Can you walk us through your journey from studying Oil and Gas Law to pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration? What inspired this transition?
Having studied at the University of Reading, by the end of the degree I was amply clear that I wanted to pursue a specialised LL.M. degree right after. After having done thorough research, I narrowed down to doing a majors in Oil & Gas Law, which touched upon policy as well as commercial learning with regard to the industry vertical. In fact, despite the fact that I was the youngest out of my batch of LL.M. students, I ended up acquiring the first rank at the end of the year. It was a subject-matter that I was passionate about right from the beginning, owing to the fact that I had grown up in the Middle East and had been exposed to the industry from an early age.
Once I had completed the degree programmes in the UK, I was at the juncture of deciding where I wanted to practice and that is exactly when I took the leap of faith and moved to Mumbai- the commercial hub of India. I spent a couple of years practising on various domestic and international arbitrations- gradually and eventually building my expertise in construction, infrastructure and energy arbitrations.
Deciding to go ahead with a Doctorate in Business Administration was motivated partly by taking my academic qualifications a notch higher and also coupled with the fact that the profession of law is hugely infused with the education of business and commercial skills. The degree added value to my already existing portfolio, and in fact, helped me to strengthen my business foundations.
With experience in both legal practice and business advisory roles, how do you see the intersection between law and business, especially in your area of expertise?
Absolutely- without a doubt. Once you move ahead of your formative years in practice where you acquire experience in research and drafting, you are then exposed to the next level of the legal industry, being the business of law. Just like any other industry, the legal profession also demands one to be fluent enough with commercial sensibility and business development skills.
In fact, in my opinion, it is important to understand another perspective. Clients share a fiduciary relationship with their lawyers wherein they confide in them to understand that their case possibly involves a huge financial responsibility. Sometimes only legal knowledge does not suffice. Any commercial case would also require one to apply basic financial understanding, technical understanding of certain claims and strategizing the most effective and efficient way of closing the case for the client.
You’ve worked in various legal positions across different regions like the UK, UAE, and India. How have these diverse experiences shaped your approach to law and business?
Looking back, I’m very fortunate to have been exposed to multiple markets and jurisdictions. Especially today, when we see that commercial players in India are a part of few of the biggest transactions taking place globally. Since I have focused on construction and infrastructure arbitrations, both domestically and internationally, having exposure to multiple markets has made it simpler to deal with complex cross-border cases. It also makes it easier to understand client mentality and procedures of courts.
As the founder of Nirka Law Advisory, could you share some insights into the challenges you faced while establishing your own firm and how you overcame them?
I think I have been lucky enough to have had a range of mentors to look up to and gain inspiration and advice from, which made the process a lot more simpler. This was the ultimate target and I am glad that it worked out in time and just in the way our team had planned for it.
Initially setting up shop in any industry vertical demands time, money and effort – relentlessly. Unlike employment, the entire burden of ensuring that quality of work generated remains uncompressed, clients are satisfied, the team is well-equipped and happy with the work being done, etc. all lies with the founders. However, having a team and compartmentalizing duties and responsibilities has helped immensely. We have hand-picked our team to provide optimum quality services, and we are thankful to have retained our clients through our quality of work.
What motivated you to specialize in Oil and Gas Law, and how do you see this sector evolving in the coming years, especially in the context of global energy transitions?
The conventional energy sector has for decades been a dynamic and interesting sector to study and work in. For someone who wants to gain insight into it, I always recommend watching the documentary, ‘Story of the Seven Sisters’. The sector is vast and ever evolving, that at no point would the learning stop. Yes, the non-conventional energy sector has picked up at a rapid pace in the last couple of years, however, in my opinion we are still largely dependent upon conventional sources of energy and that would be the case even for the next couple of decades.
Throughout your career, you’ve held roles ranging from Legal Intern to Partner. How have these different positions contributed to your professional growth and perspective?
I think this is the basic life cycle of any lawyer. It’s a slow yet promising transition. Although you climb up the professional ladder, you continue to study and learn all throughout your career just like you did in your first year of practice. The profession comes along with this.
Could you highlight some key lessons or insights you gained during your time at Advani Law and AZB & Partners that have been particularly valuable in your current role as a Managing Partner?
I think all the firms that I had worked with have contributed to my learning curve in one way or another. With Advani Law LLP, I gained a lifetime mentor, Mr. Hiroo Advani who I would all the credit to for making me the professional I am today. The firm worked more like a chamber practice and when I had first arrived I was absolutely clueless about what practice would really entail. The firm taught me everything that I know about being an arbitration lawyer, because I had the best arbitration lawyer in the country as my teacher. AZB & Partners gave me an insight as to how the top law firms in the country work, which is vastly different from how boutique firms run. The learning involved working with a much larger team and the expectations were very different in terms of timelines and performance.
Finally, considering your journey from law school to founding your own firm, what advice would you offer to recent graduates aspiring to build a successful career in law and business?
The best thing that a law graduate can do is to get themselves the right mentor at the very beginning of their career. Secondly, it is all about persistence. The learning curve is not just for a couple of years, but for the entire life of a lawyer’s career. Lastly, take risks. Step out of the comfort zone and take the initiative to think out of the box.
Abhiraj, could you please introduce yourself to our readers and walk us through your journey, from what inspired you to pursue a career in law to where you are today at Deutsche Bank Group company? What pivotal moments or experiences have shaped your career trajectory thus far?
Absolutely, it’s a pleasure to share my journey. My path into the world of law was somewhat unconventional. I was born and raised in a middle-class family in Samastipur, a small district in Bihar (India). During that time, engineering and medical were the go-to career choices, but I had a different path in mind where I decided to pursue commerce and later aim for CA, steering away from the mainstream.
While gearing up for a CA course in Delhi after my 12th board exam, a chance encounter with Chanakya National Law University advertisement in a newspaper changed everything. With my father’s attention drawn to that advertisement and his subsequent encouragement, I decided to give it a shot, despite doubts. Surprisingly :), I cleared the exam, prompting a last-minute decision to pursue law instead of commerce. Thus began my journey into the legal realm in 2006 and subsequently earned my law degree in 2011.
Law school was an amazing time for me, packed with fun, studies, and a range of extracurricular activities. From internships to various co-curricular endeavors, these experiences not only enhanced my understanding of the law but also helped shape my character and confidence in this field.
Transitioning from academia to the professional sphere wasn’t easy, especially as a first-generation lawyer. After gaining insights into court procedures at a boutique law firm for about a year, I made my foray into the corporate world, beginning my journey at UnitedLex Corporation. There, I honed my skills in contract drafting, vetting and negotiation for their Fortune 500 clients, eventually transitioning to in-house counsel roles at MNC’s like Pearson, Randstad (seconded to Idemia), MPS Ltd. I have acquired extensive and varied experience during my tenure at these companies, spanning across various facets of law and industries. This includes, but is not limited to, managing and supporting legal functions encompassing advisory services, litigation and arbitration, legal & regulatory compliance, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), contract management, acquisitions, stakeholder management and other corporate matters. Today, I find myself at Deutsche Bank Group company, where I am fortunate to apply my legal expertise in a dynamic and challenging environment. My role here as a Technology, Regulatory & Privacy Lawyer allows me to not only navigate complex legal landscapes but also contribute to strategic decision-making processes that drive business success in a global market.
In short, I can say that each step has been filled with challenges and learning opportunities, supported by colleagues and mentors along the way. Throughout my journey so far, pivotal moments and experiences have played a significant role in shaping my trajectory in the field of law.
Finally, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my family and my alma maters: Central Public School, DAV School, and Chanakya National Law University. Their unwavering support and dedication to nurturing my learning and skills have laid the foundation for my professional journey.
Your journey seems incredibly diverse, from legal counsel to data protection officer. How did you transition into your current role at Deutsche Bank Group company, and what inspired you to specialize in technology and data protection law?
My journey has been quite varied, indeed. Transitioning into my current role at Deutsche Bank Group company was a result of my passion for technology and data protection law, coupled with my background in legal counsel. Over the years, I’ve been increasingly drawn to the intersection of law and technology, recognizing the critical importance of data protection in our digital age. This led me to pursue additional training and certifications in data protection and privacy, equipping me with the necessary expertise to transition into the role of a Data Protection Officer. The opportunity to work at Deutsche Bank Group company presented itself as an ideal platform to apply my skills and knowledge in a dynamic and challenging environment, where data protection is paramount.
For this, I would like to express my gratitude to my current company for providing me with the opportunity to learn and grow in the field of data privacy alongside with my responsibilities as legal counsel where I am currently providing strategic legal advice and support in relation to legal topics and issues around technology and outsourcing regulation, data protection, intellectual property, contracting, and related areas impacting bank business in the region. In addition, I also support the management of legal, regulatory and reputational risk in outsourcing and tech-related transactions.
We noticed you’re passionate about technology. How do you see emerging technologies like AI, Blockchain, and Big Data impacting the legal landscape in the future?
Technology is a great teacher. It constantly teaches us that change is the only constant in the evolution of technology. Over time, new technologies replace old ones, which can bring new problems and challenges. New technologies are constantly pushing the boundaries of the law and therefore lawyers and legal professionals around the world are witnessing significant changes in the way they practice law, thanks to innovations like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and data analytics.
Emerging technologies such as AI, Blockchain etc. are poised to revolutionize the legal landscape in numerous ways:
AI in Legal Research: AI-powered tools can sift through vast amounts of legal data in seconds, significantly expediting legal research and document review.
Predictive Analytics: By analyzing past case outcomes and legal trends, AI can predict potential outcomes of ongoing cases, enabling lawyers to make more informed decisions and develop stronger strategies.
Automating Routine Tasks: AI-driven automation can support repetitive tasks at preliminary stages like contract review, document drafting, and due diligence. This allows legal professionals to focus on higher-value activities that require more human judgment and creativity.
Data Analytics for Case Management: Big Data analytics can extract valuable insights from large volumes of legal data, helping lawyers identify patterns, assess risks, and optimize case management strategies.
Overall, the convergence of AI, Blockchain, and Big Data is set to transform the legal profession, driving efficiency, reducing costs and providing new avenues for innovation.
In my opinion, while emerging technologies may reshape the legal profession and alter the nature of legal work, they are unlikely to eliminate the need for skilled legal professionals altogether. Instead, they will complement lawyers’ capabilities, create new opportunities for specialization, and require continuous adaptation and upskilling to thrive in the evolving legal landscape.
Beyond your professional achievements, we hear you’re an avid traveller. How has exploring different cultures influenced your perspective, both personally and professionally?
Certainly! Exploring different cultures through travel has been an enriching experience that has shaped both my personal outlook and professional approach in several ways.
On a personal level, immersing myself in diverse cultures has enriched my understanding of the world and broadened my horizons. Experiencing new cuisines, customs, languages, and traditions has fostered a deep appreciation for the richness and complexity of human society. It has taught me to approach unfamiliar situations with an open mind, curiosity, and respect for cultural differences. Moreover, interacting with people from diverse backgrounds has helped me develop empathy, tolerance, and a global mindset.
Professionally, my travels have enhanced my interpersonal skills, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication abilities. Working in a globalized world, where interactions with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders from different cultural backgrounds and jurisdictions are increasingly common, these skills are invaluable. Moreover, exposure to diverse perspectives and ways of thinking has fueled creativity and problem-solving in my professional endeavors.
Overall, my passion for travel has been a source of inspiration and growth, both personally and professionally that I carry with me in all aspects of my life and work.
You’ve worked with both law firms and in-house legal departments. How do these experiences differ, and which environment do you find more conducive to your professional growth?
Having experienced both law firm and in-house legal environments, I can say that each offers unique advantages and challenges. The key differences between these two settings can influence professional growth in distinct ways.
In a law firm setting, the pace is often fast-paced and diverse, with exposure to a wide range of clients, industries, and legal matters. This diversity provides ample opportunities for skill development, as lawyers are constantly challenged to adapt to new cases and clients.
On the other hand, in-house legal departments offer a more immersive experience within a single organization, allowing lawyers to develop a deep understanding of the company’s business operations, industry dynamics, and strategic objectives. This depth of knowledge enables in-house counsel to provide more targeted and strategic legal advice, aligning legal solutions with broader business goals. Moreover, working in-house provides opportunities to collaborate closely with non-legal departments, such as finance, operations, and marketing, fostering a holistic approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
When considering which environment is more conducive to professional growth, it ultimately depends on individual preferences, career goals, and work style. Some lawyers thrive in the fast-paced, client-focused environment of law firms, where they can gain diverse experience and build a robust professional network. Others may prefer the stability, strategic focus, and sense of ownership that come with working in-house.
