Having graduated from NLU Jodhpur with a specialization in Business Law (Hons), what first motivated you to pursue law, and how would you describe your overall experience at law school?
Definitely a great question to start with – as I feel whatever skills I have gained to move forward in my life originated during my stint at NLU Jodhpur. In terms of motivation to pursue law, just like most of us, I took CLAT in 2012 only with the hope of securing an additional safety net, although I was initially more inclined towards pursuing something in mathematics or accounts (as I’ve always had that weird fascination with numbers). However, by God’s grace, when I got through and was admitted to my super-welcoming university, I promised to myself to not disappoint whoever has sacrificed and/or cheered for me in my journey. I distinctly remember my mom’s eyes suddenly becoming moist at the railway station when I told her that it’s time for her to board the train back to our hometown and I need to head back to the campus to set up my room and start with my studies. I knew then that I don’t have an option to screw it up this time. There are times when you must win – and I thought that that time had arrived.
Without compromising on my grades, I participated in whatever competitions the university was offering and eventually realised my inclination towards research and mooting. I met the bestest of the people in the university who fortunately have now become family for me. Even today, me and my friends randomly reminisce about our time in college with loud and unstoppable cheers, whether we’re in the car, in a restaurant or even in a different country! I was also lucky enough to meet seniors who gave me all the right advice that I have kept with me till date.
If I have to sum up my journey at NLU Jodhpur, I will give any amount to go back and relive those 5 years from 2012 to 2017 – of course, with the same set of people.
Starting your career with one of the biggest firms is a remarkable achievement. What was your experience like in the early stages, particularly while working on matters involving gaming start-ups, credit services, and Aadhaar-related compliance?
I started with Luthra and Luthra Law Offices in July 2017. Initially, I would get a little scared especially when I would listen to those convoluted discussions amongst my seniors on a particular matter. But I knew I just had to hang in there and realised quickly that all this profession requires from you is time and hard work, and hence, I was all game for that. Also, as the only son, I had made peace with the fact that moving abroad to study and work was not an option and that I had to be around for my parents. It was my time to give back and their time to enjoy, although I believe there’s nothing a son/daughter can do to repay whatever his/her parents have sacrificed.
In terms of cases/matters, since it was mostly a corporate advisory and restructuring team, the kind of work that I would get was extremely challenging and thought-provoking. I remember working on detailed memorandums for gaming start-ups offering fantasy leagues and VR gaming to the public, which would entail studying their proposed new business in detail and thinking of everything under the sun that may become applicable to them then and even later. Similarly, as a first/second year associate, apart from assisting on standard corporate and commercial queries, I would be asked to research on business ideas which were fresh then with no market precedent, such as e-gold, loan services by fintech companies, Aadhaar-based authentication, informal credit scoring etc. All these turned out to be super helpful for me and invigorated me to assist clients with out-of-the-box ideas and solutions.
In fact, whenever a FEMA query would be assigned to me, apart from obviously reviewing the framework governing the subject, I would have a habit of opening the index of the FEMA Manual and reviewing the listed items closely and to go to the relevant regulations that would appear to even be remotely applicable. In hindsight, this exercise has helped me a lot in strengthening my basics of FEMA and has given me the confidence to address most of the complicated structuring scenarios quickly.
In your current role, you advise on cross-border transactions such as those by Japanese conglomerate in various sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing and renewable energy. How do you address the differences in legal regulations across jurisdictions especially in upcoming sectors?
It is always an enriching experience to assist and deal with clients from other jurisdictions such as Europe and Japan. Each client’s behaviour turns out to be different in terms of expectations from a law firm, deadlines, level of practical advice needed and their degree of preparedness for extreme circumstances. This assessment of clients’ requirements is something that one becomes aware of with time, after working with clients from multiple jurisdictions. In fact, if a matter is referred to by a foreign law firm, then our scope sometimes becomes limited to the requirements that the referring law firm may have, and all communications typically get routed through the firm.
With respect to the difference in legal regulations, the basic guiding principles likely remain the same (such as those governing commercial arrangements), they start differing depending on the sectors. For instance, sectors which are heavily regulated by the government such as defence, pharmaceutical, renewable energy, telecom etc. turn out to be fairly distinct from how they are regulated in other jurisdictions. Ultimately, we are required to focus on how the activities in the Indian territory (of a foreign company, its subsidiary or a standalone Indian company) will be governed, apart from other specific cross-border transactions (such as mergers, exports/imports, inbound and outbound investments etc.).
What inspired you to write on diverse legal topics, and how do you balance creativity with the demands of corporate law? Have insights from your writing shaped the way you approach your professional work? You have also published a poetry book on social issues. How has that influenced your urge to write professionally and at a personal level?
I believe writing really helps you understand the topic to its core, because you are required to take an additional responsibility for your understanding of the subject vis-à-vis the general public. It leaves very little room for any vagueness or conjectures, especially on settled areas of law. Further, writing on legal topics gives you an opportunity to also highlight areas of law which require attention of or clarification from the governmental authorities, with the hope that it would eventually reach the concerned official and necessary changes/clarifications would be made.
I have also generally been fond of writing, even on non-law topics. It has gradually turned out to be therapeutic for me, especially during times when I wish to say something but not out loud. I mostly quote the following by Stephen King from his memoir: “Words create sentences; sentences create paragraphs; sometimes paragraphs quicken and begin to breathe.” It has just helped me really appreciate that writing (whether on a professional front or otherwise) can really assist you in making those invisible, super-minor but important changes in your professional field and the general world.
You advised a UAE-based advisory company in acquiring a partial stake in a manufacturing company in Hyderabad. What were the key legal and commercial considerations you had to balance while structuring this cross-border transaction?
I think unlike a standard securities purchase transaction, this deal turned out to be convoluted given the already existing activities of the target Indian company (with diverse shareholders sitting in the company and the company being subject to multifarious licensing requirements under environmental, customs, labour and land laws). Firstly, the diligence itself took almost 3 months with the team working day and night just to gobble up thousands of documents and finally presenting the legal issues for discussion. Frankly, it became one of those deals which was dependent on resolution of a few legal issues as a condition.
Additionally, the transaction became murkier as we realised that the target company was also on the verge of insolvency. Hence, we were required to closely track the ongoing insolvency proceedings and keep a check on the timing of the transaction. We were also exploring if the client may rather wait it out and act as a resolution applicant once the target’s corporate insolvency resolution process commences.
What advice would you give to the younger generation of lawyers, and what resources would you recommend that can make a real-world difference in shaping their perspectives?
I read somewhere that you only know about a subject matter, if you have the capability to teach on that topic even to a layman. My recommendation always is to never rush into giving answers on a particular query/subject (if time permits), but rather to understand the rationale behind introduction of the specific law/provision in the first place. Once the legislature’s intention is clear, it becomes much easier to remember the principle, and accordingly, advise the client towards the right goal.
In terms of resources, apart from keeping abreast with the latest legal developments, it is extremely important to be aware of the business and geopolitical climate. Hence, do not shy away from taking all necessary subscriptions of informative magazines and journals, and do treat them like your OTT subscriptions. It is always a delight to read comprehensive articles which analyse a sector, an issue, a governmental order, a court decision etc., in detail. Some of the magazines/platforms I strongly recommend are The Ken, Finshots, HBR and The New Yorker.
How do your personal hobbies help you maintain work-life balance, and what lessons from your non-professional pursuits have you been able to apply to your legal practice?
Given the time that is required in our profession, it usually becomes difficult to manage personal hobbies with the incessant workflow. Hence, I have made peace with the fact that each day won’t permit me to pursue my hobbies to the extent I would want to. However, on all days, irrespective of the work pressure, I at least pull out 30-35 minutes for myself which are devoted towards something that I really enjoy because ultimately that is what all the work is for (i.e., to make myself capable to enjoy).
Through my non-professional pursuits, while I think I have with time realised the need to give importance to my hobbies without completely disregarding them because of work pressure, one important character trait that I have developed through my extra-curricular activities is resilience. For instance, on days when I go out for my exercises in the morning, as soon as I complete the goals for the day, it gives me a positive sense of achievement and that faith to keep pushing and to understand the power of ‘one more’. I have tried to apply the same principle even on the professional front to keep trying to push boundaries and becoming indefatigable (especially during pressure times).
What guiding motto or philosophy has consistently stayed with you throughout your journey, shaping both your personal and professional life? Looking ahead, what vision do you hold for the future of your practice and the kind of impact you aspire to create through your work?
I think the most important thing that I wish to communicate is to stay fit and healthy. In the end, nothing would matter if your body starts reacting instantly to fatigue and stress, which would make you gloomier and disheartened. By fitness, it is not only taking care of your physical health by exercising and eating healthy (of course, a chicken biryani or golgappa at calculated times won’t hurt), but also mental health. Try giving yourself at least those 15 minutes during which you acquire that void, and which transport you to a place that makes you smile (even though in imagination).
Secondly, keep exploring yourself and trying to acquire skills. If such a skill helps you both professionally and personally, nothing better. If you have INR 10,000, don’t rush logging into Amazon or go to a Rare Rabbit/Mango store, but rather consider investing that amount in learning a new skill. That decision would likely give you more returns than purchasing a new gadget or a piece of cloth. I learned of this concept called ‘autotelic’ as per which, at times, you need to do something for the sake of doing it. Try applying this in anything that you’re practising/learning, and you’d surely notice the magic of investing in yourself.
Lastly, never stop loving yourself and others and remaining grateful to your fate for giving you whatever you have today. This feeling has always helped me remain committed to my work, whatever the case may be.
As a dual qualified lawyer, we would love to start from the very beginning. How and when did you decide to pursue law, and how did you end up deciding that it was the right time to move on and do your LL.M. as well? We would love to understand your journey, challenges, and how you built your road to excellence.
I’m from Benares. I did my schooling there, and my father has a business and is also very active in social work. Back then, when I was in school, he used to write letters to authorities on various legal issues, troubles, or policy changes he thought were required for businesses in India. I used to take an active interest in what he was writing, and sometimes he would ask me to draft those letters. I think that’s how writing and my early interface with law and business began at home.
When I was faced with the question of what I wanted to do, looking back now, I find it quite funny. There were many doctors in my family, so the obvious choice seemed to be medicine. But when I said I wanted to be a doctor, everyone at home said, “Oh no, we already have too many doctors, you should become a civil servant.” So, I initially wanted to become a civil servant, and that’s why I went to National Law University, Delhi. I thought, in Delhi we have everything, all the coaching, and law was considered a great subject for IAS aspirants.
But when I started studying law, even before entering college, while preparing for CLAT and AILET, I fell in love with it. I used to read The Indian Express and The Hindu daily in Benares. I joined online coaching with Career Launcher because law wasn’t a very well-known option there at that time. This was back in 2012, and now it feels like history. Those days of reading newspapers and following legal developments made me fall in love with law. I realized that after studying law you could do everything a civil servant or even a politician could do in public interest litigation, fighting for the rights of disadvantaged people, becoming a corporate lawyer, anything was possible. The sky was the limit. So, I decided I wanted to stick with law.
You don’t necessarily have to be a public lawyer, or a corporate lawyer, or any one thing you can carve your own path. That’s when I firmly decided to become a lawyer. Initially, I thought I would practice in the Supreme Court of India. I never imagined I would go to the US. My frame of mind was always to practice in Indian courts.
By God’s grace, I was selected for National Law University, Delhi, with an All India Rank of six, and I was the first person from Banaras to enter that institution. For a long time, I think I was the only one from my city there. My parents were very supportive, and Delhi gave me tremendous exposure. One thing I learned is that if you work hard, you will succeed.
I had no legal background, and I didn’t know where I would end up after five years. So, I focused on exploring. I did about 21 or 22 internships in college, which was one of the highest numbers in my batch. I never went back to Banaras during vacations I stayed in Delhi and kept interning. I was not sure whether I wanted to go into the private sector, NGOs, or litigation, so I tried them all.
Eventually, I realized that I am guided by two principles: hard work and being the best version of myself. When I thought about how to achieve that, I felt pursuing an LL.M. would help me grow further. I also felt my education was incomplete without it. So, after all the internships and hard work in college, I decided to pursue an LL.M. I wrote my SOPs, appeared for exams, and went through the application process, which eventually led me to New York University.
But more importantly, I want law students, especially those from smaller cities, to know that anything is possible. I consider myself from Banaras, which back then was not a Prime Minister’s constituency or the sought-after city it has become today. I am happy to see its growth now, but at that time it was still considered a small city. I want students from such places to believe that if you work hard and your aim is excellence, you can reach wherever you put your mind to.
From being in one of the top universities in India to one of the top universities in the world. So how was your journey and the transition? There must be a lot of difference between the academia of NLU Delhi and New York University School of Law. While you were pursuing, what did you do and how did you make sure that your hard work paid off in the US as well? And what was your challenge over there, or maybe whatever you felt was very different and how you approached it differently with all your diligence and hard work. We would love to hear that story as well so that students and learners can understand that for a person who has done 22 internships in NLU Delhi and ended up at NYU, she has made a name for herself. How have you done that?
It should be near 22, 21, or 25. I’m not sure of the number now. You can check my LinkedIn and I’m not even sure if I put all of them there. But anyway, I would want current students or current law students to take the LL.M. not only as an academic pursuit, not only as an academic course. I want them to take it as a professional pursuit as well. Since it involves a lot of investment, I don’t want students to just go and study. Of course, those who can afford it and who have academic inclinations or want to pursue academia should, by all means, go and do that. But many students fail to understand that the LL.M. is also an opportunity to pursue professional opportunities, and for that they have gone to the US. So utilize the LL.M. for networking opportunities, for exposing yourself to different careers and career professionals.
