You have extensive experience in handling multiple legal sectors including insurance, electricity distribution, healthcare, financial services, and corporate law. How would you describe your professional journey until now?
My professional journey has been exhilarating! I’ve been fortunate to explore the legal intricacies of diverse sectors like insurance, electricity distribution, healthcare, financial services, and corporate law, each with its unique challenges and legal complexities. Embracing change whenever new opportunities arose has been the key to my growth and success. This journey wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of my parents, who gave me the courage to move forward and face each challenge head-on.
To start at the beginning, was studying law a pre-decided career path for you? What was your motivation behind growing within the legal field?
Studying law was never a pre-decided career path for me. I initially aspired to become a veterinary doctor but was destined to become a lawyer. Once I began my legal journey, I realized that law is like a vast ocean—how much you explore depends on your commitment to integrity and hard work.
My journey from Faculty of Law, University of Delhi, to becoming a Senior Partner at Law Veritas: North has been one of constant growth and learning. After completing my studies, I was drawn to law for its potential to positively impact society, inspiring me to contribute to the legal framework and serve justice.
You have headed various legal departments of different companies and managed legal and compliance matters and now are the Senior Associate Partner and the Head of Corporate Legal & Litigation at Law Veritas North where being client centric is one of the fundamental values. How do you ensure a smooth workflow and a collaborative and supportive environment within your team?
Ensuring a smooth workflow and fostering a collaborative environment begins with empathy. Being empathetic costs nothing, yet it builds trust and mutual respect within the team, which is essential for a cohesive work culture. I believe in empowering my team rather than micromanaging. Tasks are delegated equitably, with clear deadlines and responsibilities, allowing each member to take ownership of their work.
I also implement work rotation to keep things dynamic and encourage skill development. Additionally, we hold fortnightly knowledge-sharing sessions, where team members present case studies, fostering an environment of continuous learning and collaboration. This not only sharpens our collective expertise but also reinforces a supportive and client-centric approach, aligning with our core values at Law Veritas North.
With 25 years of comprehensive legal expertise across various sectors of law. What is your work day like and how do you balance your personal commitments with a demanding career?
With 25 years of comprehensive legal experience across various sectors, my workdays are typically fast paced and demanding. When I’m in the office, time flies as I manage complex legal matters, client consultations, and team collaborations. However, balancing personal commitments with a demanding career is essential for me. Once I’m home, the digital ecosystem plays a significant role in maintaining this balance. With most tasks accessible via smartphone, I can manage urgent work issues efficiently while still making time for my family. This flexibility allows me to stay connected professionally without compromising on quality time with the loved ones.
Your expertise in structuring legal frameworks that align with business goals of your clients is commendable. What are the key instances in your professional career that you’d credit to have shaped your career?
Key factors that have shaped my career are integrity, hard work, and adhering to promised timelines. Maintaining integrity has helped me build long-lasting relationships with the clients, while hard work has been the foundation of every success I’ve achieved. Sticking to deadlines, no matter how challenging, has allowed me to gain trust and credibility with both clients and colleagues. Over the years, I’ve also had the opportunity to work on complex legal frameworks that align with clients’ business goals, and these experiences have not only sharpened my skills but also strengthened my commitment to delivering best results.
In your experience negotiating complex contracts and handling high-stakes litigation for insurance and financial institutions, what has been one of the most challenging experiences for you that you’d like to share with us?
One of the most challenging experiences I’ve faced in negotiating complex contracts and handling high-stakes litigation is aligning all stakeholders. It can be incredibly time-consuming and mentally draining to ensure everyone is on the same page, but it’s crucial for achieving a successful outcome and maintaining strong professional relationships throughout the process.
Your contributions to the legal field have been widely recognized and you have received several prestigious awards and accolades. How do these recognitions motivate you in your career?