Ultimately, the choice between these two environments depends on individual preferences, career goals, and the type of work that best aligns with one’s strengths and interests.
With your broad expertise, what would you say is the one thing the current generation can do to excel in their legal careers, considering the dynamic nature of the profession?
With the legal profession evolving rapidly due to technological advancements, globalization, and shifting societal norms, excelling in this dynamic environment requires a multifaceted approach. However, if I were to highlight one key aspect for the current generation to focus on, it would be adaptability and continuous learning.
Adaptability encompasses the ability to embrace change, learn new skills, and pivot in response to evolving circumstances. In today’s legal landscape, where new laws, regulations, and technologies emerge regularly, lawyers must possess the agility to navigate these changes effectively.
Here’s how the current generation can cultivate adaptability to excel in their legal careers:
Embrace Lifelong Learning: Continuous learning is essential for staying abreast of legal developments and acquiring new skills. Whether it’s through formal education, professional development programs, or self-directed learning, dedicating oneself to ongoing education fosters adaptability by ensuring relevance in a constantly evolving field.
Develop Technological Proficiency: Technology is reshaping the practice of law, from e-discovery tools to AI-powered legal research and contract management platforms. Lawyers who are proficient in leveraging technology to streamline workflows, enhance client services, and analyze data will be better equipped to thrive in the modern legal landscape.
Cultivate Interdisciplinary Skills: The intersection of law with other disciplines such as business, finance, technology etc. is becoming increasingly prominent. Lawyers who possess interdisciplinary skills can offer more holistic solutions to complex legal issues, making them invaluable assets to their clients and organizations.
Networking is key: Start networking with legal professionals, alumni, and legal experts early on. These connections can open doors to exciting opportunities such as jobs, valuable industry insights, and mentorship etc.
In short, being adaptable is key to thriving in today’s fast-paced legal field. If current lawyers can adapt well, they’ll do great in their careers despite how things keep changing.
How do you see a Data Protection Officer can balance the need for data security with the demand for innovation and efficiency in today’s digital age?
Balancing the imperative of data security with the drive for innovation and efficiency is indeed a multifaceted challenge for a Data Protection Officer (DPO) in today’s digital landscape. Achieving this delicate balance requires a proactive approach that integrates robust security measures with agile and adaptable processes.
First and foremost, a DPO can ensure that data protection policies and procedures align with relevant regulations such as GDPR, CCPA, or any other applicable laws. This foundation establishes clear guidelines for data handling, access controls, encryption protocols, and incident response procedures.
To promote innovation and efficiency, one should collaborate closely with their IT and development teams to integrate privacy and security considerations into the design and development of new systems and technologies. By adopting a privacy-by-design approach, one can identify potential risks early in the development lifecycle and implement appropriate safeguards without impeding progress.
Regular risk assessments and security audits are essential to identify vulnerabilities and ensure that security measures remain effective in the face of evolving threats.
Furthermore, one should prioritize the ongoing education and training for all their employees to foster a culture of data security awareness throughout the organization. By empowering staff with the knowledge and tools they need to recognize and respond to security threats, can minimize the likelihood of data breaches while promoting a collective commitment to protecting sensitive information.
By employing a combination of regulatory compliance, risk management, education, collaboration, and proactive measures, DPOs can navigate this balancing act successfully, ensuring that data security remains a priority without hindering the organization’s ability to innovate in today’s digital age.
Your journey includes several internships across different law firms and organizations. Could you share one of your most memorable internship experiences and how it influenced your career path? Additionally, what advice would you give to students regarding the types of internships they should pursue, and how crucial do you believe internships are in shaping one’s legal career?
I participated in internships as a mandatory part of my law curriculum. Throughout the five-year law course, students were required to undertake various internships based on their interests and career aspirations. During my internship with Tata Steel, I gained valuable insights into legal challenges from a corporate standpoint, particularly from an in-house counsel perspective. Working alongside a seasoned team, I had the opportunity to delve into various legal matters and comprehend the intricacies faced by the in-house legal department. This experience significantly influenced my interest in pursuing a career as a corporate lawyer.
My advice to students regarding internships is to seek opportunities that align with their interests and career goals. It’s essential to explore different areas of law to gain a well-rounded understanding of the legal profession. Additionally, internships provide valuable networking opportunities and allow students to build relationships with experienced professionals in the field. I believe that internships are essential for students to explore their interests, gain practical experience, and make informed decisions about their future legal careers.
With your extensive experience across various industries, which one stands out as the most challenging or rewarding in terms of legal complexities?
I firmly believe that with a solid grasp of the basics and a commitment to discipline, navigating various sectors and fields of expertise becomes quite manageable. Among the diverse industries I’ve worked in (service industry, publication & education, Edtech, Information Technology Enabled Services (ITes), banking services especially from technology and privacy standpoint), each has presented unique legal complexities. However, I found the technology sector particularly challenging and rewarding. Innovation in technology moves quickly, which can create new legal questions and challenges that haven’t been addressed before. Navigating these complexities requires staying ahead of emerging trends, understanding intricate intellectual property laws, and addressing complex data privacy concerns. Yet, overcoming these challenges can be immensely rewarding, as it involves shaping the legal framework for groundbreaking technologies that drive societal progress.
Could you share a bit about your journey into the field of law, particularly what drew you to specialize in Funds, Banking, Finance, Debt Capital Markets, and Corporate Laws?
My journey into the field of law has been shaped by a combination of rigorous academic training and hands-on experience across prestigious institutions and diverse sectors. Graduating from Gujarat National Law University (GNLU) and subsequently studying at The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) broadened my perspective on legal principles and practices.
At GNLU, I had the privilege of learning from some of the best legal minds in the country. The practical insights gained from internships at firms like Little & Co., Nishith Desai Associates and ALMT Legal complemented my theoretical learning, providing invaluable exposure to real-world legal challenges.
Continuing my academic journey at LSE, one of the world’s top law schools, deepened my understanding of global legal frameworks and their intersection with business dynamics. Interacting with students from diverse backgrounds enriched my perspective, fostering adaptability and cultural sensitivity, qualities crucial for navigating the complexities of a globalized legal landscape.
My passion for law stems from a problem-solving mindset, drawn to complex legal issues that demand innovative and business-friendly solutions. Internships provided me with early exposure to complex legal issues within Funds, Banking, Finance, Debt Capital Markets, and Corporate Laws. Specializing in Funds, Banking, Finance, Debt Capital Markets, and Corporate Laws aligns with my inclination towards strategic thinking and continuous learning. These areas offer a diverse range of legal challenges across various business sectors, avoiding monotony and stimulating intellectual curiosity.
Throughout my 15-year journey as a legal professional, I’ve had the privilege of working directly under lawyers who are stalwarts in their respective areas of practice. Their mentorship provided invaluable guidance, reinforcing the importance of understanding client business and delivering practical, strategic legal counsel.
My experiences working across prestigious law firms and in an in-house role at Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Limited, have honed my skills in navigating complex legal landscapes. Today, as the Head of the Legal Team, I draw upon this diverse background to provide innovative solutions that drive business growth and mitigate risks effectively.
In essence, my journey into law has been guided by a quest for continuous learning, a passion for problem-solving, and a commitment to delivering value-driven legal solutions. Specializing in Funds, Banking, Finance, Debt Capital Markets, and Corporate Laws allows me to leverage these strengths while contributing to the success of my clients (internal stakeholders in my current role) and organizations.
As the Head of Legal at Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Limited, you oversee various legal aspects, including contract management and dispute resolution. What challenges do you commonly face in these areas, and how do you navigate them?
As the Head of Legal at Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Limited, I oversee various legal aspects, including contract management and dispute resolution, in a dynamic industry fraught with unique challenges. With our diverse lines of business spanning mutual funds, alternate investment funds, and portfolio management services, navigating the rapidly changing regulatory landscape presents intricate and ever-evolving legal hurdles.
Our team’s strategic approach to managing these challenges is rooted in a clear and systematic process. We begin by meticulously understanding the nuanced business requirements and objectives, engaging closely with stakeholders across different verticals. This ensures that our legal strategies are not only legally sound but also seamlessly aligned with the company’s overarching goals and group’s values.
Simultaneously, we systematically analyze legal risks associated with each initiative, conducting thorough due diligence and staying attuned to regulatory developments. Continuous learning and regularly tracking regulations are essential aspects of our legal operations. We subscribe to legal resources and newsletters to remain abreast of the latest legal developments, ensuring our business objectives are consistently aligned with regulatory requirements.
One common challenge we frequently encounter is understanding the mindset of concerned stakeholders and persuading them to accept a path that is not only legally and regulatorily compliant but also aligned with the company’s overarching goals. This often involves engaging with and convincing stakeholders to deviate from their initial approach in favor of a more legally sound solution.
We have implemented robust legal policies and processes to ensure that documents, matters, and notices do not escape legal scrutiny, thereby protecting the organization from exposure to legal risks. Additionally, we engage in continuously sensitizing employees and conducting training to ensure they understand the legal processes, rules, and regulations applicable to them, further safeguarding the company against legal risks.
Leveraging legal technology for contract and litigation management enhances operational efficiency and saves time, enabling us to proactively focus on identifying potential pitfalls and implementing preemptive measures. Each team member plays a defined and vital role, fostering collaboration in resolving legal challenges effectively.
Whether it’s crafting tailored contracts, providing strategic advice to senior management, or implementing proactive risk management strategies, our actions are guided by a deep understanding of both business imperatives and legal intricacies.
By following this clear and systematic approach, we not only mitigate legal risk but also contribute to the achievement of our broader strategic objectives. Our focus on understanding business requirements, assessing legal risks, leveraging legal expertise, and harnessing technology for enhanced efficiency ensures that we remain agile and responsive in addressing the evolving legal landscape.
With your extensive experience in collaborating with legal counsels and law firms, what strategies do you employ to ensure effective communication and alignment of objectives between your team and external legal partners?
While collaborating with legal counsels and law firms, I’ve found that effective communication and alignment of objectives are paramount to successful partnerships and achieving our goals. One strategy I employ is to establish clear lines of communication from the outset, ensuring that expectations, timelines, and deliverables are clearly defined and understood by all parties.
Regular communication channels, such as scheduled meetings and status updates, help maintain alignment and ensure that any issues or concerns are addressed promptly. Additionally, I believe in fostering an open and collaborative environment where both internal and external teams feel comfortable sharing ideas, feedback, and insights.
Furthermore, I prioritize building strong relationships with our external legal partners, fostering trust and mutual respect. By understanding each other’s strengths, capabilities, and areas of expertise, we can leverage our collective knowledge and experience to achieve common objectives.
Lastly, I believe in the importance of ongoing feedback and evaluation to assess the effectiveness of our collaboration efforts. This allows us to identify areas for improvement and make adjustments as needed to ensure continued alignment and success.
Overall, effective communication, collaboration, and relationship-building are key strategies I employ to ensure alignment of objectives between my team and external legal partners.
You’ve been instrumental in implementing legal training programs for employees. How do you approach balancing regulatory adherence with fostering a culture of innovation within the legal department?
As a leader in the legal department, I’ve been implementing legal training programs for employees, and I approach balancing regulatory adherence with fostering a culture of innovation through a multifaceted strategy.
Firstly, I prioritize creating a culture of trust and autonomy within the team. This involves providing flexibility for innovative thinking while ensuring strict adherence to regulatory requirements. By empowering team members to think creatively within the bounds of law, I encourage innovative solutions while upholding legal standards.
Secondly, continuous legal development is crucial. Our organization invests in ongoing education initiatives, such as seminars, workshops, and access to online resources, to keep the team updated with the latest legal developments. This ensures that innovation is informed by a comprehensive understanding of regulatory requirements.
Additionally, practical exposure and direct interaction opportunities with key stakeholders play a significant role. By involving team members in meetings, negotiations, and other crucial aspects of legal practice, I foster a deeper understanding of legal and regulatory challenges and encourage innovative approaches to address them.
Ultimately, my approach aims to strike a balance between regulatory adherence and fostering innovation. By creating an environment of trust, investing in continuous legal education, and providing practical exposure, we cultivate a culture where innovation thrives within the applicable legal and regulatory framework.
Happy to address this alternate question instead – “You’ve handled transactions in banking and project finance, leading negotiations and client meetings. Can you share a particularly challenging project you managed and how you successfully navigated it?”
