Super Lawyer

Tag: Privacy Law

  • “In global data protection, it’s not just about conflicting opinions, it’s about reconciling overlapping laws, operational realities, and evolving expectations.” – Daniella Sankar, Independent Data Protection Consultant.

    “In global data protection, it’s not just about conflicting opinions, it’s about reconciling overlapping laws, operational realities, and evolving expectations.” – Daniella Sankar, Independent Data Protection Consultant.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    With over two decades of legal experience across aviation, manufacturing, IT, banking, and more, what first drew you to specialize in data protection and privacy law?
    In 2016, I had the privilege of working with a mentor who saw potential in my analytical approach and encouraged me to explore data protection more deeply. At the time, privacy was gaining global traction with the GDPR on the horizon and organizations beginning to grapple with what responsible data stewardship truly meant. What intrigued me wasn’t just the regulatory complexity, but the human dimension: how we protect dignity, autonomy, and trust? 

    How did your law degree at The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, Barbados shape your worldview and influence your approach to international data protection and cross-border compliance?

    Studying law in Barbados gave me a strong foundation in critical thinking and comparative legal analysis. I was surrounded by students from across the Caribbean (from The Bahamas to Guyana) and our coursework often involved comparing legal systems from the UK, India, and the US. It was a diverse, intellectually rich environment that encouraged me to look beyond borders and see law not just as a set of rules, but as a tool for societal transformation. That exposure shaped my global mindset and continues to guide my work today; whether I’m advising on GDPR compliance, India’s DPDPA, or data protection frameworks in the Middle East. I approach cross-border compliance not merely as a technical exercise, but as an opportunity to bridge cultures, align values, and foster global accountability. Legal compliance is more than a regulatory requirement. It’s a step toward building trust, empowering communities, and strengthening institutions.

    You’ve advised organizations on GDPR, DPDPA, and other global privacy regulations. What are the biggest challenges multinational companies face in harmonizing compliance across jurisdictions?

    When it comes to legal compliance, the saying “too many cooks spoil the pot” doesn’t quite capture the complexity. In global data protection, it’s not just about conflicting opinions, it’s about reconciling overlapping laws, operational realities, and evolving expectations. The most pragmatic approach for MNC’s is to anchor their framework in the highest standard (typically the GDPR) and then layer in jurisdictional nuances across your operations. It sounds simple, but implementation requires careful calibration. MNCs need to weigh time, cost, enforcement risk, the litigious nature of data subjects, and the reputational impact on their brand. These factors, when considered together, help determine their compliance priorities. This juggling act is one of the greatest challenges for multinational organizations. And it doesn’t end once the framework is built as keeping up with changing requirements, new enforcement trends, and emerging technologies is a continuous process. Compliance isn’t static; it’s a living, evolving discipline.

    After more than a decade in inhouse legal roles, you transitioned into independent consulting and later established your own practice. What motivated this shift, and how did it change your perspective?

    I reached a point where I wanted to change both professionally and personally. I had gained significant experience across aviation, manufacturing, IT, and banking, but I felt the pull to work more closely with small and medium-sized businesses that often can’t afford large legal teams but still need strategic guidance to transform their operations. Independent consulting gave me the freedom to support these organizations across industries, helping them build privacy programs from the ground up. It also allowed me to take better care of my health and spend more time with my family :something the corporate pace rarely permitted. Along the way, I’ve realized that data protection compliance is still viewed by many as a luxury rather than a necessity. It’s not always a top priority, especially for growing businesses. That’s where I bring added value not just through privacy expertise, but by integrating my cross-functional skills in contracts, intellectual property, and operational risk. I offer clients a holistic view of compliance that’s practical, scalable, and rooted in their business realities.

    In your diverse practice, what has been one of the most challenging cases for you, and how did you navigate it?

    Everyone uses templates and guidelines today but preparing for GDPR compliance before 2018 was a very different story. There were no ready-made toolkits, no plug-and-play solutions. Crafting documentation meant starting from scratch interpreting the law line by line, understanding its intent, and translating best practices into operational reality. It was challenging, especially under tight timelines and high-stakes environments. Time-sensitive projects always come with pressure, but I’ve learned to navigate the magnitude with focus and resilience. A few grey hairs later, I’m proud to say I’ve pulled through and helped organizations build privacy programs that are not just compliant, but meaningful.

    You’re deeply involved in privacy training and awareness programs. What’s the most common misconception employees or leaders have about data protection? How do you see AI reshaping legal compliance and data protection practices in the near future?

    One of the most persistent challenges in data protection is that many people still struggle to grasp the basic concept of personal data. Culturally, there’s a long-standing comfort with sharing information in many countries (photos, medical details, contact numbers) with service providers, often without a second thought. So when it comes to implementing data protection compliance within organizations, employees may not fully understand what they should avoid or why it matters. 

    That’s why education is critical. It’s not just about rules, it’s about understanding the reason behind the law and the consequences for both the individual and the organization. Leaders, too, often underestimate the importance of compliance. Some assume regulators won’t enforce the law, so they question the need to invest in privacy programs. What they miss is the long-term brand value that privacy compliance can bring. That’s trust, credibility, and resilience.

    AI is reshaping the compliance landscape. It introduces new challenges especially around automated decision-making and data ethics but it also brings precision and efficiency. Many data breaches stem from human error, and AI can help reduce that risk by handling repetitive, high-volume tasks with consistency. When used responsibly, AI becomes a powerful ally in building smarter, more secure privacy frameworks.

    While designing and implementing data protection policies and internal controls, what are the most critical factors organizations should keep in mind? 

    Policies should be written in clear, accessible language to ensure all employees can easily understand and apply them. They must be reviewed annually to remain relevant and effective. Updates should reflect current industry trends as well as internal insights and lessons learned. To reinforce understanding, training should be used to animate policy content, thus transforming written guidelines into meaningful, memorable practices.

    How can data privacy be effectively embedded into day-to-day operations rather than treated as one-off compliance exercises?

    Embedding data privacy into daily operations starts with applying core protection principles consistently, regardless of one’s role or department. When privacy is treated as a shared responsibility, it naturally becomes part of business-as-usual. One-off compliance exercises may check legal boxes, but they rarely build lasting habits or cultural awareness. By integrating privacy into everyday activities ..step by step, day by day…it becomes second nature to staff and strengthens both trust and compliance.

    You’re passionate about mentoring young legal professionals. What key qualities should future privacy leaders cultivate to thrive in a rapidly evolving regulatory environment?
    Future privacy leaders must embrace adaptability by welcoming new challenges, evolving technologies, and diverse ways of working. Flexibility isn’t just a skill, it’s a mindset that allows them to navigate shifting regulations and organizational cultures with confidence. Equally important is respect. Privacy is a collaborative field, enriched by voices young and old, technical and legal, strategic and operational. Every colleague brings a unique ingredient to the pot and leaders who listen, learn, and uplift others will build stronger, more resilient privacy cultures.

    With data protection laws expanding globally, what major trends do you foresee shaping privacy compliance over the next five years, and how do you see your practice evolving?

    Over the next five years, AI will be one of the most transformative forces in privacy compliance. Its rapid adoption will pose significant regulatory and operational challenges, especially around transparency, accountability, and lawful processing. Initially, many practitioners may struggle to keep pace with the evolving tools and frameworks. But as familiarity grows, AI will become an ally streamlining meticulous tasks such as maintaining records of processing activities, comparing cross-border legal requirements, and conducting compliance assessments. Those currently take up a lot of my time, so I’m especially keen to explore how AI can reduce administrative burden while enhancing accuracy and consistency.

    Get in touch with Daniella Sankar –

  • “The real shift ahead will be from treating privacy as a legal checkbox to making it part of core business strategy.” – Ankita Sabharwal, Managing Associate at Chadha & Chadha.

    “The real shift ahead will be from treating privacy as a legal checkbox to making it part of core business strategy.” – Ankita Sabharwal, Managing Associate at Chadha & Chadha.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    Being in this industry with such diverse experience, what initially motivated you to choose law as a career, and what inspired you to specialize in Intellectual Property, Data Privacy, and Technology Law?

    As a child, I was always writing poems for school magazines. I still recall one incident when I shared an unwritten poem with a classmate, only to find it published under his name in the very next issue. I came home in tears, and that’s when my mother first introduced me to the concept of copyright. That moment sparked my curiosity about how law can protect creativity and original thought.

    Naturally, when I began my career, intellectual property became my first area of focus. Over time, as I engaged with clients and industries evolving rapidly in the digital age, I found myself drawn to the adjoining fields of technology and data privacy. It felt like a natural transition, broadening my horizon from protecting creative works to safeguarding innovation, digital assets, and personal data.

    Today, my work allows me to bring these threads together: using IP, technology, and privacy law not just as legal tools, but as enablers of innovation and trust in an increasingly interconnected world.

    You started your career at top-tier firms specializing in IP. What early experiences helped lay the foundation for your practice, and how did you navigate your way into such prestigious firms straight out of law school?

    When I first joined my law firm, most of my work was around intellectual property including litigation, opinions, and strategy. That’s when the GDPR had just come in, and suddenly everyone was talking about data privacy. I remember being really curious about it and actively looking for ways to get involved in those matters, even while my main focus was IP.

    What struck me was how naturally the two fields connected. On one hand, I was helping protect brands and creative works, and on the other, I was seeing how technology and privacy were becoming equally critical for businesses. That overlap made me want to broaden my horizon beyond IP, and it eventually set me on the path of building a practice at the intersection of IP, data privacy, and technology law.

