Super Lawyer

Tag: Symbiosis Law School Pune

  • “There are quite a few challenges. IP, especially prosecution of applications, has become highly commoditized and almost become a packaged service, with costs being a race to the bottom. A lot of the advice that we see is very vanilla advice without real time being spent to determine what is best for the client’s business needs and goals”- Bharadwaj Jaishankar, Partner, at IndusLaw

    “There are quite a few challenges. IP, especially prosecution of applications, has become highly commoditized and almost become a packaged service, with costs being a race to the bottom. A lot of the advice that we see is very vanilla advice without real time being spent to determine what is best for the client’s business needs and goals”- Bharadwaj Jaishankar, Partner, at IndusLaw

    This Interview has been published by Pragya Chandni and The SuperLawyer Team

    Could you share with us what initially sparked your interest in intellectual property law, and how did you decide to pursue it as a career?

    I was lucky enough to get an internship, in my 4th year of law school, with K&S Partners (a leading IP firm in India). I had dabbled in some IP work in my previous internships, and my interest around brands and how they are protected and commercialized was piqued. However, it was at K&S Partners where this interest really became a passion. Based on my internships at K&S Partners, and the type of IP matters and issues I was exposed to, I was clear that I wanted to build my career within IP. I was fortunate enough to get an opportunity to join K&S Partners upon graduation. In my career so far, I have made it a point to get different perspectives on IP, right from working with boutique IP works to working in house, in an IP role, to now working with a full service firm. This all-round approach and experience, particularly working as an in-house counsel, helps me tremendously in my role at IndusLaw. 

    With your extensive experience across various law firms and organizations, could you highlight a particularly memorable case or project that significantly shaped your understanding of intellectual property law?

    There have been several memorable matters I was lucky enough to be a part of and it will be difficult to pinpoint one specific project. That said, working on geographical indication (GI) matters, for the Government of India and for foreign GI owners, was incredibly important and special. GIs, unlike other IPs, are collective communal rights and require a slightly different mindset. I would also say that my stint as an in-house counsel afforded me some incredible opportunities and moments to learn different facets of IP law, including from a commercial lens. The learnings, as an in-house counsel, and seeing IP from the other side of the fence, was an immense learning experience; something which I cherish a lot. I would also say that working, in the past, and, even now, on matters that intersect with technology and IP has been extremely rewarding with a lot of learning opportunities. 

    Given your role as a visiting faculty at a leading law university and your participation in national and international conferences, how do you approach staying updated with the latest developments and trends in intellectual property?

    The simple answer is that time must be made to read and be in touch with new developments and precedents. It is easy to say that calendars are full and there is no time to read. However, if one really wants to keep up-to-date on new case laws and developments, time needs to be carved out. Especially in IP, where issues can be grey, and oftentimes  case laws can be seemingly conflicting with each other; that effort to read and stay updated is a must. I do ensure that, at least during work days, I try and get about 45 mins to read news and key case law updates. On weekends and holidays, I do take out more time. Additionally, within our team, we have a system of daily news updates, that are relevant to our practice, which are shared every evening, which I ensure I read before logging for the day. Another important aspect is also to speak regularly with your peers, clients and, even foreign counsels, to understand trends and developments. It, therefore, does take a combination of sources, coupled with a dedication and discipline to keep learning and staying updated. I also find that, in interacting with universities and students, one can also learn and stay updated as students are also equally updated with new trends and cases and it, therefore, does become a fantastic two way street.     

    Transitioning from working with leading law firms to being the IP and Innovation Counsel for a global FMCG organization must have been quite a shift. What insights did you gain during this transition, and how did it influence your perspective on intellectual property issues?

    The shift from private practice to an in house counsel was certainly very interesting with a lot of learnings and mindset shifts. A couple of the biggest shifts included learning how to become a commercial enabler and adjusting risk profiles. Being an in-house counsel required me to be a business partner, who was incidentally a lawyer. You get into a position where you can’t present options to other teams and say “choose which works for you”. You have to take a call, and that means collaborating and understanding commercial needs. This stint as an in-house counsel is immensely helpful to me now when I work with clients- the idea being an extended arm of their team or an extended arm to their in-house legal team. More and more, especially in IP, clients require external counsels to help them make a decision, rather than just presenting options. This has been one of the biggest shifts in approach for me- how can I, as an external counsel, help my clients meet their business goals.

    As someone deeply involved in protecting and enforcing IP assets, what are some common challenges you encounter in this field, and how do you typically address them?

    There are quite a few challenges. IP, especially prosecution of applications, has become highly commoditized and almost become a packaged service, with costs being a race to the bottom. A lot of the advice that we see is very vanilla advice without real time being spent to determine what is best for the client’s business needs and goals. We also see clients viewing IP as an expense, rather than as an asset which will mature over time. It isn’t uncommon to see IP being compromised or undervalued at the altar of costs. If India really wants to take advantage of the tremendous innovation and talent currently being seen, IP needs to be viewed maturely and beyond just as an expense outlay. This also calls for clients to be smart about who they engage with for their IP advice and strategy. IP forms the backbone of almost all businesses and it isn’t just about filing an application. A strategic mature approach needs to be brought by external counsels when counselling clients on their IP strategies.    

    With your passion for brand building and extensive experience in advising on brand-related matters, could you share some strategies you find particularly effective in nurturing and safeguarding brands in today’s competitive landscape?

    As mentioned before, taking the time to understand clients, their business and their objectives should form the basis of any IP strategy. There are so many intricacies and nuances, even to something as simple as filing a trade mark application. Fitting the legal strategy into the four walls of business objectives is really important. Another bit is not assuming that external counsels know more than clients or in-house legal teams. It pays to listen more. Part of our job is also to get clients to do some homework as well and get them to look at IP as an asset. For me personally, the focus is on building trust and reliance with the client and getting clients comfortable in our interactions and dealings. Today’s landscape does require a great amount of flexibility and transparency in our approaches. 

    Lastly, drawing from your wealth of experience, what advice would you offer to fresh graduates aspiring to build a career in intellectual property law and commercial law?

    I have a few pieces of advice: 

    1. Be ready to put in the graft in the first few years and avoid having an entitlement approach. The first few years in the profession are particularly taxing and there is no substitute other than hard work and graft. 
    1. Invest time in an organisation and avoid making quick shifts from workplace to workplace. The longer one stays at an organisation, especially the right place and with the right approach and attitude, can offer tremendous growth opportunities down the line. 
    1. Take the time to learn about the practice, the landscape of firms and how IP is viewed by law firms and in-house counsels, and then make an informed choice on how to build a career in IP law. In today’s world, the more you are informed (and the more the prep work), the easier it is to figure out the best path to take. 

    Get in touch with Bharadwaj Jaishankar-

  • “Trust yourself the most and have the resilience and faith to shape your career based on your ambitions.” – Tanvi Khanna Agarwal, Founding Partner at TSM LEGAL

    “Trust yourself the most and have the resilience and faith to shape your career based on your ambitions.” – Tanvi Khanna Agarwal, Founding Partner at TSM LEGAL

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

    You’ve had an impressive journey from graduating at Symbiosis Law School to becoming a Founding Partner at TSM Legal. Could you share some insights into how you started your career and the pivotal moments that led you to where you are today?

    I graduated in the year 2013 and that was the start of learning and understanding how business and legal go hand in hand to scale up an organization. I started working as a Legal Officer at Jyothy Labs. Like any fresh graduate out of college, I was very enthusiastic to start a job at such a well-known FMCG Manufacturing company. As a Legal Officer, I worked on several legal areas such as commercial contracts, intellectual property rights, employment laws and compliance. It was a great learning experience.

    Even today, I still remember and keep in mind the things I learned while working at Jyothy Labs. The General Counsel at my time at JLL is still my mentor and I look up to him for guidance and solutions. Jyothy Labs is the place where I learned that maintaining long-lasting relationships with people is the most important thing, business and money are dynamic. 

    This was my main focus when I started TSM Legal in 2018; to help people forge stronger organizations, build relations, and grow together. Working as an in-house counsel, and then, consequently, in a law firm, helped me understand the gap in the industry. Start-ups and many other companies do not have their own legal teams and it is a challenge for them to avail quality yet affordable legal services. On the other hand many law firms are unable to act as an in-house counsel for a business without the necessary business background. TSM Legal was thus started with the mission to bridge this gap, where we provide affordable solutions being your “external in-house counsel” based on our seamless blend of legal and business knowledge. 

    Could you highlight some key learnings from your previous roles at companies like Tech Mahindra Limited and Legalogic Consulting that have significantly influenced your perspective as a legal professional?