While I appreciate the recognition and awards, I’ve received, they don’t significantly motivate me. My true drive comes from the work itself, the challenges I face, and the positive impact I can make in my clients’ lives. Focusing on results and client satisfaction is what truly inspires me.
What advice would you give to the younger generation, especially women lawyers who aspire to excel in the field of law?
Stay focused in all your endeavours and distance yourself from people and environments that don’t respect you. Never compromise your integrity. The legal field is vast and ever-changing, so it’s essential to keep up with the legal developments. Manage your finances wisely and invest early. Finally, maintain a strong support system at home and delegate time-consuming tasks to ensure a balanced and productive life.
You are also involved in various CSR activities, including cancer awareness camps and vaccination drives for children in rural areas which reflects your commitment to social responsibility. What drives you to be involved in such activities and are there more such activities that you’re involved in?
As citizens, we have a moral obligation to give back to society in any way we can. Participating in CSR activities, such as cancer awareness camps and vaccination drives, not only supports those in need but also enhances our sense of purpose and fulfilment. This commitment to social responsibility inspires us to strive for greater positive impact in our communities.
Can you share the journey of how you started your career in law and the key experiences that have shaped your path to becoming the Managing Partner at TJA Law Chambers? Please walk us through your journey starting from selecting Law as a career and your time at NLU, Jodhpur.
My journey in law is deeply rooted in my upbringing in Nagina, a small town in District Bijnor of Uttar Pradesh. Despite our humble background, my parents ensured that we received a quality education from the best convent school in the district. As the youngest of three siblings, I was greatly influenced by my father, a dedicated lawyer practising at the trial Courts. Since the court premises were within walking distance from our home, I spent my summer vacations at my father’s chamber captivated by watching him argue in Court. My father noticed my fascination with court proceedings and envisioned me following in his footsteps, aspiring to become a lawyer in the Supreme Court.
Early Challenges and Decision to Pursue Law: Tragically, I lost my father when I was in the 12th standard. This loss left a significant void in my life and threw my future into uncertainty. Until I completed my 12th standard, I had no clear direction for my career path. Although I was a student of science, the influence of my father’s legacy and my desire to honour his dreams led me to opt for a career in law after completing my 12th.
Academic Achievements: I pursued 5-year law degree with determination and dedication, earning a gold medal for being the University Topper. This achievement not only solidified my passion for the field but also opened doors for further opportunities. In my final year of law school, I also enrolled in a postgraduate diploma course in Cyber Laws at the Indian Law Institute, New Delhi, which required me to travel to Delhi every alternate day. The travel experience in UP Roadways and retuning hometown by train was a time to remember. After completing my law degree, I worked briefly at the Allahabad High Court before deciding to further my legal education by pursuing an MBA-LLM at National Law University, Jodhpur.
Time at NLU, Jodhpur: Choosing to pursue an MBA-LLM degree at NLU, Jodhpur, was a pivotal decision. My time there was transformative, providing me with a comprehensive legal education and shaping my professional outlook. The diverse exposure to life experiences, meeting people from across India, and engaging in various activities significantly transformed my personality. Being from a small town, this meant a lot to me. The rigorous academic environment, coupled with opportunities to participate in competitions and internships, honed my analytical and advocacy skills. These experiences were instrumental in building a solid foundation in legal principles and practice, helping me build my practice and learn to read people better.
All these experiences of highs and lows in life left a fathomless mark on me and somewhere encouraged to make a bold decision to start my own law firm.
You began your career from High Court and subsequently held various managerial roles in legal departments before taking the Advocate-On-Record (AOR) exam and founding your firm. How have these diverse experiences across different legal roles and sectors contributed to your approach to managing and running TJA Law Chambers? What insights did you gain from each phase of your career that have shaped your current practice?
My journey in law has been marked by a series of diverse and enriching experiences that have collectively shaped my approach to managing and running TJA Law Chambers. Each phase of my journey has provided me with unique insights and skills, which I have integrated into my current practice.