    With years of experience across various domains in IP law, how do you approach complex IP disputes especially in the brand protection domain, and what are the key challenges in managing global IP portfolios?

    In IP disputes, whether trademarks, patents, or copyrights, I focus on aligning enforcement with the client’s long-term strategy and reputation. In brand protection, a recurring challenge is timing. Many businesses delay securing rights until the brand has grown or infringement has already occurred. The same happens with patents, where filings are often an afterthought instead of being integrated with R&D. Another common issue is skipping clearance searches, whether for trademarks or prior art in patents, which leads to avoidable disputes and costs. The key is to start early, secure strong and defensible rights, and stay proactive rather than reactive.


    You have advised clients on data privacy compliance under DPDP, GDPR, CCPA, and other international regulations. What are the major challenges companies face while ensuring compliance with these data privacy frameworks?
    One of the biggest challenges is procrastination. Companies know compliance is important but tend to delay it until there’s a breach or regulatory action, when it’s already too late. Another recurring issue is the way data is handled: it’s often scattered across departments, systems, and vendors without proper mapping or controls. Many organizations don’t even have a clear view of what data they collect, where it’s stored, or how long they retain it. Without that foundation, compliance with frameworks like DPDP, GDPR, or CCPA becomes patchwork. The real solution is to start early, streamline data handling, and embed privacy into day-to-day processes rather than treating it as a last-minute fix.

    What are the most critical considerations when drafting and negotiating technology contracts, licensing agreements, or cross-border data transfer agreements?

    For me, the most critical part of drafting or negotiating technology contracts, licensing agreements, or cross-border data transfer agreements is balance. On one side, you have the legal and regulatory requirements i.e., data transfer restrictions, liability, compliance with GDPR or DPDP, and so on. But on the other, you have the business reality: both parties want a workable, commercial arrangement that doesn’t get buried under red tape. I’ve seen that the real challenges often lie in the details, how data is actually handled day to day, who has access, how risks are allocated if something goes wrong. Cross-border transfers especially demand extra care, because you’re not just dealing with contracts but also with differing legal regimes and enforcement landscapes. So the key for me is clarity and practicality, making sure the contract reflects not just what looks good on paper but how the technology, data, and partnership will function in real life. That’s where the trust between parties really gets built.

    Having handled numerous brand protection, domain name disputes, and anti-counterfeiting enforcement cases, can you share one of the most challenging cases you’ve worked on and how you navigated it?

    While I can’t share client names, I can say I’ve handled everything from pharma to fashion to OEMs, and each sector brings its own unique challenges. One of the toughest situations I dealt with was a large-scale counterfeiting network spread across multiple jurisdictions. It wasn’t just about seizing counterfeit goods, it involved coordinating with law enforcement, navigating cross-border enforcement hurdles, and simultaneously managing domain name takedowns and online marketplaces. What made it challenging was the scale and speed at which counterfeiters adapt. Every time we shut down one channel, another would emerge. The way we navigated it was through a multi-pronged approach through legal actions, customs enforcement, online monitoring, and working closely with investigators. It taught me that brand protection today isn’t just about one-off enforcement, but about building a continuous, layered strategy.

    How has speaking at global conferences and publishing on technology and data privacy shaped your perspective and practice? What advice would you offer to students aspiring to enter this field, and what resources would you recommend to stay current?

    I still remember my very first global conference as a young attorney. I was so anxious, sitting in the audience, just trying to absorb everything and wondering if I would ever have the courage to stand on that stage. To look back now and see the journey from being an eager attendee to becoming a speaker is something that feels very special. Speaking at these forums and writing on technology and data privacy has given me incredible exposure. It has shaped the way I think and connected me with inspiring people from all over the world. More than anything, it has taught me that this field never stands still, and the best way to grow is to keep learning and sharing.

    For students who want to step into this space, my advice would be to focus on upskilling and to trust the process. Don’t feel pressured to be part of the rat race. Choose your own path, follow what excites you, and keep nurturing that interest. In the long run, it is passion and consistency that will set you apart. To stay current, I would suggest keeping an eye on regulatory updates, following thought leaders, and most importantly, engaging in conversations, because some of the most valuable insights come not from books, but from exchanging ideas with others who share your curiosity.

    As someone who oversees high-stakes matters, manages teams, and mentors the next generation of associates, how do you manage everything such as handling complex legal mandates, and what qualities do you value most in your team members?

    To be honest, I don’t think I do much! It’s the young associates who make it all possible. They come in with so much commitment, energy, and willingness to learn that managing high-stakes matters becomes a shared effort rather than a burden. My role is simply to guide and support them, but the drive really comes from their side.

    What I value most in my team is sincerity, curiosity, and ownership. These are qualities they already bring to the table, and they inspire me as much as I hope to mentor them. At the end of the day, it’s their dedication that keeps everything moving, and I feel fortunate to be surrounded by such motivated people.


    What emerging trends in AI, blockchain, or digital technologies do you see shaping the future of IP and data privacy law?

    I think the future of IP and data privacy law will be shaped by how we respond to technologies. With AI, the big questions are around authorship and ownership, who owns AI-generated outputs and the privacy risks that come from training on massive datasets. Blockchain adds another dimension: while decentralization is powerful, it raises real challenges for enforcement and even basic rights like data erasure.

    What excites me most is data privacy itself. It’s often seen as a compliance burden, but I see it as business-friendly. Strong privacy practices don’t just avoid penalties, they build trust, open up cross-border opportunities, and become a differentiator in crowded markets. The real shift ahead will be from treating privacy as a legal checkbox to making it part of core business strategy.

    Looking ahead, where do you see your practice evolving over the next five years, and what areas are you most excited to focus on?

    I honestly don’t know what life will look like five years from now, and maybe that’s the beauty of it. What I do know is that I want to keep learning, keep growing, and keep challenging myself to create a deeper impact through my work in IP, technology, and data privacy. But more than that, what excites me is the opportunity to create a path for others.

    As a first-generation lawyer, I know what it feels like to start without a roadmap, to rely on sheer hard work and belief. Over the next five years, I want to not only grow but also make sure that others like me, first-gen lawyers know they can dare to dream, carve their own space, and make it big. If my journey can inspire even a few to believe that it’s possible, that would be the most meaningful achievement of all.

    Get in touch with Ankita Sabharwal –

  • Leading with Curiosity: My Journey with Law, Tech, and Mentorship. – Astha Srivastava, Principal Associate at Ikigai Law.

    Leading with Curiosity: My Journey with Law, Tech, and Mentorship. – Astha Srivastava, Principal Associate at Ikigai Law.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    With over nine years of experience, what initially inspired you to pursue a career in law? What drove your decision to choose this profession, and how did your journey shape you into a mentor and a leading voice in technology law?

    It’s always nice to be asked this question. It gives you an opportunity to pause and reflect. And when I do that, I’m taken back to the time I seriously started thinking about law – probably around Class 8 or 9.

    I knew I enjoyed public speaking. I loved talking to people, reading, analysing things, and connecting the dots. Law felt like a natural extension of these abilities.

    That was also around the time when internet use was just picking up in India. I remember, sometime in Class 10 or 11, my father got us a desktop computer. I used it to look up what CLAT was, what law school meant, and what this profession was all about.

    I also had a clear sense of what I wasn’t great at – I was average at maths. And I remember thinking: if I became an engineer, I’d probably be an average one. I didn’t want that. So I chose law. And looking back, I think that was absolutely the right call.

    I didn’t overthink whether I’d succeed or not. At that point, I just knew I’d enjoy it. And that was enough.

    Once college started, I found myself drawn to finance pretty early on. That’s what pulled me toward corporate law firms. I began with transactions—PE/VC, mergers and acquisitions. I spent four years doing that at JSA. But I gradually realised that advisory work really resonated with me.

    As I moved from JSA to IndiGo, I became more and more certain that the intersection of finance and tech was where I wanted to be. And that brought me to Ikigai Law.

    It’s been five years since. And honestly, most days, I’m genuinely excited to go to work. I think that’s rare and I’m grateful for it.

    Basically, if you love what you do, you don’t really work, you just do it.

    Well, you still work. It’s still hard. That said, there are definitely parts you enjoy. There’s intellectual satisfaction, a sense of recognition, and those moments of achievement that keep you going. Over time, you also start to see a bigger purpose. Whether it’s mentoring others, hopefully inspiring them in some small way or doing something else for the society based on what you have built. All of that becomes a motivator. You learn something new every day. And most days, you walk away feeling good.

    We all have our own challenges to navigate, and when it comes to FinTech, especially disruptive tech like blockchain, it becomes even more complex. Since blockchain sits at the intersection of technology, finance, and law, we’d love to hear your views on how companies are planning for this shift and how you tailor your consulting approach. As someone deeply involved on the corporate side, how have you adapted to these evolving technologies? What challenges have you faced, and how are companies responding to them? For instance, how do you navigate legal ambiguities around cryptocurrency, which isn’t legal tender but is still taxable?

    It’s a very interesting question. I do work a lot in the Web 3.0 space, along with traditional domains like lending, payments, and Wealth-Tech. The interesting part about being a blockchain lawyer is that it allows you to do the same thing but in a completely different plane. It’s like being transported to another universe where you’re doing the same things, paying, investing, lending, but in a blockchain-based world.

    Right now, there are very limited laws in select jurisdictions that apply to such technologies. The exciting part of being a lawyer here is that you apply traditional laws, for instance, those regulating cross-border money flow, like RBI’s foreign exchange regulations or the PSS Act, to this entirely new world. The best part is that nobody has done this before. There are hardly any judicial precedents. So your thought process is as original as it gets.