    My next job after Jyothy Labs was at LegaLogic Consulting in Pune. This was my first job as an external counsel at a law firm. For me, working in a company as an in-house counsel and working at a law firm are two sides of the same coin; the coin here being legal knowledge and an in-depth understanding of the business that you are supporting. However, just like two sides have different perspectives, I feel that the same is reflected in these two roles. Working at Legalogic was, perhaps, one of the most significant decisions of my life. I got to experience how a law firm functions, how roles are divided, and of course, not to forget, the urgent TATs! Nevertheless, I learned to work efficiently, quickly and manage timelines for different clients across time zones simultaneously, which is a very important trait for any external lawyer. 

    After working at LegaLogic for 2 years, I knew it was time to transition back to an in-house role, which is how I joined as a Legal Counsel at Tech Mahindra. Tech Mahindra was definitely a step up in my career and working here is an experience of a lifetime. I got the experience of working on high value deals across geographies. Working in a conglomerate, you have to understand the many facades of how a company is run. For me, this is where I learnt how to manage business expectations, facilitate a dialogue amongst all stakeholders (Because, trust me, there are a lot), and provide quick legal solutions to not hamper the revenue generation.  

    Given your extensive experience in dealing with marquee companies in sectors like information technology, e-commerce, and fintech, could you share some unique challenges you’ve encountered and how you navigated through them?

    Running a law firm has been an incredible journey filled with unique challenges and marquee rewarding experiences. One of the toughest hurdles I encountered when I started TSM Legal was acquiring and retaining clients. Of course, I did have the support of some incredible people, and of course my family’s constant motivation. 

    By working with all kinds of clients- whether solo entrepreneurs, SMEs or MNCs and prioritizing quick and seamless closures of documents, I kept growing my network which expanded the trusted client base of the firm. 

    Another hurdle I encountered was making business owners/company management understand the importance of the legal function. It is said that ‘Legal is an Obstacle’, but that’s definitely not the case. This is arguably one of the most substantial aspects that will make or break a business. The firm tries to provide a suitable solution but not everyone is ready to take on the essential legal aspects that will protect their business in the long run. Hence, we need to ensure that all organizations and their owners understand the evident need of legal consultation to secure their interests.  

    Moreover, maintaining a harmonious work-life balance has emerged as a continuous challenge, while being the mother of a toddler at one hand as well as meeting the demands of a growing law practice and building a solid team. Despite these challenges, the journey of building and growing my law firm has been incredibly fulfilling, and I’m abundantly grateful each day for the lessons learnt along the way. 

    After completing your law degree, your first job was with Jyothy Laboratories. How did you decide that you wanted to pursue an in-house role, and what advice would you give to new entrants on choosing their career paths?

    An in-house lawyer is multi-faceted and gets to experience and practice many areas of law without being limited to any one specialization. Specialization of course is important, but I believe diversification and learning about different practice areas is equally, if not more important, at the start of your career. This helps to understand in depth what skills are required to be a great lawyer (which I have covered in detail in the last question). As a fresher I got to understand how a big company/business operates, the ins and outs of finance, sales, marketing, compliances and what is expected from the legal team of the Company. As an in-house lawyer you are expected to facilitate quick closure of contracts to enable revenue generation, facilitate compliances and internal audits, while also ensuring that the Company’s legal rights are protected at every step.

    In your opinion, what are the most significant legal challenges facing startups today, and how do you tailor your services to help them overcome these hurdles?

    Startups today face a myriad of legal challenges that require tailored solutions for success. From safeguarding intellectual property to navigating complex regulatory landscapes, legal service providers play a critical role in helping startups overcome these hurdles. One of the initial challenges that Start-ups may face is ensuring that they enter into robust founding documents. Partnership agreements, founder’s agreements, shareholders’ agreements and such are crucial legal frameworks that define the foundation of any organization. Lack of such documents can create crucial problems in the future, at the time of funding or IPO. Another important aspect that the start-up owners fail to recognize is the presence of strong employment documents. These documents protect the intellectual property, client confidential information and ensure the employees and consultants of an organization adhere to their obligations.

    By offering specialized expertise in areas such as intellectual property, employment laws, regulatory compliance, and contract negotiation, TSM LEGAL guides startups and even established companies through the intricacies of aggressively protecting their ventures. Additionally, providing startup-friendly pricing models, educational resources, regular newsletters and strategic business-friendly advice enables TSM LEGAL to support startups at every stage of their journey. By offering customized legal solutions and strategic guidance, we empower startups to navigate legal complexities effectively, mitigate risks, and achieve their business objectives while remaining compliant with applicable laws and regulations.

    What role do you think corporate social responsibility (CSR) should play in the legal strategies of companies today, and how do you incorporate CSR considerations into your advisory work?

    Incorporating corporate social responsibility (CSR) into the legal strategies of companies today is imperative for several compelling reasons. Firstly, CSR initiatives play a pivotal role in enhancing a company’s reputation and brand image by showcasing its dedication to ethical business practices, social causes, and environmental sustainability. This fosters increased customer loyalty, heightened employee engagement, and augmented investor confidence. Secondly, integrating CSR into legal strategies aids in risk management by mitigating the potential hazards associated with non-compliance with social, environmental, and ethical standards. Proactive engagement in CSR endeavors can minimize the likelihood of legal disputes, regulatory scrutiny, and reputational damage. 

    Moreover, addressing stakeholder expectations is crucial, as customers, employees, investors, and communities increasingly anticipate companies to address social and environmental issues beyond profit generation. Lastly, prioritizing CSR can confer a competitive advantage in the marketplace by differentiating companies from competitors, attracting top talent, and accessing new markets. Thus, integrating CSR into legal strategies not only enhances a company’s competitive positioning and market value but also promotes social progress and environmental stewardship. This integration involves various key approaches, including legal compliance and risk assessment, policy development and implementation, stakeholder engagement and collaboration, due diligence and supply chain management, etc. By embracing these approaches, companies can demonstrate their commitment to responsible business practices, elevate their reputation, and contribute meaningfully to sustainable development.

    Outside of your legal career, what personal hobbies or interests do you pursue, and how do they contribute to your professional life?

    I am really fond of reading- both fiction and non-fiction books. It really helps me expand my thinking capabilities, thereby making me more knowledgeable and confident. Apart from reading, I am a budding artist and have taken up Acrylic painting on canvas since the last 3 years. I am in the process of exploring new painting mediums as well. Painting provides me with the much needed break and peace of mind from work. It is like meditation for me, from the complexities of corporate work, just thinking about the colors and how they blend beautifully on the canvas to create a distinctive piece of art. Lastly, I love swimming as it gives me the stamina and discipline to juggle the various aspects of my life with precision- being a corporate lawyer and entrepreneur working odd hours to support my clients across geographies.

    My hobbies of reading, painting, and swimming contribute to my professional life by promoting stress management, enhancing creativity and problem-solving skills, improving communication abilities, maintaining physical health, and fostering work-life balance.

    Reflecting on your journey thus far, what valuable lessons or insights would you share with aspiring lawyers or entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in the legal industry?

    I believe the most important lesson for any aspiring lawyer or entrepreneur is self-belief and the fait that you can move mountains. Trust yourself the most and have the resilience and faith to shape your career based on your ambitions.

    • Develop Strong Communication Skills: Effective communication is fundamental to success in law. Aspiring lawyers should focus on honing their written and oral communication skills, including clarity, persuasiveness, and the ability to tailor their message to different audiences.
    • Cultivate Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills: Law involves analyzing complex issues, identifying relevant facts, and applying legal principles to reach sound conclusions. Aspiring lawyers should practice critical thinking and analytical reasoning through activities like solving legal problems, engaging in debates, and reading case law.
    • Develop Resilience and Adaptability: Legal practice can be challenging and unpredictable. Aspiring lawyers and entrepreneurs should cultivate resilience and adaptability to navigate setbacks, failures, and changes in circumstances. Developing a growth mindset and the ability to learn from setbacks is essential for long-term success in the legal profession.
    • Develop Time Management and Organizational Skills: Legal practice often involves managing multiple tasks, deadlines, and priorities. Aspiring lawyers should develop effective time management and organizational skills to stay on top of their workload, meet deadlines, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
    • Cultivate Empathy and Interpersonal Skills: The ability to understand and empathize with clients, colleagues, and adversaries is crucial in the legal profession. Lawyers should cultivate strong interpersonal skills, including active listening, empathy, and conflict resolution, to build rapport, negotiate effectively, and resolve disputes.
    • Stay True to Your Values and Passions: Finally, aspiring lawyers should pursue a legal career that aligns with their values, interests, and passions. Choosing a practice area that resonates with them and allows them to make a positive impact can lead to greater fulfillment and success in their legal careers.

    By embracing these lessons, aspiring lawyers can lay a solid foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in the legal profession.