I don’t want current NLU students or any law students who are in their fifth year to think they will just study as much as they can in one year when they’re going to the US, London, or Singapore. They should have a balanced course, take the minimum number of credits required, and then start learning outside of college and the classroom as well.
You have conferences every day. You meet professors, you go to law firms, attend their networking events, and learn what the profession really is. That is very important. This is something students should start thinking about when they are in their fifth year of law school.
This is one takeaway that I had. And to answer your question, the difference between NYU and NLU Delhi was that at NYU, it’s a totally Socratic method of education. No one is going to check if you are studying or not. You have to guide your own education.
You have to pick your own subjects, you have to guide your own education, and you are fully responsible for your future, like any adult. So I think an LL.M. or Master’s should be done by an adult who knows what he or she is doing, and what he or she wants to pursue. If you are not sure about that, I would say work a few years in India before going to NYU or doing any LL.M. for that matter. At NYU, I had amazing faculty members who were already great and accomplished professionals. Even in the classroom, we were getting both theoretical and practical knowledge, how you would actually do something in a law firm or in court. That’s what makes the LL.M. different. That’s why it is a Master’s.
And again, landing a job in the US was very difficult. As Indian citizens, we have to get H-1B sponsorship.
You have to qualify through a lottery, then you have to get H-1B sponsorship, and you have to qualify the bar exam. Again, if you want, I can elaborate on the subject of how to land a job in the US, but that itself is a different conversation.
We’d love to understand that also because obviously the people or the students who would like to maybe see how they can plan it. Like you have explained that these are the processes, it’ll be very, very helpful if you can talk a little bit about this aspect as well. How to actually land a job, because that is another struggle. The first struggle is to reach there, and then the second struggle is to find a better job where you can stay and work as well.
Sure. So when we are in LLM, first of all, we are outside of our shelter. We have to start managing our food, our household, and it’s a foreign country. You are away from your family. It’s new people, plus it’s the pressure of finding a job. It’s a lot of things. So I always tell students to prioritize their wellbeing.
Give full hundred percent to your education because, at the end of the day, all employers are going to look at your transcript. So you should be very sure not to overburden yourself and not to take extra credits just for your academic satisfaction. Take those kinds of credits which will help you land jobs in the US.
Like if I’m a corporate lawyer, if someone wants to be a corporate lawyer, they should take mergers and acquisitions, securities, business law, contracts drafting, subjects like this, which make you eligible to sit for the bar exam and which make you a good candidate for the law firms over there. First take only those kinds of subjects. This can be a very controversial thing that I’m saying, don’t do subjects for your academic interest, but to each its own.
And if you have been there with a lot of financial difficulties and with a lot of struggles, you want to make sure that you get the best opportunity when you are out of that college. I speak with several students from India and all they want is a job in the US after doing LLM because they have put in that kind of resources to get selected for an LLM to go there.
So I would say, manage your academics well. Don’t overburden yourself and do well in academics. Start networking outside of your law school, inside your law school, network with your law professors. And networking is a long process. Like everyone says, network, network, network. But what is it? First, I would say it’s a sport.
The more you do, the better you become at it. And it’s going to be a two-way process. Like mentoring, you are going to be a mentee to someone, but again, just don’t be entitled to anyone, don’t just walk up and say, I need a job. You have to learn from their experiences.
You have to invest time with them so that the people you are speaking with in the US, who you are networking with, should understand that this person is worthy of mentoring. Become mentees to some good professionals in the US. Learn from their experiences. Follow them, genuinely follow them, genuinely learn from them.
And it’s a two-way street. Everyone knows when you’re speaking with them that you’re looking for a job. So at the end of the day, if they find an opportunity, they will let you know. And you have to keep talking to multiple people, reach out on LinkedIn, email people.
That’s what I did and that’s how I got a job. And that’s how law students from India who have no connections or who don’t have a background in law, have to make their own connections and that’s how they land a job. But it’s all about hard work and perseverance. It’s not about how smart you are to get a job in the US, it’s about your perseverance and your hard work.
While in the US, when you started your LLM and began working, you were also a Legal Research Analyst with Jethmalani & Nallaseth PLLC. After that, you were associated with Nishith Desai Associates as well, in the US itself. So how did you plan it? Why did you decide to join these institutions? And how did your internships or the kind of work profile you had in India help you understand the working environments of India and the US, because there is also a huge difference? Also, how did you adjust, and what kind of strategies did you follow to make sure you adapted well, and obviously worked as hard as you always do?
I started my professional journey, I would say, in the US. I did all kinds of internships in India, but I never worked professionally there. I went directly for my master’s. But I worked with two institutions, as you named: Jethmalani & Nallaseth and Nishith Desai Associates, whose headquarters or main offices are in India. So I have worked with Indian institutions, I would say. And then I went to Dechert, which is a big law firm. After that, I went to Davis Wright Tremaine, which is also a big law firm.
As you said, it’s different. But I always wanted to be a New York lawyer, a US attorney, and I was in New York, so I wanted to be a NY attorney when I was doing my LLM. As I told you initially, I have always been driven by hard work and by striving to be the best, at least persevering for the best where I am.
When I was in LLM, I understood that being in the US and getting employed there is very difficult. You have to be hardworking, strong academically, good at networking only then can you land a job in the US. So that became a challenge for me, and whenever I’m faced with any challenge, I am motivated to tackle it.
I had to come back to India after LLM, but I thought, “Oh no, this is very challenging. Only the best of the best, apparently, can do it.” But after these many years of experience, I can say it’s not about the best of the best, it’s about hard work and perseverance.
Then I told my father, “Dad, why not pursue a few years of employment in the US? I want to get a job and then I’ll come back.” I felt my education in the US was not complete without a few years of professional experience. He said, “Okay, go.”
Back then, I started looking for opportunities. As I said, I had no professional experience from India, so I went directly from NLU Delhi to NYU. So landing a job for me was very difficult. That’s why when I speak to current LLM students who have a few years of experience, I tell them, You are already at an advantageous position compared to what I was.
I started with the first opportunity I got, which was an immigration law firm. It was not a corporate law firm. My employer was Mr. Anil Jethmalani at Jethmalani & Nallaseth. He still continues to be my mentor. He was very kind to give me my first job. He saw that I was genuine. I had interned, but had no professional experience. He sponsored my visa, and I started working there very diligently as an immigration attorney.
We don’t have immigration practice in India, of course it is outsourced, but it’s not established there. I started working there, but I was always interested in corporate law. So I used to network, network, network. Before going to the office to do my job, which, you know, was paying my bills, I would go to different law firms, attend conferences, meet people, write to folks on LinkedIn, and request coffee chats or informational interviews. That’s how I moved to Nishith Desai Associates.
Again, Mr. Vaibhav Parikh of Nishith Desai Associates, the head of the US offices, has been amazing and a great mentor. This was my first corporate law job. I didn’t have a corporate law background from India. I was interested in pursuing something else, but when I was exposed to different things, having done all my internships, met people, followed the news I gradually decided what I wanted to do next. I had no fixed plan initially.
Then I decided I wanted to be a corporate lawyer, and I decided on this in New York. Some people plan it beforehand: they want to be a corporate lawyer, then do an LLM, then get the job. I decided this after finishing my LLM. Mr. Vaibhav Parikh saw potential in me, thankfully, and offered me my first corporate law job in New York. At Nishith Desai Associates, I also worked very diligently, and I hope they felt the same. I worked there for almost one and a half to two years.
At Nishith Desai Associates, the work involved practicing Indian law. We were co-counsels with foreign law firms, doing work for US clients who wanted to have Indian operations. So essentially, we were practicing Indian law for US clients or US law firms. Having done my LLM in New York and cleared the bar exam, I wanted to be part of even bigger global law firms, working on more complex deals. That’s how I shifted to big law, to Dechert. This required a lot of networking and meeting people, and then I came to Davis Wright Tremaine, where I am currently.
Here, I’m practicing US law as a US attorney, focusing on M&A. The clients I work for and the cases I handle are very complicated and high-profile, and I thoroughly enjoy working on them. It has been a very enriching and challenging journey so far.
Moving from an Indian law firm to a US corporate law firm, which is one of the biggest over there, what was your way to transition? How did you make that transition so easily or with a challenge, with your hard work? Also, the kind of understanding of international jurisdictions is absolutely different when you are practicing in litigation or practicing corporate law in-office, in-house. What is your understanding about that? Also, what prompted you to decide on corporate law, and how have you managed so far?
So I thought of corporate law and I decided on corporate law because it’s very dynamic and fast-moving, and I’m a person, sorry to say with less patience. So I want fast-moving things or fast results. Litigation takes many years, and the same applies to arbitration.
I was interested in international arbitration as well, and I pursued a lot of courses in that. I have publications in those areas, but I saw that corporate law is dynamic and fast-moving. I would be counsel to businesses, which was my motivation to be a lawyer in the first place, having seen my father.
I would be their go-to person. I would meet clients from the business community. It’s very fast-paced, dynamic, and logical. You have things in your control. You don’t have to stand in court for hours. You are not in front of any tribunals. If things are in your control and your co-counsel or your peer controls, I am working for my client, and the other law firms are working for their clients. I’m a very collaborative person as well. So we collaborate and give results like we collaborate to merge two companies, acquire, merge, sell, or spin off.
I wanted to do business law. That’s how I decided to be a corporate lawyer. I’m happy about my choice of law. You can see the results of your hard work in real time, which is very satisfying.
And how did I prepare for my roles in US firms? I would say there are a lot of similarities. Of course, the working culture is different. In Indian firms, it’s very hierarchical and fast-paced. In US firms, it’s also fast-paced, but there’s less hierarchy. Senior lawyers are actually invested in your development. That’s what I experienced in my law firms, Dechert and Davis Wright Tremaine. My seniors are heavily invested in my mentorship and learning, and that’s what I also pass on to my juniors. I get to learn a lot and also pass on that knowledge.
It’s high-paced, with complicated cases. At Davis Wright Tremaine, we try to simplify solutions or innovate solutions for complicated problems. For example, something you could do with a 50-page SPA (Share Purchase Agreement) might be condensed to 20 pages. We try to be very efficient for our clients because they’re paying us by the hour. We try to be as efficient as possible and innovate where we can.
So these are the differences between the two law firms, but again, to each their own. People can do whatever they want in different places, and I got to learn a lot from all of these experiences, for sure.
What kind of qualities do you look for in candidates? Because that is also a very major part of preparation for any student. And not only qualities the way they act, the kind of etiquette that you see in them, how do you judge them? After all, an interview is just one day, but the person will be with you for a longer period of time.
So what kind of checklist, or anything, can you share about what you observe while recruiting someone for such a big law firm?
First of all, this is, again, a very controversial thing to say. I should feel comfortable in that person’s company. Our work hours can at times get very challenging. We have signings and closings; we are rushing, and sometimes it’s fine, but at other times it’s super stressful. So you want to work with a person who is collaborative, who is nice, who can handle tasks independently if I assign them. Of course, it varies depending on the candidate’s year, but being nice and hardworking is key.
They should be able to take initiative. I should see from that candidate whether they are proactive and helpful, because we all work in teams, and you want people who support each other during stressful hours. Hardworking, collaborative, and nice.
When you are interviewing with law firms like these, you are already smart. You can only get to these interviews if you are smart. So all the candidates are intelligent. The challenge is to find someone who fits our culture wherever you are. The culture I look for is collaborative, hardworking, independent, and responsible for someone who says “yes” when given responsibilities. These are the things I would look for.
But again, this is something for law entrants to think about later. First, I would encourage them to have a spectacular CV, to be smart, and to be eligible to reach these places.
Intern in a lot of places. If you are sure you want to do corporate law, do internships with top-notch law firms in India. Go there, do research associateships with professors during your LLM, and then go for these interviews.
So at the very end, we would love to understand that with such a demanding professional life, the kind of commitments that you have for something you have worked so hard for, and now that you have reached that particular space, how are you planning to manage a healthy work-life balance along with being a new mom? How are you going to delegate your responsibilities, and how do you see that so far, both with your earlier life and now with being a new mom yourself? So what are your plans for times to come, and how have you managed it so far?
So far, I think I have managed it well. Not perfectly, but at least I have reached where I am and have managed it fine. I would say strategy is key. You have to be a pre-planner and be strategic about what you’re planning.
So far, every morning, I make my to-do list and try to prioritize things at the very beginning: what is urgent, what has to be done, what can be delegated to someone else, and what is something that has to be done by me. This is something I have to complete and submit to my seniors.
Every morning, I do my to-do list and plan accordingly, and I make sure that I have some time for myself for walking, for the gym, or whatever. I do that in the evenings and then have dinner. But at times, you don’t get enough time, given how corporate jobs are. I think strategy, pre-planning, and thinking about the urgency of a matter of what is delegatable, non-delegatable, and what to do in the mornings is very important.
But honestly, I’m a new mom now. I myself don’t know how I’m going to manage my motherhood, which I absolutely cherish, and I’m thankful to God for this blessing. I am just ending my maternity leave and have to rejoin my law firm job, which I really enjoy and love doing.
So let’s see how I manage those. I’m sure in my law firm, I have a lot of mothers who are balancing work and family. At Davis Wright Tremaine, we have a very good support system and a strong group of working mothers who have been very kind with their advice. I’m sure I will learn from them. But this is something I should share with you in a few years down the line how I manage my work-life balance after being a new mom.