    As lawyers, we rarely get the chance to be that original. And naturally, a corollary to advising clients on emerging tech is that you get pulled into policy-making. So you get to do exciting work that I don’t think the previous generation of lawyers got to do. 

    But the hard part is, you have to really think originally. You have to know how the law applies in the traditional world. You need experience. Take, for instance, something like the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. You can pull out provisions from it and apply them to blockchain. Or the Collective Investment Scheme, something SEBI has been regulating since 1999. You might apply those same rules when advising a blockchain-based product emulating that scheme.

    So yes, it’s exciting, it’s hard, but it’s the right time to be in this space.

    You’re helping shape the future for generations of lawyers, and that’s a powerful responsibility. With your experience in suggestive work and public policy at Ikigai, could you share key learnings from that journey and how they’ve impacted your practice? Having transitioned from finance and law to technology, then an in-house role, and now back to private practice, how do you think these shifts will influence your career? How can young lawyers chart their own unique paths by learning from your journey?

    In medical practice, unless you understand the human body, you can’t be a heart specialist. Similarly, in law, unless you understand the building blocks, you can’t specialize meaningfully.

    So, for early practitioners, I’d say focus on the basics, reading the law, comprehension, analytical ability, and issue spotting. These only come when you’ve been exposed to a wide variety of laws, from IBC to RERA to the Motor Vehicles Act. The downside of specializing too early is that you miss that exposure. 

    The focus should be on building solid foundational skills, communicating well, writing clearly. Once that’s in place, you can specialize. Then you can apply those general skills to any sector, FinTech, SpaceTech, AgriTech. But if the basics aren’t strong, even in your chosen sector, things won’t work out.

    So in sum, get the basics right. Then go with the flow.

    The future in TMT space is definitely promising. I’m especially excited about AI, which is changing everything around us. And as lawyers, we play an important role. Who help sets the rules for this new world? We do.

    We need more talented lawyers. We need thinkers. Not just people who can read the law, but people who can think about it. If you’re in law school or the early stages of your career, focus on that.

    Wow! What a beautiful way of sharing your learning, it’s truly amazing. You’ve worked extensively as a principal associate advising FinTech startups within the Indian legal and regulatory framework. How do you see these startups overcoming jurisdictional obstacles, and what advice do you give them to navigate the Indian system? Do you notice significant differences between national and international regulatory approaches, and how do these impact startup success or failure globally?

    That’s a good question. I think we, as a country, are doing well. Because see, UPI is a great success. The other parts of our digital public infrastructure, like account aggregator frameworks, which are ramping up, are all Government-owned and Government-promoted.

    So the Government is doing its bit. Regulators are also, I think, trying really hard. For example, for the financial sector, RBI as a regulator not only looks after financial regulations but is also the monetary policymaker. So it has too much to do, but I think despite that, it has done a fair job.

    Also, our industry is vocal enough to fight for its cause. We have the right kind of supporters for the industry, the right kind of advisors for the industry, and the regulator is listening. It’s not like the doors are closed. Regulators also understand the importance of having that dialogue with the industry because the time has passed when you can do law-making in silos.

    So I think we are doing okay as a country. I’m not too concerned about the future. Now when I compare it to other jurisdictions, well, I would say that some practices are good in every jurisdiction. Some jurisdictions are more forward-looking in their approach. And India can borrow and learn from them.

    Thank you so much for being absolutely clear about how the government has supported FinTech growth while also acknowledging its fallbacks. You’ve worked extensively in this space, but transitioning from traditional legal work to technology and law isn’t easy. You’ve mentioned COVID played a role, but what effort did that shift actually take? How did you successfully manage this transition and excel in a new domain?

    Switching practice areas can be one of the hardest things to do. So I’ll take a step back and talk about why I made the switch.

    I started my career, as I mentioned earlier, with a general corporate practice. I had the privilege of working with some of the most brilliant lawyers in the country at JSA, which was incredibly motivating.

    While at JSA’s Gurgaon office, I got the opportunity to go on secondment with PepsiCo. At the time, PepsiCo was transferring all its major plants in India to Varun Beverages Limited – a massive business transfer. And being part of that was exhilarating. For the first time, I experienced what it means to run a business and impact of my advice on it. I was interacting with the communications team, the supply chain folks, plant managers – essentially everyone. My job was to orchestrate and help bring this entire transaction to a close. That experience made me seriously consider going in-house – it just seemed exciting and so much more connected to the business. That’s what led me to join IndiGo after four years at JSA.

    IndiGo was just as exciting as I had imagined. I was working on aircraft leases, technology contracts, software that went into aircraft systems. That was my first hands-on experience of how law interacts with technology. And that really piqued my interest in tech. I felt like it was something I could understand and contribute to.

    Then the pandemic hit. Around that time, I was already in touch with Ikigai, and stars just aligned. 

    So, some of the transition happened organically, some of it was by design and I think that’s how most careers unfold.

    If I had to leave you with two takeaways from this journey, they’d be these:

    First, don’t shy away from change and follow your instinct. Second, when an opportunity presents itself, grab it with both hands. Because chances are, it may not come again.

    What a candid way of explaining things, where you had to put in that hard work, and you did. Congratulations to you for making that seemingly impossible transition from one aspect of law to another and making it big. On that particular note, we would request you to share some personal checklists or personal ways of dealing with these kinds of transitions because such broad area transitions are not easy, and many people are unable to do them.

    What kind of suggestions do you have for these young lawyers who may start with one area but eventually want to transition? How do you do it, and how can one do it as smoothly as you have, without experiencing that stress of moving from one area to another while fearing the loss of something? Since you’ve done it, you’ll be the right person to suggest this to students and learners.

    In addition to what I’ve already said, I’ve just one thing to add. In my experience, anyone going through a good law school, who has joined a good law firm or is working with sharp lawyers is smart and intelligent. That’s why they are where they are. So that is table stakes. What really makes a real difference is persistence, patience and resilience.

    So, by the kind of understanding you’ve given us, resilience is absolutely important. Along with that, overcoming challenges is another key aspect. All of this you manage within the same 24 hours we all have. How do you maintain your mental, physical, professional, and personal health while juggling so much? What strategies do you follow, basic or advanced, to keep your sanity intact? As lawyers, we don’t talk enough about the stress we go through, whether in-house, in practice, or elsewhere. So how do you deal with it?

    That’s one question I get asked a lot. And honestly, there’s no simple answer. Like most young professionals, work-life balance wasn’t really a priority for me early in my career. There was no fixed schedule – you worked as per the demands of your clients. And I think that’s okay. You’re younger, your energy levels are different, and if you start chasing balance too early, you may find yourself struggling for relevance later. I read that somewhere, and it really stuck with me.

    Though, as I’ve grown older, I’ve found different ways to balance my life. And let me just say – I completely disagree with the idea that stress is something you should just get used to or live with because ‘it’s inevitable’. It’s not. Stress management, like lawyering or contract drafting, is a skill. And like any other skill, it can be learned.

    You have to self-train. You have to find the right mentors, speak to the right people, and actively work towards it. I’ve done a lot of that over the years.

    You also need a strong support system – people who are emotionally present and available for you. My family has been incredible, and I owe them everything. But friends matter just as much – both within and outside the profession. That’s been a huge source of strength for me. And most importantly, my husband is my biggest cheerleader and support system. Having that makes all the difference. Without it, it’s hard.

    Another big learning has been understanding the link between stress and physical health. Over the last four or five years, I’ve realised it’s not just a mindset issue – your physical health plays a huge role. And I know this might sound like standard social media advice, but it’s true: you need to move your body. You need to eat and sleep well. That’s what made a real difference for me. In fact, staying fit has now become one of my core interests.

    The third piece is having interests outside of work. That’s so important. We actively encourage this at Ikigai. 

    And finally, reading good books has helped. There’s so much you can self-learn today. As a generation, we’re incredibly lucky to have access to so much information. If we’re intentional about how we use it, we can teach ourselves almost anything.

    Thank you so much for your beautiful answers. Just to quickly respond to one of the aspects you mentioned, yes, we are our own leaders, and while we agree we should take command and understand things, it’s not always that easy. Sometimes organizations are supportive, sometimes they’re not. What we take away from this conversation is the importance of understanding what you’re doing, how you’re working, and who you’re working for. If you’re in the right environment, you’ll not only thrive professionally but also personally.

    I just wanted to share a few closing thoughts. I completely agree that the environment you work in, especially early in your career, can make all the difference.

    I also want to take a moment to talk about what we’re building at Ikigai. At the senior and mid-management level, we’re very intentional about creating a space that gives even our younger associates a lot of independence. There’s a strong emphasis on thinking independently, and we’re a flat and non-hierarchical setup. You can speak directly with the equity partners, the founding partner, with me, or with anyone else on the team.

    In many ways, we function like a new-age startup. Just like many of the clients we advise. And that’s something I’m genuinely proud of. 

    One of the most meaningful aspects of our culture, and something I hope more organizations adopt, is our deep focus on training and mentorship. It’s actually what drew me to Ikigai as a new lawyer. And now that I get to mentor others, it’s incredibly fulfilling. Personally, one of the ways I measure my own success is by how well I support and guide the associates and senior associates I work with.

    My hope is that this approach becomes the norm across the industry. I’m excited about what that future could look like.

    Get in touch with Astha Srivastava –

  • “To foster a stronger IP culture, we must empower founders with foundational IP knowledge, which shall help them to identify their IP assets.” – Sonali Sawant, Founding Partner Projulex Global.

