This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team
Could you share the thought process behind starting this consultancy? What inspired the idea, and why did you choose this particular name?
In an era of prestigious law firms with legendary names, I wanted to create something different, something that directly conveyed our expertise. That’s why I chose “The Contract Consultants.”
Throughout my career, I realized that contracts are the heart and soul of any business. Well-drafted contracts protect companies from legal expenses, arbitration, mediation, and compliance issues. Businesses that want to excel should prioritize strong contracts.
Our expertise lies in contracts, and we wanted our name to reflect that. The idea behind this name is simple: you focus on growing your business while we handle your contracts and documentation.
What challenges did you face in choosing law as a career, especially when your choices were questioned? With 12 years of experience, how has your journey shaped you?
I’ll keep it brief. I’m originally from Ranchi, and my house was next to the High Court. Seeing lawyers in their black coats from childhood fascinated me and made me admire the profession.
However, where I come from, law wasn’t considered prestigious, it was often seen as a fallback option. My entire family had a science background, and my brother is a major in the Indian Army. So, my decision to pursue law was unconventional.
The first challenge was convincing my family. My father supported me and encouraged me to take the AILET exam. Once I joined law school, I realized the vast opportunities the field offers beyond just becoming a judge or starting a practice.
I studied law at MS Ramaiah College of Law in Bangalore. Moving from a small town to a metropolitan city was a transformative experience. It broadened my perspective, shaped my career choices, and helped me evolve as a person.
I started in litigation, then shifted to corporate law. Over time, I realized my true passion was making an impact and building something of my own. For me, success isn’t just about financial gains—it’s about standing for what you believe in. My journey has been a gradual process of discovery, with each experience reinforcing my commitment to law.
Given your expertise in contracts, particularly in e-commerce, what are the most common pitfalls businesses face? How have you helped address them?
As a lawyer, two crucial questions guide my approach: What? and How?
E-commerce businesses often make the mistake of copying existing terms and conditions or privacy policies without considering their specific business model. There are different categories: intermediaries, B2C, and B2B platforms, each requiring tailored contracts.
Some common issues include:
Dispute Resolution: Many businesses fail to include clear dispute resolution mechanisms in customer-facing contracts.
Liability Limitations: Companies don’t define liability properly, leaving them exposed to unexpected claims.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring compliance with laws like India’s IT Rules, Consumer Protection Act, and FDI regulations is crucial
A well-drafted contract should align with the business model, define liability, include compliance measures, and ensure trade secret protection. Boilerplate clauses are everywhere, but strategic customization is what mitigates risk.
With rapid technological changes, how have you adapted your approach to risk management and contract negotiations?
Contracts have evolved significantly over the last decade, especially with AI and data privacy regulations.
Previously, a simple NDA was considered sufficient for confidentiality. Now, contracts must explicitly define data privacy, data breaches, data transfers, and liability for AI-generated outcomes.
Key changes include:
Precise Confidentiality Clauses: Defining what constitutes confidential information and outlining penalties for breaches.
Regulatory Adaptability: Contracts must allow for amendments in response to legal and technological developments.
Cross-Border Compliance: Understanding GDPR, CCPA, India’s DPDPA, and other international privacy laws.
Businesses need contracts that are both legally robust and flexible enough to adapt to evolving regulations.
What key provisions do you focus on when drafting Master Service Agreements for tech companies?
Many businesses focus on boilerplate clauses (indemnity, liability, termination, governing law) but overlook critical details.
Commonly missed elements include:
Auto-Renewal Clauses: If not properly structured, businesses might get locked into contracts they wanted to exit.
Audit Rights: Allowing unlimited audits can expose sensitive trade secrets and confidential information.
Scope of Work Clarity: Vague scopes lead to increased work without additional compensation.
Early Termination Provisions: Without structured termination clauses, companies may be forced to pay the full contract value despite early exits.
A well-drafted MSA should protect both short-term and long-term business interests while ensuring flexibility.
How do you ensure contracts maintain clarity and legal safety in new markets with evolving regulations?
Compliance is all about understanding “What?” (laws and regulations) and “How?” (implementation).
We conduct gap analyses, risk assessments, and compliance roadmaps to ensure businesses remain compliant. Using a Red-Amber-Green framework, we prioritize urgent risks while addressing lesser risks systematically.
When entering new markets, businesses must understand:
Applicable data protection laws (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, DPDPA).
Cross-border contractual obligations.
Industry-specific compliance standards.
We focus on ensuring that contracts align with regulations while maintaining operational flexibility.
How has ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) evolved, and how do you incorporate it into contracts?
Dispute resolution isn’t just about litigation, it’s about economic viability and preserving business relationships.
Key considerations:
Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is the dispute worth pursuing, or would negotiation be a better option?
IP Disputes: Clearly defining IP ownership in contracts reduces conflicts.
Confidentiality Protections: Preventing trade secret exposure during audits or negotiations.
Effective ADR clauses ensure disputes are resolved efficiently, preserving business continuity.
How do you stay updated with constant legal and regulatory changes?
It’s about building a habit.
Weekly Review Checklist: I set aside time to track key developments.
Webinars & Newsletters: Staying connected to legal platforms and industry experts.
Peer Discussions: Conversations with colleagues provide fresh insights.
Being proactive ensures we anticipate legal changes rather than just reacting to them
Balancing Corporate Life & Mental Well-being
How do you maintain work-life balance while thriving in a corporate environment?
Mental well-being is key. Work culture matters more than the company name. A great manager and team make a huge difference.
Prioritize mental health over money. Financial success is meaningless if you’re mentally exhausted.
Corporate life isn’t just about earning; it’s about personal growth.
The best professionals aren’t just technically skilled; they are resilient, self-aware, and mentally strong.
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