Being dual-qualified in both India and New York is a remarkable achievement. What first inspired you to choose law as a career, and what motivated your decision to build an international practice?
Hailing from a family of prominent lawyers and businessmen, I have been exposed to the world of commercial and legal transactions since a very young age. My initial interest in law was sparked during family dinner conversations about how legal frameworks influence business strategy and drive corporate growth. Those early discussions made me curious about the intersection of law and commerce and ultimately motivated me to pursue a career in law. My interest in corporate law was primarily triggered after I participated in a corporate and securities law moot court competition in law school, where I conducted research on issues relating to insider trading and investment fraud. My constant endeavor to explore and navigate through the practical aspects and intricacies of commercial laws motivated me to pursue internships with corporate law teams at premier law firms and various multinational companies. As I delved deeper into the field, I was drawn to the dynamic, fast-paced world of mergers and acquisitions and private equity—areas where legal precision, business insight, and negotiation strategy converge. After graduation, I gained extensive transactional experience in the M&A practice at AZB & Partners, Mumbai and Trilegal, Mumbai. Qualifying in India gave me a strong foundation in company laws and exposure to a rapidly evolving corporate landscape. However, I was increasingly working on cross-border deals involving US investors, Delaware entities, and multi-jurisdictional structures. This motivated me to pursue an LL.M. in the USA, not only to deepen my understanding of the US law but also to add value in cross-border transactions. My goal has always been to operate at the intersection of jurisdictions, helping Indian companies scale internationally and advising US private equity players and venture capital firms on investments into emerging markets. New York is the financial capital of this world and home to all the big multi-national corporations, private equity firms, and financial institutions. International qualification in New York was a natural step towards building that kind of practice and seeking the desired global exposure. I wanted to be at the forefront of my practice, in the city where all big-ticket matters unfold. Being dual-qualified in both India and New York has been instrumental in shaping my legal career, particularly in corporate law, where cross-border transactions are increasingly the norm.
During law school, you completed 15 internships at some of India’s most prestigious law firms and multinational organizations. How did these diverse experiences shape your inclination towards corporate law, and what key lessons from those years continue to influence your professional approach today?
Completing 15 internships during law school gave me an unparalleled opportunity to explore different areas of law and understand how legal theory translates into practice. From interning in the corporate teams of top-tier corporate law firms to in-house legal teams at multinationals, each experience offered a unique perspective. Learning the practical aspects of transactional work while undertaking due diligence exercises and drafting agreements gave me a hands-on exposure into the professional work at law firms and a glance into the legal requirements of companies from a client’s perspective. While this industry demands long and hectic working hours with challenging work-life balance, I enjoyed the fast-paced and high-stakes environment, and more importantly, I was fascinated by how lawyers help structure complex transactions, negotiate and draft key transaction documents, and manage stakeholder expectations by aligning legal solutions with business goals. I still remember the lessons I learned from my mentor, a counsel at Trilegal that continue to guide my professional growth till date: (a) Adaptability: working across diverse teams, sectors, matters and legal issues taught me how to quickly assess context and contribute meaningfully, even with limited time or background in this fast-paced industry; (b) Precision: handling high-value transactions at law firms taught me early on that attention to detail isn’t just expected, it’s essential. It’s not limited to the role of a junior associate reviewing documents, but rather a discipline that must be upheld at every level of the deal team; and (c) Communication: be it drafting a memo or conducting a due diligence review, clarity in communication and collaboration as a team make the long working hours bearable and the work more enjoyable. Looking back, those years gave me more than just technical exposure, they solidified my decision to pursue a career in corporate law and helped me build the skillset, habits, mindset, and curiosity that I carry into every transaction even today.
At Columbia Law School, you not only pursued your LL.M. but also engaged deeply as a Research Assistant and took on leadership roles in student associations. How did these academic and co-curricular experiences expand your perspective on law and prepare you for a global career?
Pursuing my LL.M. at Columbia Law School was transformative, not only because of the world-class academic environment, but also due to the breadth of co-curricular opportunities that enriched my understanding of the law from a global and interdisciplinary perspective. The opportunity to learn from distinguished professors and engage with the vibrant community made it an enriching educational experience! As a Research Assistant to Professor Jeffery N. Gordon, I had the opportunity to work closely on comparative legal issues, including research on complex M&A issues and legal grey areas, which not only sharpened my analytical and research skills but also gave me insight into how legal systems address ambiguity across jurisdictions. This role honed my ability to approach legal challenges from both doctrinal and policy-based angles. Beyond the classroom and theoretical learning environment, I took on leadership roles in student associations, such as, Student Editor for the Columbia Journal of Asian Law and Secretary of the Columbia Corporate Responsibility Association. I was also an active member of the Columbia Business & Law Association and Columbia Law Women’s Association. Organizing and moderating panel discussions alongside legal scholars and engaging/ interacting with BigLaw partners broadened my perspective on the practice of law across different commercial environments that I now regularly witness in my cross-border practice. My proactive participation in co-curricular activities allowed me to collaborate with my peers from diverse legal backgrounds, exchange perspectives on global legal issues, and build meaningful connections within the international legal community. Together, these academic and extracurricular engagements at Columbia Law not only enhanced my cross-cultural exposure but also equipped me with the global mindset to thrive in the US legal fraternity. In a nutshell, choosing to study at Columbia was one of the best investments I’ve made, not just academically, but personally as well. While the LL.M. program offered world-class legal training and exposure to a truly global network, living in New York added a whole other layer to the experience. I took full advantage of what the city had to offer, catching Broadway shows, exploring museums, trying out food from around the world, and just soaking in the vibe and energy of the city.
Having worked with leading law firms before pursuing your international practice and master’s degree, what cultural and procedural differences stood out to you between legal systems? What were some things you had to learn, adapt, or even unlearn to navigate these differences effectively?
Having worked on M&A and private equity deals in both India and the USA, the differences were striking. While the skillset of a corporate lawyer is arguably transferable and is not jurisdiction specific, in India, deal-making often involves more regulatory oversight, heavily negotiated transaction documents, partly due to enforcement uncertainties and foreign investment restrictions (FDI). In contrast, US transactions are typically fast-paced, more standardized, and heavily focused on commercial outcomes / business goals through precise contract drafting. For instance, I worked on a cross-border transaction that involved a Delaware entity that wanted to acquire an Indian company as its wholly owned subsidiary. As part of the transaction, I realized that Delaware enjoys significantly greater flexibility by providing the board of directors the discretion to govern the entity, whereas, in India, the corporate governance of an entity is more prescriptive and compliance-heavy with stricter rules on matters like related-party transactions, board composition, and structuring. While these legal safeguards in India serve important governance goals, they can sometimes limit the structuring creativity available in complex deals. Culturally, I had to adapt from a well-defined organizational structure in Indian law firms to a more collaborative, client-facing role in the USA, where lawyers early-on in their careers are expected to engage more directly and strategically with the client. I also noticed a shift from providing detailed legal analysis to offering simple, concise (to the point), business-oriented advice, which is critical in the US private equity and M&A space. This transition pushed me to unlearn overly cautious habits and instead focus on practical, deal-driven lawyering, a mindset that’s essential in global transactional work. One of the most appreciated cultural differences I experienced is that the “open door policy” in US law firms is genuinely practiced and not just stated. There’s a strong emphasis on accessibility, mentorship, and collaboration, regardless of hierarchy. Junior lawyers are encouraged to ask questions, contribute ideas, and engage directly with senior associates, partners and even clients, which fosters both learning and confidence.
In your current role, you represent private equity firms, venture companies, and strategic investors in complex cross-border transactions. What have been the most rewarding aspects of working on such high-value deals, and how do you approach the challenge of reconciling multiple statutes and jurisdictions?
I am currently a mid-level associate at Goodwin Procter, LLP, New York, focusing my practice on domestic and cross-border mergers and acquisitions, specifically leveraged buyouts, private equity transactions, and venture capital investments. Working on complex cross-border transactions has been incredibly rewarding, both intellectually and professionally. The most fulfilling aspect is helping clients navigate high-stakes decisions that directly shape and impact their business growth. The best part about my work is that it never gets boring! Whether it’s representing private equity firms, venture-backed companies, or strategic investors, each transaction presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Being at the intersection of law, business and strategy is both challenging and energizing. There is a thrill in closing complex M&A deals. One of the key complexities is managing/ coordinating cross-border work and reconciling multiple legal regimes, especially when deal terms, corporate governance standards, or enforceability vary significantly across jurisdictions. We approach this by collaborating closely with key transaction stakeholders such as RWI insurer, opposing counsel, local counsel and by ensuring alignment on key provisions like representations and warranties, indemnities, and shareholder exit rights across transaction documents. Driving projects by setting timelines for internal workstream, determining and planning internal deliverables, and leading team calls to meet deadlines to increase efficiencies helps manage risk and maintain deal momentum across borders.
Qualifying as a New York lawyer is no small feat. How did you prepare for the bar exam, and how has this qualification added value to your practice? What advice would you offer law students and young lawyers aspiring to clear the exam and pursue international opportunities?
Preparing for the New York Bar Exam was intense, especially coming from a non-US legal background. While I recall it as being a traumatic experience, I did learn a lot along the way! I approached it with a structured plan and a strict routine. I enrolled in a bar prep course, followed a study schedule, and focused heavily on practicing questions and timed essays to build both speed and familiarity with the exam format. I mostly focused on practicing past exam questions because they really helped me get a solid grasp of the legal concepts and figure out how to manage my time during the test. Consistency and discipline were key. I used to wake up early to read through the study modules and watch all the videos and then spend the whole day practicing questions. This helped me understand and apply the legal concepts without the need to cram them up. Qualifying as a New York attorney not only adds credibility in one’s practice in the USA but is also a requirement for most BigLaw firms in making their decision to hire you to practice law in New York. As a New York qualified attorney, I am able to advise on US legal aspects directly, particularly in deals involving New York law-governed documents, which are common in my area of work. My advice is to treat the bar exam like a full-time job for those one to two months. Focus on understanding the test, its format/ structure and not just the law. No matter which bar prep course you choose, practice, practice and practice! This is very important. You don’t need to ace the exam (no extra points for high scorers) – you only need to pass it! Follow a study routine which works best for you but stick to it. There might be days when you may lack the motivation to study or feel burnt out but believe me, keep at it, be positive and put in the hard work because it definitely pays off!
With such elaborate professional responsibilities and a demanding work schedule, how do you strike a balance between your personal and professional life? What strategies or habits help you manage it all effectively?
Balancing a demanding career in corporate law with personal life is definitely a big challenge! However, with time and experience I’ve found that setting clear boundaries and prioritizing both work and downtime is essential. While my law firm does strongly emphasis on physical and mental wellbeing by organizing retreats, wellness days and initiating activities to relieve work stress etc. I make it a point to schedule focused work hours and then fully disconnect during personal time, whether that’s spending time with family, exercising, or pursuing hobbies. I believe that following a proper routine and managing time consciously are key habits. I endeavor to stay organized and avoid burnout by using my vacation days to travel, which I deeply enjoy. I plan my weekends ahead and try to squeeze in activities which I really want to do such as watching a Broadway show or even going on hikes! Even when I get very little time for myself during rough days or intense work phases (when we are signing or closing a transaction), I try to do something that makes me feel calm and relaxed. I listen to music, play the piano or read a novel. I try to exercise regularly, stay hydrated and remain active during the day. Ultimately, I have learnt from my experience that work life balance is less about reaching a perfect equilibrium every day but more about putting in consistent effort to recharge and stay mentally fresh, which ultimately makes me more productive professionally and personally.
Looking back at your journey, what advice would you give to students and young lawyers aspiring to build an international career like yours? Are there specific resources, skills, or values you recommend they focus on to thrive in this path?
Looking back, I’d say building an international legal career requires a combination of strong technical skills, cultural curiosity, and adaptability. Moving to another jurisdiction and pressing the restart button in your professional life is not easy. One should have an open mind to adopt change and the strength to address any unforeseen challenges. It is important to develop a global mindset: stay curious about different legal systems, business cultures, and geopolitical trends. First and foremost, young lawyers still in law school should gain internship experience early on to understand the practical side of the legal profession. It’s essential to go beyond textbooks and see how law operates in the real world. A strong resume with good academic performance, complemented by diverse co-curricular and extracurricular activities, can significantly strengthen an application to study abroad. During my time in law school, I was an active mooter, and I continue to stay engaged with the community by judging some of the most prestigious moot court competitions globally. For those aiming to pursue an LL.M. in the US especially in corporate law, I strongly recommend gaining some hands-on experience in M&A or private equity transactions before applying. The LL.M. is a significant academic and financial investment, and it’s important to approach it with clear intent and direction. Students should not come with the sole aim of landing a job. The LL.M. is also an opportunity to grow as a lawyer, broaden your perspective, and experience true global exposure. Along the way, networking is absolutely key. Building meaningful and genuine relationships with alumni, law firm professionals, professors, and peers can open doors and provide lasting value well beyond the program. Finally, I would say: cultivate resilience and humility. The path can be challenging, especially as you navigate cultural, academic, and professional differences. But those who remain adaptable, open-minded, and solution-oriented will not only succeed but they will thrive.
What initially drew you to specialize in banking and finance, given that they are such niche fields? Was law always your first choice, or did your interest evolve over time, and how did your experience at law school shape that journey?