I began my legal career at the Allahabad High Court, where I initially did my judicial clerkship under the able guidance of Mr. Justice R.K Agrawal, who was later elevated to become a Supreme Court Judge. This initial experience exposed me to the fundamentals of courtroom procedures, legal research, and the importance of meticulous preparation. It also taught me the value of strategic thinking and the complexities involved in litigation.
After completing my post-graduation, I joined various reputed companies as an in-house counsel like GMR Energy, Indus Towers Limited and Sterlite Power Limited to name a few. Working in-house was a distinct experience compared to practising law in courts. Supporting the organization and other departments from a legal perspective taught me a lot about corporate governance, compliance, and risk management. It also highlighted the importance of effective communication, teamwork, and aligning legal strategies with business objectives.
Before founding my law firm, I had a short stint at a law firm called Advaita Legal. My distinct experiences allowed me to understand the nuances of private practice, client management, and the importance of building a professional network. It reinforced the need for thorough research, strategic thinking, and delivering client-centric legal solutions.
Founding TJA Law Chambers: It was always my dream to have an independent practice, but being from a small town and without a godfather in the profession, it was challenging. Nevertheless, I took the plunge and founded TJA Law Chambers in late 2019 with no significant clients in hand. Shortly after, the pandemic hit, which for my legal practice turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Despite the global challenges, I received work directly from foreign clients, which kickstarted the firm’s growth. There has been no looking back since then, and we are now catering to companies like ONGC, NTPC, EESL etc.
Advocate-On-Record (AOR) Exam: With my dream to establish my law firm, I also aspired to establish my practice in the Supreme Court, fulfilling my father’s dream. To this end, I started preparing for the Advocate-On-Record (AOR) exam last year and cleared it on the first attempt. This credential not only enhanced my credibility but also deepened my understanding of Supreme Court practices and procedures. The rigorous preparation for the AOR exam honed my analytical abilities and reinforced the importance of staying abreast of legal developments.
What motivated you to pursue the Advocate-On-Record (AOR) examination, and how did your mentor or any influential figures support you through this process? What are your thoughts on the significance of the AOR exam in a legal career?
Establishing a practice in the Supreme Court was a way to pay tribute to my father and the values he instilled in me.
Self-Guided Journey: Unfortunately, I did not have the benefit of a mentor or any influential figures to guide me through the journey of the AOR exam. This made the journey more challenging but also incredibly rewarding. I had to rely on my self-discipline, determination, and resourcefulness. I meticulously studied the Supreme Court rules, procedures, and landmark judgments. I sought out study materials, attended relevant workshops, and engaged in self-study to ensure I was thoroughly prepared for the exam. Achieving success on my first attempt was particularly gratifying and reinforced my belief in the power of perseverance and self-reliance.
The AOR exam’s significance in a legal career cannot be overstated, as it enhances credibility, provides exclusive rights, contributes to professional growth, instils client confidence, and opens up numerous career opportunities. I am now reaping the benefits of becoming an AOR.
As the Managing Partner and Founder of TJA Law Chambers, what were some of the significant challenges you faced while starting the firm? Now, after five years, how has the firm’s approach evolved in handling complex cases, and what types of cases have become a focus for your team?
Challenges Faced While Starting the Firm: Starting TJA Law Chambers came with significant challenges, primarily due to the absence of a godfather or established network and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. These factors made business development and client acquisition particularly difficult. The pandemic restricted our ability to engage in traditional business development activities and necessitated a shift to remote operations. One of the initial breakthroughs was receiving our first assignment from clients in London and Luxembourg. This opportunity was crucial, as it involved negotiating and drafting high-stakes agreements across various jurisdictions, including China, Hong Kong, the UK, Russia, and Europe. This international work was a ray of hope, helping to establish our reputation on a global scale.