    Get in touch with Tanvi Khanna Agarwal-

  • “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-

  • “If I were to offer advice to the next generation aspiring to build a successful career in law, it’ll be to focus on three essential principles – adaptability, continuous learning and ethical grounding.” – Raunak Bapna, Senior Legal Counsel at Philips

    “If I were to offer advice to the next generation aspiring to build a successful career in law, it’ll be to focus on three essential principles – adaptability, continuous learning and ethical grounding.” – Raunak Bapna, Senior Legal Counsel at Philips

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

    Raunak, could you please take us through your journey from college to where you are today? How was your experience at Symbiosis Law School, and what inspired you to pursue a career in law? Can you share how you started your career after graduating and the pivotal moments that shaped your professional trajectory?

    As a first-generation lawyer, my journey into the legal profession was not inspired by family tradition but by a keen observation of the law’s impact as an outsider. My time at Symbiosis Law School, Pune (SLS) was transformative, providing me with a great academic foundation.

    Upon graduation, I joined a mid-size full-service law firm where I spent 7 years. This period was not only formative but also deeply influential, helping me grow into the professional that I am today. It was here that I developed a nuanced appreciation for the law’s intricacies and its real-world applications. The challenges I faced and the successes I celebrated at the firm built my confidence and sharpened my expertise.

    My subsequent transition to in-house roles began with Ola Electric, a multi-billion dollar start-up at the forefront of India’s electric mobility space. Joining Ola Electric in its nascent stages was a ground-breaking shift. I witnessed and contributed to pivotal moments: from the construction of the factory to the launch of its first electric two-wheeler. Following my tenure at Ola, I joined Tala, an American fintech company, as their primary counsel for the India region. Tala, already a successful entity in Kenya, Mexico and the Philippines, was looking to replicate its success in India – its newest market at the time. My role involved establishing legal frameworks that accommodated the local regulations while supporting Tala’s mission of financial inclusion.

    Most recently, I joined Philips as their counsel for the Indian Subcontinent region – where I am tasked with guiding the organization through the legalities of the healthcare and technology sectors while also supporting Philips’ mission of improving billions of lives through meaningful innovation. 

    Your role at Philips involves managing legal affairs across the Indian Subcontinent. What are some unique challenges you’ve faced in navigating legal landscapes in different regions, and how do you ensure consistency in legal practices across borders?

    That’s a great question. One of the unique challenges you face is the variance in legal standards and practices across different countries. For instance, the regulatory requirements in India can differ significantly from those in neighboring countries like Bangladesh or Sri Lanka, particularly in areas such as consumer protection, data privacy, and healthcare regulations.

    To effectively manage these differences, you rely on a combination of strategies. First, you maintain a robust network of local legal experts in each country. Second, you leverage technology to streamline communication and document management across countries. Lastly, you place a strong emphasis on proactive compliance. This involves not just adhering to current laws but anticipating potential legislative changes that could impact our operations. 

    Transitioning from a law firm to in-house counsel often involves a shift in perspective. What are some of the major differences you’ve noticed, and how has this transition influenced your approach to legal counsel?

    Transitioning from a law firm to an in-house role indeed marked a significant shift in my perspective and approach towards legal practice. At a law firm, the focus is often on providing specialized legal advice to multiple clients on a case-by-case basis – with a broad spectrum of legal issues presented by each client.

    In contrast, as in-house counsel, my role extends beyond legal counsel to being a strategic partner for the business. Here, the focus shifts towards understanding the business’ objectives comprehensively and integrating legal considerations into the broader business strategy. One of the major differences that I’ve personally noticed is the need for a more proactive approach to legal issues. Rather than reacting to legal challenges as they may arise, my role involves anticipating potential legal risks and implementing strategies to mitigate them before they impact the business.

    Another significant difference is the depth of involvement in one organization’s operations and its success. This deep-dive into the business also fosters a greater alignment of the legal function with the organization’s long-term strategies.

    As to how this transition has influenced my approach, I’d say it has done so in several ways. I’ve become more integrative in my thinking, always considering the legal implications of business decisions not just from a compliance standpoint but from a strategic and operational perspective as well. I’ve also cultivated a more collaborative approach, working closely with various departments to ensure that legal considerations are embedded in the early stages of business planning and decision-making.

    Overall, the move to an in-house role has greatly enriched my professional experience, enhancing my ability to contribute not only legally but also strategically to the growth and success of the organization. 

    Apart from your professional endeavors, do you have any personal hobbies or interests that you enjoy pursuing outside of work? How do you find balance between your personal and professional life?

    As someone who has a hard time switching off from work mode, it’s a continuous challenge, but I try. My love for cricket, movies, and travelling provides me with much-needed downtime when the legal world starts to overwhelm.

    Finding this balance between personal and professional life is a bit like being a juggler at a circus – it requires patience, timing and occasionally, picking up things that I’ve dropped. But it’s always worth the effort to keep all the balls in the air. 

    Reflecting on your journey so far, what advice would you give to the current generation aspiring to build a successful career in law, especially in the dynamic landscape of corporate counsel?

    If I were to offer advice to the next generation aspiring to build a successful career in law, it’ll be to focus on three essential principles – adaptability, continuous learning and ethical grounding.

    Adaptability is crucial – being able to pivot and embrace change is not just helpful but necessary. Continuous learning is equally important – staying updated and informed with the latest legal developments, understanding new business models, and even gaining knowledge in related fields such as technology can vastly engage your capability to provide comprehensive counsel. Lastly, maintain a strong ethical foundation – as you’ll often find yourselves balancing business objectives with legal requirements.

    I’m no expert at this but building a successful career in law is more of a marathon than a sprint. The journey is long and sometimes daunting, even frustrating, but immensely fulfilling for those who are committed. 

    As a senior legal counsel, you’ve undoubtedly faced complex legal issues. How do you approach problem-solving in such situations, and what role does collaboration play in finding effective solutions?

    One fundamental aspect of my approach is recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all, or straight-jacket formula, for solving legal issues. Each challenge is unique and demands a solution that considers the specific circumstances and needs of the business. This understanding drives my problem-solving process: identifying possible outcomes, assessing the risks associated with each, and weighing them against the legal and business objectives of the organization.

    Collaboration is integral to this process. Legal issues rarely exist in a vacuum—they intersect with various aspects of business operations, from finance and human resources to marketing and beyond. Engaging with stakeholders across departments not only provides additional perspectives but also ensures that the solutions developed are comprehensive and pragmatic.

    Could you share with us the importance of internships during the early stages of a legal career? How did your own internships shape your professional journey, and what advice would you give to law students or young professionals seeking meaningful internships to kickstart their careers?

    Internships are invaluable as they offer a first-hand glimpse into the practical aspects of law that are often not addressed in the classroom. My own internships were instrumental in shaping my professional journey, providing me with a foundation of real-world experiences that I could build upon in my subsequent roles.

    For law students seeking meaningful internships, my advice would be to approach this search with both openness and strategic focus. Be open to exploring diverse legal fields and organizations, from small firms to large multinational corporations. Each setting offers unique learning opportunities and can help clarify your career interests and goals.

    Simultaneously, be strategic in your approach by seeking internships that align with your long-term career aspirations. Research about firms or organizations that are known for their work in your areas of interest and strive to connect with professionals working there. Networking can be a powerful tool in securing internships; don’t hesitate to reach out to alumni, professors, or family friends who might help with introductions or advice.

    Get in touch with Raunak Bapna-

  • “The IBC is a significant reform and its successful implementation can bring resolution to the stress situation in the country’s financial system”- Puneet Yadav, Founding Partner- Samaya Law Chambers

    “The IBC is a significant reform and its successful implementation can bring resolution to the stress situation in the country’s financial system”- Puneet Yadav, Founding Partner- Samaya Law Chambers

    This Interview has been published by Pragya Chandni and The SuperLawyer Team

    Could you share a bit about your journey into law and how you decided to pursue it as a career, especially with your educational background at National Law Institute University and Symbiosis Law School?

    My father played a significant role in guiding me to pursue law considering my personality. Then, I was always keen to pursue law since my school days and at that time law was not sought for profession as it is now. We did not have CLAT in the year 2003 and had to fill up individual forms for each college. I was fortunate enough to get through B.A.LL. B course in Symbiosis Law School, Pune. I was inclined for post graduate education and thereafter, I appeared for CLAT LLM and I got through National Law Institute University, Bhopal. It’s a wonderful experience to independently live in a hostel which makes you a confident individual to deal with every situation in your life without the support of family. I not only got to polish my legal and individual skills at the law schools but also got to make great friends during both the courses who are budding colleagues and make the legal practice feel like home.  

    You’ve had a diverse experience, from working in top legal firms to founding your own practice at Samaya Law. What inspired you to take the entrepreneurial route, and how has this journey been for you?