Law was always my first career choice after school, though I did take a 2.5-year break post-graduation to prepare for the civil services exams. During that time, I also enrolled in a regular post-graduation program in Corporate Laws and Management, which kept me connected with my subjects. While not getting selected did dampen the morale, I always had a stronger plan B to practice law. Banking and finance, however, happened by accident. I was inclined toward corporate laws, and during my first corporate internship I realized I enjoyed advisory work and project finance diligence more than litigation, which eventually set me on this path.
In the early phases of your career, you worked with various law firms. What were the key learning experiences that laid the foundation for your practice and deepened your understanding of these niche fields?
I started my career with a boutique law firm where my seniors gave me the right guidance and also the personal space to grow. That early trust helped me take ownership of matters in the project finance space. It gave me vast exposure in banking and finance and laid a solid foundation for my practice.
Over the past decade, you have advised several leading financial institutions and banks. From your perspective, what are some of the most common challenges clients face in large-scale finance and infrastructure deals, and what is your approach resolving them?
The most common challenge clients face is aligning their business targets with regulatory procedures and the internal legal processes of multiple lenders before disbursement. My approach is to simplify the legal risks, break them into practical solutions, and ensure the documents reflect clarity for all stakeholders. This balance builds trust and helps achieve timely closures.
Project finance and structured finance transactions often involve multiple stakeholders across jurisdictions. What have been the most significant challenges in managing the interests of various parties, including cross-border entities?
The most significant challenge is reconciling different regulatory and legal regimes while keeping the transaction commercially viable. Coordinating with foreign law counsel and managing across time zones often adds another layer of complexity. Clear communication and early identification of friction points help me act as a bridge between parties without compromising legal safeguards.
Renewable energy financing is emerging as a key driver of India’s growth. Based on your experience advising on large solar and hybrid renewable projects, what do you see as the biggest opportunities and challenges in financing India’s clean energy transition?
Currently, India’s renewable sector is full of promise with scalability, strong government push, and growing global investor interest. In recent years, I’ve also seen foreign banks gearing up for the Indian renewable market. The major challenges, however, lie in evolving regulations, land/title issues, and tariff uncertainties.
Having worked extensively on both real estate and infrastructure finance matters, what are some of the key differences and unique legal considerations that distinguish these two sectors?
While both real estate financing and infrastructure financing (like roads, ports, hotels, etc.) follow a broadly similar financing structure, real estate deals revolve heavily around title diligence of land and immovable properties. There are also RERA-specific nuances, particularly in the working of escrow accounts, which operate very differently from a standard infra sector financing deal. Each comes with its own unique risks, and navigating them requires sector-specific expertise and tailored solutions.
Looking back at your career so far, what has been the most rewarding or intriguing high-value transaction or case you have worked on, and how did you navigate its challenges?
Some of the most rewarding matters for me have been InvIT financing deals, which often involve complex funding structures at the InvIT level and on-lending to multiple SPVs. These transactions require balancing the interests of lenders with the operational realities of the SPVs. Navigating those complexities through clear structuring and negotiation has been both challenging and extremely fulfilling.
Considering the demanding nature of your work, how do you strike a balance between professional commitments and personal life, and what practices help you avoid burnout?
I believe it’s equally important to spend time with friends and family. I am also lucky to have a life partner who understands the demands of this profession, and she is truly a blessing. We follow a strict rule of avoiding work on weekends. Of course, there are times when the team has to deliver under strict timelines, and being there to support them with execution and strategy is non-negotiable. I also try not to over-commit to clients—discussing timelines with the team beforehand ensures realistic commitments and gives them a sense of inclusion.
What has been your guiding philosophy throughout your career, and how has it helped you grow and manage challenges effectively?
My guiding philosophy has been to stay curious, adaptable, and solution-oriented. Law is dynamic, and no two transactions are alike – embracing that mindset has helped me grow and navigate challenges. I believe consistency and integrity go a long way in building lasting professional relationships. Looking ahead, I see every transaction not just as a legal exercise but as an opportunity to learn, collaborate, and contribute to India’s evolving financial and infrastructure landscape. For me, the real reward lies in building lasting relationships and helping clients achieve their goals with clarity and confidence.
Finally, what advice would you give to young lawyers aspiring to build a career in banking and finance law, particularly those who wish to specialize in real estate finance? What resources would you recommend?
My advice would be to first build a strong foundation in contract and corporate law, and stay updated on RBI and sectoral regulations. This profession demands patience and consistency, so juniors should avoid being impatient and focus on diligence. Stay curious and never hesitate to ask questions, don’t let the fear of being judged stop you from clarifying crucial aspects of the practice. Practical exposure through internships and resources like legal commentaries or transaction-focused case studies are invaluable.
From working with one of the biggest firms in the country to co-founding Gurcaran Divya Law Offices, what inspired your transition from a leading full-service firm to launching your own corporate law practice?
To begin with, technically, I didn’t co-found the firm. What was originally founded in 1977 was J S Arora & Co, a local tax practice set up by my father in a small town in India. He remains the founding partner, and we continue to carry forward the history, values, and professional integrity that defined his practice. That legacy forms the foundation on which Gurcaran Divya Law Offices stands today.
When I took over the managing seat in 2022, we rebranded the firm and focused on taking it to the next level, both in terms of geographical reach and the range of practice areas. We transitioned it from a local tax-centric setup into a boutique Corporate, M&A and Capital Markets law firm advising clients across industries and borders. In 2023, I was joined by my current co-managing partner, Divya Badlani, and together we now lead the firm.
The real turning point for me came during a deal I worked on at a leading full-service firm. We were advising the investors, and on the other side was a passionate founder, building something of real value, but his lawyer lacked the expertise to fully understand or push back on the legal risks being placed on him. The deal closed, everyone moved on, and yet I couldn’t. There was something deeply unsettling about watching someone unknowingly give away more than they should have, simply because they didn’t have the right counsel in their corner.
That experience stayed with me. It made me realise that India doesn’t just need more corporate lawyers, it needs more accessible, business-focused, high-quality legal advisors who can meet founders and businesses where they are, not just those operating in tier 1 firms for large institutional clients. That’s the gap I set out to fill.
Having worked on numerous high-value cross-border M&A transactions, what have been some of the most challenging aspects of executing such deals within the Indian legal landscape?
Let’s be honest, navigating the Indian regulatory landscape can be incredibly challenging. It is highly complex, with layers of central, state, and local laws that are often unorganised, outdated, or not readily accessible online. Approvals can take significant time, and there are usually multiple authorities and stakeholders involved, each with their own processes and expectations.
What makes things even harder is the lack of clarity in several regulatory provisions. Many times, the law is ambiguous, and no formal clarification is issued by the regulators. In such situations, lawyers and dealmakers are left to take a considered view based on legal interpretation, precedent, and practical experience, often under tight timelines.
Another challenge is the unpredictability of how different regulators or authorities might react to the same issue. A structure that works in one transaction may be flagged in another, even in the same sector. This requires not just legal acumen but also strategic foresight, strong communication with stakeholders, and a solutions-oriented approach.
Yet, despite all of this, the satisfaction of successfully closing a complex cross border deal in India is unmatched. The legal landscape may be tough, but with the right planning, advice, and execution, it is navigable.
Having worked extensively in regulatory compliance, especially for clients in dynamic sectors like fintech and renewable energy, what major sector-specific challenges do you frequently encounter?
Both fintech and renewable energy are evolving faster than the regulatory frameworks meant to govern them. In fintech, the challenge lies in navigating a fragmented regulatory environment involving multiple authorities like the RBI, SEBI, and MeitY. The laws often lag behind innovation, forcing us to interpret legacy frameworks in new contexts.
In renewable energy, the friction typically stems from federal complexity. Central policies may be progressive, but state-level execution, land laws, and tariff regimes are inconsistent and often unpredictable.
Across both sectors, regulatory ambiguity is a constant.
As the legal counsel, we are frequently required to operate in grey zones and provide commercially grounded solutions where the law offers limited guidance. It is where legal advice moves beyond compliance to become strategic.
Given your expertise in capital markets and corporate governance, how do you foresee regulatory trends evolving for listed companies in India over the next few years?
We are likely to see a steady shift toward greater transparency, accountability, and shareholder empowerment. SEBI has been consistently tightening corporate governance norms, be it around related party transactions, independent directors, or disclosure standards. That trajectory will only intensify as Indian markets continue to integrate with global benchmarks. The recent Jane Street case is a clear example of SEBI’s growing willingness to act decisively against market abuse, even involving global institutional players.
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) compliance is also set to become more structured and enforcement-driven, moving beyond voluntary reporting. At the same time, we can expect sharper scrutiny of promoter behaviour, board independence, and market conduct, especially in the wake of recent high-profile cases.
Overall, the direction is clear: listed companies will need to move from a minimum compliance mindset to a culture of proactive governance. Those that lead on this front will be better positioned to attract long term capital and market credibility.
As someone who has closely advised on FDI and SEBI regulations, what are some common misconceptions or pitfalls that foreign investors face when entering the Indian market?
One common misconception is that India’s liberalised FDI policy means a deal can be closed quickly. While entry routes may be automatic in many sectors, the reality is that regulatory, procedural, and sectoral nuances often require detailed structuring and proactive compliance.
Another pitfall is underestimating the role of state-specific laws and local business practices, which can significantly impact timelines, particularly in sectors like infrastructure, retail, and real estate.
Foreign investors also occasionally assume that SEBI’s disclosure and takeover regulations mirror those of mature markets, but in practice, there are several India-specific requirements, especially around pricing guidelines, minimum public shareholding, and indirect acquisitions, that require careful navigation.
Ultimately, success in India requires more than just legal compliance. It demands a strategic understanding of regulatory sensitivities, stakeholder expectations, and long-term alignment with Indian business realities. How has your legal education at Symbiosis Law School (Noida) shaped your professional journey, and what advice would you offer to law students aspiring to build a career in corporate practice?
Oh, absolutely yes. My time at Symbiosis Law School (Noida) played a foundational role in shaping my career. One of the best aspects of the institution was its strong emphasis on internships. We were not only encouraged but marked on the quality of internships we pursued. In the final two years, that push became even more intense. The structure of long weekend classes gave us the flexibility to intern during the weekdays, which made a huge difference. I genuinely owe the start of my career to the opportunities I got to intern during law school.
On the academic front, during our time, subjects like capital markets and transactional law were not deeply embedded in the core curriculum, although optional courses and guest lectures were available. From what I hear now, the curriculum has evolved meaningfully to include more practice-oriented subjects like M&A, securities law, and corporate structuring, which is a great development.
My advice to law students aspiring to build a career in corporate practice is to structure their internships thoughtfully. Start your internships with boutique or mid-sized firms to build a solid foundation, then move to Tier 2 and Tier 1 firms as your skills mature. About two good internships at each level are enough to learn the ropes. Do not chase Tier 1 firms too early in your law school journey. Reserve them for your final years, when you’re ready to demonstrate what you’ve learned and convert the opportunity into a job. Always focus on quality; what matters is not just where you interned, but what you actually learned and delivered.
What advice would you give to law students who are just starting out in their careers? What practices should they aim to inculcate early on, and what resources would you recommend to support their growth? The single most valuable investment a law student can make early on is in meaningful internships. Not just collecting them, but actually doing quality work, asking the right questions, and learning on the ground. What you take away from those experiences will shape your confidence, skills, and career direction far more than any textbook ever could.
That said, conceptual clarity is equally important. A solid grasp of core legal principles and staying updated on legal and commercial developments gives depth to your practical work.
One area that often gets overlooked is networking and personal branding. Your batchmates, seniors, and law school peers will become your professional ecosystem and, very often, your strongest sources of referrals and opportunities. Build those relationships with sincerity, they will serve you far beyond your law school years.
Given the demands of a high-intensity legal career, how do you maintain a healthy work-life balance? Are there any personal interests or activities that help you unwind and recharge?
My trick for balancing work and life? I married the firm’s future co-managing partner. 😀
Jokes aside, the legal profession is undeniably demanding, and striking a balance takes intention. For me, discipline is key. A structured schedule, clear boundaries, and conscious downtime help keep things in check, especially when there’s no ‘boss’ above you, but accountability still runs deep.
One habit I’ve tried to inculcate is not setting unrealistic timelines for clients. It helps manage expectations and protects mental bandwidth. Having a partner who understands both the personal and professional pressures makes all the difference, and I’ve been very fortunate to have Divya by my side, keeping both life and law running smoothly.
I’ll start with a very, very prominent question: how did you decide to become a lawyer, and then how did you decide to pursue an MBA as well? And that too, by scoring a staggering GMAT score of 740. Please enlighten our learners and us as well.
So, I’ll be very honest, I never even dreamt of doing an MBA when I was setting out to become a lawyer. But luckily for me, I was born in a family where my grandfather was a lawyer, and that too, he wasn’t a lawyer throughout his career. He became a lawyer after he retired from government services. He was a civil lawyer. You would imagine that a lawyer who would take care of disputes, of people who would take care of disputes for companies, would have a lot of people coming into the house.
So, very early on, from my childhood days, I would see people come to him for advice and assistance, even people who used to stay near our society. I would always see them come with a sense of hope and a sense of gratitude when they would leave, and that feeling, that there’s one person who could give people that hope, that guidance and that comfort that they need at a time which is probably very traumatic or very difficult for them, was something that I took very closely. So, I wanted to become a lawyer from a very early age.