Adaptations and Strategies: Despite the pandemic’s constraints, working from home allowed us to save on office expenses, which was a critical advantage during the early stages. By focusing on delivering the best results for every assignment, we demonstrated our commitment and capability. This dedication paid off as our reputation grew, leading to subsequent opportunities and an influx of work. As a result, we were able to secure empanelment with prominent organizations such as ONGC, EESL, DERC, and Kolkata Port. These empanelments were pivotal in solidifying our presence in the legal market.
After five years, TJA Law Chambers has evolved significantly. Holding the prestigious Advocate-On-Record (AOR) designation, we are now well-positioned in the legal landscape. Our approach to handling complex cases has matured in several ways.
Our firm has developed deep expertise in representing corporate clients and handling complex legal matters across various sectors. Enhanced Services: We provide comprehensive legal services in areas such as energy law, regulatory compliance, dispute resolution, contract management and advisory services. Our practice now spans several key forums, including Arbitration, the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL), various Electricity Regulatory Commissions, the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC), the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT), and the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), in addition to various High Courts and the Supreme Court.
Strategic Growth: The firm has strategically focused on building a strong client base and expanding our service offerings. Our growth is driven by a commitment to excellence and adapting to the evolving legal landscape.
Client-Centric Approach: We have refined our approach to ensure that we meet the unique needs of each client, providing tailored legal solutions and maintaining strong, transparent relationships.
Do you engage in any pro bono work or community service? How does this aspect of your career influence your professional perspective and personal satisfaction?
While we prefer not to disclose specific details, I want to emphasize that TJA Law Chambers is committed to supporting those in need. Our office is open to assisting individuals who are unable to afford legal services, regardless of their financial situation. We believe that everyone deserves access to legal representation and justice, and we are dedicated to helping those who face significant challenges.
It enhances our professional perspective, provides personal satisfaction, and strengthens our commitment to justice and community service.
The legal field is constantly evolving. What are some emerging trends or challenges in commercial litigation and corporate law that new lawyers should be aware of?
The evolving landscape of legal practice increasingly emphasizes the growth of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). Mechanisms such as arbitration and mediation are gaining preference over traditional litigation, primarily for their cost-effectiveness and efficiency. Lawyers must grasp these processes to effectively navigate and resolve disputes, harnessing the benefits of ADR to better serve their clients.
Additionally, the impact of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) on the legal field cannot be overstated. AI tools are revolutionizing legal research, document review, and case outcome predictions, providing unprecedented accuracy and efficiency. Lawyers are encouraged to leverage these advancements to enhance their practice, embracing the future of legal technology.
Staying current with new judgments from the Supreme Court and High Courts is also crucial. As laws, such as the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), continue to evolve, understanding the latest judicial decisions is essential for grasping the development and application of the law. Regularly reviewing these judgments ensures that legal professionals remain informed and adept in their practice.
Could you share some of the landmark cases you’ve handled throughout your career and discuss the key challenges you faced in those cases? How did these experiences contribute to your understanding of the legal field and what lessons can current and aspiring legal professionals draw from them?
I have had the opportunity to be part of several landmark cases involving important questions of law. However, one case in particular stands out to me. While it may not be a landmark case, handling it independently had a profound impact on me.
This was at the inception of my independent practice. An elderly woman had her pension stopped due to a mismatch in her name in government records. This pension was her lifeline, provided due to her late husband’s job. I took up her case, but unfortunately, she passed away before it was resolved. Despite my repeated requests for an early hearing, citing her dire financial and health conditions, the court did not give serious consideration to expediting the case. This was a disheartening moment for me as it felt like our judicial system failed her.
The second notable case was my first as an Advocate-on-Record (AOR) in the Supreme Court. It involved the rights of homebuyers in the context of insolvency proceedings under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). The issue was the denial of rights to homebuyers who did not file a claim form. The Supreme Court has issued a notice in this case, and its outcome could become a landmark judgment for homebuyers’ rights. This case is particularly challenging as current IBC provisions and Supreme Court judgments support the exclusion of those who haven’t filed claims. We are eagerly awaiting the court’s decision as it could introduce a new legal precedent.