    I am thankful to all the law firms, their partners, and senior advocates who I worked with through my journey. I got immense experience and guidance from them which helped me build my independent practice. Since beginning, I always wanted to have my independent practice as it gives a sense of accomplishment to me, however, working in a firm setup can be equally beneficial considering the fact that the initial few years of independent practice take a toll on you mentally and financially. I was lucky enough to have my own set of clients who trusted in me and helped keep afloat in initial years of practice which is significant to keep you going. The journey of independent practice is full of peaks and valleys as its both demanding and rewarding profession. You have a thrill of victory which is unmatched and gives you a sense of pride and satisfaction and doing public interest litigation can give added satisfaction by making a difference in the lives of people. The downfall being the stress and expectation not only towards yourself but also to Clients and Judges. However, this profession can teach you resilience, perseverance and the importance of hard work which makes you a valuable legal professional.

    Your practice involves appearing before various courts and tribunals, including the and the National Company Law Tribunal and Supreme Court of India. Could you highlight a memorable or challenging case you’ve handled and the key takeaways from that experience?

    After my stint with law firms, I started my independent practice and after a few years started our law firm Samaya Law along with my partner Sourabh Gupta, Advocate and we  completed 10 years in June, 2023. We appear before all courts, tribunal across India. However, being based in Delhi gives an opportunity to physically appear before the Hon’ble Supreme Court and Appellate Tribunals. Although, now the Supreme Court also works on Hybrid mode which helps all the counsels across India to get remote access to appear and argue their cases. We recently argued a case under the maternity benefit act wherein the Petitioner was being denied maternity benefit as her contract with the government body had come to an end. In a landmark judgment, a three Judge bench of the Supreme Court in Dr. Kavita Yadav v The Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Department & Others (17 August 2023) held that if a woman has worked in an establishment for 80 days, she would be eligible for full maternity benefits, even if such benefits exceed the term of contract. We also made a significant petition for post-graduate doctors during the COVID-19 period when they were being sent across states for their practical examination as per National Medical Commission and Diplomate of National Board guidelines. The Supreme Court intervened and directed the NMC and NBE to conduct examinations within the state so that the post graduate doctors do not have to cross state as per directives of the government of India. This brought relief to more than 1 lakhs doctors who were appearing for the examination. Each forum has its own way of working, before the Supreme Court you only get 2-3 minutes to explain your brief at the admission hearing so you need to prepare your list of dates and synopsis thoroughly and be precise with your arguments on factual and legal aspects to catch the eye of the  Judge.

    With a significant focus on drafting and vetting petitions across different legal domains, could you share some insights into your approach to crafting effective legal documents and the importance of precision in this aspect of your work?

    My advice would be to keep your focus on the facts of the case because facts forming part of the pleadings can never change and highlighting relevant facts of the case can bring life into a dead brief. It is crucial to draft pleadings that are short, persuasive, point blank and not overstated. It’s best to work on all kinds of pleadings before the trial court and High Court in the initial years of your practice which can be beneficial when you handle matters before the Appellate Courts and Supreme Court. Most part of building up a case happens at the trial court and if the pleadings are not drafted, covering the facts accurately can bring significant damage to the case as it becomes difficult to introduce new facts or legal grounds in support of the brief at appellate stage of the proceedings. The pleadings should ensure that all the relevant facts are covered on the issues to be framed and lead evidence on the said issues to support your case. In a case done by us the Hon’ble Delhi High Court in a suit (CS(OS) No.553 /2016 order dated 21.05.2019) dealing with recovery of possession of an immovable property and a counterclaim for recovery of over Rs. 5 crore had due to lacuna in the drafting and not claiming the relief for recovery of possession made an observation “This is a classic textbook case of, how not to draft a plaint, which should be taught in law colleges and to young lawyers so that such bloopers in drafting of pleadings, damaging to one’s own client, are avoided.”. The pleadings have to be factually fortified and legally formulated to bring forth your best case. 

    Having engaged in extensive research across civil, criminal, and commercial laws, could you discuss a specific area of law that you find particularly intriguing or challenging, and why?

    The latest insolvency and bankruptcy code, 2016 has brought a fresh dimension to the insolvency law including bringing new questions of law which need to be answered both by the Lawyers and Judges. The fact that the code has been modified five times in the last five years including several judgments which have been passed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court itself shows the way it is evolving and which makes it challenging. The IBC is a significant reform and its successful implementation can bring resolution to the stress situation in the country’s financial system. We constantly support the Insolvency Resolution Professionals and companies on advising them on the intricacies of the Code and its implementation. 

    Your involvement in arbitration, both domestic and international, is notable. Can you share a bit about your experiences with arbitration cases and any unique challenges or differences you’ve encountered in handling international arbitrations?

    With the introduction of Arbitration and Conciliation Amendment Act, 2015 the arbitration proceedings must be completed within a time bound manner and which has brought drastic improvement in the overall process of arbitration. The constant queries of the clients as to the time limit within which dispute would be resolved has been answered by way of the said amendment and also by bringing in Schedule IV with the amendment of 2015 the fee being charged by an arbitrator has been regulated making the whole process efficient and cost effective for the client. Thus, we advise clients to keep arbitration clauses in the agreement so that the disputes, if any, can be resolved in an efficient and timely manner. However, it is particularly important where the parties (or their assets) are in different jurisdictions or where the disputes might give rise to complex and technical issues. We recently did an international commercial arbitration under the ICC rules where the seat of arbitration was Narobi, Kenya. The arbitrators in such arbitrations are chosen by the arbitration rules which provide for a method of appointment of arbitrators in case the agreement does not name the arbitration. The cost between a sole arbitrator and three arbitrations can vary considerably in international arbitration including the efficiency within which arbitration can be completed as there is lesser need for coordination between the arbitration. However, high value and complex arbitration would be better with the panel of 3 arbitrators as they can give more insight into the decision-making process. The timelines set in the international arbitrations are strictly adhered to and any deviations are subject to high cost awarded against the defaulting party including closing their rights if no reasonable reasons have been given by the parties. In choosing the seat of arbitration, the parties should consider the effect that this might have upon the conduct of the arbitration and the potential enforceability of the ultimate award and selecting a state which is party to the New York Convention as the seat of any arbitration, provides parties considerable scope for the enforcement of their awards.

    Given your wealth of experience, what advice would you offer to law graduates who are just starting their careers in the legal field? What key lessons have you learned that you believe could benefit those embarking on their legal journey?

    I would advise all the young graduates to learn the basic skills of drafting and research in their initial years along with arguing matters before the courts whenever they get an opportunity. The key would be to accumulate as much knowledge as possible from your seniors, arguing counsels and observing proceedings before the courts. In addition, always keep yourself abreast of the times by reading the latest judgments and updates of law in every field. Always be nice to your opposite side, you will have to face them every day in court and not the clients. Never lie to the court, better lose a client than your respect and trust before the court. Lastly, always take care of your health and follow stress management by having work life harmony.

    Get in touch with Puneet Yadav-

  • “Like a game of chess, dispute lawyers must anticipate their opponent’s every move and try to remain a few steps ahead.” – Angad Varma, Partner at Dua Associates.

    “Like a game of chess, dispute lawyers must anticipate their opponent’s every move and try to remain a few steps ahead.” – Angad Varma, Partner at Dua Associates.

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

    Your journey from Symbiosis Law School to becoming a Partner at Dua Associates is quite impressive. Can you share a memorable experience or lesson from your early legal career that has shaped your approach as a dispute resolution lawyer today?

    A career in law interested me, however, I had little idea as to the enormity of what it would entail. At the time I did not have any family or friends practicing law, so I did not have much guidance either. I was always told by my educators that I had an aptitude for a career in Law. I joined Symbiosis Law School at the age of 17 and have never looked back since. I was an active mooter and debater in law school and having interned with a few reputable legal firms and lawyers, I realized I truly enjoyed the experience of being in Court which led me to choose Dispute Resolution as a career.

    It is no secret that passion, hard work and perseverance are the keys to success in any sphere and dimension of life, however, the extent and proportion are not something I had ever imagined. My biggest lesson so far has been that there is a learning in every experience so long as you are open to doing everything that comes your way. I never shied away from doing any task that was assigned to me no matter how little I knew of it or what I thought of it, and my sole purpose was to ensure the job was done. This determination and characteristic have seen me through and brought me where I am today. There have been days that I have singlehandedly attended to tasks otherwise assigned to associates, para legal, court clerks and even stenographers, all while being a Partner, and such days, though challenging, leave me most fulfilled. 

    With such a diverse range of legal areas you handle, from insolvency to property law, is there a specific area of law that you find particularly challenging yet rewarding to navigate?

    Times have changed since I started practicing in 2007. In this era of specialization, I have been extremely fortunate to experience diverse legal areas, all of which I have covered in some depth which include wide-ranging commercial disputes, property law, labour and employment law, company law, transactional work and now insolvency law. In Law the devil is in the details, so every subject requires a fundamental understanding of the nuances involved and then applying such understanding to practical situations.

