This interview has been published by Namrata Singh and The SuperLawyer Team
What inspired you to pursue a career in law, and how did your journey begin at the National Law Institute University, Bhopal?
I was always inspired by a desire to make a difference, always had an interest in justice and fairness, and a passion for resolving issues. It either had to be civil services or advocacy for me! Starting law school at NLIU Bhopal was an exciting experience. I was all set to tackle law and life. However, initially, it is like being hit by a whirlwind of confusion, trying to get a hang of things. Eventually, you get used to the law school life, make friends, and, ironic as it sounds, they end up becoming your partners in crime! By the end of your time at NLIU, you’ll emerge not only as a legal professional but also as a treasure trove of memorable experiences and friendships that will last a lifetime.
When you first began your career in litigation, what were some of the key challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them? Additionally, how has your approach to handling complex litigation evolved over the years, given your extensive experience across various legal domains?
In the early stages of my litigation career, one of the main challenges was adapting to the high-pressure environment of court proceedings and developing the ability to think quickly and strategically. Building my reputation and gaining trust in such a competitive field also took time and effort. I focused on learning procedural law, improving my courtroom skills, and seeking advice from my seniors and other experienced lawyers. Taking on smaller cases helped me build confidence and experience. Over the years, my approach to handling complex cases has become more strategic. With more experience, I now focus on aligning legal strategies with my client’s long-term goals, managing teams effectively, and navigating the complexities of challenging cases. My methods have evolved to be more thoughtful and aimed at achieving the best possible outcomes.
Working with prominent figures like Mr. Sumeet Pushkarna and Ms. Jyoti Mendiratta must have been enriching. What were some key learnings from these experiences?
Working with Mr. Sumeet Pushkarna and Ms. Jyoti Mendiratta was an incredible experience. These experiences were both, the founding and the building stones of my career in litigation. From Mr. Pushkarna, I learnt the importance of time and developed the ability to multitask. Working with him inculcated a sense of discipline and punctuality, which has helped me immensely in my professional life. Ms. Mendiratta, on the other hand, taught me the value of empathy and understanding in legal practice. She showed me how important it is to truly listen to clients and understand their concerns. Both of them emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity and professionalism in all aspects of the job. These lessons have been invaluable for me.
You handle a diverse range of cases, from civil and criminal matters to arbitration and consumer disputes. How do you manage such a broad spectrum, and what are the challenges and rewards of this diversity?
Juggling such a variety of cases is like running a legal marathon! It keeps my mind constantly engaged, and my days are anything but boring. The key is to stay organized and to keep learning. I make it a point to stay updated with the latest laws and rely on my network and colleagues for advice when things get challenging. The main challenge is balancing the demands of each type of case. Criminal cases can be quite urgent and intense, while arbitration involves more strategic thinking and patience. Despite the challenges, diversity is ultimately rewarding. It keeps me on my toes and allows me to help a wide range of clients, which I find not only satisfying but also fun. Each case teaches me something new and contributes to my growth as a lawyer.
Could you discuss a few notable cases you have worked on, particularly those involving public interest litigations or significant legal challenges?
One notable experience that stands out for me in my litigation career was my first-ever arbitration case, handed over to me by my senior. It was a complex dispute, and I had the opportunity to handle it from start to finish. The arbitration award was in our favor, which was a significant win for our client. What made this case particularly memorable was the recognition I received not just from the arbitrator but also from the opposing counsel, who appreciated my work.
What advice would you give to young lawyers entering the profession today? What key skills and attributes should they focus on developing?
My advice to young lawyers in a single line would be: Brace yourselves for a wild ride and keep a sense of humour handy. Jokes apart, I would advise young lawyers to never stop learning. The legal field is constantly evolving, so stay curious and keep up with the latest developments. Networking is crucial, too. Build relationships with colleagues and mentors, they’ll be invaluable throughout your career. Additionally, I would advise them to work on their communication and to be respectful, empathetic and resilient. The legal profession can be demanding and unpredictable and it is important to be able to bounce back from setbacks. Finally, keep your passion alive.
Outside of law, what are your personal interests or hobbies? How do these activities help you maintain a work-life balance?
Maintaining a work-life balance is of immense importance to me. I try not to bring my work back home and have a personal life beyond it. I usually turn to music and movies to unwind and enjoy catching up with my friends and family after work. These things help me maintain a work-life balance by providing a healthy distraction and keeping me refreshed. They remind me that there’s more to life than just work, which is essential for staying motivated and avoiding burnout.
Can you share your experiences with pro bono work? How do you choose the causes you support, and what impact do you hope to make through these efforts?
There’s something remarkably fulfilling about being able to help and give back to society. I would like to think that I try to do it to the best of my capabilities, not only legally but otherwise as well. I typically choose causes that resonate with me or where I feel I can make a positive difference, even if it’s small.
You have the unique experience of practicing in various courts, from District Courts to the High Court and the Supreme Court of India. How do the experience and approach differ when handling cases in these different judicial environments, and what insights can you share about the nuances of working at each level?
Practicing in various courts and fora has shown me just how varied the legal process can be at each level and how each level has its own approaches and challenges. It makes you understand the importance of learning both the procedural aspects and the strategic elements of legal practice. In District Courts, the focus is on gathering facts and building the groundwork of a case. In High Courts, you need to be able to present clear and persuasive arguments and dive deep into legal principles. At the Supreme Court, the focus shifts to bigger legal questions. Practicing at each level has taught me to be adaptable and helped me grow as a lawyer.
As an experienced advocate, how do you mentor junior lawyers and interns in your chamber? What are the key lessons you emphasize to them?
Mentoring junior lawyers and interns is as rewarding as it is demanding. It involves guiding them through the practicalities of legal practice, fostering their professional development, and instilling core values. I’m anyway more of a friendly colleague than a tough taskmaster to them. I give complete freedom to my junior associates to take up independent work. Allowing independence while maintaining a supportive framework helps junior lawyers and interns develop essential skills and confidence, preparing them for more significant responsibilities in their careers.
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