    “To foster a stronger IP culture, we must empower founders with foundational IP knowledge, which shall help them to identify their IP assets.” – Sonali Sawant, Founding Partner Projulex Global.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    Your journey reflects remarkable versatility and determination. Looking back, what pivotal decisions do you believe have contributed most to your practice over the years?

    My journey into law, and specifically as an IP Attorney, was far from a linear path. Unlike many, I never initially aimed to be a lawyer; in fact, the term “IP Attorney” was completely foreign to me until my second year of law school when IP was first introduced as a subject.

    Coming from a humble, rural background in Talegaon Dabhade, Pune, my early academic pursuits were remarkably diverse. I chose arts at Ferguson College, majored in Psychology for my B.A., and even dedicated time to learning and tutoring German language while preparing for Nritya Visharad, harbouring aspirations of becoming a classical dancer, psychologist, or German translator. Law was never on my radar.

    However, destiny, as they say, had other plans. Being a first-generation lawyer in the family, unaware of the fascinating journey ahead, I took a significant leap of faith. I applied to only one institution, ILS Law College. Getting selected in the first list felt incredibly lucky, as it was a high-risk gamble with no Plan B – a rejection would have meant a wasted year. Although I later transferred to Shankarrao Chavan Law College in my second year, this initial entry into the legal field was itself a pivotal decision.

    This unconventional start , directly led to numerous vital career breaks, opportunities, and challenges. The journey itself broadened my horizons, exposing me to diverse people, institutions, experiences, and ideologies. These early experiences undoubtedly instilled in me resilience, an openness to new directions, and a unique interdisciplinary perspective. I truly believe these qualities laid the foundation for my enriching legal practice and have profoundly shaped who I am today.

    What motivated you to pursue a Master’s degree in Science and Technology Law? Why did you choose this particular specialization, and how has it influenced your practice?

    My decision to pursue a Master’s degree in Science and Technology Law was a pivotal moment in my journey. The dynamic and evolving nature of science and technology, encompassing fascinating areas like Intellectual Property, Biotechnology Law, Cyber Law, and Health Law, deeply intrigued me. This particular specialization, offered by the Department of Law at Savitribai Phule Pune University, provided a holistic overview of the actual laws in place, regulations, and pending bills in these fields.

    The one-year LL.M. program was instrumental in cultivating strong research, presentation, and public speaking skills. While Intellectual Property (IP) was my primary focus, this course provided a robust theoretical foundation in IP, which was crucial for my understanding, research, and practice in IP law. I am particularly grateful to my professors, Dr. Jyoti Bhakare Ma’am and the late T.S.N. Shastry Sir, for fostering my interest in research. The affinity for research I developed during my LL.M. studies remains a cornerstone of my practice today. Beyond academics, the program also allowed me to forge valuable connections and a supportive network that continues to be a source of shared knowledge and care.

    In the early phase of your career, what experiences or cases helped solidify your interest and expertise in intellectual property law, ultimately leading you to build a career in this domain?

    So, from administrative and accounting roles during my LL.B. to becoming a Trademark Associate, visiting faculty, researcher, and ultimately leading my own law firm, every step has been instrumental in building my network, professionalism, knowledge, and interpersonal skills. The one constant thread woven through all these experiences has been Intellectual Property.

    A particularly pivotal moment occurred during my third year of LL.B., when I was working in an administrative capacity. However, my main work was to recover pending invoices from clients. For the first time I was tasked with coordinating copyright filings for a corporate client. As I wasn’t yet a qualified lawyer, the initial plan was to outsource this work. However, being new to the field with no prior legal experience or strong professional connections, I struggled to find a trustworthy attorney online, causing a delay in the assignment. Instead of waiting, I took the initiative. Under the guidance of my senior, I decided to undertake the assignment myself. Successfully completing it single-handedly, by the time the registrations were finalized, I had not only gained valuable IP experience, but this experience provided the initial boost of confidence I needed to delve deeper into IP. 

    At that time, I even found myself daydreaming about having my own law office and all the “corporate fancy things,” largely inspired by series like “SUITS.” From that point forward, the more I immersed myself in this field, the more opportunities I seized. Another impactful experience that solidified my global perspective was assisting foreign attorneys with trademark infringement matters in SAARC countries. Additionally, I had the opportunity to introduce new perspectives to the firm’s trademark practice, which led to a drastic increase in their filings. This invaluable exposure allowed me to read, understand, and apply IP laws in various foreign jurisdictions, especially within Asian countries, further cementing my dedication to this domain.

    After working with prominent law firms, what inspired you to branch out and establish your own practice? What were some of the major challenges you faced during this transition, and how did you navigate them?

    Establishing my own practice and ultimately my own office was always a core aspiration. While working with Ex- law firms, I actively immersed myself in client counselling, meetings, networking, and client acquisition, eventually realizing I excelled in these areas. By the time I decided to make the leap, I felt confident in my ability to navigate the challenges that lay ahead.

    The opportune moment arrived post-COVID-19, amidst a global surge in entrepreneurial spirit. I decided to take the plunge, giving myself a pragmatic six-month window to explore the market. This time, I had a well-thought-out Plan B, given my increased responsibilities. I am incredibly satisfied, happy, and grateful for the overwhelming positive response and trust I received not only from my professional network but also from my husband. What began as an individual practice has since grown into an LLP, offering a diverse range of services beyond IP, including Data Protection, Privacy Laws, Cyber Laws, Entertainment Laws, Legal Metrology, POSH, Litigation, and General Corporate matters. My portfolio expanded organically, driven by my clients’ evolving needs.

    A unique challenge emerged during this transition, one that I found both amusing and concerning. I received calls, on multiple occasions, demanding justification for starting my individual practice. These calls explicitly instructed me not to approach former firms’ clients or even to redirect any clients who might approach me in my individual capacity. Such demands from senior industry figures were not only illogical but also fundamentally unacceptable. Indeed, it felt like an attempt to threaten, suppress, and dominate me. But, this act inadvertently bolstered my confidence, affirming that I was on the right track and destined for something significant. 

    My belief has always been, “There are plenty of fish in the sea; go and catch yours.” I am immensely proud to state that my first 50 clients were acquired purely through my own efforts and network, not by “stealing” or personally soliciting from any previous firm. This is a point I’ve rarely discussed publicly, known only to my closest friends. Naturally, I chose to ignore those unwarranted demands, focusing instead on testing and implementing my own ideas. I am proud to say that I have never had to proactively solicit work from clients. Instead, my clients, friends, family, my husband, and my business partner have organically become my most effective brand ambassadors. 

    You’ve worked on over 3000 trademark applications across jurisdictions. Could you share a particularly complex or memorable case that left a lasting impact on you professionally?

    Yes, indeed. Each and every case and application has its own unique journey with its challenges and surprises. One particularly memorable case that left a lasting impact on me professionally involved a situation where the infringers were, surprisingly, a group of my client’s own students. They had copied my client’s domain name with deceptively similar words and spellings, leading to clear trademark infringement and cyber-squatting.

    The complexity arose from the existing relationship between my client and these individuals. A direct legal enforcement action, while legally justifiable, would have severely damaged those relations. Therefore, my approach had to be non-conventional. Instead of issuing a formal legal notice, we had to very politely communicate with them, explaining the legal implications and amicably requesting them to take down the domain name and refrain from future use.

    This case was a significant learning experience for me. It taught me that legal solutions aren’t always black and white, and understanding the human element can lead to a far more satisfactory and sustainable outcome for all parties involved.

    As a Trademark Facilitator and mentor under the Start-up India initiative, how would you assess the current level of IP awareness among Indian startups? What more can be done to foster a stronger culture of IP protection in the startup ecosystem?

    As a Trademark Facilitator and mentor under the Start-up India initiative, I’ve seen India’s startup ecosystem flourish since 2015. While many startups are aware of IP’s existence, there’s a significant lack of strategic understanding in approaching IP registrations. Even after a decade of Start-up India Scheme, very few startups genuinely prioritize and secure their IPs seriously. Those who do are consistently at the forefront of the market, proving the competitive edge IP offers.

    To foster a stronger IP culture, we must empower founders with foundational IP knowledge, which shall help them to identify their IP assets. Also, this would prevent them from being misled and enable them to proactively integrate IP protection into their business strategy, which is crucial for long-term success. 

    You’ve presented research and spoken at international conferences in Singapore and China. How have these global engagements shaped your professional outlook and influenced your long-term vision?

    My global engagements, especially the ARCIALA research conference in Singapore and fellowship in China, profoundly shaped my professional outlook. Initially seeking research opportunities in IP, these experiences offered me an invaluable global perspective from diverse international researchers. They provided strong connections and significantly deepened my understanding of the subject. This exposure solidified my long-term vision to practice IP with a broader, more interconnected view, constantly seeking to understand and adapt to the evolving international IP landscape.

    Your extensive work across SAARC, GCC countries, and through the Madrid Protocol gives you a unique global perspective. What are some key considerations Indian IP practitioners should keep in mind while managing international trademark portfolios?

    Having the opportunity to work on various international trademark assignments, definitely it becomes very important for us as Trademark Attorneys to go beyond eye on details, deadlines and trademark filing requirements of a particular country. It’s crucial to grasp the technical nuances of each country’s trademark law, such as “first-to-use” versus “first-to-file” systems, and ensure the mark is morally and culturally acceptable in that specific region. Thorough due diligence, understanding local language requirements, knowing the protection period, establishing strong connections with foreign attorneys, and being prepared for diverse enforcement procedures are all vital. This comprehensive approach is essential for effective global trademark management. 