    The law is ever-evolving, requiring all lawyers to remain updated with the latest precedents. The last decade has also seen the emergence of new statutes. As for me, I had no background in insolvency laws, the Code was enacted in 2016 long after I had graduated from law school, therefore, it was all about self-educating. Although, challenging this practice area has been extremely rewarding for me.

    You’ve been instrumental in developing and scaling the Insolvency and Bankruptcy practice at Dua Associates. What drew you to specialize in this field, and how do you see the landscape evolving in the coming years?

    The Insolvency and Bankruptcy practice is one of the fastest-growing practice areas across law firms. This has more to do with the economy as a whole and the object of the statute. While the statute and the accompanying infrastructure have some distance to travel to realize its true potential, however, there have been several positives such as the revival of mismanaged and indebted corporate persons, securing the interests of creditors, check of corporate frauds, timely resolution of insolvency process amongst others.

    There was no intended or conscious effort towards specializing in this area. I along with a very competent team was entrusted with a good amount of work in this area, through which we honed our knowledge and became more and more familiar with the intricacies involved. We have been fortunate to do a lot of work in this space over the last 5 to 6 years, where we have represented all categories of stakeholders in several marquee matters. Dua Associates as a firm has been very supportive enabling me with all the tools to develop and scale up the Insolvency and Bankruptcy practice.

    You spent several years as Vice President at HSBC before joining Dua Associates. How was your experience transitioning from a role in a large multinational corporation to your current position as a Partner at a law firm? Are there aspects of your time at HSBC that significantly influenced your approach or perspective in your current role?

    Transition is never easy, you will have to walk out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself. I love a challenge; it makes me more determined.

    As I look back now, my role at HSBC was diametrically different from what I do today, with its own set of rigours and challenges. Working in-house is attached the misconception that life is easier in comparison to a law firm. Understanding business and your stakeholders/clients is not only key for an in-house profile but is also an absolute must for every lawyer. This is a skill set neither taught in law school nor in any law firm.

    Today working as a Partner with a law firm, my outlook on any problem and its consequent solution is viewed from the prism of my client’s business. Understanding the client’s business, personnel, culture and risk appetite is crucial for the legal advise I offer them, which perhaps is my biggest carry-forward from my HSBC days.  

    Apart from your legal expertise, you’re known for finding innovative solutions to complex issues. Can you share an example where thinking outside the box led to a positive outcome for your client?

    Every client is concerned with the end outcome; the process is for the lawyers to take care of suitably. For dispute resolution lawyers, the significance of strategizing is understated and this in my view separates the good from the best. Like a game of chess, dispute lawyers must anticipate their opponent’s every move and try to remain a few steps ahead.

    As a team, we have achieved many favourable outcomes before various forums, where our out-of-the-box approach led to protracted litigations being successfully shortened and sizable settlements attained for our clients.

    You’ve authored articles on the evolving jurisprudence of insolvency laws. Are there any upcoming changes or trends in the legal landscape that you find particularly noteworthy or anticipate having a significant impact?

    The issue of project-wise corporate insolvency resolution process for large real estate sector companies is currently under consideration before the Hon’ble Supreme Court and is likely to have a significant impact in my view. Under the existing legal framework, to factor in the interest of a variety of stakeholders and facts peculiar to each case may weigh heavily before a final decision is pronounced.

    We’ve heard about your interest in arbitration and mediation. How do you see alternative dispute resolution methods evolving in India, and what role do they play in your practice?

    Alternate dispute resolution has always been of keen interest to me. Given our population, our infrastructure and particularly our Courts are overburdened. The underlying purpose of alternate dispute resolution was to reduce the burden on the Courts, through a formalized and time efficient process of resolving disputes outside of the Court.

    In my view, the acceptance of such a process and outcome by the parties involved is key. However, the complexities of the process, timelines, high costs, the acceptability of the final outcome and subsequent rounds of litigation has diminished the value of alternate dispute resolution.     

    Beyond the courtroom, what’s a passion or hobby that helps you unwind from the intricacies of legal matters?

    Given the constraints of time and our hectic life, it is very important for lawyers to pursue activities outside of the workspace. I personally enjoy travelling and sports.

    Travelling to see new places, experience different cultures and meeting new people is something I particularly look forward to in my free time.

    For aspiring lawyers entering the field of dispute resolution, what advice would you offer based on your own journey?

    I believe that being a dispute resolution lawyer is a constant process of evolving, where you are dealing with new challenges, unforeseen circumstances and a wide array of people. It is essential to remain in the present with an eye on the future and keep moving forward one step at a time. Also, every day is a fresh start so never sit on your laurels or let your failures bring you down, they are both equally important parts of your professional journey.

    Get in touch with Angad Varma-

  • A crisp Synopsis can win or lose a case before Judges who have 80-100 cases listed before them-V M Kannan, Advocate-on-Record

    A crisp Synopsis can win or lose a case before Judges who have 80-100 cases listed before them-V M Kannan, Advocate-on-Record

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

    Please tell us about your family background, pre-law school life and your experience at Symbiosis Law School, Pune.

    I was completely raised by my mother Smt. S. Mohanaranai, who is a Central Government employee and completed my secondary and senior schooling from Delhi Tamil Education Association (DTEA) School. Academically, I was an above-average student and took a keen interest in extra-curricular and co-curricular activities.

    Symbiosis Law School, Pune is a confluence of culture, ideas and bright minds. It was then located in the heart of Pune surrounded by plenty of colleges, universities, religious institutions and other centres of excellence and this was surely a boon for any young student far away from home. 

    Thanks to God almighty, I made great friends and a really supportive peer group, due to which I was able to overcome my initial fears and excel in prestigious Moot Courts and other co-curricular activities including representing my law school at the Williem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot, Hong Kong.

    I am also very blessed that my wife Ms. Harimohana N. too is an Advocate and we support each other in our law practice.

    You were one of the initial Law Clerks of Justice Najmi Waziri, popularly known as the Green Judge of the Delhi High Court. Please tell us about your experience with him and your other seniors at Bar.

    I was Justice Waziri’s third law clerk. Joining his prestigious chambers, right after law school, was purely a matter of chance and I am very fortunate to have been a part of it. Justice Waziri made a deep impact in my life with his thought process such as respect for law, women, nature and religious beliefs. He was very polite and courteous to everyone. To us Law Clerks, he gave us several opportunities to prepare draft judgments and research on complex legal problems, which laid a strong foundation for me as a lawyer. I was mentored further in the profession by Mr. TK Bhaskar, Mr. Sanjay Kapur and Mr. Shri Venkatesh, who gave me several opportunities to conduct and argue cases.

    Please tell us about your law practice, practice areas and the clients whom you represent before Courts.

    I founded my law firm VMK Law Offices in the year 2018 and we are located in South Delhi, in close proximity to the Supreme Court of India, High Court of Delhi and other major Tribunals. We have a fairly vast and diverse practice area such as commercial disputes, Energy Regulatory, Insolvency & Bankruptcy, Company, Arbitration, Property, White Collar Crimes, Telecom and Competition. We regularly appear before the Supreme Court, High Courts (Delhi, Madras, Calcutta, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh), APTEL, NCLAT, NCLT, Central / State Electricity Regulatory Commissions, TDSAT, Competition Commission, PMLA / FEMA Appellate Tribunal, District Courts and Arbitral Tribunals. I have represented Public Sector Banks and Undertakings, Statutory Authorities, Multinational Companies, Power Generators (Private and State Owned), Transmission Licensees and Utilities, Distribution Companies, EPC Contractors and Sports Federations.

    Please tell us about a few important and challenging cases that you have handled as a lawyer. 

    To me, no case is less important or less challenging. All the cases that we do, be it before the highest Court or otherwise, are equally prioritised.  However, a few of the reported judgments to my credit are below:

    1. SBI Vs. Vibha Agro – (2023) 1 SCC 286 
    2. Lalit Kumar Jain Vs. UoI – (2021) 9 SCC 321 
    3. SBI Vs. Radhey Shyam Pandey (2020) 6 SCC 438
    4. ARCIL Vs. Bishal Jaiswal – (2021) 6 SCC 366 
    5. SSIM Association Vs. UoI – (2021) 8 SCC 511
    6. A. Nabibasha Vs. Small Farmers Agri Business Consortium –  2020 SCC OnLine Del 1250 : 2020 ACD 877 : (2020) 3 MWN (Cri) DCC 51 : (2020) 4 RCR (Cri) 575
    7. SBI Vs. Athena Energy Ventures – 2020 SCC Online NCLAT 774
    8. 2021 SCC Online NCLAT 4
    9. 2021 SCC Online NCLAT 1621
    10. 2022 SCC OnLine NCLAT 27
    11. 2020 SCC OnLine NCLAT 717 

    You are an Advocate-on-Record (AoR) of the Supreme Court of India. How is an AoR different from a non-AoR before the Supreme Court?