Secondly, I also enjoyed reading a lot, so that went in my favor because I realized that a lawyer’s job is to constantly update his or her knowledge, constantly keep on reading, and I enjoyed reading. So I felt, okay, this is another avenue where I think I can enhance those aspects about me because I also love to read and I love to learn more.
So, I really wanted to become a lawyer since I was 10 years old, and I never really took up any law coaching as such. This is going to segue into my GMAT score. I actually studied for the engineering entrance exams. I got a decent rank in the AIEEE and got on the extended merit list in the IIT as well, but I never wanted to become an engineer. Engineering was always, for me, a backup option.
Once I got a good score in CLAT and then subsequently a score in AILET, which allowed me admission into National Law University, Delhi, I think it was a slam dunk for me because A, it was Delhi, and B, it was led by Professor Dr. Ranbir Singh, who had basically propped up NALSAR to become one of the best law schools in the country. I was genuinely excited about being part of one of the earlier batches of this institution, which thankfully today continues to be one of the best in the country.
So, for me, law was always a very clear path. I would say corporate law was not really that clear of a path. It was only during my time working with different law firms that I developed a fascination for corporate law, and when I joined my first firm, I realized that there is a lot of excitement I find in helping businesses navigate challenges.
I would say that is effectively the mantra that I followed. What do I want to be? I want to be someone who helps companies, businesses, entrepreneurs, and founders solve challenges and help them on the path to growth or to avoid risks from harming that business or harming that proposition. So that’s pretty much how my journey started.
For my MBA, honestly, that’s a whole other answer. I never imagined that I would do an MBA. I never imagined I would go to INSEAD for my MBA, but yeah, I’ll be happy to discuss that once you want me to discuss it.
We would love to discuss this immediately because, while you had initially prepared for engineering, you ultimately chose to pursue law. How did you adapt your mindset while preparing for the GMAT, given that it requires precision and a completely different approach compared to the way lawyers typically write? How did you unlearn certain habits, relearn new strategies, and successfully achieve this remarkable result?
So first, the rationale for why I wanted to do an MBA sort of permeated from me setting up my independent practice. Once I set up my practice, I started engaging more with young founders and entrepreneurs. And because my intention was to help founders and entrepreneurs grow, it required me to deep dive into business and operations with them. I had to understand how they run their businesses, so I had to develop an understanding of business models. I needed to understand how they generate revenue and how they spend that money. I needed to develop an understanding of both accounting and corporate finance, and then I needed to understand what their next step would be.
One example I can give is that I was advising a blockchain company back in 2021, and they wanted to develop a very unique synthetic trading portal on the blockchain. There was nothing similar like that existing either in India or anywhere else that we could find. We needed to create a structure that would comply with whichever laws were applicable in India because there was nothing that uniquely identified how this business would work.
Helping that founder create a regulatory-compliant business model made me realize that there is a lot more value that lawyers can bring to companies and to founders because of our unique understanding of how regulations work and how they are applied, and because of our understanding of how impact and value can be created, having seen other founders achieve that. We can effectively leverage all of that exposure and bring value to founders not just from a legal perspective but also from a business perspective.
All of these things combined started making me think about how I could add more value to these founders, to my clients. I realized that yes, I do have some form of knowledge or experience, but that was all secondhand because it was gained through interacting with C-Suite level executives or founders. There was nothing concrete I could rely on to advise these founders. That is when I started researching more about how MBA programs work, the value-add that someone like me could get, and how I could enhance and leverage the experiences I had in my past.
That effectively started the journey and the momentum toward giving the GMAT, identifying INSEAD as a potential opportunity, applying for INSEAD, and then getting through. So that’s how that trajectory went.
In terms of preparing specifically for GMAT, I can condense it very quickly. Yes, there is a lot of unlearning that needs to happen. You are absolutely right. There is a lot of effort required to understand how to solve problems. The idea is, as Indian students, many of us have a predictable set path in which we solve problems, whether quantitative or verbal. But the GMAT is one exam where the strategy is to find whatever way works to arrive at the correct answer.
This is key in a service industry that relies on a lot of data that must be analyzed, synthesized, and then communicated to a client in a manner the client understands. The GMAT is effectively what you learn in an MBA program, condensed, and ensures that you have that knowledge ready so that you are not lagging behind in an MBA.
So there was a lot of unlearning and a lot of relearning in terms of how to strategically and tactically approach specific questions, and a lot of practice was needed. I think what people forget is that it is not about how much you know for the GMAT but about how much you have practiced in that kind of environment because it is a very intense examination.
For example, when I was giving the exam, there were COVID regulations for the admission centers. We had to give the exam in a room with our masks on. We could not take our masks off at all, and we did not have access to anything, including water. It was very strenuous because you are stressed about the exam, there is a timer running, you have to manage your time, you have to ensure that you answer every question, and if you skip a question, you cannot go back.
So there are many permutations and combinations outside of just pure knowledge. It requires a lot of practice simulated in an exam environment. I think what worked for me was that I pushed myself to simulate that exam environment regularly. And of course, I had the benefit that, since it was my own practice, I could identify time slots every day for practice. But I think being disciplined and serious about what you need to do is the simplest way to achieve a good GMAT score.
Wow! With your independent practice, you also managed to crack this challenging exam. Considering that you pursued your MBA during the COVID-19 period, a time when many perspectives on management evolved, how did this new understanding of management help you build a stronger practice after completing the course compared to the understanding you had before it? You must have done some comparative analysis on this if you don’t mind sharing, what were your key takeaways?
That’s absolutely the perfect question because that is the one question I ask a lot of potential applicants who are in the legal field who want to do an MBA.
That’s the one point I ask them to ask yourself, why are you doing this? What do you hope to gain out of this? Because an MBA is very customized, I would say. It’s a very bespoke course. Because you’ll get a lot of information and a lot of that information is probably available at 100th of the cost. The question is, what do you want to derive out of that experience? So I can say personally for me, there were a few factors that were very critical, which I feel I can leverage today after having completed. The first and foremost, and this goes well for most international MBAs, is the network.
At INSEAD, I think there is a rule that a particular nationality cannot be represented by more than 11 or 12% of the cohort. So it is by rule that you will be interacting with people from a variety of different geographies, different backgrounds, different experiences, and you are forced to be in that situation.
When I say forced, it’s by nature of the groups that are set, the sections that are created. You are constantly interacting with people whom you probably may not have anything in connection with prima facie. Like in my group, you would not have another Indian and you would not have another lawyer. You would have people from completely different backgrounds, and I think that helps in two ways.
Number one, after you graduate, your alumni network is probably one of the strongest in the world. So you can basically look at the alumni directory and you’ll find the who’s who of any industry. So you know, if you are stuck somewhere or you need assistance somewhere, you have an alumni base to rely on and it’s one of the strongest components of INSEAD. Second, you also develop an understanding of how different perceptions can approach different problems. Because when you are given a problem as a group, as an analytical Indian lawyer, I might solve it in path A. Someone who works in the renewable energy industries who’s only worked on offshore drilling, they look at that in another path. Someone who’s worked in hardcore finance, hedge fund, or investment banking, they look at that same problem maybe in my direction, but a different path. Someone who’s an army vet, a Marine operator, they will look at it differently. So when you are interacting with so many different people trying to solve a very similar problem.
You start getting an understanding of how different people think and what their rationale is for them. And when I look back, that helps me also tackle challenges that my clients face in different ways in which I would’ve never thought, because unfortunately, a lot of lawyers are caught in this bubble of thinking in a very pedantic and a very straight cut method.
That usually doesn’t happen in an MBA because you are dealt with problems that span different industries and therefore you have to rely on different ways of thinking. So the mental models, the thought processes, the approach, I think that also helps you understand problems from different lenses. And the last, and another important takeaway for me was how do you value the output more than the process? Because ultimately as a service provider, whether you’re a consultant, whether you’re a banker, whether you’re a lawyer, ultimately your goal is to resolve challenges and solve issues for your clients and do it in a way that they can trust you with their work going on. There’s a very important saying that one of the professors said that you know that you’re a good service provider when your client calls you up for help that is outside your core service. For example, if a client calls you up and says, Hey, Aditya, can you tell me the name of a good pediatric surgeon in Delhi? That means they trust you for things even outside your core competence. And how do you develop that trust is what we learned. How do you build processes that help you create that engine that gives them what they want?
So that was my takeaway, and that’s what’s helping me optimize and make my practice more efficient. More driven towards solutions rather than process, which may become an obstacle for client service
The kind of trust your clients place in you is truly inspiring. It seems this trust stems not only from your legal expertise but also from your problem-solving approach, even beyond traditional legal boundaries. Is this the same trust that has enabled you to handle multi-million-dollar, high-stakes deals? Could you share a story of a particularly complex transaction or negotiation where your combined understanding of law and management helped you find a solution that others might have struggled with?
Sure. So I think the first one, in terms of a complex deal. I think the most complex deal that I did was one of the biggest deals that I did in my independent practice. It was an acquisition of a logistics company from a listed company.
So we were acting for the acquirers. And safe to say that I had gained the trust of my clients to the extent that they would trust me with almost 150 crore rupee deal. In the listed company space, and what I realized later was this was going to be an uphill challenge because unlike any other deal that I had done even in my law firm career, this one required me to have a strong understanding of not just basics of M&A and transactional law, but also accounting.
About how business operations in this industry were, because I had to sit with the client and understand the implications of what the negotiations were going to be, because ultimately those were to be reflected in the transaction document. So having that kind of interaction first with business, then with finance, then trying to understand how those interplay with the legal clauses.
Then, drafting those clauses and then negotiating with a company that has probably a battery of lawyers that are assisting them because they’re a listed company. So that was very, very challenging, and it was complex transactions, primarily because there were a lot of payment driven issues because it was effectively a carve out of the listed company.
They were carving out a business and we were acquiring that business. So how do you create that delineation from now this belongs to us and whatever remains is yours. How the accounting for that is going to be done. And even if there is an agreement on how it’s going to be done in practice, ultimately it’s my job to put it on paper.
So doing that, and this was before my MBA. So I did not even have that kind of a formal understanding of how finance and accounting work. I had a bare bones understanding back then, but it forced me to continuously interact with my client and understand what it is that they’re looking for.
And I think this is the biggest learning I can give to anyone who’s advising clients on M&A. Understand what your client wants out of this transaction. Because not every deal is the same. People have different expectations from that transaction. And your job as a counsel and an advisor is to understand what that requirement is and then put it on paper to either ensure it happens or to protect so that it doesn’t get taken away.
So that deal for me was very challenging because I did not have any assistant, I had another senior lawyer who was working with me. But I needed to understand tax, accounting, employment, labor, and transactional work all on my own. So that was challenging, but very rewarding because we ended up having a very successful team.
To your second point about interesting negotiations, very interestingly, after my MBA, one of the deals that I had negotiated was against my earlier firm where I negotiated with one of the lawyers who I mentored back in the firm, and having that kind of interaction with him, trying to recall and leverage all the business side elements of what I wanted to protect for my client and interacting with him on that point was a very good learning for me.
And it was a very, I would say, smooth process because. I was very proud of the fact that he also came at me with very logical arguments. And this is another very important point because if this is going out to other lawyers who are in this profession, one thing again that you have to realize is please, whatever arguments you’re making in a negotiation, number one, be very well prepared with what you have to say, why you are asking for what you’re asking.
And anticipate what the counterparty might say, putting yourself in their position. Because a lot of time, the only argument you’re giving is, this is market standard. This is what we want. Without giving a rationale, then you’re effectively moving yourself back from the negotiation table and you’re making it break down.
So another very important aspect that I learned, especially for negotiations, is that you really need to put in a lot of effort, a lot of work to support what you are saying, why you are saying and why it makes sense. Because at the end of the day, your job is to ensure that there is a solution that works for everyone.
You cannot drum things down on the other side unless of course you have leverage. But most times when parties are on an equal footing, you need to come with solid arguments, but also help the other side understand. Look, this works for me and it also works for you because A, B, C, and what you are suggesting doesn’t work because of D, E, F.
So when you give rationale, it is very difficult for the human brain to immediately say no. It makes them think. And once you’re making someone think that, that means you’re moving ahead. So that’s a negotiation strategy that I deployed amongst the other things that I learned. But one thing that I felt very happy about was I could see that what I had learned almost entirely was being replicated by someone who I basically helped and who’s now a very accomplished lawyer in his own right.
So I think it was a good negotiation, and that’s the reason why I remember it so well.
Wow! The way you approach challenges using both legal expertise and analytical skills developed through your MBA is fascinating. How has this combination helped you attract clients like startup founders seeking fundraising and structuring advice? Since law itself demands logical thinking, how did you transition from initially not being inclined toward corporate law to strategically building your expertise in this field? What steps did you take to train yourself to handle these challenges analytically and logically?
I read a lot. The simplest answer is I read a lot. I put myself in situations where I was forced to be the one doing the grunt work. One example I can recall from the first firm I worked at was that we had one of the best corporate law libraries I can think of. There were books on M&A and transactions that I don’t think many law firms in India would have had access to.
When I had access to that library and to some of the best corporate lawyers in the country, I was as inquisitive as a young lawyer could be. I would always read up on different transactions. I would read about how contracts are framed. I would read about best practices in the United States or the United Kingdom. I would read case laws during my off time. I would review transaction documents signed by the firm 10 or even 15 years ago.
So, once I became interested in the business of transaction law—or any subject for that matter—it was always about putting myself in a situation where I could learn whatever I wanted to know about it. I would find resources, read, and absorb as much as I could. And now, this has become 10 times easier because all research often requires is a simple prompt. I think research has become easier, but at the end of the day, it’s about reading the full article or the complete chapter of a book and understanding it deeply.