    In addition to your legal practice, you’ve been a visiting lecturer for nearly seven years, work with an NGO, and have co-authored a book. How do you balance your professional responsibilities with these meaningful pursuits, and what drives you to stay engaged on so many fronts?

    Balancing my legal practice with lecturing, NGO work as a POSH committee member, and co-authoring a book comes down to strategic time management and prioritizing urgency. I initially took lecturing roles outside office hours, and now, with a diverse practice, I focus on shorter courses and sessions. Co-authoring was part of a job role, yet it significantly advanced my research direction, while NGO work is primarily “as required on site” role. 

    So, the support and belief of the good people around me drives me across these varied engagements, which keeps me motivated and energized!

    Get in touch with Sonali Sawant –

  • “Navigating emerging frameworks means staying grounded in first principles – think accountability, data principal rights, and purpose limitation for instance.” – Kriti Trehan, Founder of Data & Co(Law & Policy Advisors).

    “Navigating emerging frameworks means staying grounded in first principles – think accountability, data principal rights, and purpose limitation for instance.” – Kriti Trehan, Founder of Data & Co(Law & Policy Advisors).

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    You’ve worked extensively across sectors like AI, social media, e-commerce, education, and gaming. What early experiences shaped your decision to specialize in technology and regulatory law?

    I think the best way to describe it is that a series of decisions brought me to where I am today. My love of political science as a subject sent me down the path of reading law, and my desire to be the prime minister of India one day (among many other professions – across creative and public interest fields) brought me to public policy. Tech was always fascinating to me – one example that comes to mind is how I’d watch product launches and service upgrades, and visualise the journey from the present moment to a future with Irona-esque devices or Tony Stark’s Jarvis assistant. But I was also acutely cognisant of the need for an inclusive regulatory discourse surrounding technology, one that ensures a seat at the table for a cross-section of diverse perspectives. 

    My early mentors played a formative role in equipping me with the tools to understand this space and build my own voice. While tech public policy was still in its experimental stages as a profession in India, I worked on complex questions surrounding intermediary liability and safe harbour, net neutrality, and privacy. The perfect storm of innovation, impact, and uncertainty reinforced for me the need for thoughtful, future-facing tech regulations. And I realised that I loved the interpretation of law, but I was even more excited about understanding the answers to the underlying questions – of intent, of timing, of form, and of substance – and within that context ensuring that the perspective and agency of the individual remains front and centre. 

    How did your LL.M in Public International Law from LSE broaden your legal perspective, especially in navigating global tech policy? 

    LSE gave me a bird’s-eye view of how legal norms are constructed, contested, and negotiated across jurisdictions. It trained me to think beyond domestic legislation and consider global frameworks, power dynamics, and geopolitical context – skills that are essential in tech policy today. Studying international humanitarian and human rights law also deepened my own appreciation of “harms” and what they might mean in the digital world. It taught me to ask not just “is this legal,” but “is this just,” especially when advising on emerging technologies. That normative framing continues to guide my work across borders today. 

    What I am most grateful for, however, is how LSE opened up a whole new and vibrant world – of people, experiences, and contexts – that I may have read about in the past but got to actually immerse myself in-person. It impressed upon me just how numerous and diverse perspectives on a single issue can be, and how essential it is to make space for them in building the policy ecosystem of tomorrow. 

    Having worked with top law firms and major companies, what inspired you to launch Data & Co, and what is your vision for the future? 

    When I thought of my next steps, the answer was quite straightforward – I wanted to focus on the subject matter that I love – of public policy as it applies to the technology sector. Granted that this is work I’ve done for the past 11 years, but I wanted to now thoughtfully and intentionally design my focus. I’m building Data & Co to be a trusted advisor across the spectrum of regulatory stakeholders – businesses, governments, special interest groups alike – as well be a thought leader on emerging policy challenges particularly for fast moving regulatory topics like in AI, digital payments, privacy, online safety, and consumer interest. 

    Candidly, Data & Co is my professional passion project. I feel inspired to strengthen evidence-based thoughtful policy research on some of these issues, while also collaborating closely with stakeholders for cross-pollination of ideas and building a more resilient and sustainable policy ecosystem. I launched Data & Co to bridge legal nuance with public policy strategy, and to make the approach to compliance not just a checkbox, but a tool for responsible innovation. 

    A big part of my vision is to invite young minds to this work – new ideas always spark novel answers to complex problems, and that is invigorating. So at Data & Co we welcome young people to share their thinking, and be involved and productive members of the policy discourse. 

    Given your experience advising both Indian and international clients, how do you navigate evolving regulatory frameworks particularly in the area of data privacy when legal standards are still emerging and often ambiguous? 

    I treat ambiguity as an opportunity for proactive strategy rather than passive compliance. Navigating emerging frameworks means staying grounded in first principles – think accountability, data principal rights, and purpose limitation for instance. It also means scenario-planning for multiple outcomes, building privacy-by-design muscle early, and engaging constructively with regulators. My approach is typically layered – assess risk, weigh policy direction, and align with business goals, which includes maintaining the interest of the individual customer. I also find it helpful to reiterate that in navigating privacy, building and maintaining trust with data principals is crucial, and using that as a yardstick when exploring emerging regulations can be quite instructive. 

    With laws like India’s DPDP Act and the growing global focus on AI governance, what guiding principles should companies follow to ensure ethical innovation and long-term regulatory compliance? 

    I’d go back to the first principles I just mentioned. Transparency, user agency, privacy-by-design, and fairness should be embedded into product and data practices, not retrofitted after the fact. The global AI and privacy regulatory landscape may differ in specifics, but the overall direction is often informed by similar imperatives – that of protecting consumer interest. This means inculcating practices of explainability in clear and simple language, i.e. how and why personal data is collected, and how decisions on/ from/ for that personal data are made. 

    I also recommend, as a good hygiene practice, to build internal accountability structures. In doing so, cross-functional collaboration and clear documentation go a long way – in both ensuring compliance and building user trust. 

    You have helped clients through unexpected regulatory shifts. Can you share a specific example of managing a challenging case in relation to global technology regulations? 

    As public policy professionals, our goal is to work towards limiting instances of unexpected regulatory changes, and contribute constructively to the dialogue. However, every now and then there are surprises that we help our clients navigate. My goal, as the first step, is to understand what is happening, why, who it is intended for, and how it impacts my client. To do all of this, I work closely with cross-functional partners internally within my client organisation and simultaneously with regulatory stakeholders as well as peers in the industry to gain their perspectives. 

    In situations like these, I personally find clear prioritisation to be incredibly helpful – what is business-critical versus good-to-have. I think it is also essential to manage expectations with honesty, and partner productively with internal and external stakeholders. And I also use these opportunities to remind myself that agility is as important as knowledge. 

    As a woman leading at the intersection of law, tech, and policy fields traditionally dominated by men, what key challenges and leadership lessons have shaped you, and what advice would you have for others facing similar paths?

    One lesson that’s stayed with me is that while credibility is earned, confidence must often be self-issued. Early on, I had to make my peace with being the only woman, or the youngest voice, in many rooms, and to back myself even when others didn’t because of my gender or age. I advocated for inclusion and diversity in these rooms. I learned to speak up not just when I was certain, but also when I was curious. Leading now, I try to build spaces that are collaborative, inclusive, and intellectually honest. I learn from people with shared and different experiences alike, and acknowledge struggles – of the glass ceiling, of imposter syndrome, of credit-theft – that we’ve all been through. 

    My advice? Be audacious in your ideas and generous with your platform, especially for others trying to find theirs. The only way we’ll succeed in making the profession more inclusive is we intentionally make space for diverse perspectives. 

    Balancing a demanding legal practice with personal life can be challenging. How do you manage the pressures of a multifaceted career while maintaining your well-being and finding time for reflection? 

    I believe that as human beings we are the sum total of all our experiences, which includes work and leisure. I am wildly protective of both my boundaries and my ambition. 

    I have a mentor who used to tell me that outside of breaks or holidays from work, it is really important for us to find small moments of joy on a daily basis. On some days, that means logging off to cuddle with my dog (Data, my firm’s mascot), and on other days, it’s about saying no to a project that doesn’t align with my purpose. I also recognise that it is not pragmatic to believe that I can achieve mathematical balance on each day, and so I listen closely to my body and mind. I travel, read and keep myself creatively stimulated through writing, dance or art, which then translates into a fresh mind for work. The converse is also true – my creative pursuits are often informed by work imperatives! 

    And beyond that, just super tactically, I approach my time with structure and planning. I find blocking time on my calendar very helpful to visualise how I am spending my day/ year, and I remain flexible about tweaking it on the go. My goal, ultimately, is less about balance, and more about (upon reflection) my time as having brought me joy. 

    Get in touch with Kriti Trehan –

  • “The prospect of influencing businesses, individuals and society through legal frameworks ultimately motivated me to choose the legal profession.” – Taniya Yadav, General Manager, Legal and Compliance at Lead Group.

    “The prospect of influencing businesses, individuals and society through legal frameworks ultimately motivated me to choose the legal profession.” – Taniya Yadav, General Manager, Legal and Compliance at Lead Group.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    With your background in B.Sc. Zoology (Hons) from Delhi University, what inspired you to pursue transition into a career law? 