    As per the Supreme Court Rules, no Advocate other than an AoR can appear, plead and address the Supreme Court unless he is instructed by the AoR. Therefore, an AoR has been statutorily conferred a privilege with respect to cases before the highest Court of the land. However, this privilege comes with enormous responsibility at various stages right from drafting of a petition/appeal, which have to be done with utmost honesty and precision. It is common knowledge that the Supreme Court is a very busy place, therefore, brevity and speed are vital. A crisp Synopsis can win or lose a case before Judges who have 80-100 cases listed before them. Next, strategizing, preparation and thinking out of the box are essential for a Supreme Court practice. It must always be borne in mind that the Supreme Court is the last Court and the result can be a make or break situation for the clients. The AoR system at the Supreme Court equips us to handle these challenges.

    What advice would you like to give to young lawyers who are starting their careers?

    Young lawyers, who want to be litigation practitioners should carefully choose their seniors and mentors. It is equally important to enjoy the process and seize any and all the opportunities that come your way. Since a litigation practitioner is required to do multiple tasks such as drafting, filing, arguing, briefing, clerical work, client and financial management etc., one must constantly learn and implement new and effective ways to manage the workload. Litigation practice is one of the most thrilling professions and I urge all young lawyers to take a shot at it.

    Get in touch with V M Kannan-

  • For a fully rounded practice of banking and insolvency laws, one should ideally also know about the disputes side of the practice of these laws- Shivani Sinha, Partner at Luthra and Luthra Law Offices

    For a fully rounded practice of banking and insolvency laws, one should ideally also know about the disputes side of the practice of these laws- Shivani Sinha, Partner at Luthra and Luthra Law Offices

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

    Can you share with us your journey in the legal field, from your early career as an Associate at Amarchand & Mangaldas to yourcurrent role as a Partner at Luthra and Luthra Law Offices India ? How did your experiences shape your path in law?

    My early career as an Associate was full of ups and downs, but one thing that stands out in my journey was that I was not scared of experimenting. I felt that if I don’t give something a chance, I would always regret it later thinking about it. It was indeed a mix of good luck and reward of hard work in academics that landed me my first job at Amarchand & Mangaldas, which was a dream job for most law students back then. I would be honest, it was kind of difficult to work as a fresher in Amarchand & Mangaldas since one had to rub shoulders with stalwarts of the profession but I would say it was a good start to my career since, out of my experiences with the firm, I learnt how a top lawyer goes about working on an assignment and is something I still follow. As a fresher I had the good fortune of getting exposure to multiple practice areas namely: banking and finance, general corporate and capital markets, however, I always wondered what it would be like to do litigation, argue in courts, and running an independent practice. My interest in Constitutional law, Civil Procedure Code was the catalyst which further drove me towards trying out litigation after a couple of years at Amarchand & Mangaldas and after a break of few months. Life as a litigant however, didn’t turn out to be as easy, I persisted through it for over a couple of years and only after being sure of being better at being a corporate lawyer than a litigant, I walked my way back into law firms. Since then I have been practicing banking and finance, and insolvency on a consistent basis and must add that have reaped rewards for this consistency in the form of career growth in these practice areas.

    You’ve been extensively involved in advising various stakeholders on corporate insolvency resolution processes. Could you tell us about a particularly challenging or interesting case you worked on, and how you navigated the complexities of restructuring and insolvency?

    I had the privilege of advising the Resolution Professional of the first dirty dozen matter (from the RBI list) which went into insolvency in July 2017- Jyoti Structures Limited (JSL). I was seconded on-site with the team of the Resolution Professional and cherish my wholistic yet very challenging experience with the team. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (IB Code) was a very new law back then and was in very early phase of evolution with many rules/ regulations to be framed/ notified and with lack of judicial precedents for guidance. JSL had a huge debt size and very complex issues of law arose throughout in the assignment, which mostly had to be answered on spot or in a very quick turn-around time, and at times without the guidance of any codified law, merely based on experience of past mechanisms/ legal practices that existed in India before the enactment of the IB Code. On some issues, we used to also apply/ take guidance from insolvency precedents of foreign countries. Working on JSL was one of the most challenging phase of my professional life, as the lawyer within me had push to my limits of legal logic and read up a lot of stuff for answering queries related to an new/ evolving law.     

    Your experience encompasses a wide range of legal areas, from banking and finance to dispute resolution. How have you managed to develop expertise across such diverse domains, and how do these areas complement each other in your practice?

    I have always believed in specialisation in what one does, but at the same time as one gets senior in the profession, he/ she should have an idea about some of the ancillary practice areas as well. I started of as a banking and finance practitioner and later when the IB Code was enacted, I started practicing insolvency laws as well. I do contentious matters or disputes only to the extent it related to banking and finance/ insolvency laws. For a fully rounded practice of banking and insolvency laws, one should ideally also know about the disputes side of the practice of these laws. And this is how my experience has got spread across a few practice areas.

    The legal landscape is constantly evolving, especially in areas like fintech and insolvency. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in these fields, and how do you anticipate future legal challenges in the banking and finance sector?

    I read a lot of online news/magazines and updates and have notifications activated for these on my phone. That’s the most common way of keeping oneself updated with changes in law and new case laws that come up. I do also read one of the pink newspapers on daily basis which really helps in knowing upcoming business treads of your practice area and at times also gives clues on which upcoming assignments to pitch for before clients. Keeping abreast with the regulatory changes that IBBI and RBI come up with and the monetary policy announcements of RBI help me in understanding/ anticipating the future legal challenges of the sector. And at times just general chat with bankers/ market participants also gives a hint about what tricky queries or situations will be thrown at you to find legal answers.

    You’ve advised on overseas direct investments and foreign exchange compliances. How do you see the global business environment shaping up for Indian conglomerates, and what are some key legal considerations they should keep in mind?

    The business landscape as far as overseas direct investments from India are concerned, is very interesting, because it essentially involves Indian companies globalising/ setting their foot in foreign countries and also Indians investing/ routing money outside India. With Indian economy doing well, the ODI trends also pick up and which also means a lot of foreign exchange flows out of India. The RBI through authorised dealer banks keeps a keen watch on these ODI transactions, the compliances and reporting associated with these. The most important legal consideration is formulation of transactional structure in such a way that it avoids round tripping concerns and also to advise the clients correctly about approval requirements from RBI/ authorised dealer banks in absence of which the clients may face a lot of issues including penalty from RBI.

    Your role has included advising clients on structuring for short-term money market investments and project financing. Could you share a success story where your legal counsel led to a significant positive outcome for your clients?

    During the pandemic period in 2020, I had the privilege of advising SBICaps Trustee in respect of structuring and operationalising the employee credit line guarantee scheme (ECLGS) launched by the Government of India for the benefit of NBFCs and MSMEs. The NBFCs in India were facing short term credit crunch which was in turn affecting the MSME sector. The scheme was for credit line of INR 30,000 crores and the funds were made available by RBI and guaranteed by Government of India. The scheme was a success and was further extended and continued with next versions in the subsequent months and years. The documentation for this transaction was one of its kind and the transaction structure had be harmonised with the requirements of the scheme. Funding to NBFCs was ensured by subscribing to short term money market instruments issued by them. It was one of its kind transaction that I have worked on in my entire career.

    You pursued various diploma and certificate courses alongside your academic and professional journey. How have these additional qualifications influenced your career growth, and would you recommend similar supplementary education to aspiring legal professionals?

    Yes, these diplomas not only help in building CV but also help in deep diving into a particular subject of law which is either not taught or not taught in enough detail at law school. It could also be out of specialisation interest that a student can take up these diploma/ certificate courses. These also help in utilising extra time constructively during one’s law school days. I would definitely recommend doing diplomas and certificate courses to students but they should be smart in choosing which ones to do as some of these courses could also be very expensive.

    From your time as a student at Symbiosis Law School to your current role, how has your perspective on the legal profession evolved, and what lessons have you learned along the way that you’d like to share with our audience?

    I come from a non-legal background so, as a college student in initial years, I used to think that legal profession is like any other profession. However, my journey so far as taught me that legal profession is much intense than most other professions. All of us learn new things everyday and in that sense are students for life, which also means that the profession demands a lot of hard work/ motivation to keep learning and therefore, in that sense, it is a difficult profession, but also extremely intellectually satisfying and enriching at the end of the day.

    As someone with a wealth of experience in India’s legal landscape, what advice would you give to fresh law graduates who are about to embark on their legal careers, especially those interested in areas like banking, finance, and insolvency?

    It’s important to pursue practice areas which one likes, and the earlier this is figured, the better it is for a law student or a law firm associate. In the initial years, an associate should do rotation/ secondments with the teams/ practice groups that they have interest in and then figure out which one(s) would they like to persist with. Students should do as many internships as possible and try out different practice areas, and if they are able to place their interest early enough, it could really help them in planning their careers better. For fresh associates who take up banking, finance or insolvency as a practice area, it is important for them to try and learn basics and keep abreast with all the legal developments. It is also important for a fresh associate to understand ‘why’ behind everything and for doing that they should not shy away from reading a lot of books/ cases/ articles etc. to start with.