One particularly challenging project I managed involved transactions in banking and project finance, where I served as the legal counsel for a consortium of about 20 lenders, comprising significantly large banks. The complexity of the project lay not only in the intricacies of the transaction but also in the sheer scale of stakeholders involved, each with their own unique perspectives and priorities.
As the legal advisor representing the lenders, one of the most daunting challenges was to navigate the decision-making process among the consortium members. With a large number of stakeholders, each with varying degrees of influence and interests, reaching a consensus on critical legal matters posed a considerable challenge.
To address this challenge and streamline the decision-making process, I proposed a solution that ultimately proved to be highly effective. I suggested forming a steering committee comprising the top five lenders by contribution and size. This committee would be tasked with making decisions on legal challenges and strategic matters, thereby expediting the decision-making process and ensuring that key decisions were made in a timely manner.
Despite initial skepticism from some stakeholders, I was able to effectively communicate the benefits of this approach and garner support for the formation of the steering committee. By highlighting the advantages of having a smaller, more agile decision-making body, I was able to overcome resistance and gain consensus among the lenders.
The implementation of the steering committee proved to be a game-changer for the project. With a more streamlined decision-making process and faster resolutions to legal challenges, we were able to expedite the transaction timeline significantly. By empowering the steering committee to take decisive action, we minimized delays, resolved issues proactively, and ultimately closed the transaction in a remarkably short time frame.
This experience taught me the importance of creative problem-solving and effective stakeholder management in complex transactions. By proposing a solution that addressed the specific challenges of the project and gaining buy-in from key stakeholders, I was able to navigate a challenging situation successfully and achieve a positive outcome for all parties involved.
Given your expertise in legal risk mitigation and fraud prevention, could you share some key strategies or best practices for identifying and addressing potential legal risks within financial institutions?
In my experience, effective legal risk mitigation and fraud prevention within financial institutions require a multifaceted approach that combines proactive measures with ongoing vigilance. Some key strategies and best practices include:
Conducting thorough risk assessments: Regularly assess the legal and regulatory landscape to identify emerging risks and vulnerabilities. This involves analyzing regulatory changes, market trends, and internal processes to pinpoint areas of potential exposure.
Implementing robust compliance programs: Develop comprehensive compliance programs that are tailored to the specific regulatory requirements and business operations of the financial institution. This includes establishing clear policies, procedures, and controls to ensure adherence to legal and regulatory standards.
Enhancing due diligence processes: Strengthen due diligence processes for onboarding clients, vendors, and business partners to mitigate the risk of fraud and misconduct. Conduct thorough background checks, verify credentials, and assess potential risks before entering into any business relationships.
Promoting a culture of compliance: Foster a culture of compliance throughout the organization by providing regular training, education, and awareness programs to employees. Encourage open communication channels for reporting potential issues and promote ethical behavior at all levels.
Implementing robust internal controls: Establish robust internal controls and monitoring mechanisms to detect and prevent fraudulent activities. This includes implementing segregation of duties, regular audits, and reviews of financial transactions to identify anomalies and potential red flags.
Leveraging technology and data analytics: Utilize technology-driven solutions and data analytics tools to enhance fraud detection and prevention capabilities. Implement advanced monitoring systems, artificial intelligence, and machine learning algorithms to identify patterns of suspicious behavior and potential fraud risks.
Collaborating with regulatory authorities and industry peers: Maintain open communication channels with regulatory authorities and collaborate with industry peers to share best practices, insights, and emerging trends in legal risk mitigation and fraud prevention.
By adopting these strategies and best practices, financial institutions can proactively identify and address potential legal risks, safeguarding their reputation, financial integrity, and long-term viability.
Your career trajectory showcases a progression from Associate to Head of Legal. What were some pivotal moments or lessons learned along the way that contributed to your professional growth and leadership development?
My career journey from Associate to Head of Legal has been shaped by pivotal moments and invaluable lessons that have contributed significantly to my professional growth and leadership development.
One such pivotal aspect has been the opportunity to work directly under legal stalwarts in their respective fields. Their mentorship and guidance have been instrumental in shaping my approach to legal practice, imparting invaluable insights and best practices that have enriched my skill set and strategic thinking.
Moreover, collaborating closely with business heads and key stakeholders has provided me with a deep understanding of their perspectives and priorities. This exposure to the business side of operations has been transformative, enabling me to offer innovative, business-friendly solutions to legal challenges. Understanding the business goals, challenges, and industry dynamics has allowed me to deliver tailored solutions that align seamlessly with our business objectives.
Furthermore, working across diverse sectors has provided me with a unique perspective, allowing me to view legal issues through the lens of a businessman. This holistic understanding of client expectations and business realities has been particularly invaluable in my current role at Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Limited.
In essence, the combination of mentorship from legal experts, collaboration with business leaders, and exposure to diverse sectors has been key to my professional growth and leadership development. These experiences have not only enhanced my legal acumen but also honed my ability to provide strategic counsel that drives business success.
Finally, what advice would you offer to fresh graduates aspiring to pursue a career in law, especially those interested in the areas of Funds, Banking, Finance, and Corporate Laws?
For fresh graduates aspiring to carve a career path in law, particularly in the domains of Funds, Banking, Finance, and Corporate Laws, my advice revolves around fostering a strong foundation in legal fundamentals and cultivating a solution-oriented mindset.
Firstly, it’s paramount to build a robust understanding of core legal principles such as the Contract Act, Companies Act, Transfer of Property Act, and principles of interpretation. These foundational laws serve as the cornerstone upon which specialized areas like finance and corporate law are constructed. By mastering these fundamentals, young lawyers can develop a solid framework for analyzing legal issues and offering effective solutions to clients.
Additionally, I urge aspiring lawyers to adopt a solution-oriented approach to problem-solving. Clients in fields like finance and corporate law often seek pragmatic solutions to intricate legal challenges. Rather than just identifying problems, young lawyers should focus on crafting innovative and practical solutions that address clients’ underlying needs and objectives. This necessitates critical thinking, creativity, and a readiness to explore alternative legal avenues.
Moreover, maintaining a curious mindset and a commitment to continuous learning is crucial. Given the dynamic nature of finance and corporate law, staying updated with legal developments and industry trends is imperative. Aspiring lawyers should embrace opportunities for learning, ask pertinent questions, and seek growth opportunities to enhance their problem-solving skills and legal acumen.
Lastly, I encourage young lawyers to seek mentorship and guidance from seasoned professionals in the field. Learning from experienced practitioners can offer invaluable insights, practical wisdom, and networking opportunities that accelerate career growth and development.
In summary, my advice to fresh graduates aspiring for a rewarding career in finance and corporate law is to prioritize building strong legal fundamentals, adopting a solution-driven mindset, fostering curiosity and continuous learning, and seeking mentorship from experienced professionals. Embracing these principles equips aspiring lawyers to embark on a fulfilling and impactful journey in the legal profession.
Can you share with us how your journey into the field of law began? What motivated you to pursue a career in law, and what challenges did you encounter during your formative years in the legal profession?
Frankly speaking, I was really bad at science and mathematics so that door was closed but had always liked to engage into arguments only to ensure that I have to fight for the right coupled with the attraction of the robes that lawyers carried in the courts which motivated me to the core. Now, I thank myself for choosing law as my career as well as my family and friends who supported my decision.
I never faced any challenge by the way, as I loved what I was doing, that included drafting, reading, researching as well appearing before the courts and tribunals. The only difficulty was to cope up with the financial doldrums. So, with whatever time I could manage and owing to my passion for teaching which I had developed during my law school, I engaged myself in taking up classes at universities, coaching institutes including taking up training sessions at ICSI and ICAI and was the youngest guest faculty at most of the places. That not only encouraged me to read and be well versed with the latest updates, it also helped me to have a harmonious balance between my expenses and income. Though the journey at Infosys, Vaish and thereafter with my litigation guru, Late Shri MR Singhvi, Senior Advocate and most importantly, my favourite mentor, Sr. Advocate Shri Ravi Bhansali was phenomenal and all the hard work and perseverance has led to the present day, for which I can’t thank enough to all those who had supported me in minutes.
As the Founder and Head of Singhvi & Co., what inspired you to establish your own legal consultancy firm, and what were some of the challenges you faced in the initial stages?
I always believe that as a team of young individuals, you can always do more, think more and prosper more. The idea to have a team was dawning on my mind since law school days when we used to intern at various law offices and see the seamless way of functioning and sharing of thoughts and ideas. As a first generation lawyer, when you think of having your team, it brings along that guts to incur expenses of having proper office space, payment of professional fee to the team as well as office administration expenses. So, during the initial days, I ended up squeezing all my income in order to cope up with the management of the office. Though, the scope of work increased along with the client base and we could eventually end up serving varied clients at different locations with ease and came out with amazing reliefs and results from Hon’ble Courts and tribunals apart from serving the clients on non-litigation work.
Empanelled as counsel for various esteemed institutions, could you shed light on the significance of such partnerships in your legal practice? Also could you please share some insights to your role.
In the beginning of my career, I always saw others engaging and thriving into empanelment of various private and government institutions but I was always busy serving my clients and could not spare time to invest in the effort to get myself empanelled anywhere. I always focused on work and ensuring timely resolution of my client’s grievances. With 7-8 years of experience in my kitty and having developed little name and reputation, there came a time when various institutions and companies approached for engaging me as a retainer/empanel as their lawyer and time just went in a jiffy without realizing the journey which has been extremely rewarding, challenging and full of learning nuance. The focus is yet again on serving clients with honesty and integrity and that is the success mantra.
Given your interest in contract and arbitration, could you discuss the evolving landscape of dispute resolution mechanisms in India, particularly in light of recent legal developments?
Even as a law student, I was very keen in learning about the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 and used to request the seniors during my internships to involve and engage me in the respective arbitration and dispute resolution team which nurtured my mind at the very inception. The timely resolution of the disputes with such flexibility in approach revolutionized my mind and shaped me to work more and more towards this stream and today I have the honor to have resolved disputes related to partnerships, infrastructure, construction and JV and working capital consortium agreements amassing more than 3000 Crores. India has passed the proverbial litmus test after conjoint efforts from across the wings of the government in the last decade or so and has left no stone unturned to transform India into a matured arbitration hub and the future seems to be extremely promising and fructifying.
As a visiting faculty member at various institutions, how do you integrate academic insights into your legal practice, and what do you hope to impart to aspiring legal professionals through your teaching engagements?
I always believe that the best way to keep yourself updated is to read and exchange. When you have to teach, you end up doing both though you do not realize that you gain so much from the students and professionals you engage with which will shape you into a better, healthier and smarter lawyer. I have been very practical in my approach towards my life as well as profession and that’s what I request each and every individual.
As someone deeply involved in real estate transactions, what are some key legal considerations that individuals or companies often overlook when engaging in such deals, and how do you ensure comprehensive due diligence?
Land due diligence is the most critical aspect which was not really considered by the general public, barring corporate dealing into big land parcels. Over the past 10-15 years, I have witnessed imperative growth and recognition which has been extended to DD which assists to thoroughly investigate and assess the details & risks associated with a transaction before taking a final decision on the execution and acts as a shield to protect against possible fraud which is very common these days.
As someone pursuing CS [Final], how do you perceive the intersection of company secretarial practice with your legal expertise, and how does it complement your role as a legal consultant? Also what motivated you to pursue a Ph.D. in Law, and how has this advanced degree contributed to your expertise and outlook in the legal field?
I understood the importance of studies and knowledge gaining while being a part of Infosys which believed in the Continuous Education Programme (CEP) and that motivated me to improvise my skills and knowledge and learn every day. The process of learning in an advocate’s life is imperative and keeps you in line with the advancement of life, law and technology. Doctorate in law allowed me to understand the importance of research which I was always very keen on and is one of the important pillars for any one practicing law.
As a visiting faculty member interacting with students, what positive attributes do you find most prevalent among the current generation, and conversely, are there any areas you believe they could improve upon to excel in the legal profession?
The present generation is advanced, well-read and extremely stylish. Though, I see that they need to learn to remain grounded and stick to the basics of law and life which will prepare them to accommodate and live with the day to day challenges and set-backs litigation can offer you. Being punctual can add feathers to your profession as you may miss your matter by a fraction of second and the litigant suffers. This is just not a profession, this is service to the society and that’s why we lawyers are known as social engineers. Though, I believe that the upcoming generation should focus on dress well, address well and redress well.
With your busy schedule and demanding profession, it’s essential to find moments of relaxation. Could you share some activities or practices you engage in to unwind and recharge outside of work?