    I have always loved animals and had a deep desire to conserve the ecosystem.  And so, I pursued Zoology (hons.). However, I found myself spending more time dissecting animals in the lab rather than engaging in real-world conservation, and I realized that  wasn’t my true calling. Instead, I tapped into my passion for justice, perhaps inspired by my grandfather, who was a distinguished advocate at the Calcutta High Court. Law felt like the perfect path to channel my analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to helping others navigate complex systems. The prospect of influencing businesses, individuals and society through legal frameworks ultimately motivated me to choose the legal profession.

    Having begun your career with leading companies like Paytm and MakeMyTrip, what are some key learning experiences from these roles that helped shape the foundation of your legal practice?

    Beginning my legal career with  industry giants like Paytm and MakeMyTrip were deep learning experiences that shaped my professional trajectory. These dynamic, high-growth environments coincided with the emergence of fintech and e-commerce in India, at a time when payment gateways, wallets, and online marketplaces were still novel concepts. As one of the first few legal professionals in India to finalize merchant onboarding processes and payment gateway agreements, I was at the forefront of a rapidly evolving legal landscape. I learned  that legal decisions cannot be made in isolation; and that they must align with broader business strategies, technology, regulatory frameworks and stakeholder expectations.

    Working in such a dynamic landscape helped me realise the need to understand business at a granular level, recognizing that legal solutions must be both proactive and adaptable to the shifting needs of the market. Equally important was the realization that close collaboration with business teams is essential, ensuring that legal counsel supports and aligns with commercial objectives while managing risk effectively. These formative years shaped my approach to legal practice, grounding it in practical, risk-aware solutions that are strategically integrated with business’s broader goals.

    Given your extensive experience in data protection and privacy compliance across jurisdictions such as the EU, USA, Brazil, and India, how do you ensure your organization’s privacy policies remain up-to-date and compliant with evolving global regulations like GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA? Could you elaborate on the process you follow for conducting Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) and ensuring ongoing compliance?

    Keeping privacy policies compliant in an ever-changing global landscape is a real challenge, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. To stay on top of regulations like GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, and other global frameworks, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the data being handled by the organization. Proper classification of data ensures that each type of data is managed according to its specific requirements. Regular audits of current policies are crucial for identifying gaps and aligning practices with the latest regulatory requirement; and  ensuring data collection, storage, and sharing are compliant. I actively engage with legal-tech networks like the DPO Club, attend relevant webinars, and consult with experts across different jurisdictions. When conducting Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs), I follow a rigorous process that begins with identifying potential privacy risks. Collaborating closely with business, product, and technology teams helps me mitigate these risks, ensuring our policies are not only compliant but also serve the best interests of our users. Continuous reviews, audits, and training are essential to maintaining ongoing compliance in this dynamic environment.

    You have significant experience in standardizing and reviewing high-risk agreements across various teams. Could you describe your approach to negotiating complex contracts, such as technology development or licensing agreements, with international partners? How do you ensure these contracts are both legally sound and strategically aligned with the company’s goals?

    Negotiating complex contracts in areas such as tech development, licensing, SaaS, fintech, and transactional agreements is one of the most stimulating aspects of my role. I approach these agreements with a careful yet flexible mindset, and after fully understanding the intricate nature of the technologies involved. The growing integration of artificial intelligence, coupled with the regulatory intricacies of fintech and transactional law, adds another layer of complexity. It’s essential that the terms are not only legally sound but also strategically aligned with the company’s Memorandum of Association (MOA), Articles of Association (AOA), shareholder agreements, and Investor Protection matters. Ensuring compliance and minimizing risk requires close collaboration with cross-functional teams, guaranteeing that agreements are robust, enforceable, and fully aligned with both legal requirements and business objectives.

    In your current role, you’ve led cross-functional teams to deliver projects on time, showcasing strong leadership and collaboration. How do you effectively manage teams across legal and business functions, especially in complex projects that require close coordination between multiple departments?

    I focus on clear communication and strong collaboration. It’s critical to connect with marketing/sales, tax, finance, tech, and SCM to ensure everyone’s inputs are met and validated. I prioritize regular check-ins and transparent discussions to keep everyone aligned on objectives, timelines, and potential risks. By fostering an environment where cross-functional teams feel comfortable sharing insights, risk can be mitigated. 

     As an expert in Data Privacy Law with knowledge of various global privacy laws, such as GDPR, PDPB, Australian Privacy, and US laws, how do you view the evolution of India’s privacy landscape, particularly with the DPDP Act? What areas do you think require improvement based on your understanding of these international laws?

    India’s privacy landscape is rapidly evolving with the introduction of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, but much depends on the upcoming rules and their practical application. While the Act is a significant step forward, there are key questions, particularly around defining ‘significant data fiduciaries’ and managing end-user consent within existing tech ecosystems. The success of the DPDP Act will ultimately depend on its enforcement and how businesses implement it in practice.

    Managing work commitments and handling stressful situations daily must be demanding. How do you balance your professional responsibilities with personal obligations, and what strategies do you use to remain calm in high-pressure situations? What motto or philosophy helps you stay motivated?

    Balancing work and life can feel like juggling flaming swords, but I’ve learned to embrace the chaos. My secret- I’ve made a pact with stress: ‘You can hang around, but we’re not going to be best friends.’ I take regular breaks, go for walks, and create to-do lists so detailed they could be mistaken for novels. Staying organized and setting boundaries is key though sometimes my calendar looks like a colourful game of tetris. When challenges arise, I focus on solutions and try to keep a cool head which becomes tough sometimes. My motto is ‘Focus on what you can control and let go of the rest.

    What advice would you give to aspiring legal professionals who hope to follow a career path similar to yours, working for large corporations in a legal capacity? Additionally, could you share the resources you rely on to stay informed about the latest trends in data privacy and cyber law, and recommend them to learners interested in this field?

    To aspiring legal professionals, my advice is simple: be curious, stay humble, and embrace continuous learning. The legal field is constantly evolving, especially in areas like data privacy and cyber law. To stay ahead, I recommend diving into resources like IAPP, DSCI and podcasts focused on data privacy. These are great ways to keep up with the latest trends and best practices. Networking with professionals in the field and attending conferences or webinars can also provide valuable insights. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and take on challenging roles that push you to grow.

    Get in touch with Taniya Yadav –

  • “Marrying Facts and Law for Practical Counsel & understanding the intricacies of business alongside legalities ensures effective client execution and success in today’s dynamic market.” – Nayantara Devaya, Founding & Managing Partner of Catkin Legal

    “Marrying Facts and Law for Practical Counsel & understanding the intricacies of business alongside legalities ensures effective client execution and success in today’s dynamic market.” – Nayantara Devaya, Founding & Managing Partner of Catkin Legal

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

    You’ve had an impressive journey from working in prestigious firms like Khaitan & Co and AZB & Partners to founding Catkin Legal. Could you please walk us through your journey and share how each phase of your career contributed to your growth as a legal professional and entrepreneur?

    AZB & Partners and Khaitan & Co, are important institutions in my growth as a professional. It provided me with the experience and finesse that a corporate lawyer requires to navigate the era where lawyers are considered valid in board rooms and business transactions, other than just court rooms. While I was working with the firms, they provided me with opportunities to work on some important transactions in the business world. The firms gave me an idea of acceptable global standards and exposure to global working environments. The pedigree I got from the firms has shaped a lot of how we do business in Catkin Legal.

    Given your extensive experience in Corporate & Commercial laws, what unique challenges have you encountered in advising companies on Information Security Privacy Law and Cyber Risk Management amidst the digital surge in various industries?

    AZB We are seeing a surge in the relevance of lawyers in the new business era. Business heads are recognising the importance of working with lawyers on a day-to-day business to ensure smoother operations of their businesses. While old business houses are passing on hands to the new generation new leaders are very encouraging of legal support to their business teams in closing transactions and operational issues. While real time businesses are going digital sensitizing leaders on the security of information they are procuring, and the importance of certifications is increasing.

    As a strong advocate for mental health, how do you integrate initiatives for well-being within Catkin Legal, and what impact do you believe it has on the overall performance and satisfaction of your team?

    At Catkin, we propagate mental health and well-being. Our employees may avail of mental health leave once a month for a day which can be extended. The associates do not need to cite their reason for being on MHL. Additionally, the partners are very aware of not overburdening our associates with manic hours. Associates have the freedom to tell their leaders that they need a break. As leaders, we are responsible for the work but not for deciding when one need a break. The career is very demanding, and we want our associates to run long not fast.

    Considering your multifaceted experience, what advice would you give to aspiring legal professionals aiming to build a successful career that transcends traditional boundaries and embraces new dimensions of law and business?

    With the energy and enthusiasm the young blood brings to the profession, I would always advise not just new but any lawyer to marry the facts and understand how the business or product runs along with the law. If this does not happen the advice we are dispensing to the client becomes redundant as they cannot execute it on the ground. Due to this gap, there have been numerous judgements that are impossible to implement.

    Mentors often play a crucial role in one’s professional development. Could you discuss the influence of any mentors or role models who have inspired and guided you throughout your career journey?

    My career is basically me being a living proof that I have had the most amazing mentors. They have helped me navigate the legal profession and understand how to manage teams and clients. But more importantly in their understanding of the law, people management skills, negotiating skills, and life skills

    Founding Catkin Legal marked a significant milestone in your career. What motivated you to establish your own firm, and what were some of the initial challenges you faced in setting up and establishing its reputation in the legal industry?