With my limited experience in the legal field spanning over 14 years, I could say that every day presents new challenges, and as legal professionals, we must embrace and welcome them. You strive to achieve the best outcomes for your clients, but sometimes, due to court delays or other reasons, you might not get the desired relief. The important thing is to continue fighting for your clients with the same zeal and dedication.
There will be cases where you face strong opposition. If you have worked on the minute details and thoroughly prepared your brief, even if the law is not on your side, you will earn respect and recognition in the court.
Beyond your legal career, what are some of your hobbies or interests? How do they contribute to your overall well-being and professional performance?
I am an avid adventurer, thriving on the thrill of exploring the great outdoors. I have summited peaks reaching 16,000 and 14,000 feet, embracing the challenges of high-altitude trekking. My passion extends to biking, swimming, and playing cricket, as I constantly seek new ways to stay active and connected to nature. As a true nature lover, I find immense joy in travelling and discovering new places, immersing myself in the beauty and wonder of the natural world. This blend of physical and mental challenges has enriched my professional outlook, enhancing my ability to tackle complex problems and adapt to various situations with a fresh and dynamic approach.
With your vast experience, what advice would you offer to current legal professionals and law students who aspire to make a significant impact in their careers?
Though I feel I am still on my journey if I were to offer advice, it would be this: Embrace life-long learning, clearly define your goals, create a structured plan to pursue them and always be ethical. With dedicated focus and determination, you can achieve anything.
Could you take us on a brief journey from your college days, highlighting key experiences or lessons that have shaped your path in the legal profession, leading to the establishment of Charter Law Chambers?
Sure! Starting from my college days, I learned the importance of critical thinking and research skills, which are essential in the legal profession. Participating in moot court competitions honed my advocacy skills and taught me the importance of preparation and presentation. Internships at law firms exposed me to real-world legal practice, where I learned about different areas of law and gained practical experience. Networking with professionals and mentors helped me understand the industry and navigate career opportunities. Overall, my college experiences laid the foundation for my journey in the legal profession, shaping my skills, knowledge, and passion for justice.
Additionally, the passion for justice and dedication to serving clients that were cultivated during college continue to drive the ethos of the law firm, ensuring a commitment to excellence and client satisfaction.
From its inception in 2019 to now, Charter Law Chambers has grown remarkably. What inspired you to establish this firm, and how has the journey been so far?
The inspiration to establish a law firm stemmed from a desire to create a space where I could apply my legal skills, knowledge, and passion for justice in a way that aligned with my values and goals. I wanted to build a firm that prioritized client service, innovation, and making a positive impact in the community.
The journey so far has been both challenging and rewarding. Building a law firm from the ground up requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance. There have been obstacles to overcome, such as navigating the complexities of running a business, attracting clients, and establishing a reputation in the legal industry. However, each challenge has provided an opportunity for growth and learning.
Your profile emphasizes your significant role in electricity regulatory matters. Can you share a specific case or achievement in the energy sector that you are particularly proud of?
My office assisted Adani Electricity Mumbai Limited (AEML) & Adani Electricity Mumbai Infra Limited (AEMIL) before the Supreme Court against a Civil Appeal filed by Tata Power Company Limited-Transmission challenging allocation of a Rs. 7000 Crore, 1000 MW HVDC VSC based Transmission Project, being one-of-a-kind Transmission Project in the City of Mumbai to to AEMIL (100% owned subsidiary of AEML) under Section 62/ non-bidding route of the Electricity Act, 2003, instead of Section 63/ bidding route.