For me, developing this analytical skillset has always been through reading a lot and talking to a lot of lawyers. Whenever I was on a deal with someone who did things I didn’t understand, I would never hesitate to ask them, “Why did you say that? What was the point you were making in this argument? Why was this so important?” You’d be surprised at how many senior lawyers genuinely appreciate junior lawyers coming up and asking such questions.
I would urge a lot of lawyers, especially those in law firms, to never hesitate in approaching your senior associate or principal associate and asking, “Why is this happening?” This is also a very important point for potential leaders. Whether you are becoming a senior associate, a principal associate, or a partner, whenever you are delegating work, it is imperative that you explain why you are doing it and what you are expecting from the team. This not only enhances their comprehension of the problem but also ensures that they remain focused on the outcome.
For me, developing that thought process was both as a learner and as someone who mentored young lawyers and interns. Constantly engaging in that way made it second nature to me. Whenever a problem statement comes before me, I can immediately identify the key aspects—the fact pattern, the trigger points, and the interests that the client needs addressed.
One of the first things I do when I take on a mandate is to talk to the client and understand what a successful outcome looks like for them. This is something I find many lawyers overlook. Even before my MBA, I always focused on this, but after my MBA, I learned that a successful advisor not only understands what the client needs but also helps the client define what they truly want. Sometimes clients are not equipped to frame their needs clearly. It is your job to guide them—to be like Gandalf for them, mentoring and advising them in a way that helps them discover the most viable solution.
It’s all about constant interaction, continuous updating of knowledge, and being hungry to understand things. In every form of communication—whether on WhatsApp, email, or in conversations with juniors or seniors—you must have clarity in what you are saying and why you are saying it.
Over time, it all becomes second nature. At least, that’s what has happened to me.
Being an avid reader and someone who has never hesitated to question and learn from seniors, how has this curiosity shaped you into an approachable mentor? You’ve guided many aspiring legal professionals, how does it feel to see your mentees succeed, and what key advice or guiding principles do you usually share with them that our learners could benefit from?
I’m very passionate about this, so I’d love to talk more about this. One, how I started, again, my inquisitive nature always made me question everything. And it was not just in a law firm; it was even at home. Why is this the way? Why is that the way? And because I had a background in science, it was always that questioning of why something happens.
Unless you understand the why, you’re never going to understand the process itself. So you need to know why something happens. There has to be a reason behind it. And that prompted me to be very inquisitive. Based on that, I spoke to a lot of people. Sometimes I would be shooed away, but a lot of times I would be given a patient ear.
And also, in a way, because I was instrumental in helping form the internship strategy at one of my firms, it made me interact with a lot of interns. Throughout that journey, I realized that interns also come to a law firm with the expectation of learning. They are not just there as law students who are expected to do a lot of grunt work or research work; they also have an expectation from the law firm. I learned that while interning in some of the best law firms in the country, a couple of them in fact, and there I got a sense of understanding what work goes on in a law firm.
But there is also that learning that happens from some of the senior lawyers, which is absolutely incomparable because they know how things work in practice. What you are studying in law school is a lot of academic knowledge. So it was my role that because I got that, I had to give it forward, and I enjoyed doing that.
I enjoyed speaking with interns one-on-one throughout my time in all the law firms that I worked with, and even now. Now the question is, how do I do it? Again, it’s a very similar way to how I work with clients. My first question to a lot of them is, I need to understand why are you here? Why are we talking?
What is it that you hope to achieve out of this? There are people who come asking me for advice on how to manage toxicity in the workplace, which is unfortunately a very important topic but is very prevalent. A lot of people ask, I want to shift from a law firm to in-house. How do I do that?
The first question I ask is why? What’s problematic in that law firm? What is it that you have identified that you cannot work for? If someone asks me, okay, I’m a lawyer who’s doing disputes, I want to go do an MBA, my first question is why? Have you asked yourself why you want to do this? Is it the money? Do you want to do law, or do you want to do law with that understanding?
So the way I talk to students, mentors, and young lawyers is first I ask them what their motivations are. So it’s sort of like helping them drill down in their own mind what it is that they have to speak about when they come to me. And my role is mostly to help them realize what it is that they want and then give them my understanding with a very clear caveat.
I am not a counselor. I am not a career guide, and I’m not, let’s say, an MBA coach. I can only tell you what worked for me, and there is nothing to say that what worked for me will work for you. So please take what I say with a pinch of salt. But what I can tell you are the principles that I applied; they are very likely to probably be relevant in your field because the principles are very straightforward.
Have clarity of thought, understand the motivation behind any action, whether it’s speech or whether it’s written. Understand the implications or have an idea of what the implications of those actions would be, and then if you’re okay with the implications, go achieve that outcome in a strategic manner.
Understand what it is that you want to do and then lay out a plan of action. Don’t just go headfirst into a situation and say, I’ll take things as they come, because that’s inefficient. One thing I keep telling people is law requires you to be efficient because at any point in time, you’re juggling five things.
So if you’re not efficient, you are bound to drop the ball. And the best way to not drop it is to have some sort of structure, some sort of, I would say in a crude sense, an SOP. If a project comes, then I do A, B, C. If X happens, then Y is the outcome. While it takes time, the moment it gets crystallized, it becomes a very standard operating process for anyone.
It then just becomes like a program. Once something comes, you know the path that you have to follow. So your brain is then only focused on exactly the substance, not the administrative process around it. And that helps a lot of people realize their own value, their own way of working. Some people work visually, some people work through reading.
Some are more analytical than others, but then they find what it truly is that they want, and that’s when it’s more of a eureka moment for some of them. Obviously not everyone has that, but that’s my path. It’s not spoon-feeding. It is effectively helping them understand who they are, what it is that they want, and how they can do that.
I can help you create a path to it, but what you want to do, that’s up to you. And then it applies everywhere, whether it’s professional or personal, whether it’s within the law or outside the law.
Navigating such a demanding career, how do you maintain a balance between mental and physical health, especially when long hours and tight deadlines are involved? What strategies have worked for you to stay productive without burning out? Additionally, looking ahead, what are your plans for the next few years in terms of your career and practice, especially after transitioning from law to also pursuing an MBA?
I can speak for hours because that is such an important aspect that I’ve realized. Unfortunately, a bit later in my professional life, but better late than never in my view. So I cannot stress enough how important managing your mental health and physical health is, especially in a career like law.
I don’t think I need to go into the details of why it’s important. I think it is now an absolute truth that you need to maintain every aspect of your body, whether it’s the physical body or the mental body. You have to, if you want to lead a life that you are content with. There is no question about it.
And I think that’s pretty much a given. How to do that is a major point. One thing I felt in my own life, even without having maybe the knowledge that I do today, is I could take care of my physical health because I wanted to. Right from the day I started working, in fact, a year before I started working, I made sure that I made it a habit to do some form of physical workout every single week, maybe four to six times continuously. Once it became a habit for me for, let’s say, over a month or two months, if I remember correctly, then it became an indispensable part of my daily routine, and I think that’s what’s most crucial. Once you make something a part of your routine, then it becomes something that you don’t need to think about.
Yes, there is that initial inertia that prevents you from doing things that you know are important. That’s where actual growth is. If you push yourself through for a short period of time, once it becomes part of the routine, in fact, you feel the other way. There was this period of time when I was undergoing some physical issues where I couldn’t go to the gym, and I genuinely felt that I was missing out on something during the day because it feels that once I work out, once I come back to work, I feel motivated and invigorated. A physical workout of any kind, whether it’s running, walking, yoga, going to the gym, swimming, any form of physical exercise that elevates your heart rate and makes you sweat a little bit, is, I think, very crucial not just for your physical health, but it also has an impact on mental health.
And when it comes to mental health, there is this saying that everyone should meditate for 20 minutes a day, except when you are really busy and stressed. In that case, you have to meditate for 40 minutes a day. What people don’t realize is the value in that statement is so deep that unless you do it, you will not realize it.
Meditation doesn’t mean that you have to go to a particular place; if that works for you, great. But meditation is effectively calming your thoughts. It’s not about having no thoughts, but mindful meditation. The one that I follow is just having comfort in knowing that whatever you are thinking is okay, and you let it pass without judgment.
Simply put, giving yourself 15 to 20 minutes a day, anytime during the day, where there is calm, where you are not worried about the next message, the next meeting, or a call that’s supposed to happen. The impact that that period of calmness has on your day, and if you do it over a period of time in your life in general, really helps you also become a better lawyer.
I’ll give you an example. There are a lot of times in a lawyer’s life when, during negotiations, things can get very heated, and I have seen lawyers lose their cool in conversations. One thing I felt after I started meditating is that my reaction to a lot of unnecessary verbiage that’s thrown in a negotiation is much lower.
I don’t react impulsively anymore, and what that does is it not only shows that you are the bigger person when you are keeping your calm while the other person might be shouting, but it also shows your client that you are confident about the path that you’re following. Ultimately, if your client sees that confidence in you, then that means you’re doing something right as his or her advisor.
So it’s not just about feeling good about yourself. All of these things actually also help you become a better lawyer as well. It helps you deal with the stresses that the life of a lawyer will inevitably throw at you. It is a given that a lawyer’s life will have stress. There is no escaping that.
Anyone who thinks otherwise is deluded, or they’re probably practicing law in a way I have never seen. But stress is effectively in the nature of the legal career, and the only way is, you don’t wish for stress to go away, you learn to deal with it, and you learn to manage it. One of the best ways to manage it for me turns out to be meditation.
Can you share the story behind your decision to pursue a career in law? What drew you to specialize in corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, and tech law?
My decision to pursue law was greatly influenced by my father, who was an advocate. From a young age, I was fascinated by how companies operate, who holds control, and how decisions are made. This curiosity sparked my interest in corporate law. As a lawyer, I have always believed that our knowledge should extend beyond a single area of law, and we should continually strive to broaden our understanding.
My tenure with two major IT companies offered me the perfect opportunity to deepen my understanding and gain specialized expertise in IT laws.
You have led some high-value M&A transactions. Can you walk us through one of the most challenging deals you’ve handled and the key takeaways from that experience?
One of the most challenging M&A transactions I handled in the last few years involved a cross-border acquisition that spanned multiple jurisdictions with varying regulatory frameworks. The deal required coordinating extensive due diligence across different time zones, managing compliance with complex local regulations, and aligning the objectives of diverse stakeholders. A key challenge was balancing the legal intricacies with the strategic goals of both the acquiring and acquired company.
The key takeaways from this experience were the importance of conducting thorough due diligence and implementing proactive risk management to address potential regulatory challenges before they escalate. In cross-border deals, it’s also crucial to be sensitive to cultural differences, in addition to navigating various regulatory frameworks. Understanding these nuances can help ensure smoother negotiations and successful deal closures. Balancing both legal and cultural complexities is essential for aligning interests and achieving the strategic goals of the transaction.
You regularly contribute to national publications like the Economic Times. What motivates you to share your insights publicly, and how do you think your contributions have influenced the legal community?
When I contribute to national publications, my primary motivation is to share practical insights and knowledge that can reach a broader audience. Contributing to these platforms also helps me stay informed about emerging legal trends and challenges, fostering my ongoing professional growth. I view these contributions as a way to give back to the legal community, ensuring that valuable knowledge is not confined to closed circles but is shared and applied to drive progress and innovation.
Given your experience as a product attorney for cloud products, what unique legal challenges do you foresee in the rapidly evolving tech industry and how should legal professionals prepare for them?
In the rapidly evolving tech industry, particularly with the rise of cloud computing, several unique legal challenges are emerging. One of the most pressing is data privacy and security. As companies increasingly rely on cloud services, the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive information has grown significantly. Legal professionals must navigate a complex landscape of applicable regulations to ensure compliance while safeguarding data.
Another critical challenge is managing cross-border data transfers. Cloud services often operate across multiple jurisdictions, which requires a thorough understanding of international data transfer laws. The varying regulations and standards across different countries add to this complexity, making it essential for legal professionals to stay informed about global legal developments.
Intellectual property (IP) protection is also a key concern. Legal professionals advising product engineering/development teams need to ensure that IP rights are rigorously protected while addressing challenges related to the use of open-source software and licensing agreements.
To effectively prepare for these challenges, legal professionals must develop a deep understanding of technology and its legal implications. This involves staying updated on the latest developments in data privacy, cybersecurity, and IP law, and closely collaborating with technical teams to provide informed and proactive legal guidance.
With nearly two decades of experience, what advice would you give to young lawyers entering the field of corporate law, particularly those interested in M&A and regulatory compliance?
I recommend starting by building a solid foundation before delving into complex deals. A comprehensive understanding of corporate law, corporate structures, contract law, and relevant regulations is essential. This groundwork will equip you to confidently navigate the more intricate aspects of M&A and compliance. Given the constantly evolving legal and regulatory landscape, staying informed about new laws and market trends is equally important. Moreover, attention to detail is paramount in M&A transactions, as even minor errors can lead to significant repercussions. Since M&A deals are inherently complex, it’s vital to have a thorough grasp of all facets of a transaction—beyond just the legal aspects—such as tax and financial considerations, to accurately evaluate its legal impact.
What motivated you to transition from working with multinational corporations to starting your independent legal practice? How different is independent legal practice from working with a corporate?
