This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team
You’ve had an impressive legal journey, from working with prestigious firms like Khaitan & Co. to establishing AG Chambers. What inspired you to pursue law?
I have been incredibly fortunate to have had the privilege of working in some of the most respected legal organizations, each of which has played a pivotal role in shaping my career. My legal journey began at Fox Mandal, followed by an enriching experience at the chambers of a senior advocate, and then a significant tenure at Khaitan & Co, where I eventually became a partner…
Each of these roles offered a unique set of challenges and learnings. The exposure to varied legal fields gave me the opportunity to refine my legal acumen and develop a holistic approach to problem solving. Yet, despite the growth I experienced in these firms, I eventually felt the calling to chart my own path—one where I could bring together my accumulated knowledge, my passion for law, and desire to provide clients with more personalized and agile solutions. It was this realization that led me to take the leap and set up my own chambers..
The decision to pursue law was something that came to me naturally. My father, a senior counsel, was my role model, and I had the unique privilege of watching him work tirelessly through his briefs, preparing for court hearings, and discussing cases with his colleagues. The dinner table often turned into an impromptu courtroom, with legal discussions filling the air. These experiences, though subtle, sparked an early interest in the law.
With over 14 years of experience in the legal field, what are some key lessons you’ve learned through handling high-stakes disputes? How can younger lawyers incorporate these lessons into their practices?
High-stakes cases are often characterized by their complexity, both in terms of the factual details and the legal intricacies involved. These cases rarely follow a straightforward path, and the stakes are usually high, meaning that every decision made can have a significant impact on the outcome. In such scenarios, a legal team is typically required to work tirelessly, leaving no stone unturned to protect their client’s interests and to ensure the best possible result.
The first step in managing such complex cases is mastering the facts. One must be thoroughly familiar with every aspect of the case. This often involves sifting through large volumes of case materials and identifying key pieces of information that could make or break the case. It’s critical to stay on top of the facts because they are often the foundation upon which the entire legal strategy will be built.
However, the mere knowledge of facts is often not enough when the case involves specialized technicalities or industry-specific knowledge. In these instances, it is highly advisable to consult with industry experts. These experts can provide crucial insights that go beyond what is written in the case papers, offering a deeper understanding of the technical or sector-specific issues at play.
Additionally, client representatives—especially those working on the ground—can offer a wealth of information that may not be immediately apparent from the case documents. Their firsthand experience can provide unique perspectives on the practical realities of the situation, allowing the legal team to craft a strategy that is both legally sound and grounded in real-world considerations.
As a young professional, handling such high-stakes cases can feel overwhelming at times. The responsibility of navigating complex disputes and managing all the details can be daunting, but it is also an invaluable learning experience. In these situations, it is essential to lean on the support of more experienced colleagues. Their guidance can help clarify the approach to take, provide insight into potential pitfalls, and offer strategies that may not be immediately apparent. Collaboration within a team is key and makes the process of tackling challenging cases much more manageable and strategic.
After years of being a partner at Khaitan & Co, what motivated you to set up your own chambers? What differences in work dynamics and opportunities have you experienced since establishing AG Chambers?
Transitioning from a partner at Khaitan & Co. to setting up my own chambers was driven by a desire for greater autonomy, flexibility, and the opportunity to shape a personal brand that aligns with my professional aspirations and personal values. While my time at Khaitan & Co. provided invaluable experience and exposure, I recognized that to truly explore specific areas of law that resonated with me and to engage with clients in a more meaningful way, I needed the freedom to build something of my own.
One of the most rewarding aspects of running my own chambers has been the ability to cultivate more direct, personal relationships with clients. This deeper engagement has allowed me to gain a more nuanced understanding of their needs and challenges. Rather than focusing solely on legal issues, I am now able to take a more holistic approach, offering solutions that take into account both the legal and personal aspects of each case.
Additionally, there is now a greater sense of responsibility, particularly in the area of business development. Now I am involved not only in legal work but also in the growth and strategic direction of the practice. This responsibility has been both challenging and fulfilling. There is also a constant drive to innovate and diversify the areas of work we handle, ensuring that the practice stays relevant and offers comprehensive services to our clients.
Ultimately, it has brought a renewed sense of satisfaction. The ability to shape my own legal practice, work directly with clients, and create a culture that reflects my values has been incredibly rewarding. It has given me the opportunity to work on projects that I am passionate about, collaborate with a talented team, and continuously grow both professionally and personally.
Your transition from being a Partner at Khaitan & Co. to setting up AG Chambers must have been significant. What challenges did you face in establishing your own practice, and how did you overcome them?
Stepping away from a prestigious firm like Khaitan & Co. to establish my own chambers certainly came with its own set of challenges. Starting from scratch—essentially restarting my practice—required not only a clear vision but also meticulous planning, resilience, and an unwavering determination to succeed.
Running a legal practice involves much more than simply practicing law. From securing office space and setting up the infrastructure, to managing IT systems, accounts, and day-to-day operations, there are many moving parts to consider. Building a team that shares the same commitment to excellence and values is crucial. In addition to internal office management, I also had to convince both existing and potential clients to take a chance with a new establishment.
Fortunately, I was able to ride over the hurdles along the way by leveraging my work experience and network which I have developed over the last 15 years in the profession. I have also been fortunate enough to stitch together a strong, talented and active team, who share my vision and are passionate about the legal profession.
I am quite pleased to say that AG Chambers has in a short span of time, grown rapidly and developed a sizable client base.
Legal practice, especially in high-stakes arbitration and commercial disputes, can be incredibly demanding. What are some of your favorite ways to unwind and maintain a work-life balance amidst such a fast-paced career?
A lawyer’s life, by nature, comes with its fair share of professional hazards. The unpredictable nature of the job means that court matters and deliverables often clash, urgent briefs may arrive late into the night, and clients may impose tight, sometimes steep deadlines. This constant pressure can make it feel as though the work is never-ending.
However, the key to managing these challenges lies in effective prioritization and, perhaps more importantly, knowing when to call it a day. It’s easy to fall into the trap of working continuously, but the reality is that the work will always be there. Learning to set boundaries and manage your time efficiently is essential not just for professional success, but for personal well-being as well.
Ultimately, taking care of oneself is crucial. I believe it’s important to make time for activities outside of work that help you recharge. For me, that often means diving into a good book, unwinding with a Netflix show, or enjoying a meal out with friends or family. These moments of leisure allow me to decompress and return to work with renewed energy and focus.
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