    Get in touch with Shivani Sinha-

  • In conversation with Mr Arush Khanna, Co-Founder and Partner at Numen Law Offices, and India’s Former National Representative at the International Bar Association in 2019, currently holds two officer positions in the Young Lawyers Committee.

    In conversation with Mr Arush Khanna, Co-Founder and Partner at Numen Law Offices, and India’s Former National Representative at the International Bar Association in 2019, currently holds two officer positions in the Young Lawyers Committee.

    This interview has been published by Sonali Parashar, Ojuswi Sahay and the SuperLawyer Team

    How did choosing law as a career come into the picture for you? What were your law school days like at Symbiosis Law School and NLSIU?

    Truth be told, Law came in as a default option after I cleared my 12th standard. During my school days, I had aspirations of pursuing a career in cricket. I missed an opportunity of getting into the Delhi Under-17 team in the 11th grade and injured myself soon after which made the cricket option too risky for me to pursue. Since I hadn’t nurtured any other ambition by then and coming from a family of lawyers (persuasive ones at that), I was positively influenced into taking up law as a career. 

    I will always cherish the 5 years I spent at the Symbiosis Law School, Pune. Being away from home and living by myself contributed immensely to my growth as a person. I made some amazing friends who I consider as family. Once in a while, we all get together and regale ourselves by reminiscing our time in Pune. 

    The Master’s program offered by NLSIU was predominantly a distance learning program which I pursued after having spent 3 years at the Bar.  I would only have to visit Bangalore once a year for my examinations. Aligned with NLSIU’s unmatched standards, it was a challenging course especially since I was working professionally and had limited time to devote to academia. I look back with great satisfaction for having taken up this challenge. Getting my degree from the Chief Justice of India, who by convention is also the Chancellor of the College was a special feeling. 

    Being a fifth-generation lawyer, you have been fortunate to have your grandfather, Dr Lalit Bhasin, the President of the Society of Indian Law Firms and also the Managing Partner of Bhasin & Co; along with Senior Advocate Mr Sanjeev Anand, as your mentors. How essential do you believe a role model plays in one’s legal journey?

    Darius Khambatta, one of the finest lawyers at the Bombay Bar once told me that in law, you learn most through Osmosis, which means by observation. He couldn’t have put it better! 

    As a young lawyer, one longs for a sense of direction, purpose and the wisdom to know when to speak your mind and also, when to mind your speech. Ours is a heavy profession and every now and then, we need a dose of inspiration. That is why it is quintessential to have a mentor(s) in our line of work. I am indeed fortunate to have mentors like Dr Bhasin, Mr Karanjawala and Mr Anand. They have guided me at every important junction in my professional career and (*touching wood*) continue to do so. I hope I can make them proud one day. 

    You have had great wins in your litigation journey, including TGIF judgement at Hyderabad, title dispute at the Bombay High Court, and your regular appearances before the Supreme Court, amongst others. What motivates you to scale bigger heights in dispute resolution?

    The TGIF case was an inflection point in my career for it gave me the self-confidence to handle big-ticket litigation independently. I was 26 years old at the time and I still remember that I sought a passover, however, the Ld. Bench of the High Court of Judicature at Hyderabad refused to grant me one and directed me to present my submissions. There was a lot of public glare to this matter as the restaurant was alleged to have served liquor to underage persons which resulted in a fatal accident. It was heartening to get a favourable order whereby the HC quashed the liquor licence suspension order inter-alia on the ground that it was passed in violation of the principles of natural justice. 

    Similarly, the title dispute before the Bombay HC was a memorable experience. Interestingly, we preferred a writ petition in this case and not a civil suit as the PSU had rejected our client’s bid for setting up an Ethanol Plant by stating that the land did not belong to the company but to the Director. I remember working tirelessly on this matter alongside my Partner, Chaitanyaa Bhandarkar and we were pleased to be rewarded by a favourable finding given by a bench of Justice Gautam Patel and Justice Madhav Jamdar after hearing us for two consecutive days. 

    Dispute Resolution (Litigation and Arbitration) has always been my primary area of practice. It is a demanding line of work and one has to learn how to burn the midnight oil.  I make sure I consistently keep motivating (and hopefully, inspiring) my team to keep pursuing excellence in what they do. Notwithstanding the result, which is not in our hands, it is about enjoying the journey, finding the strategic nuances, researching for that clincher point and giving it our best before the Court or Tribunal.  

    Let’s talk about your firm, Numen Law Offices, which you have co-founded and are a partner at. We’d love to know about the conception of this idea of establishing your own office and how have you been taking it forward?

    Back in 2018, I would visit Mumbai almost on a fortnightly basis for work. As cliche as it may sound, I remember telling my cousin while we were driving down from Walkeshwar overlooking the Marine Drive that I wish to have an office here one day. I am glad that I connected with like-minded professionals during my adventures at the Bombay High Court. Everyone understood the need to collaborate as then we would be able to provide more services under one roof. Law is a vast profession and clients prefer specialists. We started Numen Law Offices with 4 Partners, all of whom bring different skill sets to the firm’s repertoire. We currently have two offices, one in New Delhi and the other in Mumbai. We have tried our best to incorporate the best practices, be it in our core legal work or in the managerial side of the firm. We have a dedicated HR, Accounting and IT team all of whom contribute immensely to the running of the firm. It has been a challenging yet rewarding journey thus far but as Robert Frost once famously wrote, “the woods are lovely, dark and deep but I have promises to keep and miles to go before I sleep”

    You also hold a strong association with the International Bar Association, where you were appointed as India’s National Representative in 2019 and currently hold two officer positions in the Young Lawyers Committee. Tell us about your experience at the largest bar association in the world, and how it has helped pave your journey forward?

    My appointment as a National Representative could have been a case of being at the right place at the right time. In 2017, I was selected as a scholar to speak at the IBA Annual Conference in Sydney. A day before the main conference, I attended the Young Lawyers Training Program where I was introduced to the then chair of the YLC by my friend Pranav Srivastava, who, after speaking to me for 10 minutes, suggested that I should apply for the NR position.  I did apply and as luck would have it, my candidature was approved by the YLC Board. That’s where my journey with the IBA began. I was soon appointed as an Officer at the YLC and now hold the position of the Asia Pacific Regional Forum Liaison Officer as well as the Scholarship Officer of the Committee. It’s really been a great journey with the IBA. 

    Our profession has transcended national boundaries and as young lawyers, we must look at opportunities to synergise with our global brethren. In addition to one’s core practice areas (litigation/corporate law etc.), it is important to devote time to increase your bandwidth as a professional. This not only forges life-long relationships but embellishes one’s own profile as well. 

    Amongst your various areas of specialisation including, Commercial Disputes in the field of Arbitration, Insolvency, Real Estate, Projects & Infrastructure, which area of practice excites you the most personally?

    I ventured into independent practice at a fairly young age as a result there were many days when I would not have much work to do. So any new matter coming my way got me excited. I am fortunate to be slightly busier now but that sentiment of excitement about getting a new brief or opinion is still the same as it was 6 years back. 

    All types of commercial disputes excite me. I am involved in some construction arbitrations and also doing noteworthy work in the Insolvency sector. Recently, I have also been instructed to give legal opinions on contractual issues arising out of complex infrastructure projects. They require a very nuanced yet pragmatic approach which aligns with the objectives of the company. I have some white-collar cases on my docket which makes for a great interplay between commercial and criminal jurisprudence. I am happy to be doing good work but it is still very much a work in progress. 

    Not only law practice, but legal academia is your strong suit, with over 25 publications in both national and international journals. How essential do you believe research and writing are in a lawyer’s career?

    I have always believed that legal academia and writing embellish your profile as a professional. Especially for us litigators as it allows us to express our thoughts in a non-confrontational and non-adversarial manner. It improves one’s research, analytical and drafting skills, that too on a far wider canvas as opposed to our briefs, which have several strategic restrictions. 

    At Numen Law Offices, we have started a monthly newsletter wherein our members are mandated to write one short article on a topical issue covering their area of practice. I also encourage my juniors to give lectures/talks at law schools and I do so when the opportunity arises. We try to imbibe a culture that encourages us to look and think beyond our respective briefs. 

    Finally, with so many experiences that you have gathered so early on in your career, what would your advice be for the up and coming legal professionals?

    The first advice would be that one should always feel that they are ‘up and coming’. A sense of satisfaction with one’s position at the bar leads to complacency for which there is no room in our profession. Every day there is something new to learn. We are all tenants of success and need to give our dues regularly to stay in the game. 