The motivation to transition from multinational corporations to independent legal practice stemmed from my desire for more autonomy, flexibility, and the ability to work on varied matters. In a corporate role, you are part of a structured team with access to established resources and support systems, and your focus is often aligned with a single organization’s specific business and legal needs. As an independent practitioner, you deal with different clients from different industries and are responsible for managing all aspects of your practice. It requires greater self-reliance, adaptability, and business development skills, but it also offers more autonomy and flexibility in choosing clients and areas of focus.
You began your practice working in corporate roles, then transitioned to law firms, and eventually moved back to the corporate sector. Can you highlight the key differences in working in these two environments? How have your experiences in both segments shaped your approach to legal practice?
My career has provided me with valuable experiences in both law firm and in-house roles, each offering distinct perspectives and challenges that have profoundly influenced my approach to legal practice. In a law firm, the focus is on cultivating deep legal expertise and offering specialized advice to a diverse array of clients and industries. The work is fast-paced, demanding precision, thorough research, and a keen awareness of evolving legal trends.
In in-house roles, the focus shifts from pure legal analysis to a comprehensive understanding of the business context. This involves not just applying the law but also aligning with the company’s goals, risk tolerance, and strategic direction. In-house work requires a pragmatic approach, balancing legal risks with business realities and often involves contributing to boardroom discussions where your legal advice directly influences key business decisions.
The combination of these experiences has provided me with a well-rounded perspective. My law firm background instilled the importance of rigorous legal analysis and staying updated on legal developments, while my in-house experience underscored the need for practical, business-focused legal solutions. These experiences together have honed my ability to offer legal advice that is both sound and strategically aligned with organizational goals.
Outside of your professional life, what personal interests or hobbies do you pursue? How do these activities influence or complement your work as a senior corporate lawyer?
Outside of my professional life, I enjoy baking, travelling, and spending quality time with my daughter. Baking provides a creative outlet and a calming respite from the demands of my legal work. Travelling allows me to step back, reflect, and immerse myself in different cultures, which broadens my perspective and enhances my ability to approach challenges with an open mind. Time with my daughter brings immense happiness and helps me stay grounded, enabling me to manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Your journey in law began with an inspiration from Hindi movies. How did this fascination shape your career, and what were the initial challenges you faced as a first-generation lawyer?
From a young age, I was inspired by the portrayal of lawyers in Hindi movies, passionately advocating for justice. This fascination ignited my dream of becoming a lawyer, viewing it as a noble profession where I could make a real difference. These cinematic representations motivated me to pursue a career in law with a vision of being a beacon of hope and justice, much like the heroes on screen.
One significant challenge I faced was the lack of mentorship. Unlike some of my peers who had family members in the profession, I had to seek out mentors and resources independently. This, however, turned into a strength, making me resilient and resourceful. I learned to leverage every opportunity for learning and growth, from internships to networking events.
Entering the professional world meant proving myself in a highly competitive environment. As a first-generation lawyer, I had to work twice as hard to establish my credibility and demonstrate my skills. The early stages of my career were marked by long hours, continuous learning, and a relentless drive to excel.
Despite these challenges, my journey has taught me the value of perseverance, hard work, and the importance of building strong professional relationships, which have been instrumental in my growth and success as a lawyer.
You started your career at a leading publishing company and then transitioned to Legal Process Outsourcing (LPO). What motivated this shift, and how did your experience at Pangea3 influence your professional growth?
In 2006, as the Legal Process Outsourcing (LPO) industry was rapidly emerging, I saw an opportunity to explore this new field, knowing I could return to litigation if it didn’t meet my expectations.
I joined Pangea3 with an impressive client base, including top US law firms and some of the world’s largest companies in various sectors. I started in the corporate division where my role was reviewing, summarizing and abstracting technology, finance, and real estate agreements. This role gave me valuable insights into intricate legal transactions, enhancing my understanding of these areas.
Later, I transitioned to the litigation department, where I got an opportunity to manage teams of high-performing lawyers. Leading a team that critically evaluated and challenged every decision was a unique and challenging experience. We often worked on projects with tight deadlines, requiring long hours, including weekends. Maintaining team spirit and motivation under such high pressure without compromising quality was a formidable task.
My experience at Pangea3 significantly influenced my professional growth by developing my leadership skills, deepening my understanding of complex legal agreements, and providing me with a global perspective on legal practices.
Working with stakeholders across the globe has given you a global outlook. Can you share some key insights or experiences that have shaped your understanding of global legal practices?
Working with global companies, often involves collaboration with diverse teams, each bringing their frameworks and practices. Establishing trust and rapport with international stakeholders often requires consistent and proactive engagement. During my time managing high-value transactional agreements, I found that regular discussions with an intent to understand the stakeholders’ goals and challenges were key to successful collaboration. There is also need of clear and precise communication as concepts and terminologies can vary significantly between countries. Therefore it’s essential to articulate legal advice in a way that clients and colleagues from different backgrounds easily understand.
At Maersk, you set up and managed the legal team in India. What were the significant challenges and accomplishments during this period, and how did it enhance your expertise in complex negotiations?
One of the key lessons I learned at Maersk was the distinction between setting up a legal team versus managing an established one. My team in Mumbai, including myself, were new hires in the legal department. While my team members often looked to me for guidance, I was also learning alongside them about the work, culture, and policies. However, I was fortunate to receive valuable support from my General Counsel and CFO, who instilled confidence in me and reminded me not to be too hard on myself despite the initial challenges. My team played a crucial role in alleviating much of the pressure.
As an in-house counsel at Maersk, my role extended beyond just advising and identifying risks to actively negotiating and defending the company’s best interests while closing agreements. The hands-on negotiation experience with the support and mentorship I received, significantly developed my skills and confidence in managing complex legal matters.
Transitioning to Firmenich, you moved into the sales side of legal work. How did this shift in focus help you grow professionally, and what unique skills did you develop during your time there?
At Maersk, I was always in a dominant position representing the procurement team. In contrast, at Firmenich, I needed to be more accommodating to ensure timely deal closures without compromising the company’s interests. Striking the right balance between being aggressive and stepping back when necessary was challenging at first.
Further, at Firmenich, I had the opportunity to work with Legal Heads for Europe, Asia, and the Americas region. Each one of them had a unique style, allowing me to learn significantly from their diverse approaches.
My colleagues and seniors in the legal department were incredibly helpful and supportive, that allowed me to transition from a procurement-focused lawyer to a business-driven counsel.
With your vast experience, what advice would you give to current in house legal professionals who are looking to navigate and succeed in the ever-evolving legal landscape?
Regardless of whether you are a first-generation lawyer or not, maintaining an open mindset is crucial. Embrace the continuous learning that the legal profession demands. As an in-house counsel, it’s essential to have a comprehensive understanding of your company’s business and the nature of its transactions. This insight enables you to provide relevant and strategic legal advice.
Never hesitate to ask questions – whether about a transaction, legal concept, or business process. Seeking clarity is key to ensuring that you can offer sound legal advice.
Most importantly, cultivate resilience. The legal field can be demanding, and navigating its complexities requires the ability to adapt and persevere through challenges.
In your opinion, what are the most critical ethical considerations for in-house attorneys, and how do you ensure that these principles are upheld in your daily work?
From a young age, I viewed the law as a profession dedicated to justice and integrity. For in-house attorneys, upholding ethical principles such as honesty and transparency is paramount.
In my practice, I ensure that I present an accurate assessment of risks so that the organization can make informed decisions. I believe in providing clear and honest advice without overselling or exaggerating potential outcomes. If I am uncertain about any aspect of a legal issue, I ask for the necessary time to research and provide a well-informed response.
Can you share a personal development or mentorship experience that significantly impacted your career trajectory?
The mentorship that I received in Maersk was invaluable as I began my career as an in-house counsel. Maersk emphasized the importance of praising in public and reprimanding in private, a principle that has deeply influenced my working style. The company’s zero tolerance for any form of belittlement, regardless of a person’s seniority, reinforced the idea that effective leadership don’t require being disrespectful or domineering.
The weekly meetings with the General Counsel and CFO were particularly impactful. Their guidance not only boosted my confidence but also equipped me with the skills needed to lead high-performing teams effectively. This experience has been pivotal in my professional development and continues to shape my working style till today.
As someone with extensive experience, how do you mentor and guide young lawyers entering the field? What key qualities do you believe are essential for their success?
In India, many career decisions are often influenced by family expectations or the allure of someone else’s success. I will tell all young lawyers that don’t be afraid to take bold steps and embrace opportunities to learn, even if they seem outside your immediate area of expertise rather than simply following someone`s footsteps. While you may get inspiration from people around you, do remember that you have to pave your path to make the mark.
Key qualities for success in this field include curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to continuously learn and adapt. By embracing these qualities and valuing every experience along the way, young lawyers can effectively navigate their careers and achieve long-term success.
With such a demanding and multifaceted career, how do you unwind and relax? What activities or hobbies help you maintain a healthy work-life balance?
The role of an in-house counsel can indeed be demanding and exhausting but a strong family support helps me manage stress effectively.
For me, travelling serves as a form of therapy. I take at least one vacation each year to explore new places and immerse myself in different experiences. This not only provides a refreshing break but also broadens my perspectives.
When time permits, I find relaxation in watching movies or web series, particularly those with compelling courtroom drama. It may sound cliche, but engaging with legal dramas allows me to enjoy my passion for the law in a more relaxed setting.
STT Global Data Centres (“STTGDCI”) is a prominent name in the data centre industry. Could you share more about the company, your role and your experience so far.
STT GDC India (4th consecutive winner as Great Place to Work) is one of the leading data centre providers in India and hosts critical business infrastructure for many of the top Fortune 500 companies.
I oversee the end-to-end closure of commercial contracts for both the procurement and sales departments. My role also extends to day-to-day advisory services, resolving disputes arising from commercial contracts, and acting as the legal SPOC for regulatory matters related to sales contracts. In the past, I supported real estate transactions and handled customer recovery.
At STT Global Data Centres, I’ve had an incredible experience of working in a fast-paced, high-growth industry. My team and colleagues are extremely helpful and are willing to lend support whenever needed. My General Counsel has been instrumental in my development so far. He cultivates a positive and supportive work environment within the team. His management style is flexible, and he doesn’t believe in micromanaging, which instils confidence and allows me the autonomy to handle situations with a greater sense of responsibility.
What motivated you to pursue a career in law after your schooling at Sainik School Tilaiya and your experience with the NDA? How did your time at Campus Law Center, Delhi University, shape your legal perspective?
After completing my 10+2 from a Sainik School, I was selected for the NDA but could not join due to some medical issues. I then moved to Delhi for my graduation and enrolled in History (H). Initially, I chose Law to prepare for competitive exams, but I soon developed a genuine interest in the field and decided to pursue it as a career. During my college years, besides NLUs, the Campus Law Centre stood out with its excellent faculty and talented students. The case study method of teaching there fostered my interest in developing legal acumen.
What is your personal philosophy or mantra that you live by? How has it guided you through various phases of your life and career?
My philosophy and mantra in life is to be kind to others and work hard. Try not to pass the pressure on others. try to do the basics right and make things simpler.
Can you share your experiences working as a Legal Retainer at Indian Express Newspapers and simultaneously doing court reporting for UNI? How did this dual role contribute to your legal acumen?
I joined Indian Express Newspapers as a Legal Retainer immediately after completing my final semester exams. In this role, I represented the organization before various Courts and Tribunals. During my time with Indian Express, I had the privilege of working closely with some of the finest legal minds, particularly Mr. Nachiket Joshi. This period was a tremendous learning experience, and the knowledge I gained continues to benefit me in my current role as an in-house counsel. It has enhanced my decision-making abilities and problem-solving skills, which I feel are often lacking in colleagues without direct courtroom experience.
My extensive court reporting experience helped me build a strong rapport with court staff. Attending high-profile case hearings and grasping the essence of judgments early in my career was invaluable. Regular interaction with the judiciary significantly boosted my confidence. It became routine for me to visit the court in the evening and inquire about any significant judgments of the day. Publishing exclusive stories always brought a great sense of satisfaction.
You have worked in various sectors including mining, manufacturing, environment, real estate, media, and the automobile industry. How has your experience been in learning and adapting to the legal intricacies of each sector? What strategies did you employ to efficiently transition and excel in such diverse fields?
I feel that when you start thinking about how our legal system works in a given situation you can adjust and add value to any particular Industry. Many times you bring a fresh perspective to a new Industry. Yes, you need to understand the Business processes and intricacies in detail. Before joining any new industry, I spend some time reading the landmark judgements that have disrupted a particular industry. My exposure to Mining Industry when nothing was going in favour of the Industries due to court orders related to wildlife and Environmental clearances, renewal of Leases, and Illegal mining. It was a great challenge to convince the Management that everything would be normal over time.
This experience is now helping me cope with stress when things are not going my way.
As the Head of Legal at C K Birla Group Company, what are some of the most challenging cross-border transactions or contract law cases you’ve handled? Can you share any unique experiences or lessons from these cases?
During my present stint with C K Birla Group Company wherein I am heading NBC Bearings, an automotive Component manufacturer, one of the challenging situations I faced was when I joined the organisation there was a pending CCI investigation faced by the Industry, Now when the final judgement is pronounced and are in public domain I feel that there is no harm in sharing the details, Company has volunteered and filed a leniency application and accepted participating in one of the meetings, Though they were second in the marker therefore not eligible for full leniency. Now my concern was how to get full relief for the Company, in my view the Cartel was not made out. We tried to build our case on that principle. We pleaded that it was a case of coercive cartel even if we participated in one of the meetings. finally, CCI directed a cease and desist order but didn’t impose any penalty. On the Contract front also many of our customers are large OEMs who have standard contracts and are reluctant to modify them for different suppliers, in that case, you have to show your soft skills and put up your point and document it so that in case of any future dispute it can be relied upon. As I have worked for the OEM I also initially found it a little difficult but later on I realised that the real test is to convince the other party when you have lesser bargaining power.