I am fortunate to have my life partner, Deepika as a professional partner as well and that keeps us occupied and entertained. We travel a lot for work and use it for leisure as well and that maintains work-life balance. Thankfully, in Rajasthan we have a long summer break and decent winter break, which we dedicate to travel abroad with family and this has now become a norm of our lifestyle. We also enjoy cricket and our leisure time is mostly spent with family and friends while enjoying music and rejuvenating ourselves.
Your internship experience includes working with Infosys, a renowned IT company. How has this experience influenced your perspective on legal matters, and what differences, if any, did you observe between working in a law firm and an IT corporation?
The work there was limited to compliance and drafting with minimal court work. Though, working with the top in-house legal team with fantabulous work style and strategies shaped my capacity to perceive, interpret and implement complex legal issues which has culminated into a matured and calculated approach in the legal profession.
Could you share a bit about your journey into the legal profession, particularly what inspired you to pursue a career in law and how your background in psychology has influenced your legal acumen?
This question is very close to my heart and in its answer lies my firm belief that ‘God’s plan is always better than yours’. I am an accidental lawyer and have never even dreamed of becoming one. I was an absolute introvert in my teens. I was on the verge of getting my bachelor’s degree with a major in psychology but was unsure how to transition that knowledge into a career. Back then, I was terrified by the thought of interacting with people. There were also financial constraints. One day while taking a random stroll in the college lobby, I saw a notice of admission to the evening law degree program run by my college. It was a 3 year program, with no requirement of CLAT and the fee was also very nominal. I was always very much inclined towards reading and had an analytic mind. Piles of books never scared me rather, I found solace amidst them. I have spent more time at the library than at the lectures. The legal profession is always considered as a noble and respectable profession. So, it ticked all the boxes for me.
Within 2-3 years of working as a lawyer, I really started enjoying my work. As a lifelong psychology student (it is still my favorite subject), I am aware of my personality traits, such as an eye for detail, logical thinking, understanding of human behavior, convincing power, and excellent listening and empathy, all that psychology has taught me. These traits are equally, if not more, required to be a competent lawyer. By then, I had also realized that litigation is not something I would not like to do on a daily basis, and I have a knack for good writing skills; thus, I started focusing on documentation, contracting, and written opinions.
With your extensive experience across diverse industries such as education, oil and gas, retail, and real estate, could you highlight some key challenges you’ve faced and how you navigated them, especially considering the varied regulatory landscapes of these sectors?
In the corporate world, legal and regulatory compliance are like two sides of the same coin. Lawyers typically deal with laws and contracts, while compliance officers ensure that a company follows industry rules. Inhouse lawyers handle both by balancing what’s legally required with what’s needed to keep the business running smoothly. They stay ahead by knowing the laws inside out and understanding the operational dynamics of the industry they cater to. Working closely with operation teams and advance planning helps the company avoid or at least anticipate issues and stay on track. In-house lawyers act like guides so businesses can focus on sales, customer delight, production or R and D but within the corners of the laws and regulations.
I will put retail and real estate in the same bucket as retail highly depends on real estate availability. In India, we celebrate and are proud of our ‘Unity in Diversity; approach, but ask this to a lawyer handling PAN India real estate title due diligence! There is a lot of dependency on local languages and systems (or its absence) for maintaining land/revenue records at government offices and local municipal laws. When you started the project, the area was under gram panchayat, and by the time the project was complete, the exact location would have fallen within the municipality’s limits. Additionally, you must understand the operations in detail to ensure that landlords give you the required leeway to utilize the property efficiently. Negotiating with different categories of landlords and developers has honed my negotiation skills.
I have learned the importance of regulatory aspects in the day-to-day functioning of the legal department during my stint in the oil and gas sector. Oil and gas is an absolutely regulated sector with a monopoly of PSUs. There is limited scope for private or international companies. The organization I was working for is a French conglomerate. So the regulatory requirements of India and as well as that of the parent entity’s country were also required to be met strictly, in addition to the best of corporate governance policies. Your prices are regulated, your territories are marked, you have logistic challenges as the oil exploration fields are situated at particular shores, your hands are tied as you swear by ABAC regulations and FCPA, there are sanctioned countries, and so on. I have learned how to build contracts and draft policies while keeping all these in mind.
Another interesting experience is in education, which still amazes me. In India, education is a matter of a concurrent list. It means both the state and central governments will try to regulate the sector. With so many states and so many political parties driving the political scenarios in India, we seldom have state and central policies aligned on concurrent lists matters. In some states, the RTE (Right to Education) Act is taken very strictly; in others, you can maneuver around it. Some states welcome private self-funded players to boost the availability of high-class educational institutions in the states, while others prefer control at the stake of quality and feasibility. With approximately ¼ of our population between the ages of 6 and 16 and the growing income of the middle and upper-middle-class population, there is a huge demand for good quality education providers, attracting many PE and VCs to invest in education. So, suppose you are the legal person for a company having PAN India operations in school, in that case, you can imagine the number of state-specific regulations to keep track of while advising on legal matters from a centralized office!
As the Head of Legal for Manipal Academy of Higher Education, you mentioned restructuring the legal team and enhancing skill development. Can you walk us through some of the strategies you employed to achieve this and the outcomes you observed?
Life in metro cities and small towns is very different, and these differences are evident due to their different levels of exposure in terms of competitiveness, training, motivation, aspirations, and complex work scenarios. The nature of an organization (i.eMNCs, VC-backed Companies, start-ups, and not-for-profit organizations of different sizes ) impacts its culture, and culture is all about people. What works in metros or big cities may not (I would say ‘will not’) work in small towns. You have to manage with the existing resources, and you will not get new resources easily.
The restructuring of the legal team was spearheaded with a focus on clearly defining roles and expectations for both internal and external stakeholders. Significant time was invested in training them on negotiation skills, contract drafting, and legal communication. Assistance was provided to existing teams in understanding the operations and business aspects of the sector, associating the legal aspects and their impact, which has aided in understanding the value of their work.
I swear by templates, checklists, & SOPs, streamlining legal processes, which have been my go-to tools at MAHE as well, and the team and other stakeholders are pleased with these toolkits.
Standardization and process enhancement seem to have been pivotal in your role at MAHE. How did you go about developing templates, checklists, and SOPs, and what impact did these initiatives have on the efficiency and consistency of legal processes?
In the role of an in-house lawyer, I would like to prioritize standardization and process improvement to enhance the productivity of the legal team. Commencing with a thorough examination of existing legal workflows, recurring tasks and areas of inefficiency were identified through collaborative discussions with team members and stakeholders. Tailored templates, checklists, and SOPs were crafted based on these insights to address these pain points, with a focus on streamlining processes, reducing errors, and ensuring compliance. Throughout this process, feedback and input were actively sought from team members, both external and internal to provide practical, user-friendly solutions. Comprehensive training sessions and personalized hand holding were conducted to ensure effective adoption and user comfort.
Following implementation, key metrics such as negotiation time and success, as well as requester feedback, were closely monitored to assess the impact of these initiatives on efficiency and consistency. Significant improvements were noted in turnaround time, error rates, and compliance levels. The standardized processes implemented not only streamlined workflows, enabling quicker task completion and freeing up time for higher-value work, but also fostered consistency in executing legal tasks across the team, thereby enhancing overall compliance and risk management.
Given your focus on the education sector, could you elaborate on the unique challenges and opportunities you’ve encountered in this industry, particularly regarding M&A deals, post-merger integration, and regulatory compliance?
In education, navigating the regulatory and compliance landscape presents a distinctive set of challenges and opportunities. With education falling under the concurrent list, governance involves coordination between multiple authorities, adding complexity to regulatory compliance. While the sector is socially impactful, profit-making is restricted, necessitating a delicate balance between financial sustainability and delivering quality services. The surge in M&A activity, driven by interest from private equity and venture capital firms, reflects evolving market dynamics, particularly with the rise of Ed-tech post-pandemic. However, traditional brick-and-mortar K-12 schools continue to uphold their significance, requiring continuous adaptation to compete with digital alternatives.
Establishing or expanding educational institutions often involves substantial real estate investments, which, coupled with more extended gestation periods, pose financial challenges. Moreover, post-merger integration presents its own set of hurdles, given the absence of nationwide standards and the varied regulatory frameworks across states. Many institutions begin as philanthropic ventures, evolving over time under the influence of passionate founders or promoters and their younger generations wanting to encash on brand and legacy, further complicating the integration process.
In summary, the education sector offers immense opportunities for growth and impact. Still, success hinges on effectively navigating the regulatory landscape, adapting to market shifts, and executing strategic M&A deals with diligence and foresight.
In your career, you’ve been involved in forming and mentoring legal teams from the ground up. What qualities do you look for when assembling a legal team, and how do you foster a collaborative and productive work environment within it?
My first question in any interview for a legal position or when I meet a law student is, “What made you choose law as your career choice ?” The answer to this lets me into their perception of as well as their expectations from this profession. So, for me, their ‘Why’ is very important. Another critical and non-negotiable quality is a willingness to be a lifelong learner- of new skills, not only new rules and regulations but also new subjects beyond law. Law is such a vast area that one should never be complacent or consider oneself a law expert.
For most of my career, I have worked in large organizations and across sectors, so being a team member and working in groups is another aspect I will look into.
Along with legal acumen like good written communication and the ability to summarize or comprehend legal texts, a successful in-house legal person must have a basic understanding of the practical aspects of business and operations to evaluate any document or situation from multiple angles.
I would eat, sleep, and breathe law and amongst those lucky people on the earth who love what they do and do what they love, so I don’t need a heavy dose of motivation daily. Still, different persons have different aspirations and motivations. So, I ensure that my team is clear regarding mutual expectations. Clarity and openness in communication are vital for successful teamwork. As stated earlier, training, handholding, and standardization ensure consistency in the output, and I insist on continuous and 360-degree feedback. I am very comfortable in delegation with empowerment and hate micromanaging things. Most importantly, we have a lot of fun banters, teasing, and snacking going around all day amidst heavy negotiations and focused reading sessions, so there is never a dull day at work.
As someone passionate about advancing legal education, what initiatives have you undertaken to contribute to the development of young lawyers, both within your organization and beyond?
I am seriously jealous of today’s generation for the sheer amount of availability of resources and diverse opportunities. But then, there is also a problem of plenty and confusion created due to multiple options. So, they need proper guidance to capitalize on the right kind of opportunity and information. So at every available opportunity, I love to reach out to students and budding lawyers to understand their academic challenges, needs, and wants. I talk to them to identify what they find exciting and boring and learn about their misconceptions and fears. This kind of conversation has a dual advantage for me – it fuels my curious mind, lets me know recent trends and future expectations, and helps me to be relevant while hiring and mentoring young lawyers. I volunteer for lectures in law schools and webinars for the transition from ‘campus to corporate,’ different career options for lawyers, practical contract drafting, and the like.
For my teams, I identify and ask for their specific training needs for skill enhancement and give them the desired resources. I have always been an early adopter of technology, so I encourage using digital tools such as CLM, digital signature, and chat-gpt (with much caution). My funda is one size does not fit all, and thus, I customize based on the personality and needs of an organization.
Lastly, drawing from your rich experience, what advice would you offer to fresh graduates aspiring to pursue a career in law, especially those interested in making an impact in diverse industries like education and beyond?
‘Stay hopelessly curious and be an avid learner,’ understand business, and think like a lawyer but look beyond the law. Take calculated risks, and don’t settle for one area or organization for safety; experiment in your early years. Develop transferable skills even as a lawyer, such as due diligence, negotiation, policy-making, legal auditing, etc., and remember to keep asking yourself, ‘Why did you choose to become a lawyer?’ The answer may vary over time, but there must be a clear answer every time.
Can you share with us your journey into the legal field, from your education at QueenMary University to your current role as Group General Counsel and Founding Member atVance?
My journey from pursuing LLM from Queen Mary, University of London to my current role has been a testament to perseverance and enthusiasm. As a first-generation lawyer, I embarked on this path driven not only by personal ambition but also by the inspiration of my father, whose own ambition inspired me to have a deep respect for the legal profession.
Studying abroad was a pivotal decision, marking the initial stride towards establishing myself in the corporate and commercial legal fraternity. Since then, my career has been characterized by a diverse array of experiences as an in-house counsel, navigating complexities in the fields of Real Estate, Information Technology & Privacy, Fin-Tech, Digital Payments, Digital Lending, Neo Banking, among others. From the moment I set foot at Queen Mary to the present day, each step of this journey has been marked by growth, learning, and the pursuit of excellence.