Supreme Court on 23.11.2022 passed a landmark judgment thereby dismissing the Civil Appeal filed by Tata Power Company Limited-Transmission, thereby holding that the Transmission Project was rightly awarded to AEMIL under Section 62/ non-bidding route, and further held that Section 63/ bidding route is not the dominant route
Starting as a boutique regulatory litigation firm, CLC has expanded its practice areas. How did this diversification come about, and what factors influenced the decision to broaden the firm’s scope?
Expanding the practice areas of a boutique law firm involves careful consideration of various factors:
Client demand
Market Analysis
Competitor Analysis
Expertise and resources
Growth strategy
Client relationships
Regulatory considerations
Overall, a combination of market demand, strategic analysis, existing expertise, and client relationships typically influences the decision to expand the practice areas of a boutique law firm.
Being a member of the Supreme Court Bar Association and Delhi High Court Bar Association, how has networking within these professional societies contributed to your professional growth?
Being a member of both the Supreme Court Bar Association and the High Court Bar Association provides invaluable opportunities for networking and professional growth. Networking within these esteemed associations allows for:
Access to expertise
Referrals and collaborations
Mentorship and guidance
Visibility and reputation
Advocacy and influence
Overall, networking within the Supreme Court Bar Association and the High Court Bar Association offers numerous benefits for professional growth, including access to expertise, referrals, mentorship, visibility, and opportunities for advocacy and collaboration. These connections help foster a vibrant and supportive legal community, enriching the professional journey of its members.
Beyond legal practice, you’ve been involved in community development. How do you integrate social responsibility into the ethos of Charter Law Chambers, and can you share a specific initiative that holds personal significance for you?
Integrating social responsibility into legal practice involves a multifaceted approach aimed at making a positive impact on the community. Some instances such as doing pro bono work, policy advocacy and reform, diversity, equity and inclusion.
One such instance would be organising guest lectures at esteemed colleges all over India and holding conferences on in Delhi
Given your involvement in international workshops, like the one in Switzerland, how do global perspectives influence your advocacy, and how do you incorporate lessons from international experiences into your practice?
Overall, a global perspective enhances advocacy by promoting a deeper understanding of international laws and norms, recognising interconnectedness, fostering empathy and solidarity, promoting cultural sensitivity and diversity and utilising global platforms to advance social, economic and environmental justice.
Law is demanding, and stress management is crucial. How do you personally prioritize wellness amidst a busy legal practice, and do you encourage similar practices within your team?
Prioritizing wellness amidst a busy legal practice is essential for maintaining overall health and effectiveness. Overall, prioritizing wellness amidst a busy legal practice involves setting boundaries, practicing self-care, managing workload effectively, fostering open communication, promoting work-life balance, and providing resources and support to team members. By prioritizing wellness within the team, we can create a healthier and more productive work environment where individuals can thrive professionally and personally.
Given your involvement in education initiatives like teaching at Vivekananda College, how important do you think it is for legal professionals to engage in education, and what benefits do you see in such endeavors?
Engaging in ongoing education is crucial for legal professionals to stay current with developments in the law, enhance their skills and knowledge, and adapt to changes in the legal landscape.
As such, continuing education is essential for legal professionals to remain competent, relevant, and successful in an ever-changing legal landscape. By staying informed, enhancing skills, building expertise, fulfilling professional obligations, networking, and pursuing growth opportunities, legal professionals can continue to thrive in their careers and make meaningful contributions to the legal profession and society.
Having over 15 years of experience, what advice would you give to young lawyers aspiring to make a mark in the legal field, especially those interested in energy and infrastructure practice?
As a seasoned lawyer with over 15 years of experience in energy and infrastructure practice, here are some pieces of advice for young lawyers interested in this field:
Build a strong foundation
Specialize and gain expertise
Seek mentorship
Gain practical experience
Network strategically
Stay adaptable and open-minded
Demonstrate commitment and passion
Focus on client service
By following these pieces of advice and continuously learning, growing, and networking within the energy and infrastructure industry, young lawyers can position themselves for a successful and fulfilling career in this dynamic and impactful field.