     I think starting my own law firm was always a goal. My parents- who have always been the wind beneath my wings were very encouraging of starting my own practice even though I do not come from a family of lawyers. Believing in my goal every day in the last 15 years and working on that goal every day and working on myself made me start my firm. One of the key challenges we face is to keep being relevant. We keep upgrading our skill set and recrafting our working models to ensure we are a relevant and sustainable firm

    Building a clientele and reputation from scratch can be daunting. Can you share some strategies or initiatives you implemented in the early days of Catkin Legal to attract clients and differentiate your firm in a competitive market?

    Balancing multiple responsibilities as a managing partner, legal advisor, and advocate for mental health advocacy can be demanding. How do you prioritize your time and commitments to ensure both professional excellence and personal well-being? I think all these roles are interdependent. I try and understand the urgency and support required for each situation on a weekly basis and set my priority on a need basis. I believe in a physically fit and mentally healthy life, so for me, that comes first. I do not work alone. I have teams for all tasks and project- Home-work -or anywhere else where I want to contribute. Creating and cherishing capable leaders and individuals within or teams, helps us go a long way.

    Your career has seen transitions from working in prestigious law firms to in-house legal roles and eventually founding your own firm. Could you share your experience of navigating these transitions and highlight the differences in working environments between law firms, corporate settings, and running your own legal practice?

    Law firms and business houses systems are already in place. You come in and integrate into an already existing system and grow with the system. Starting a law firm or any business involves starting or creating systems that others can integrate into. As a business owner, the biggest challenge is not creating that ecosystem but ensuring its sustainability. A huge part of my role is troubleshooting to ensure the ecosystem of catkin remains healthy and sustainable in all areas.

    With your busy schedule and diverse professional engagements, how do you unwind and recharge outside of work? Could you share some of your favorite relaxation techniques or activities that help you maintain balance and rejuvenate your energy?

    A good cardio workout and yoga is my favourite kind of unwinding. I try to pack in this at least six times a week. I enjoy a good movie. I like to read, but we read a lot at work and usually, it becomes my last option. Oh, recently I’ve been enjoying reading storybooks to my two-year-old son.

    Get in touch with Nayantara Devaya-

  • “One must be passionate about their work. If law is something, that you are passionate about, I am sure that everything else will follow” – An illuminating interview with Saurabh Bindal, Partner at Fox Mandal & Associates LLP

    “One must be passionate about their work. If law is something, that you are passionate about, I am sure that everything else will follow” – An illuminating interview with Saurabh Bindal, Partner at Fox Mandal & Associates LLP

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

    Could you introduce yourself and share a brief overview of your journey from college to becoming a Partner at Fox Mandal & Associates LLP?

    I am Saurabh Bindal, a Partner at Fox Mandal & Associates LLP, heading the Disputes and Litigation practice of the Firm in Delhi. I did my Engineering and thereafter, decided to pursue Law from the reputed Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, India. Thereafter, I started practicing in a reputed Intellectual Property Law Firm in National Capital Region. After a short stint at the Firm, I realized my calling to be a litigation and disputes Lawyer. Subsequently, I have worked with different Law Firms in the past in various capabilities.

    In my current role, I render dispute resolution support to clients on issues relating to Arbitration law, Intellectual Property law, Privacy law, Information Technology law, Constitution, Company Law, Contract Law, Employment Law, Electricity Law, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code.

    I have eight books to my name and several publications in leading journals. I like to speak on different facets of law and have had the opportunity to represent my clients in different forums, in India and abroad.

    With significant experience in diverse areas of law, including Arbitration, Intellectual Property, and Employment Law, what inspired you to pursue such a multifaceted legal career?

    Well, you know, I firmly believe that the practice of law is based on continuous learning. I try to learn each day. The inspiration to learn is something that keeps me motivated in life. I have worked on different facets of law as that motivates me to grow. One must find a purpose in life. For me, I tend to believe now that my purpose was in the practice of law. Once, you start practicing law, you must be internally inspired to keep the channels of learning open.

    As a Partner at Fox Mandal & Associates LLP, you lead the Alternate Dispute Resolution and Litigation practice. Could you share some insights into the challenges and successes you’ve encountered in this role?

    The role I am currently engaged in is quite challenging. Each day there are new hurdles, and you have no other option but to live it up to them. As a leader, one must take everything as a part and parcel of life. In life, your failures become your teachers and your success your enemy. I believe it will be very difficult to point out every challenge faced by an individual in her or his role. However, after some point of time, with one’s hard work, every challenge a person faces in life sometimes becomes an opportunity to strive forward. The only insight I could share with the challenges faced by me in my role is that each challenge has taught me new ways to live a meaningful life.

    Aside from being a legal expert, you’re also an author, having written several books on intellectual property law, arbitration law, and privacy law. What inspired you to delve into writing, and how does it complement your legal practice?

    The person who brought me pen and paper was Dr Uday Shankar, a Professor at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur. It was he who asked me to assist him with a submission. When I look back, I give all the credit in my writing to him for his patience with me. He has been my friend, philosopher, and guide.

    I would also like to give credit for my writing to Eastern Book Company. Eastern Book family, and more particularly Mr. Sumeet Malik has been very kind in holding my hands. Majorly, all my books are thoroughly reviewed by him personally and he has contributed much to my life.

    You’ve been recognized as an expert public speaker. What’s your favorite topic to speak about, and do you have any memorable experiences or anecdotes from your speaking engagements that you’d like to share?

    Like the practice of law, public speaking is also a lifetime learning experience. The more you do it, the more you learn about engaging the audience. I have been constantly trying to master the art. Each event I speak at, makes me realize that speaking in public is also an art, at which, I am just a novice.

    Having worked with various law firms, including Desai & Diwanji and Singhania & Partners, what lessons have you learned throughout your career, and how have these experiences shaped your approach to legal practice?

    I have only learnt that your hard work will get recognized in life. You will always have people around you to pray for you in life, if you are good. I have always maintained good relationships with every Firm I have left. It is a very important learning in life. This has certainly helped me in shaping my legal practice. A legal practitioner must deal with different clients and as an officer of the Court must assist the Court. I believe, my experiences in life have taught me how to interact with clients and make a long-lasting relationship with them. My work in all the past firms has also taught me that it is only your work which will define you.

    Apart from your legal expertise, your profile mentions that you are an insightful writer. When you’re not writing legal pieces, do you have any personal writing projects or genres you enjoy exploring in your free time?

    Frankly speaking, I used to read a lot of fiction. Lately, I don’t get time to read fiction and that is something that I miss.

    As a lawyer with a keen interest in technology, what’s your take on the evolving landscape of privacy and data protection, and how do you think legal professionals can stay ahead in such a dynamic field?

    Intersection of law and technology is always appealing. COVID-19 pandemic taught all the lawyers to accept that intersection. Privacy as a concept is relatively new to India. We are still to see the rules being made under the Digital Data Protection Act, 2023. For legal professionals, it will be my advice that to stay ahead in this dynamic field, they must embrace the change which the Act has brought to India. I am sure that there will be a lot of work which will flow from the Act as it has recognized right of individual to keep his digital data private and talked about the repercussions if sharing of such data leads to any breach.

    As someone who has excelled in both professional and personal life, receiving accolades such as the India Business Leader Award and the Young Alumni Achiever Award, what advice would you offer to young legal professionals aspiring to achieve similar success?

    My advice to young legal minds would be to read, write, laugh, and enjoy life. One must be passionate about her or his work. If law is something, that you are passionate about, I am sure that everything else will follow. It is only work that will take any person ahead in life.

    Get in touch with Saurabh Bindal-

  • In Conversation with: Denis Sadovnikov, Data Protection Officer, Sberbank and External Expert, Consultant and Coach at Data Privacy Office Europe

    In Conversation with: Denis Sadovnikov, Data Protection Officer, Sberbank and External Expert, Consultant and Coach at Data Privacy Office Europe

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

    Was pursuing law pre-planned for you or did it happen by chance?

    Legal profession was my deliberate choice. Since my childhood I have been passionate about my rights, rights of others, human rights, justice and the degree of compatibility of state’s legislation with law.    

    What were the struggles you faced in the beginning?

    I gained my first legal experience when I was a teenager. When I was sixteen I helped my parents in their litigations. It was arduous and disappointing sometimes. I saw incompetent judges, judges who neglected and perverted the law. And I saw plenty of pieces of legislation which were obviously outdated or unjust.

    My family was poor, that is why I started my legal education as military-police cadet (this option is completely paid by the state), this way demanded hard work not only to master the subjects but also to pursue some police duties.

    Additionally, I managed to participate in some legal scientific societies, conferences and provide vulnerable people with legal advice and help for free. During my study I got acquainted with ICRC activities and became true adherent of ICRC and IHL.

    When I graduated from the university, I gave up the career at the police service because the reality there was far from principles of rule of law and human rights priorities. Then it turned out that graduated professionals with the background of police universities are much less demanded on the market.

    That is why I had to develop, approve and demonstrate the highest level of legal professionality continuously. I tried to obtain advanced experience, pursue scientific researches and started working as lecturer in law.            

    According to you Denis, as a law student, where should the focus be on, the hard work on academics or smart work on networking and building a great skill-set?

    I think both elements are important. They complement each other. Networking helps you demonstrate your competence but you should actually have what to demonstrate.

    What are your views on AI or legal tech adoption, what restrictions will it have in the coming years?

    Every technology may be used for good and for evil, particularly, technologies which we currently embrace under AI umbrella term. These technologies are able to improve our life enormously but on the other hand they might affect human societies devastatingly.

    Particular concerns are connected to potential loss of human control, dehumanization of decision-making, surveillance, profiling and manipulation of will. Threats regarding to automation of weapon also should be stressed.