The opportunity to collaborate with Vance was not unexpected; rather, it was the culmination of a deliberate partnership with a visionary founder aimed at addressing the challenges of cross border payments and enhancing access to Indian banking and financial services for NRIs. Leading the legal, compliance and regulatory endeavours at a global level, I am privileged to contribute to the establishment of this groundbreaking venture. I am humbled to play a role in shaping the future of banking and financial services on this scale.
Throughout your career, you’ve worked in various capacities within the financial technology sector. What initially drew you to specialize in this industry?
Throughout my career, I’ve involved myself in various roles within the Fin-tech sector. However, it wasn’t until I got the opportunity at PayU Payments, where I stepped into a legal counsel role during the company’s establishment phase as a prominent B2B payments business in India. This pivotal moment ignited my passion and set me on a trajectory of growth within the fintech landscape.
From witnessing the nascent stage of payments in India to contributing to its evolution, my journey has been both exhilarating and transformative. Whether it’s pioneering digital payments at PayU, shaping digital credit strategies at Krazybee, driving the biggest of Indian payments products at NPCI, the umbrella organisation for operating retail payments and settlement systems in India or exploring the endless possibilities within the sector, I’ve found my niche and thrived in it. Fin-tech isn’t just where I work; it’s where I belong, and where I’ve honed my expertise.
Could you elaborate on the challenges you’ve faced navigating the intricate landscapes ofinformation technology, digital payments, and licensing throughout your career?
A lawyer’s life is loaded with countless challenges, a reality I’ve faced firsthand while steering complex areas of Information Technology, Digital Payments, Credit, and Licensing. One particularly notable hurdle has been customizing legal advisory to keep up with the swift pace of technological advancement in this space. With innovations occurring rapidly, it’s imperative to ensure that legal frameworks and policies evolve in tandem, necessitating continual adaptation and innovation.
Additionally, staying abreast of frequent regulatory changes and requirements especially in payments and digital lending has been paramount. The regulatory landscape is constantly evolving, compliance has become non-negotiable, and the regulator appreciates no compromises- I have numerous instances at hand from the industry. It’s essential to remain proactive, continuously monitoring changes, swiftly adjusting strategies and operations to maintain regulatory requirements, compliance and mitigate risks.
Collaborating with business and product teams to evaluate and incubate new payments products has its own complexities. Balancing innovation with regulatory compliance and risk management requires careful navigation. Successfully achieving regulatory approvals often entails extensive coordination, documentation, and engagement with regulatory bodies, adding another layer of challenge. If I talk about structuring deals and negotiating technical agreements in this dynamic environment, it has been daunting as well. We need to strike the right balance between innovation, risk allocation, and legal & compliance demands strategic thinking and adept negotiation skills. Moreover, managing peers amid these challenges requires effective leadership, clear communication, and fostering a culture of adaptability and continuous learning.
Despite these formidable challenges, I’ve approached each hurdle with resilience and a commitment to excellence. By leveraging strategic foresight, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a robust understanding of both legal and technological landscapes, I’ve successfully managed to navigate complexities, while driving innovation, and fostering growth.
As someone with extensive experience in commercial law, what are some key strategiesyou’ve employed when structuring complex business transactions?
It doesn’t sound as simple as this question. There are various stakeholders involved in structuring a commercial transaction depending on its size, however, my priority is to build a clear communication with those stakeholders to outline a transaction’s contours. Thorough due diligence, risk assessment, and mitigation are crucial, along with ensuring compliance with relevant regulatory and tax requirements. Additionally, being a business lawyer, I always consider the commercial viability of the deal and its potential profitability from a business perspective, working closely with my business to align legal strategies with their business goals.
With your background in cross-border payments and global neo banking, how do youapproach managing regulatory challenges in different jurisdictions?
Establishing business in different jurisdictions or dealing with regulators of different jurisdictions I tell you is a very challenging affair. This is something, expertise of which you do not have while bearing limited understanding. There must be a well thought through strategy. I prioritize thorough in-house research to gauge the feasibility of operating within each regulatory landscape. This involves understanding the legal and corporate structure(s) needed, which may vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another. When expertise is lacking, I rely on experienced consultants to guide us through the complexities either with respect to any kind of licensing, structuring, re-structuring, or other requirements. It’s crucial to have the right team in place to manage compliance both domestically and internationally, ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements while minimizing costs and risks. It could be a mix bag of domestic and international personnel.
As the Group General Counsel and Founding Member at Vance, what are your primaryresponsibilities, and how do you ensure legal compliance while fostering strategic growth forthe organization?
I feel my responsibilities extend beyond traditional legal service a General Counsel could render, especially after joining hands with Vance. I am tasked with leading both domestic and international legal, compliance and regulatory initiatives, ensuring that every facet of our operations aligns with the relevant laws and standards. However, my role is not limited to legal here; I also embrace the strategic aspects of business development.
To ensure smooth functioning of my department while fostering strategic growth, I engage deeply with multiple facets of the organization. This involves a collaborative approach with the business, product teams and other relevant stakeholders to navigate complex challenges and identify growth opportunities. By thinking strategically before incubating and executing commercial arrangements, I ensure decisions serve the best interests of the business while maintaining robust compliance.
Key to our success is the establishment and management of competent teams across India and other countries where we operate. This global framework supports our mission to expand as a Neo Bank currently serving more than five countries, with further expansion on the roadmap. Building the right team is crucial, not only for managing our expansive legal framework but also for enabling Vance to grow strategically and sustainably on the international stage.
Throughout your career, you’ve demonstrated a passion for leading legal teams. Whatleadership principles do you prioritize when managing and motivating your team?
Until I received the opportunity to lead legal & compliance at Krazybee, one of the fastestgrowing digital lending organizations in India, I hadn’t led teams throughout my career. Leading a legal team is a position of immense ownership and comes with significant responsibility. Here, I prioritize several key principles, many of which I gleaned from working closely with my previous managers. Firstly, I emphasize the importance of clear communication to ensure everyone comprehends their roles and objectives. Secondly, cultivating a culture of trust and collaboration empowers team members and fosters a sense of value. Additionally, I believe in offering continuous support and mentorship to facilitate professional growth and development. The guiding principle is collective growth and development of the entire team. Lastly, I underscore the significance of adaptability and resilience in navigating challenges and embracing change within the legal landscape.
Considering your wealth of experience, what advice would you offer to fresh graduates aspiring to pursue a career in law, especially within the dynamic landscape of financial technology and business management? I recall there was no mentor or proper guidance available to steer me in the right direction when I was graduating. As I progressed into my graduate years, I learned the intricacies of the legal industry and the life of a corporate lawyer the hard way. My foremost recommendation for fresh graduates is to seek guidance from seasoned lawyers in their vicinity, whether they specialize in litigation or corporate law, to gain insights into the industry and what lies ahead. It’s crucial to carefully consider which area of law they wish to specialize in, as there are various options available. They must engage in multiple internships during their undergraduate years, which is essential, as it prepares them for the intense competition they’ll face upon entering the workforce. Lastly, it’s important not only to focus on Fin-tech (it may be niche now, but may not be in the future) or business management but also to stay updated on the latest developments and rapidly changing technology in any area of law or other fields that find their interest.
Can you tell us about your journey into the field of law, from your early education to your current role as Senior Legal Counsel at Infosys Limited?
My journey into the field of law has been both deliberate and transformative. Initially, I embarked on a path in Chartered Accountancy alongside pursuing Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) program at Delhi University. However, it was during this time that I realized my passion lay more in the realm of company and business law rather than accountancy.
This revelation prompted me to take the entrance exam for law, and I was fortunate to secure a place at Campus Law Centre, Delhi University. This educational shift allowed me to delve deeper into my newfound interest, laying the foundation for my legal career.
The academic rigor I experienced at law school made me realize that I enjoyed legal research and the discipline that comes with academic writing. I therefore decided to pursue a master’s degree in law and was fortunate enough to get accepted into one of the world’s best LL.M. programs at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom.
At Cambridge, I had the opportunity to delve into a diverse range of subjects, from International Taxation to IP rights and Corporate Financing. This international exposure broadened my horizons and equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of global legal frameworks and practices.
Upon completing my education, I joined Vaish Associates, where I honed my practical legal skills. Working on complex matters related to the Income Tax Act, 1961, I had the privilege to collaborate with renowned legal professionals such as Mr. Harish Salve, Mr. P. Chidambaram, and Mr. Kapil Sibal. These experiences not only enriched my legal expertise but also instilled in me the importance of diligence, teamwork, and taking ownership of tasks.
Transitioning to Panasonic as the legal counsel for their Innovation Center was another significant milestone in my career. Here, I was responsible for providing end-to-end legal advisory for cutting-edge technology platforms. My role was multifaceted, encompassing everything from conducting compliance seminars to drafting policies on vendor procurement, social media, anti-bribery, and privacy law.
Now, as a Senior Legal Counsel at Infosys, I continue to navigate the dynamic intersection of law and technology. My journey from studying Commerce to choosing law has been a continuous learning experience, shaping me into the lawyer I am today. Each step has been instrumental in defining my approach to legal challenges and contributing to the growth and success of the organizations I’ve been a part of.
With such a diverse educational background, including law and commerce, what drew you specifically to pursue a career in law?
During my studies in commerce at Delhi University and chartered accountancy at ICAI, I found myself increasingly intrigued by the intricate legal frameworks that govern business transactions, corporate structures, and regulatory compliance. This curiosity led me to explore law as a potential career path.
Further, the dynamic nature of the legal profession, coupled with its potential to influence business strategies, drive innovation, and promote ethical practices, resonated with my aspirations and values. I was particularly attracted to the interdisciplinary nature of law, which allows me to integrate my background in commerce with legal expertise to provide holistic solutions to complex business and regulatory issues.
With my diverse educational background in both law and commerce, it has undoubtedly shaped my perspective and enriched my skill set. While commerce provided me with a strong foundation in financial and business principles, it was my growing interest in the legal aspects of business operations and corporate governance that ultimately drew me towards a career in law.
Your work experience spans across different sectors, from legal counsel at Panasonic to your current role at Infosys. How has this variety of experiences shaped your approach to legal practice?
At Vaish Associates, I had the invaluable opportunity to gain field-level exposure as a lawyer, focusing on tax litigation and arbitration. This experience was instrumental in enhancing my understanding of the functioning of the court, the mindset and interpretation of judges, and the intricacies of commercial and tax laws /regulations. I learned to navigate complex legal issues, anticipate potential challenges, and develop effective strategies to advocate for clients and protect their interests.
Transitioning to Panasonic’s in-house legal team and subsequently to Infosys, I applied the insights and skills gained from my litigation experience to navigate the complex regulatory landscapes and provide strategic legal counsel across different sectors. My ability to analyse complex legal issues, identify creative solutions, and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders has been greatly enhanced by my deep understanding of litigation.
Further, at Panasonic, I had the opportunity to work as a legal counsel with its Innovation Center. This provided me with a unique opportunity to immerse myself in the world of technology and innovation. As the lead counsel of the Panasonic Innovation Centre, I was responsible for providing end-to-end legal advisory for cutting-edge technology platforms, conducting compliance seminars, and drafting comprehensive policies. This experience taught me the importance of staying abreast of technological advancements, understanding industry-specific regulations, and effectively communicating complex legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders.
Transitioning to Infosys, has further broadened my horizons and refined my approach to legal practice.
As a lawyer with a mix of litigation and in-house experience, it equipped me with a multifaceted skill set, enabling me to become a more rounded lawyer and cultivate a proactive, solution oriented, and forward-thinking mindset.
Could you share some insights into the challenges you’ve faced while navigating the legal landscape in both corporate and commercial settings?
One of the primary challenges I’ve faced is staying abreast of the ever-evolving regulatory frameworks and industry-specific regulations across different sectors. The legal landscape is dynamic, with laws, regulations, and compliance requirements frequently changing in response to technological advancements, global trends, and socio-economic developments. Keeping up with these changes requires continuous learning, proactive research, and a deep understanding of the nuances and complexities of each sector.
Another challenge I’ve encountered is balancing legal rigor with practical considerations and business objectives. In corporate settings, legal counsel often plays a strategic role in guiding decision-making, managing risks, and facilitating business transactions. It’s crucial to align legal advice with organizational goals, foster cross-functional collaboration, and develop tailored legal solutions that support innovation, growth, and compliance while mitigating risks and protecting the interests of the organization and its stakeholders.