We always approach the Big Four firms and top consultants for foreign acquisitions. However, challenges arise when it comes to managing the small companies we have incorporated abroad, especially in a cost-effective manner. This company has experienced substantial growth during this period, which has consistently kept the legal team on its toes.
How do you mentor and drive your legal team to ensure they are equipped to handle complex legal issues? What are the key qualities you believe are essential for a successful legal team?
Our legal team is not big as compared to many other companies but I always try to motivate them with challenging situations and rewards. Many times the aspirations of the legal team do not match with the company’s policy of reward and recognition but we always try to push the case of a specialist. Mentoring the young talent is the most crucial part of our team, I do not micromanage the things with my team. A firm believer in delegating work and decision-making.
What advice would you give to young legal professionals who aspire to have a diversified and impactful career like yours? What are the key skills and experiences they should seek out?
My advice to young lawyers particularly the first-generation lawyers would be to work hard and read the bare acts and judgments. nowadays with ready-made apps and online search engines we all at times take shortcuts and settle for superficial knowledge. Also, they must get some additional professional degrees like CS and others. It helps in difficult times. Also, be connected to the Bar.
Outside of your legal career, what personal interests or hobbies do you pursue? How do these activities help you maintain a work-life balance and stay motivated in your professional life?
I like to Travel, and now most of my leisure time is spent with my Pet. It helps me to be in the present.
Based on your extensive experience, what do you see as the future trends in legal practice, especially in the fields of litigation and compliance? How should current and future legal professionals prepare for these changes?
I believe that mediocre-level legal tasks will face significant competition from AI. However, I also feel that it will be a while before people start relying solely on AI tools. Certainly, these tools can be helpful to legal practitioners. In the coming days, legal professionals will need to be versatile advisors, sometimes offering counsel in fields beyond law. While it is easier to build a repository for compliances, there are many instances where taking a calculated risk is necessary to compete and succeed. That’s where sound legal advice becomes invaluable for risk assessment.
How have recent global events, such as the pandemic or changes in international trade policies, impacted your legal strategies?
Pandemics have touched and changed all strata of society including the Legal field, We have also gone for a complete paperless documentation system, remote working is seen as a norm today. Sometimes it increases productivity also. Many times when you are in the office it is difficult to concentrate on high-stakes documentation.
Finally, I can say that when I started my career it was a time when we used to point out that this is not permissible as per Law, Slowly I moved to the narration that it’s a Business call, now with more than 20 years of experience I am in a position to say it’s my call, As I understand both Business and Law.
We’re delighted to have you here. Could you walk us through your journey from your college days at the Faculty of Law, University of Delhi, to where you are today as a respected founder partner at Acumen Juris?
I’ve always been a regular student, not particularly the outstanding, studious type one might expect. Unlike those who decide early on what they wish to pursue, I hadn’t planned that far ahead. However, I found myself fascinated by the profession of law.
During my college days, I stayed connected with people and even contested in college elections, which helped me build valuable relationships and skills. The path wasn’t always clear, but I realised my passion for taking on new challenges while working in the industry. This realisation led me to establish my independent practice and eventually run a full-service law firm. Embracing challenges with a positive attitude has been key to my journey.
Starting a legal practice and establishing oneself in the industry requires determination and perseverance. Can you share some challenges you faced during the initial stages of founding Acumen Juris, and how you overcame them to build a successful law office?
Indeed, establishing oneself in the legal industry requires immense determination and perseverance. With years of experience, these qualities became ingrained in me.
When I decided to start Acumen Juris, I envisioned creating something different. After years of working long hours six days a week, I sought a balanced life that included time for family and adventure. With this in mind, my partners and I founded the firm with a simple strategy: to operate as a firm from the outset, rather than as individual practitioners, to gain recognition and trust from corporate clients. Our extensive experience and commitment to delivering high-quality, timely services have been key to our success.
I worked across multiple time zones, advising clients globally, supporting their business setups in various jurisdictions, and handling complex transactions.
Your expertise extends beyond M&A to areas like commercial contract, drafting, venture capital funding, and legal due diligence. What inspired you to venture into these diverse areas, and how do they complement your overall legal practice?
My expertise extends beyond M&A to encompass critical areas such as commercial contract drafting, venture capital funding, and legal due diligence. These skills were cultivated during my tenure at a mid-size firm, where I approached challenges with a proactive mindset and a commitment to achieving excellent client outcomes.
In addition to traditional legal responsibilities, I have successfully undertaken corporate valuations required under FEMA 1999 for major corporations. This involved dedicated efforts, often beyond regular work hours, supported by a collaborative and supportive, firm environment.
My deep knowledge of FEMA laws, a focus since the start of my career, enhances my capacity to provide strategic guidance in transaction advisory, resolving complex structures and related legal matters.
These varied experiences have significantly enriched my legal practice, enabling me to offer comprehensive solutions and strategic insights that effectively address the diverse needs of my clients.
You’ve recently handled a notable transaction that garnered attention within the legal community. Could you share some highlights or key takeaways from this case, and how it showcased your expertise in navigating complex legal issues to achieve a favorable outcome for your client?
One recent standout in my career was overseeing a significant 900 crore share swap transaction where we represented the seller side. This transaction was particularly challenging because of its complexity, involving multiple intricate legal components and several limitations. I played a pivotal role within the core team, contributing to discussions, providing strategic advice, finalizing agreements, and devising efficient tax structures across sell-side entities.
Throughout the transaction, our approach began with a thorough legal assessment to gauge feasibility, followed by comprehensive risk assessments, and tax planning to design efficient structures.
Success in such endeavors hinges on years of experience navigating diverse transactions, a robust knowledge base, adept interpretation skills, a proactive attitude, and, crucially, a skilled and cohesive team. I am privileged to work alongside a talented and efficient team that played a pivotal role in achieving a favorable outcome.
This experience underscores my capability to manage complex legal challenges and deliver results that meet the strategic objectives of our clients.
You’ve co-authored multiple editions of a bestselling book on the Companies Act, 2013. Can you tell us about the journey of writing and updating this book, and how it has contributed to your understanding of corporate law?
Contributing to a bestselling book on the Companies Act 2013 has been a pivotal milestone in my career, marking a journey of personal and professional growth. The experience of co-authoring and witnessing its success has been immensely gratifying.
Throughout the process of writing and updating the book, I drew extensively from my practical experience advising clients on corporate law matters. This real-world application provided invaluable insights into the statutory provisions, case law developments, and practical implications of the Companies Act 2013.
Overall, this experience has deepened my understanding of corporate law and strengthened my ability to provide informed counsel to clients. It underscores the importance of continuous learning and practical application in evolving legal landscapes.
In addition, key person in developing the only website for FEMA Laws while working in the previous firm.
With your extensive experience in providing transaction advisory services, what do you consider as the most critical factors for ensuring mutually beneficial terms in agreements related to funding processes or joint ventures?
In the realm of transaction advisory services, securing mutually beneficial terms in agreements related to funding processes or joint ventures requires a multifaceted approach. This approach involves conducting thorough assessments of all parties involved, encompassing their financial health, market positions, potential synergies, and strategic intents.
It’s crucial to establish clear and precise objectives upfront to ensure alignment of expectations and goals among stakeholders. Addressing potential obstacles with innovative solutions and structuring agreements that mitigate risks while maximizing benefits are paramount factors. Moreover, building trust and fostering transparency among stakeholders throughout the negotiation process is essential for cultivating a collaborative and mutually advantageous partnership.
Navigating negotiations with skilful diplomacy, knowing when to concede and when to stand firm, while maintaining open and constructive communication, ensures that agreements are not only favourable, but also set a solid foundation for long-term success and value creation for all parties involved.
You’ve been actively involved in speaking at various forums and contributing articles on corporate laws. How do you balance your commitment to legal practice with these extracurricular activities, and what motivates you to share your knowledge with others in the legal community?
Balancing my commitment to legal practice with speaking at forums and contributing articles on corporate laws can be challenging, as it often requires allocating time from either my personal or professional life. However, these activities are integral to establishing and expanding the presence in the legal industry.
The primary motivation behind engaging in these extracurricular activities is twofold. Firstly, they serve as crucial avenues for showcasing and publicizing my knowledge within the legal community, thereby enhancing my professional reputation and attracting potential clients. Secondly, participating in speaking engagements and writing articles allows me to stay updated on evolving legal developments, enriching my expertise and broadening my perspective.
While there may not always be a perfect balance, I find immense value in contributing to the legal discourse through these platforms, both for personal growth and for the benefit of my legal practice.
You’ve provided legal services across a wide range of sectors, including retail, logistics, hospitality, and more. Is there a particular sector or type of client that you find most rewarding to work with, and if so, what makes it stand out for you?
Having served diverse sectors, including retail, logistics, hospitality, and others, each offers distinct challenges and rewards, making it difficult to single out one as the most fulfilling. However, if I were to identify a particularly rewarding sector based on personal interest and professional satisfaction, it would be the technology industry.
Technology is integral to operations across various sectors, from hospitality to healthcare and education. Working with clients focusing on technology is particularly gratifying due to the sector’s rapid pace of innovation and the continuous evolution of associated legal frameworks. Staying abreast of emerging technologies, regulatory shifts, and industry trends keeps me intellectually engaged and drives ongoing professional growth.
Furthermore, technology firms often operate on a global scale, facilitating complex cross-border transactions and international collaborations. This global dimension adds depth to legal engagements, involving interaction with diverse cultures, legal systems, and business practices.
In my practice, I have had the privilege of supporting technology-driven enterprises across more than 25 jurisdictions, assisting with business structuring, ensuring regulatory compliance, and navigating intricate cross-border transactions through our extensive global network of associates.
Working with technology clients not only challenges me to deliver strategic legal solutions but also broadens my perspective as a legal professional, reinforcing my commitment to excellence and innovation in every client engagement.
Balancing professional responsibilities with personal interests is crucial for overall well-being. What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of the legal realm, and how do you find time to pursue them amidst a demanding legal career?
Maintaining a balance between professional responsibilities and personal interests is crucial for overall well-being, albeit challenging in the demanding legal profession. Outside of my legal work, I have a keen interest in leisure travel, immersing myself in diverse cultures around the world, engaging in adventure sports, hiking, swimming, golf and indulging in cricket—a passion shared by many in India.
I make it a priority to play cricket every weekend and ensure I travel at least twice a year, either with my family or solo. One memorable experience was a biking expedition from Delhi to the highest motorable road in Ladakh and back, where I joined a group of strangers connected through mutual acquaintances—a journey that enriched my perspective on camaraderie and adventure.
Achieving this balance is only possible with the support of a dedicated and responsible team. Their commitment allows me the flexibility to pursue my interests while maintaining the high standards required in our legal practice.
In your experience, what are some emerging trends or challenges in corporate law that you believe young lawyers should be prepared for as they enter the legal profession today?
In today’s legal landscape, young lawyers face a dynamic environment characterized by evolving trends and challenges in corporate law. Initially, they must master the art of understanding and interpreting the law, which forms the foundation of their practice. Law is inherently practical and continuously evolves to meet industry demands, interpreting a crucial skill.
Emerging trends that young lawyers should prepare for include the increasingly complex global legal frameworks due to globalization. Understanding the differences across jurisdictions and navigating international transactions are essential skills. Moreover, the rise of technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and big data analytics is transforming corporate practices. Young lawyers must grasp these technologies’ implications for legal strategy and compliance.
Another significant trend is the growing emphasis on sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) laws globally. Companies are facing greater scrutiny and regulation regarding their environmental and social impacts, requiring legal advisors to integrate these considerations into corporate strategies.
In summary, young lawyers entering the legal profession today must be ready to navigate a rapidly changing landscape. They should embrace continuous learning, adaptability, and a proactive approach to stay ahead in corporate law.
Internships play a crucial role in shaping the careers of aspiring lawyers. What advice would you give to current law students seeking internships to ensure they make the most out of these opportunities and build themselves into proficient legal professionals?
Internships are essential milestones for aspiring lawyers, offering critical opportunities to gain practical experience, hone essential skills, and establish professional networks early in their careers. Based on my experience and insights, I advise current law students seeking internships to maximize their impact and readiness for a corporate legal career:
Actively pursue internships with law firms and corporate legal departments aligned with your career aspirations and areas of interest within corporate law.
Approach your internship with a proactive mindset to absorb knowledge and insights from experienced corporate lawyers. Take the initiative to understand corporate transactions, regulatory compliance, and strategic legal advice.
Cultivate meaningful relationships with mentors, senior lawyers, and peers during your internship. Networking within the corporate legal environment can provide valuable guidance and potential career opportunities.
Uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and confidentiality in all interactions and assignments. Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and a strong work ethic to earn trust and respect within the organization.
Strive for excellence in every task assigned. Deliver accurate, thorough work products and demonstrate your capability to handle corporate legal matters with attention to detail and precision.
Regularly assess your performance, seek constructive feedback from supervisors, and proactively incorporate learnings to enhance your skills and knowledge base.
Internships serve as pivotal experiences for aspiring corporate lawyers to develop foundational skills, gain practical exposure to corporate legal practice, and pave the way for a successful career in corporate law.