    AI needs regulation as well as we regulate nuclear energy. I believe that we should regulate such powerful technology both on international and domestic level in order to put human first and make technology serve people and uplift humans’ personality, not degrade it, prevent inflicting harm and misuse of AI systems.         

    Denis, you’ve been quite active as a Data Protection Officer since Feb 2022, what are the roles and responsibilities of the same?

    To cut a long story short, I’m responsible for development and maintaining Privacy Management System throughout AI lifecycle, including design stage, collecting data, forming dataset training of the model, its testing and deployment.

    On the one hand I should assess whether we are entitled to use particular data for development of particular model (indicate personal data, assess purposes of processing, define necessary amount of data, minimize data and processing operations, chose appropriate legal ground for processing, provide transparent communication with data subjects, weight up their reasonable expectations and the context of processing, define storage period and destruction mechanism as well as protective measures, etc.).

    On the other hand my role is to assess the possible impact of particular AI solution on data subjects’ rights and freedoms.

    DPO is both the advocate of data subject defending human rights as well as business assistant helping to find and implement solutions which are compliant with law and comfortable for users. Correlating these two points is crucial to implement Privacy by Design.

    Another significant thing is definition of applicable law and rationalizing legal requirements of different jurisdictions. It is also important to be familiar with world-best trends and approaches and be ready to implement them. Additionally, it is worth to be mentioned that DPO should make sure that all employees are aware of data protection issues and able to handle data in accordance with internal policies.

    That is why I spend huge amount of time educating and training our staff to communicate with people.       

    What are the strategies that may help someone to clear the certifications for CIPM, FIP, GDPR DPP and GDPR DPM?

    From my point of view, the best strategy is to combine theory and practice, to educate oneself continuously and try to implement all new knowledge in practice immediately. 

    Denis, can you please share the compliances for AI and legal tech in Russia?

    Russia is prominent by its IT professionals including the field of AI. Currently many small and medium companies are leaving Russia because of political instability, but leaders are in place. These are mainly two hugest companies: Sber (not only Sberbank, but the group of companies on the whole) and Yandex Group. Speaking about legal tech, I’d indicate such companies as Pravo.ru, Kept (former KPMG) Seamless (former CMS), Consultant, Garant and others.   

    As someone who is passionate about pursuing law in Russia, what are brownie points one need to always look out for?

    Russia is European country and belongs to European continental legal tradition. Russian legal system by its nature is an example of civil law jurisdiction based on Roman legal heritage. The composition of system and vast majority of legal institutions are derived from French ones, some from German.

    Influence of English law took place but was not significant. Robust French-fashion frame of law is spoil by some unreasonable derivations and poor enforcement and legal culture. Utmost positivism is a predominant way of thinking among practitioners.

    That is why it is useful to explore Russian law in the context of European jurisprudence, particularly, French.       

    Unfortunately, currently it is not the best time for jurisprudence in Russia. Legal system is not in well fit and it is continuing to be erased. Almost each new piece of legislation undermines coherence and predictability of legal order. It seems like Russian rulers are trying to follow all bad examples of Lon Fuller’s Rex.

    True sense and purposes of law are quite frequently perverted and misused during the application and enforcement. Independent judiciary does not exist. Truly speaking, the rule of law at all does not exist.

    We need a new generation of lawyers who could reinforce rule of law, priority of internationally recognised principles, universal human rights, predictability and coherence of legal system.   

    Lastly, any advice for our young legal professionals?

    Stick to your principles and aways remember that lawyer’s mission is to protect human rights and uphold rule of law and justice rather than merely apply legislation. You should be able to find law behind sophisticated and controversial language of legal texts.

    It is up to you to be creators rather than executors and improve your legal system and legal environment.

    -Denis Sadovnikov

    Get in touch with Denis Sadovnikov-

  • In Conversation with: Ananya Patil, Data Privacy Analyst at Kazient Privacy Experts, CIPP/E

    In Conversation with: Ananya Patil, Data Privacy Analyst at Kazient Privacy Experts, CIPP/E

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

    What motivated you to choose law and how do you see the competition since the time you started pursuing your career?


    I remember back in high school, my dad asked me to pick a career path. I didn’t know what it’d be at that time but I wanted something that’d combine both my passions, strategy & public speaking. When I did pick law, it wasn’t so much for altruistic reasons as wanting to do something intellectually stimulating, that I’d really enjoy. 

    I don’t believe you truly discover an industry until you’re neck deep in it. Popular media would have you believe law’s all sunshine & rainbows but there’s just as much trudging through the trenches before you get to the meadows. 

    To that end, it’s highly competitive. Wanting out of the rat race means deeply honing your craft, developing highly effective & transferable

     skills & often, specialising in a single niche. If you’re able to do that & enjoy it, the competition becomes healthy & the profession rewarding!

    There was a time Ananya when we had no advancements in terms of tech tools for legal projects, now it has changed, what are your views on the same?

    I have to be honest, I was blessed enough to enter the profession when indexing apps & research softwares were a thing & I’m all the more thankful for it. 

    There’s a lot to be said about legal tech. In a number of ways, it’s revolutionised the way we get things done, more so in this era of remote work. The automation & efficiency has led to increased client satisfaction which lends itself to greater profitability & wider market reach. 

    However, we’re talking about tools at the end of the day. A sword is only as good as the man who wields it. It’s how lawyers leverage the tech available to them that ultimately determines their true utility. 

    Ananya, our audience wants to know what are the advantages and disadvantages for a Non-Nlu Student?

    Ah the self-limiting titles we impose upon ourselves! I always had my sights set on the NLUs. Everyone I spoke to, everything I read, had led me to believe that was the only way to go. So when due to a rough period in my life, I couldn’t go to one, despite qualifying for one of the best NLUs in the country, I felt lost. 

    For a huge chunk of time, I struggled with a strange sort of handicapping disappointment. The thought of graduating from a lesser known university can undermine your confidence. But knowing what I do now, I wouldn’t get too hung up on the stigma. 

    The only merit NLUs have over non-NLUs is the launchpad they provide to your career in terms of perceived value & the opportunity to network with other budding lawyers & professors who perhaps share the same amount of passion as you. Beyond that it’s really each man to his own. 

    The advantage of being a non-NLU graduate is it forces you out of your comfort zone. You’re not spoon-fed the best resources. You empower yourself, through observation & error. You go beyond the bare minimum, adding more job-ready skills & achievements to your repertoire. It teaches you to become more enterprising. It’s a long winded journey but the hard work pays off multifold eventually. 

    Do you think Ananya that these new aspects such as NFT’s, Blockchain etc violate the standards of privacy and secrecy?

    Privacy legislations, from their inception, weren’t drafted keeping blockchains & NFTs in mind. For that reason, while I don’t believe they’re averse to privacy per se, I do believe there’s a strong need to rethink our regulations to keep up. 

    As things currently stand, NFTs & blockchain technology may provide a strong illusion of anonymity, but the inherent risks to privacy can’t be overlooked. Data protection guarantees like the right to be forgotten don’t extend themselves to blockchain autonomously, the standard of cybersecurity currently deployed to protect NFTs is dubious at best & identity theft in this space is a legitimate concern.

    Striking a balance between steadily growing technology & the delicate boundaries of privacy might just be the solution. 

    Any specific roadmap you followed for the IAPP certification programme?


    IAPP provides comprehensive, albeit sometimes confusing, guidelines on how to prepare for their certifications exams. Where most people get stuck is understanding the practical application of things. You see, IAPP tests you, not on how much you can memorise & learn but what you can apply & help operationalise. And the textbook only goes so far with that. 

    The roadmap I followed was learning with a mentor. Your journey becomes so much easier when you have someone to show you the ropes. It really comes down to doing things the right way. Do you just want to pass an exam for the sake of it? Or do you want to learn how things are done so you can do your job properly? One gets you a piece of paper that can only get your foot in the door & the other gets you the role, the promotion, the pay hike & the credibility. 

    AI will take the job of Lawyers, how far do you think this will happen? Or Maybe you think that has already started happening?


    Law, at its very core, is innately human. AI is an aid, not a solution. While indispensable in its utility, I don’t believe it’ll ever replace lawyers.

    That said, the tech we use today does cut into a huge chunk of the market that was traditionally sourced by entry-level workforce. However, I like to look at it as an inevitable but temporary impediment to demand, that will ultimately create more opportunities for lawyers to step away from menial tasks & come into more skillset rich roles.

    AI can help you draft, monitor, recommend & even predict, but it’s ultimately dependent on human judgment to bring it to fruition & I don’t see that changing anytime soon. 

    If not a lawyer, what Ananya Patil would have been in life?

    I’d love to be an author! There’s something about putting pen to paper that’s so gratifying. I’d love to play with words, weave emotions into them & tell stories. 

    Some advice for our young law professionals?

    Look at yourself as a business. You are after all, a brand in & of yourself. Like every business, you need to invest in yourself to grow. It’s a skillset based market.

    What skills can you pick up to cater to the demand? If no one’s buying your product, you’re not targeting their needs effectively.

    What tweaks can you make to your CV? Good customer service often births resounding word of mouth. Is your client happy with your work? 

    Most people don’t realise they can create opportunities for themselves. That’s where you can gain an edge. Network & observe.

    What problems can you solve? Being a great lawyer is seldom only about the law. Yet, that’s where the majority gets hung up. Look beyond the conventional & brainstorm ways to differentiate yourself. 

    Get in touch with Ananya Patil-