Your expertise includes areas like corporate finance, intellectual property, and international taxation. How do you stay updated in such dynamic fields, and how do you apply this knowledge in your day-to-day work?
One of my key strategies for staying updated is to cultivate a diverse and extensive professional network, comprising colleagues, peers, and mentors across different sectors, industries, and jurisdictions. It’s essential to actively participate in industry conferences, seminars, and engage in professional associations, and collaborate with external advisors and experts to exchange insights and share best practices.
Additionally, I leverage a variety of resources and platforms, including legal publications, journals, newsletters, and online databases, to access up-to-date information, case studies, and regulatory updates. I also engage in continuous self-directed learning, professional development, and skill enhancement through online courses, certifications, and training programs- the most recent courses completed by me are Anti-bribery and Corruption, M&A Regulation and Compliance, and Concept of Privacy by Design.
Applying this knowledge in my day-to-day work involves analytical skills, and practical experience to address complex legal issues and develop tailored legal advice for stakeholders, and cross-functional teams. I strongly believe that one of the essential elements of being an in-house counsel is to collaborate closely with colleagues and stakeholders to understand their needs, and objectives, and accordingly develop innovative, pragmatic, and ethical solutions that align with business goals.
Furthermore, I have always taken every opportunity I’ve had to share the information, knowledge, and experience that I have gained during my years navigating the multifaceted and complex work undertaken by me as the in-house legal counsel for two separate Fortune 500 companies, to other members of the legal community either through presenting my learnings in conferences or conducting trainings for various departments within my organization. I actively mentor and train the Infosys’ Legal Process Management (LPM) Team which comprises young lawyers and routinely help them understand the deeper nuances of technology, IPR and Data Privacy Law, along with advising and guiding them on honing their drafting and negotiation skills.
In essence, staying updated in dynamic fields requires a proactive, multidimensional, and holistic approach to learning and professional development.
As someone deeply involved in contract negotiation and management, what are some key strategies you’ve developed for ensuring successful outcomes in complex agreements?
During my 10-plus years in the legal profession, navigating complex contract negotiation and management has been a critical aspect of my role. I’ve had the opportunity to participate in and lead several ‘first of their kind’ transactions in the IT Services sector. These transactions inter alia involved, advising on innovative structures to provide IT services, negotiating complex high-value software development and licensing agreements, as well as advising on and representing my organization in private and public tendering processes.
One of the key strategies according to me is to conduct comprehensive due diligence, identifying potential risks, challenges, and identifying creative and innovative, solutions to complex legal, commercial, and regulatory issues, and develop flexible, and adaptive, contract structures, terms, and conditions that align with business goals, support innovation, mitigate risks, and provide clarity, certainty, and predictability for all parties involved.
A crucial aspect of this approach is the importance of understanding the business and project well to be able to negotiate effectively. By gaining a thorough understanding of the business objectives, market dynamics, competitive landscape, regulatory environment, and the specific requirements, goals, and constraints of the project, I am able to align legal advice and contractual terms with business goals, support innovation, mitigate risks, and provide clarity, certainty, and predictability for all parties involved.
Additionally, effective collaboration with various internal and external stakeholders to successfully close the time-sensitive transactions is an essential part of being a commercial contracts counsel.
Your achievements include awards for legal excellence and contributions to data governance programs. In your opinion, how significant do you believe receiving awards and recognition is for legal professionals, and how have such accolades influenced your career trajectory and professional development?
While awards and recognition in the legal profession may not always translate directly into monetary gains, their importance, in my opinion, should not be understated.
These accolades serve as invaluable markers of expertise, dedication, and contributions to the legal field, bolstering credibility and enhancing reputation among peers, clients, and potential employers.
Such awards have been instrumental in shaping my career trajectory and professional development in ways that go beyond financial incentives. They have opened doors to new opportunities, such as networking events and speaking engagements, which have enriched my professional network and professional growth.
Moreover, awards and recognition act as motivational milestones, driving me to continually strive for excellence, innovation, and they instill a sense of pride, accomplishment, and responsibility, inspiring me to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in my legal practice.
Lastly, considering your journey and accomplishments, what advice would you offer to fresh graduates aspiring to pursue a career in law?
Reflecting on my journey in the legal profession, I have several pieces of advice for fresh graduates aspiring to pursue a career in law.
Firstly, prioritize continuous learning and professional development. The legal landscape is constantly evolving, so staying updated by attending workshops, seminars, and training sessions is essential.
Secondly, focus on building a strong professional network. Networking with peers, mentors, and industry professionals can open doors to new opportunities, provide valuable insights, and offer support and guidance as you navigate your career path. Remember, relationships built early in your career can serve as valuable resources throughout your professional journey.
Thirdly, seek out diverse experiences and opportunities to gain hands-on experience across different areas of law. This will not only help you discover your passion and areas of interest but also make you a more well-rounded and versatile legal professional, capable of adapting to different challenges and opportunities.
Additionally, maintain a strong work ethic, integrity, and commitment to excellence in all aspects of your work. Building a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and ethical practice is crucial for long-term success and credibility in the legal profession.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, don’t be too hard on yourself. Achieving your goals and building a successful career takes time, persistence, and patience. Set realistic expectations, celebrate small victories along the way, and remember that setbacks and challenges are opportunities for growth and learning.
Could you please introduce yourself to our readers and share your journey from growing up in a family of lawyers to becoming an Advocate-On-Record at the Supreme Court of India? Additionally, given your family background, did you ever contemplate pursuing a career outside the legal profession, or was the path of becoming a lawyer a natural and predetermined choice for you?
My name is Sunav Rastogi, and I am an Advocate-On-Record at the Supreme Court of India. Presently, I am a practising Advocate based in New Delhi. My journey into the legal profession was deeply influenced by my family background, as I grew up in a family of Advocates. From a young age, I was surrounded by legal discussions and immersed in the world of law.
As the allure of the law was so strong, I, at an early age, have decided to follow in the footsteps of my family members. My academic pursuits led me to pursue a Master of Laws (LLM) degree from Nottingham University, which further solidified my passion for the legal profession.
After completing my education, I embarked on my journey as an Advocate, starting from the District Court and gradually progressing to the High Court and eventually becoming an Advocate-On-Record at the Supreme Court of India. It has been a challenging yet rewarding journey, filled with opportunities to advocate for justice and uphold the rule of law.
Overall, while the path of becoming an Advocate may have been somewhat predetermined by my family background, it was ultimately my passion for justice and legal advocacy that drove me to pursue this career with dedication and determination.
You have extensive experience in handling high-value litigation cases. Could you elaborate on a specific strategy or approach you’ve used that yielded particularly favorable outcomes for your clients in litigation? What difference can we see in banking cases compared to other cases?
In handling high-value litigation cases, a key strategy that has often yielded favorable outcomes for my clients is thorough preparation combined with a deep understanding of laws and regulations.
This means early case assessment and strategic planning. This involves conducting a comprehensive analysis of the facts, legal issues, and potential risks associated with the case at the outset. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the case at an early stage, we can develop a tailored strategy to maximize our chances of success.
Additionally, in banking litigation, it’s crucial to leverage specialized knowledge of banking laws and regulations. Banks operate within a highly regulated environment and legal disputes involving banks often entail complex financial transactions, regulatory compliance issues, and intricate contractual arrangements. Therefore, having a deep understanding of banking laws and regulations allows one to navigate the complexities effectively and present a compelling case on behalf of the clients.
Furthermore, in banking cases, the stakes are often higher compared to other types of litigation. Financial institutions deal with substantial assets and liabilities, and the outcome of a legal dispute can have significant implications for their business operations, reputation, and financial standing. As a result, there is often a greater emphasis on resolving disputes efficiently and minimizing potential financial losses.
To conclude I say by combining meticulous preparation and a strategic approach to litigation, we can effectively represent our clients’ interests and achieve favourable outcomes in high-value litigation cases.
Your educational journey took you from Bangalore to Nottingham, shaping your understanding of both Indian and international legal systems. How has this dual perspective influenced your approach to legal practice, especially in cases with cross-border implications?
My educational journey from Bangalore to Nottingham has indeed provided me with a unique perspective on both the Indian and international legal systems. This dual perspective has significantly influenced my approach to legal practice, particularly in cases with cross-border implications.
Firstly, studying in both India and the UK has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of different legal frameworks, procedures, and jurisprudence. This broad perspective allows me to draw upon diverse legal principles and methodologies when addressing complex legal issues, including those with cross-border elements. By leveraging insights from both the Indian and International legal systems, I can develop innovative strategies tailored to the specific needs of each case.
Moreover, my educational background has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the importance of cultural sensitivity and global legal competence. It has also honed my skills in cross cultural communication and collaboration. In cases with cross-border implications, cultural nuances and differences in legal traditions can play a significant role and my learning thus far has proven invaluable in legal practice, particularly in cases involving multinational clients, cross-border transactions, or disputes spanning multiple jurisdictions. By fostering open communication and understanding between parties from different cultural and legal backgrounds, I can facilitate smoother negotiations and achieve more favorable outcomes for my clients.
As a seasoned professional, you’ve likely encountered situations where the law may not provide a clear solution. How do you approach such scenarios, and what guiding principles do you rely on to navigate legal gray areas effectively?
Encountering situations where the law may not offer a clear-cut solution is indeed a common challenge in legal practice. In such scenarios, I rely on several guiding principles to navigate legal gray areas effectively:
Firstly, thorough research and analysis are paramount. When faced with ambiguity in the law, I invest time and effort into researching relevant statutes, case law, legal commentary, and precedents. By conducting comprehensive research, I strive to identify any applicable legal principles or analogies that may shed light on the issue at hand.
Secondly, consultation and collaboration with colleagues and legal experts can be invaluable. Consulting with colleagues and experts provides diverse perspectives and alternative strategies.
Additionally, ethical integrity is paramount. In navigating legal gray areas, I remain committed to acting in the best interests of my clients while also ensuring compliance with ethical standards and legal obligations. Upholding the principles of fairness, justice, and honesty is essential in maintaining the integrity of the legal profession and fostering trust with clients.
In order to sum up, I approach legal gray areas with diligence, collaboration, ethical integrity, and strategic foresight, upholding the highest standards of legal professionalism and advocacy.
Your work involves representing clients in diverse legal forums, from District & Sessions Courts to the National Company Law Tribunal. How do you adapt your advocacy style to suit the nuances of each forum while maintaining consistency in legal arguments?
Adapting advocacy style to suit the nuances of diverse legal forums, from District & Sessions Courts to the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), requires a keen understanding of the unique procedural rules, judicial dynamics, and audience expectations in each forum. While maintaining consistency in legal arguments across different forums is essential, it is equally crucial to tailor the delivery and presentation of those arguments to resonate effectively within each specific context.
To achieve this balance, I employ several strategies such as:
Comprehensive Understanding: Thorough understanding of the procedural rules, judicial preferences, and prevailing practices of each forum. This enables me to anticipate procedural requirements and adapt my advocacy style accordingly.
Strategic Emphasis: While maintaining consistency in legal arguments, I strategically emphasize aspects of the case that are particularly relevant or compelling within the specific forum. This involves highlighting jurisdictional issues, procedural matters, or legal precedents that resonate strongly with the Tribunal or Court.
Flexibility and Agility: Legal advocacy often requires flexibility and adaptability in response to unforeseen developments or judicial inquiries. Being prepared to adjust arguments in real-time while staying true to core legal principles.
Professionalism and Respect: Regardless of the forum, I uphold professionalism and respect for the judiciary, opposing counsel, and all parties involved. This includes adhering to courtroom decorum, presenting arguments cogently and respectfully, and engaging in constructive dialogue with the court or tribunal.
By integrating these strategies into my advocacy approach, I can effectively navigate the nuances of diverse legal forums while maintaining consistency in legal arguments. This adaptive approach maximizes the persuasive impact of my advocacy and enhances the likelihood of achieving favorable outcomes for my clients across various legal proceedings.
As someone deeply entrenched in the legal profession, what advice would you give to aspiring lawyers looking to carve out a successful career in today’s competitive legal landscape?
Aspiring lawyers face a competitive legal landscape today. Here are key tips for a successful career:
Invest in Education: Prioritize continuous learning to stay updated on legal developments.
Develop Strong Legal Skills: Hone your legal research, writing, analytical, and advocacy skills early on. These are the backbone of legal practice and are crucial for providing effective representation to clients.
Gain Practical Experience: Join law firms or independent chambers for hands-on learning and insights into legal practice.
