking on larger firms?

    CriTaxCorp started with a rough patch, as we worked towards targeting different sectors where nobody had worked. The “Aha!” moment was when I got a client form the Bitcoin (the digital currency) industry and I got a chance to understand the block chain of digital industry. Thereafter I did some exciting work in online poker regulations, logistic companies, start-up ecosystem etc., and getting into these fields really triggered me to go forward.

     

    What would you define as your firm’s unique selling proposition?

    While dealing with a matter in Criminal, Taxation or Corporate laws, we combine the knowledge from all major verticals of law. Providing exactly what the client requires is one of our mottos, and we believe in understanding the business of our client more than the client does so that we can deliver our best. This also sharpen our skills to dig deep and helps us understand the core issues of any industry. CriTaxCorp believe in one principle that a professional grows when his client grows.

     

    kanishk-agarwal-2

    Among your other accolades, what inspired the creation of Indian Bare Acts Pack? What were the challenges faced in creating and establishing the same?

    When I got to know about certain Bare Act Apps available for lawyers I was really amused and amazed at how technology is easing the pain of people at large. However, when I downloaded certain existing legal Bare Acts Apps on one of my senior’s tablet, I got a good thrashing from him as they were not updated since 2008 and reading outdated law is the last thing a lawyer wants to do. So, it got me thinking and I wanted to do something for the legal fraternity, as it has taught me so much. So I decided to put my money where my thought was and I ideated ‘Indian Bare Acts Pack’ mobile application so as to help lawyers. The app has 4 major Acts which are like the bible for any lawyer. CrPC, IPC, Evidence Act and CPC and I also included Service Tax law as I used to work in that field. Making the app was not an easy task, as I had to review the designs, see the working of the app, and pay for doing work. I created around 2800 word files which were formatted, indented and checked word by word by me. I was really overwhelmed when I was informed that the Delhi High Court Bar Association would like to unveil this app in a function which was organised for judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts.

    What just started as a gesture to give back to the legal fraternity has turned out to be the best app in the Bare Acts category reaching to nearly 1,00,000 lawyers. On the request and review of many lawyers, judges, CA’s and law students we are taking it forward and will come up with an updated version with some great features which will be of use to everyone, from law students to respected judges.

    The readers may also like our Facebook page “Indian Bare Acts Pack” to be updated about new features and updates on the app.

    Lastly, yes there were many sleepless nights spent in making this app. I remember that when I got the news that my App was going to be launched, by DHCBA in a function organised to facilitate High Court and Supreme Court Judges, in a matter of 2 days, in those two nights I made nearly 2000+ word files and coordinated with the developer to complete the App on time. It was devastating but it was all worth it!

     

    What are your views on the current generation of law students and would you say the approach to education has changed since your college days?

    I feel that this generation is full of talent and they are impulsive as well. (Laughingly)As I belong to this generation as well, I will say that this generation is not scared of hard work but they expect prompt success. They must understand that the first five years after graduation could be difficult and full of struggle but once when they get polished they will eventually grow and succeed. One should understand that it is not required to run behind alluring packages. Once they gain all practical knowledge and have a command over the law, money will chase them automatically. I also believe that year by year the concept of a teacher and pupil is also fading, which is something I really hold dear to my heart.

     

    To our younger audience looking to get into Corporate or Taxation oriented fields, what advice would you give them for breaking into the field?

    The best thing to do is opt for as many internships as they can to get a better understanding and gain practical knowledge, Firstly, they should understand the whole concept of a subject matter, for eg. Taxation is a subject which is either really liked or totally disliked by lawyers, so one needs to understand and explore to see if they have interest in it or not. Also, one should pick one taxation subject at a time because trying to understand all of them in internship period will only confuse them. Secondly, as for Corporate, it is very wide field which ranges from drafting of agreements to regulatory compliances to transaction advisory. It is a field which requires round-the-clock–work, with alluring packages, so one need to understand exactly what they want with respect to work-life balance or money. Corporate law firms have a deadline bomb which is always ticking and the stakes being high, one cannot afford to miss any deadline. I would like to end this question by saying that legal practices are like delicacies you need to get the taste of each of them until you know which one suits your taste buds.

     

    In the midst of founding a law firm and creating apps for the legal community, how much of your personal life have you had to compromise on, if at all?

    Earlier it was hectic and as I am a workaholic, I have worked round–the-clock on my application. Whenever I get time I read articles for better understanding of technology, but I have adapted all this as a hobby and so it is not a burden. I believe that if things are planned and one knows how to manage time, they can easily coordinate their personal and professional life. I always go out with my family and friends once in two weeks, otherwise what is the fun of being the founder of your own firm and earning well if you can’t have your own time out and spend what you earn. However, one needs to prioritize their practice of law, interest and goal with their time in order to follow a focussed path to their success. I am still experimenting to know the ultimate path, but that is the fun, provided you balance the fun with focus, risk and passion.

     

    Finally, do you have any other advice for our readers, most of whom are college students?

    I would suggest that they do as many internships as they can in various fields and they must always grind and hustle to get more and more work from their seniors. The exposure they get in internships will help them see the career path they want to choose. Also, I would suggest that since everyone is so engrossed in social media and their mobiles these days, every student should like some of the law news Facebook pages and read some of the important news or judgments that they post. I am trying to do something to solve this for our fellow law students though my app, so let’s see. I would suggest that every lawyer must watch American television series such as Suits, Boston Legal or any other series that relates to law, as I myself have learned a lot from these and imbibed some of the things I have learnt from these shows into my practice.

    They must strengthen their core subjects such as CPC, CrPC, IPC, Evidence Act etc. as these will be used at all times in your practice. Lastly, it is the best time of their life so they should have fun, rough it out and learn from their mistakes.

     

    In your opinion, what is the role of technology in law and how can students best utilise technology without looking at it as a substitute for hard work?

    Being a technology enthusiast and founder of a technology based start-up I believe that everyone is embracing technology in one form or another. Technology companies such as manupatra or indiankanoon.com has eased the life of lawyers when it comes to browsing through judgments relevant to a case. I have received numerous mails from law students and court staff saying that my application has really helped them many times. Recently, one of the biggest law firms in the US named Baker & Hostetler licensed a software from IBM which is an artificial intelligence software to help law firms in bankruptcy and due diligence, so you can imagine how technology is playing a role in law firms. Also, being a legapreneur I get intrigued by mushrooming legal start-ups these days. To sum it up, technology is playing a significant role in our life and increasingly being adapted in our profession, so one should start embracing it.

     

    What is your view on these legal start-ups and will it create a new area of law for law students to look into?

    Yes, the start-up ecosystem is witnessing various new law related start-ups and some of them have got funding upto an amount of USD $500,000. However, the start-up eco system in general is witnessing a downtrend with investment/funding transaction dropping nearly 30-50% from last year. I hope all these new legal start-ups pave their way into the start-up ecosystem and a new unicorn is born in law start-ups. (Laughingly) I hope IBAP makes its name too!!

    As for start-ups creating a new line for law students, it purely depends on the interests of the law student and whether he/she gets intrigued by the vision of that start-up or not, because one setback is that start-ups mushrooms rapidly but most of them close rapidly as well, but yes it’s a new era of legal development and opportunities for upcoming law students.