    However, what is most important in life, and more so in this profession is to love what you do. Some say the law is a jealous mistress, others call it a lifelong marriage. Whatever it may be, it is quintessential that one is passionate about their work. With the advent of the metaverse and the boom in IT, several new regulations and laws are likely to surface giving opportunities to young lawyers to develop new areas of expertise. The legal services sector has transcended national boundaries so young lawyers today have several opportunities to practice anywhere across the world. It is a great time to be a part of this profession so treat every day as an adventure and every conversation as an opportunity. There is a proverbial saying that if the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, the second-best time is now!

    Get in touch with Arush Khanna –

  • Sanjit Ganguli, Legal Manager, ICICI Bank, on roles and responsibilities of a legal counsel; and the finance and banking sector

    Sanjit Ganguli, Legal Manager, ICICI Bank, on roles and responsibilities of a legal counsel; and the finance and banking sector

    Sanjit Ganguli graduated from the Symbiosis Law School, Pune in 2018. He currently works with the Corporate Legal Group at ICICI Bank. He regularly advises on, negotiate and structure domestic and cross-border transactions for the Corporate, Project and Structured Finance portfolios of the Bank. He is also actively involved in loan and asset recovery proceedings for the Bank before the National Company Law Tribunal and other forums.

    In this interview, we speak to him about:

    • Roles and responsibilities as Legal Manager at ICICI Bank
    • Experience as an in-house counsel
    • Importance of Certificate Courses for Law Students
    • Bagging internships at top-tier law firms
    • Importance of writing research papers.

     

     

    HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO INTRODUCE YOURSELF FOR THE BENEFIT OF OUR READERS?

    Sanjit Ganguli is currently a legal manager at ICICI bank. He graduated from Symbiosis Law School, Pune. During his time at college, he participated in various moot court competitions, parliamentary debates and Model United Nations both at a national and international level. He has also published and presented papers at conferences and journals of national repute. He has interned with numerous top law firms in India with a strong academic record. In 2014 he was the only resident Indian invited to chair/judge a committee at the Ivy League Model United Nations held in India that year. Sanjit is an enthusiastic young lawyer who is always looking for new opportunities to learn, improve his skills and hone his craft

    Apart from the law, Sanjit is a budding wildlife and street photographer, a die-hard Bengaluru Football Club fan and a huge connoisseur of food with an insatiable appetite to travel and explore new frontiers. Sanjit is an alumnus of Bishop Cotton Boys’ School in Bangalore.

    AS LEGAL MANAGER AT ICICI BANK, WHAT ARE YOUR ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES?

    I work with the Corporate Legal Group at ICICI Bank. My role largely entails, drafting documents, structuring, negotiating and advising on domestic and cross border finance transactions that the Bank is a part of. I also work on debt and asset recovery proceedings before the National Company Law Tribunal and various other forums.

    DID YOU ALWAYS INTEND TO WORK AS AN IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OR DID YOU HAVE OTHER PLANS? WHEN DID YOU ZERO IN ON THIS CAREER TRAJECTORY?

    When I was in my fourth year, I was interning with the Finance practice at AZB Partners and I really enjoyed working in the Banking and Finance space. At that juncture, I felt that to succeed in this industry one required a thorough knowledge of the commercial aspect that the law was being employed for as well and ICICI Bank seemed to be the perfect fit for that. Also as in-house counsel, you get to learn every aspect of the Banking and Finance Industry and encounter a wide array of problems that require legal advice. I also have the privilege of working with and learning from not only some of the best legal minds in the country but some of the brightest and leading individuals of the finance sector in India.

    DID YOU METICULOUSLY PLAN YOUR INTERNSHIPS? DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS TO OFFER TO LAW STUDENTS WHO INTEND TO INTERN AT TOP-LEVEL LAW FIRMS?

    Yes, I did have a basic road map. I explored both litigation and corporate law firms and various practice areas within corporate law such as capital markets, general corporate and Project/Banking and finance before deciding on my area of interest and then pursued internships in my desired field. For students looking to intern at a top level law firm, they must plan their dates and apply well in advance. Many firms have questionnaire/research questions with follow up interviews and one must prepare thoroughly for these and set aside time from their college activities for this. In my personal experience, a good performance at a moot court competition/research conference organized by a firm also goes a long way in securing an internship at the firm.

    WHAT EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES WERE YOU INVOLVED IN AT SLS? HOW IMPORTANT ARE EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES TO A LAW STUDENT?

    Law as a field of study offers the opportunity of multiple extra circulars (Research and Paper Publications/conferences, Moot courts, Parliamentary Debates, Model UN conferences, etc.) to enhance one’s research and oratory skills and me for one embraced all of the aforementioned with gusto. I maintain that a healthy mix of all these activities made my experience at SLS and unforgettable and thoroughly enriching one. Not only did these activities build my ability to build my analytical, research and soft skills it gave me the opportunity to travel across the country and in Asia, meet people from different law schools and legal professionals across the world from both common and civil law jurisdictions. These activities are hence not only academic and informative but also serve as huge networking opportunity which I believe is extremely essential for a young lawyer. I also had an engaging experience in student governance and was an active member of the Students’ Council or Student Advisory Board as it is now called at SLS and finished as Vice President at the Board.

    HOW IMPORTANT DO YOU THINK CONDUCTING RESEARCH AND WRITING RESEARCH PAPERS FOR PUBLICATION ARE?

    In my opinion, writing research papers are one of the important activities at a law school outside one’s curriculum. They help you delve deep and learn about various diverse areas of law the issues pertaining to them both in the present and the possibilities for the future. More than anything, while working on my publications I enjoyed the challenge of engaging multiple portals of research to arrive at the right answer to a research question. From burning the midnight oil in the library to circulating and questionnaires to your target audience, working on a research paper thoroughly improves one’s analytical skills

    ARE THERE ANY WAYS OF LEARNING YOU OPTED FOR APART FROM CONVENTIONAL CLASSROOM LEARNING, LIKE CERTIFICATE COURSES? HOW INSTRUMENTAL DO YOU THINK THEY ARE IN HELPING A LAW STUDENT WIDEN HIS/HER KNOWLEDGE?

    Yes, I took up various certificate courses in IPR, competition law, etc. while I was in college. They are extremely helpful in picking up legal knowledge which does not form part of the college curriculum and I find the knowledge gained through them extremely useful in my professional life. I also started pursuing my company secretary course while at college and that gives me a huge insight into the regulatory aspect of the law along with a detailed overview of the procedural requirements that a corporate lawyer should be aware of.

    WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON MOOTING BEING CONSIDERED A NON-NEGOTIABLE ACTIVITY IN MOST LAW SCHOOLS? DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS FOR LAW STUDENTS WHO MOOT IN UNIVERSITY?

    As someone who has mooted both domestically and internationally, I think participating in a moot court competition is an experience every law student should experience at least once. Mooting gives a law student a first-hand experience into the adversarial aspect of the law along with in-depth research into what is often a relevant and contentious point of law. This is, however, personal opinion and I wouldn’t go as far as to say that it is a non-negotiable activity as an extra-curricular activity. At Symbiosis, Pune however, we had Moot courts and mock trial advocacy regularly as part of our curriculum across our five years in various subjects ranging from Tort Law to Company Law to Criminal and Evidence Law which was something I personally enjoyed as we got to engage with the various subjects we were studying on a practical basis in a court room setting.

    For students looking to Moot at university, I would encourage them to participate in moots in diverse and different areas of law. It really helps to broaden one’s view and to learn not just different areas of law but different legal systems as well. The differences of pleading before different forums across jurisdictions make each moot a challenging but very rewarding experience and this can work as a great launch pad to decide the field of law one would want to set out on.

    DO YOU THINK LAW STUDENTS POSSESS A SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY? IF SO, HOW DO THEY FIND OUTLETS TO HELP SERVE SOCIETY BETTER?

    I think the youth of today, irrespective of whatever field of study they are pursuing have a social responsibility to improve both the country and society. Law students because of their study of human rights backed by their strong constitutional awareness are strategically poised to help out in numerous NGO’s, think-tanks and even government organizations who working for the electoral, judicial and government reform as well as for the protection and upliftment of human rights/animal rights and the environment as well. Many of these organizations offer internships and later permanent positions which law students can take up.

    At Symbiosis, Pune we had a Legal aid cell which would among various initiatives organize workshops for free legal aid for the underprivileged. I am sure law schools across the country have similar clubs/cells which help develop social responsibility in law students

    WHAT WOULD BE YOUR PARTING MESSAGE FOR OUR READERS WHO ARE COLLEGE STUDENTS?

    Life at college is up there as my fondest memory. Always remember there are so many new avenues to learn. It is important not to get carried away by the pressure and rigours that come with college and enjoy the overall experience so that you can take away the most from it. A word of caution though, five years is a long time, make sure you have a basic plan and an end-game and while you enjoy five fantastic years with some of the best friends that you will make, never lose sight of that end-game.