Build Professional Networks: Develop and Maintain relationships with seniors, mentors, and professionals within the legal community. Networking can open doors to opportunities, provide guidance and support, and facilitate professional growth and development.
Embrace Technology and Innovation: Stay current with tech tools to enhance efficiency and client service.
Maintain Professionalism and Integrity: Uphold ethics and integrity for long-term success.
Be Resilient and Persistent: Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.
Prioritize Work-Life Balance: Cultivate hobbies, interests and relationships for well-being and sustainability.
Given your experience in drafting and vetting consortium documents for loan accounts involving substantial sums, what measures do you take to ensure legal compliance and mitigate potential risks for all parties involved?
Drafting and vetting consortium documents for loan accounts involving substantial sums requires meticulous attention to detail, thorough legal analysis. To ensure legal compliance and mitigate potential risks for all parties involved, I implement the following measures:
Comprehensive Legal Review: Conduct a thorough legal review of all consortium documents, analyzing terms, rights, obligations, and dispute resolution mechanisms to ensure compliance with laws and standards.
Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Identify and mitigate potential legal risks such as compliance issues, contractual ambiguities, and credit risks through clear drafting and robust due diligence.
Customized Legal Solutions: Tailor consortium documents to meet the specific needs and concerns of all parties involved, drafting clear provisions to minimize disputes.
Clear Terms and Conditions: Ensure clarity in all terms related to loan disbursement, repayment, interest rates, collateral, and default provisions.
Documentation Accuracy: Ensure accuracy and completeness in drafting all consortium documents. Any ambiguity or inconsistency in the documents could lead to disputes or legal challenges in the future.
By adopting this proactive and systematic approach, I aim to ensure legal compliance and mitigate risks for all parties involved in consortium arrangements.
Away from the courtroom, what hobbies or personal interests do you pursue to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and do you find any parallels between these activities and your legal work in terms of skills or mindset?
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for well-being and productivity. I recharge by pursuing hobbies like traveling, which broadened my horizons and fosters cultural appreciation. Mindfulness and meditation help me cultivate mental clarity and resilience amid the demands of legal work, enhancing focus and decision-making. Engaging in physical activities like playing squash and cycling not only promotes physical health but also reduces stress and boosts energy levels. These hobbies enrich my life, fostering qualities essential for success in both my personal and professional endeavors.
Your dissertation focused on the analysis of non-conventional trademarks. How do you see the evolving landscape of intellectual property law influencing commercial practices, especially in the digital age?
The evolving landscape of intellectual property (IP) law, particularly in the realm of non-conventional trademarks, is profoundly shaping commercial practices, especially in the digital age. As technology advances and consumer behavior evolves, businesses are increasingly relying on innovative branding strategies and creative forms of intellectual property protection to differentiate themselves in the marketplace and safeguard their competitive advantage. Several key trends in IP law are influencing commercial practices in the digital age:
Expansion of Non-Conventional Trademarks: Beyond traditional marks, businesses now use smell, color, sound, motion, and holograms for unique branding experiences.
Digitalization and Online Branding: E-commerce and social media have transformed how brands engage consumers, with trademarks crucial for product distinction, brand loyalty, and fighting online infringement.
Globalization and Cross-Border IP Protection: Global trade demands international IP protection, requiring businesses to navigate complex legal frameworks for safeguarding brands and innovations across borders.
Emergence of New Technologies: AI and VR bring new IP challenges and opportunities, necessitating proactive legal strategies for ownership, licensing, and enforcement.
Focus on Brand Experience and Consumer Engagement: In an increasingly competitive marketplace, businesses are prioritizing brand experience and consumer engagement to drive customer loyalty and retention. Trademarks are not just symbols of origin but also catalysts for immersive brand experiences that resonate with consumers across digital touchpoints.
Adaptation to Evolving Legal Frameworks: Regulatory changes and court rulings are continually shaping the landscape of IP law, particularly in areas such as copyright, patent, and trademark law. Businesses must adapt to evolving legal frameworks, stay compliant with regulatory requirements, and anticipate future developments to protect their intellectual property rights effectively.
Overall, businesses that embrace innovative IP strategies and adapt to evolving legal and technological landscapes will thrive in the dynamic digital marketplace.
In your opinion, what are some of the key challenges facing the legal profession in India today, and how do you think they can be addressed?
Certainly, the legal profession in India faces several challenges that require collaborative efforts from legal professionals, policymakers, regulators, and the judiciary. Some of the key challenges include:
Access to Justice: Marginalized communities need better access to justice. This requires expanded legal aid programs, alternative dispute resolution methods, improved legal literacy, and technological innovations.
Quality of Legal Education and Training: Legal education needs improvement, including updated courses, better teaching methods, enhanced practical skills training, and continuous professional development for lawyers.
Ethical Standards and Professional Conduct: Upholding high ethical standards is crucial. This involves strengthening disciplinary mechanisms, promoting transparency, and increasing awareness of ethical responsibilities among legal professionals.
Legal Reforms and Policy Advocacy: Policymakers and regulators need to undertake legal reforms to address outdated laws, streamline legal procedures, and enhance access to justice. Legal professionals play a crucial role in advocating for legislative and policy changes that promote the rule of law, protect fundamental rights, and advance social justice
Technology and Innovation: Embracing technology and innovation can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of legal services delivery.
Collaborative efforts from legal professionals, policymakers, regulators, the judiciary, civil society, and the private sector are essential to overcome these challenges and advance the rule of law for all.
How did you first become interested in pursuing a career in law, and what challenges you encountered during your formative years in the field, and how did you overcome them to establish yourself as a successful legal professional today? Also what inspired you to specialize in commercial litigation and arbitration?
Believe it or not I come from a science background. I was studying to become an engineer, and was doing very well. It was somewhere towards the beginning of my +2 where I realized that, along with a strong need for intellectual stimulation, I also required my sense of justice to be met. It was the marriage of these two that got me interested in pursuing a career in law.
The challenges I encountered in my formative years emerged from the point of view of being a first-generation lawyer. I needed to pick up various skills apart from the execution aspect, including working on people skills and the psychology of associates, seniors, juniors, clients, etc. The recruitment aspects for us first-generation lawyers are one of the most cumbersome, especially if we do not have strong financial backing. Building trust and reputation also requires an astounding amount of hard work confluenced with luck.
Another challenge that I faced was a complete lack of guidance. However, I can say that I have found some of my best friends philosophers and mentors—in my colleagues and my clients. This definitely helps.
It is this journey, filled with ups and downs, that has shaped me into the legal professional that I am today.
As far as commercial litigation and arbitration go, I would say again that it was a marriage of chance and my inherent skills. I was called to work with a commercial litigation and arbitration firm after I completed my internship there. After that, I would say there was no looking back.
As someone who is dual qualified and experienced in both Indian and English legal systems, how do you navigate the nuances and differences between the two jurisdictions in your practice?
I would say rather than navigating nuances, it forms a unique blend of expertise, enabling a comprehensive understanding of both legal systems. This comes in handy when navigating cross-border disputes.
It also helps provide me with a broad legal perspective to identify issues early on. My specialised knowledge of commercial and infrastructure disputes allows me to provide very tailored advice to clients.
Moreover, broadening one’s horizons also makes one appreciative of diversity, inclusion, and global perspectives, which is the only way to be successful in today’s internationally integrated business world.
You have an expertise in infrastructure and construction arbitration. How would you say these disputes are different from the usual disputes?
Infrastructure arbitration disputes are multifaceted in many ways that other cases are not. Most other cases have a single issue or, at most, a cluster of issues surrounding one transaction.
However, I would describe infrastructure disputes as “live” disputes. A construction or infrastructure project goes on for several years. During this time, there are several thousand correspondences that are exchanged.
There are usually several hundred, if not thousand, complex issues concerning the interpretation of ten to fifteen clauses of the contract together.
A lot of these contracts are based on FIDIC models, sometimes called the “Rainbow” suite, which in itself is a contract that, at first glance, appears quite complex. This is due to the different coloured covers of the model contracts, for nstance, the FIDIC White Book for the consultancy model agreement, the Red Book for Construction, Plant & Design-Build & EPC/Turnkey Contracts, etc.
Apart from the above, in cross-border infrastructure disputes, there can even be a pinata of parallel proceedings just waiting to explode the moment a proceeding is started.
Moreover, a quandary of technical issues would require the engagement of expert witnesses as well as factual witnesses. Expert witnesses are often key to winning disputes. Finding a good expert means that such a person’s technical knowledge on the issue cannot be shaken in any cross-examination. Usually delay and quantum experts are employed, but some issues require more nuanced expertise.
This is why I believe it is necessary to pre-empt issues and for clients to be involved with experienced counsels right from the contract correspondence stage.
With your extensive experience in handling disputes related to bank guarantees, what advice would you give to companies to mitigate such risks effectively?
The key to mitigating bank guarantee risks is to understand the ground reality of when an employer threatens to invoke a Bank Guarantee. This threat arises when the employer loses confidence in the contractor’s ability to fulfil contractual obligations, say due to delays, defects, too many disputes, etc.
At the stage when the invocation is a threat, it is important to immediately rush to legal experts well versed in the field. From this stage on a meticulous review of the underlying contract and the Bank Guarantee is required. Potential breaches, the existence of disputes, and evidence supporting the client’s position need to be documented to gain a detailed understanding.
After this, communication must be opened with the employer with a strong legal background and preparation. A middle ground needs to be found. Ultimately, re-tendering is an expensive proposition for an employer, and if the cost of having the client cure breaches is less than re-tendering and employing a new contractor, middle ground can usually be found.
During the communication stage itself, it is imperative to continue the background work of collecting supporting evidence due to the impending next stage.
In case mutual ground cannot be found and the employer insists on invocation, it is important to immediately move the court or emergency arbitrator to obtain a stay on invocation.
As an empaneled arbitrator, what do you believe are the key qualities required to effectively adjudicate disputes and maintain neutrality throughout the process?
I would say key qualities include a thorough grasp of the subject matter and legal principles; adept problem-solving abilities; meticulous attention to detail; impartiality and neutrality; strong communication and time management skills; and organisational acumen, all of which are essential for ensuring a seamless arbitration process.
In instances of international or domestic arbitration or mediation where significant cultural differences exist among the parties or between the parties and arbitrators, it is crucial for an arbitrator to be sensitive to these differences and remain adaptable. This underscores the importance of diversity and inclusion in arbitration.
Furthermore, an arbitrator must possess a comprehensive understanding not only of the technical aspects but also of how to draft an award that can withstand challenges, such as those under Section 34 or Section 37. Achieving this level of proficiency requires extensive training in crafting well-reasoned awards and a solid grasp of the grounds for challenging an award. By continually refining these skills and adapting to the evolving landscape of arbitration, an arbitrator can effectively meet the demands of the role.
I would also like to add that for specialised disputes such as construction, maritime, or infrastructure disputes, arbitrators with prior experience in these fields are much needed. Sometimes parties overlook these issues in technical matters, and these mistakes cost clients dearly.
In the realm of construction disputes, what kind of issues usually arise, what strategies do you find most effective in pre-emptively addressing potential conflicts and mitigating the risk of disputes during project execution?
The main problem in construction disputes arises from how tendering is done. The contractor with the lowest price usually wins. The terms of these contracts are quite onerous to the contractors, but they feel the need to make at least some profit.
The claims in construction contracts usually find their way in “variations”, “change of scope” and other changes to work. Claims also centre around rectification of Defects, eg. works not being in compliance with technical specifications, extension of time claims, centred around delay events causing critical delays in projects, basically having a ripple effect on time and cost, disruption, and acceleration issues.
One key strategy I have found works in construction disputes is the quality of correspondence. When the client notices that the other side has suddenly increased the quantity of correspondence or that the quality or tone of the correspondence has changed, they should expect that the other party has engaged someone like us for a certain impending issue. It is at this stage that the client should pre-empt disputes and address potential conflicts by engaging and developing effective strategies with their counsel early on in the dispute.
Often, it is mistaken that only the letters in a dispute are important. However, the multitude of emails exchanged and, of course, the messages exchanged on WhatsApp or chat give away certain key defaults on the part of the client.
Therefore, it is very important to have a legal expert on board from the outset.
With your background in international and domestic arbitration, what do you think are the emerging trends in dispute resolution, and how are they shaping the legal landscape?
It goes without saying that one of the key trends is Online Dispute Resolution. It is receiving increasing acceptance and adoption.
The legal profession used to be known for its resistance to change and holding on to traditions. The pandemic broke through the resistance of lawyers, judges and arbitrators against being online.
In today’s world, once dispute resolvers master the richness of the use of more creative models of dispute resolution, it brings about a lot of flexibility. Clients now have access to the best legal minds across the globe at the click of a few buttons.
Additionally, ODR and increased technology adoption are cost-effective and sustainable dispute resolution methods.
If these new trends are properly leveraged, it is a win-win for all stakeholders.
Beyond your professional pursuits, do you have any personal hobbies or interests that you find complement or enrich your legal practice?
Personally, I feel there is a need for legal professionals to disconnect from the chaos for some time each day and practice mindfulness exercises.
Apart from that, I also advocate some form of movement, such as exercise, which helps lower cortisol levels.
I also enjoy activities such as painting or other creative pursuits, which help me relax from the highly problem-solving and compulsive nature of our profession.
You’ve been recognized for your work in advising startups to Fortune 500 companies. Can you elaborate on the specific challenges and opportunities you encounter when providing legal counsel to such a diverse range of clients?
I would say tailoring legal advice to suit the specific needs and resources of each client. Startups often operate on limited budgets and may require more cost-effective solutions, while Fortune 500 companies typically have more complex legal needs and resources to address them.
Startups are often at the forefront of innovation, requiring legal counsel to be proactive and creative in addressing novel legal issues. On the other hand, Fortune 500 companies may require in-depth knowledge of specific regulatory frameworks and industry standards, which can be intellectually stimulating and rewarding.
Being a chameleon to suit the needs of the client is key.
lawyers and arbitrators who aim to make a significant impact in the profession? Considering your extensive experience and achievements in the legal field, what advice or tips would you offer to the upcoming generation of aspiring
One thing is that the current legal industry, or, I would say, the big guns, remain old-school in their practices.
However, today, the traditional methods of working or rainmaking will not stand the test of time. There is a need to recognise that the legal industry is evolving and that the traditional linear path is no longer ideal to settle into and retire from.
The upcoming generation needs to understand what drives them and to latch on to that passion. This informed passion should guide their big picture worldview, which does not need to be restricted to the traditional models of legal areas.
Aspiring lawyers and arbitrators must appreciate that we each need to embrace our own unique qualities and drive our own course in the legal profession. We no longer need to be limited by inherited models of law practice.
As a recipient of the “Pioneering Women Leadership Award,” what initiatives or changes would you like to see in the legal profession to promote greater diversity and inclusion?
Despite the diversity seen in law schools today, I see that it is not translating to the legal industry as much as one would like. There is a clear disconnect.
Structural issues are present with many law firms. There is an urgent need for diversification in the legal profession. Representatives of various communities, having a diverse set of values and experiences, enrich any solution that a legal professional is trying to look for.
It would truly be foolish to have all this talent and not utilise it to its fullest potential.
Therefore, it is very important that the government, the bar, the bench, and large established firms avoid monolithic defence mechanisms that prevent diversity. Steps need to be taken to promote diversity, not due to an obligation but from the recognition of a compelling business need.
Your journey through law seems incredibly diverse and dynamic, spanning various roles and responsibilities. Can you walk us through your journey telling us what inspired you to do Law and what challenges you faced during your initial stage of your career?
Certainly! My journey through the legal field has indeed been diverse and dynamic, encompassing various roles and responsibilities. Let me share my story with you. My path in law was not meticulously planned; rather, I embraced opportunities as they presented themselves. I take pride in not adhering to conventional norms. Before venturing into independent practice, I accumulated a decade of experience, including working with different ministries of the Indian government and my days in litigation.
Law has fascinated me since my early childhood. Growing up in the traditional town of Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, I pursued my B.A.LL.B from Aligarh Muslim University and later completed my LL.M from Dr. RMLNLU, Lucknow. The initial challenge for me was relocating from UP to New Delhi without a job offer in hand after completing my Masters in Law. Thankfully, my father and family supported my decision, and that’s where my journey truly began.
Remember, sometimes the most rewarding paths are the ones less travelled.
Thursdays with Gauri has become quite the sensation on LinkedIn. What inspired you to start this initiative, and what do you hope participants take away from these sessions? Also can you tell us about a particularly thought-provoking discussion or insight that emerged from one of these sessions?
Thursdays with Gauri was a random thought while having a casual discussion with one of my friend Hamid Ahmed but later became a decision when it actually pushed me to contribute towards the linkedin community to read something which needs to be known. “Thursdays with Gauri” isn’t just about content—it’s about building bridges, sparking conversations, Little did I know that this seemingly random thought would evolve into a meaningful initiative within the LinkedIn community. Honestly, I embarked on this journey with zero expectations, fuelled by the intention to play my part.
Broadly this LinkedIn post gave me two things: invitation to connect from students to influential people and appreciation in my DMs which again converted into my network. I think the purpose has already been served due to the algorithms of LinkedIn and I am grateful for that.
As a legal content creator, your articles and thought pieces have sparked conversations and challenged norms within the legal community. How do you see your writing contributing to broader discussions about justice, equity, and the rule of law?
As a legal content creator, I’ve witnessed the impact of my articles and thought pieces within the legal community. My posts resonate because they delve into practical aspects of law—topics I’ve encountered first-hand. Whether it’s corporate law intricacies, complex agreements, or advisory content for loan seekers, I aim to provide actionable insights.
Legal discourse often clings to tradition and precedent. However, my writing encourages critical thinking. I write about new norms and practices and advocating for progressive approaches.
The rule of law is the bedrock of any just society. Whether discussing landmark cases or legal reforms, I strive to reinforce the rule of law as a safeguard against arbitrary power. In essence, my writing aims to bridge the gap between legal theory and practical application.
Your work spans across multiple sectors, including technology, fintech, and cybersecurity. What drew you to these specific areas of law, and what challenges have you encountered in navigating their complexities?
As a law enthusiast and corporate lawyer, my journey led me to explore specific areas of law that overlap with technology, fintech, and cybersecurity. I consider it my duty to stay informed about emerging legal issues related to technology, fintech, and cybersecurity. I realized that even a seemingly simple query from an individual could potentially transform them into a client.
When I started exploring international markets—both online and offline—I encountered challenges related to different legal processes and procedures. I realised that understanding the intricacies of US, UK, and European legal systems was essential. However, my journey took an enriching turn when I enrolled in courses offered by Lawsikho. Beyond study materials, what truly stood out was their personalized approach—their handholding support. It instilled confidence and efficiency in me. In essence, my work in these specialized areas isn’t just about legal technicalities; it’s about empowering clients.
Looking back on your career journey thus far, what advice would you give to aspiring lawyers, particularly those interested in pursuing a similarly diverse and multifaceted path in the legal field?
Reflecting on my career journey, in one sentence my advice would be “Don’t just believe what others say”. With all due respect and humility, the traditional ways are supreme but when time and technology change, so do the challenges in law and the complexities. In the present time when the Data protection bill has been passed and AI law is on the agenda of the government, you think the limited knowledge can help you stand out of the box and earn exponentially. Give it a thought. Stay informed about emerging laws (such as the Data Protection Bill) and understand their implications. According to me, Adaptability is the key.
Legal education doesn’t end with a degree. It starts from there. Learn to serve in addition to earning out of it.
Your career has seen you transition across various roles and sectors within the legal field, from corporate law to criminal litigation, and from law firms to government agencies. What motivated these transitions, and how have they contributed to your professional growth and expertise? And what valuable lessons have you learned from the unique challenges and experiences encountered in each position?
You are right, My career has indeed spanned diverse areas of law, including competition law, electricity and insolvency matters, NBFCs (Non-Banking Financial Companies), and even criminal law. Indeed, it was my friend Syed Jafri who first introduced me to the realm of investment banking and encouraged me to consider it as a viable avenue to apply my legal expertise. Interestingly, I’ve never worked in a traditional law firm. Instead, my father, being an advocate, was my informal mentor. Our dining table discussions often revolved around legal concepts, both civil and criminal.
My motivation has always been a “go-getter” attitude. When opportunities arose, I seized them without hesitation. Each transition allowed me to explore new facets of law, broaden my perspective, and contribute meaningfully. My journey so far has given me friends for a lifetime and seniors like Mr. Debajyoti Ray Chaudhuri, who in himself is an inspiration for many.
To my understanding, Legal issues don’t exist in isolation. It also needs an understanding of business, technology, and other inter-related legal issues. In essence, my journey so far isn’t just about legal roles; it’s about lifelong learning as well as meaningful connections.
You’ve been involved in drafting a wide range of agreements, from Co-founder Agreements to Software Development Agreements. Could you share a special technique or approach that you believe contributes to excellent drafting? Additionally, what do you think sets your drafting style apart and makes it particularly effective in ensuring clarity, fairness, and legal compliance?
Certainly! Drafting legal agreements is both an art and a science. I have inculcated a special technique I’ve found effective is that before putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), I pause to understand the purpose behind the agreement. Why is this agreement necessary? What are the parties trying to achieve out of it? What risks need mitigation? By clarifying the purpose, I ensure that the agreement aligns with the client’s goals.
I always get on a call with the client to discuss their context, concerns, and objectives. This dialogue helps me tailor the agreement to their specific needs. Because it happens that the client being the non-legal person confused the franchise agreement with the service level agreements. They deserve such clarity by me as their lawyer.
In your experience advocating for clients before the Supreme Court of India, what strategies do you employ to ensure that their interests are effectively represented and understood by the judiciary?
Considering my little experience, one thing I have learnt about the Supreme Court litigation is that “it’s all about a team work” because an effective representation requires a collaborative approach. And I am grateful to Mr. Aditya Manubarwala for giving me an opportunity to work with him and his team on a couple of cases before the Apex Court. Before advising a client, extensive research is essential. We have to delve into legal precedents, statutes, and relevant case law to understand the nuances of the client’s situation which further allows us to provide informed recommendations to the client.
Case briefs, arguments, and submissions are the part and parcel in every case, especially when you get a very limited window to mark your appearances with your best arguments before the judges of the Supreme Court of India. To decide which point to be picked for arguments in order to provide relief to the client is the matter of utmost importance. Hence, Supreme Court advocacy is a blend of legal acumen, teamwork, and strategic thinking.
As an authorized representative for a European company, you extend legal representation services in Estonia and Finland. How do you navigate the nuances of international law and cultural differences to effectively advocate for your clients’ interests in diverse legal environments?
In my professional journey I have had the opportunity to represent my client who was from Estonia. That particular case involving a Gurgaon-based individual and an Estonian lady was unique in the sense that the absence of a formal agreement and the cross-border nature of the transaction posed challenges. I engaged in detailed discussions with the Estonian client to grasp the entire situation and her specific needs. Understanding the nuances of each jurisdiction was crucial. Estonia’s civil law system differs from India’s common law system. However, as an authorized representative, I initiated legal action against the individual.
Beyond your legal career, what are some of your personal hobbies or interests that you find enriching or rejuvenating?
Beyond my legal career, I find immense enrichment and rejuvenation in delving into religious texts. These non-fictional scriptures offer profound insights and guide me toward understanding the true purpose of my life. During my teenage years, I immersed myself in fundamental religious literature, often drawn to the extensive collection housed within my father’s library, where the titles of numerous books piqued my curiosity and prompted further exploration. I firmly believe that to read and to know are different concepts. Now, I’m drawn to delve into more advanced texts. These delve into unique teachings and mystical experiences. The pursuit of knowledge is both humbling and exhilarating. The insights I have gained from these scriptures shape my world view and influence my actions.
As someone deeply involved in consulting and advisory roles, what advice would you give to startups or established companies navigating complex legal landscapes for the first time?
“legal compliance isn’t a burden—it’s an investment in your company’s stability and growth” is precisely what I want to convey to all sincere start-ups. It is apparent that navigating the complex legal landscape can be daunting, especially for startups and established companies venturing into unfamiliar territory. Therefore, seeking professional advice from a seasoned lawyer who understands the nuances of your specific industry and jurisdiction is a must.
Diligence in selecting legal advisors pays off. Look for lawyers who specialize in your field—whether it’s technology, finance, or any other domain. They should avoid generic templates. Each business is unique. One has to customize the legal agreements, contracts, and policies in accordance to your specific needs. Also don’t forget to Maintain open channels of communication with your legal team. Transparency ensures that legal strategies align with your overall business strategy. Share your business goals, challenges, and concerns and let the lawyer find you a way.
I would like to request the given start-ups or companies to rely on someone who is experienced and in the market already. Be diligent in choosing your lawyers and try to keep pace with them.
