This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team
Can you tell us about your academic journey, starting from your undergraduate studies at National Law University, Patiala, to completing your Ph.D. at the University of Rajasthan? What motivated you to specialise in criminal law and criminology?
Well, I hail from Bharatpur, Rajasthan which is a very small town; got my initial education there till 12th Standard and thereafter my academic journey in Law began with my under graduation at National Law University, Patiala, where I pursued a Bachelor in Law with a specialization in criminal law. My years at NLU Patiala were full of new and inspirational formatives, providing me with a solid foundation in various aspects of law and life including improving and working on my articulation skills. This period marked my initial exposure to the multifaceted nature of how the world is revolving around law and deepened my interest in understanding the mechanics of the criminal justice system.
Upon completing my postgraduate studies, I sought further specialization through a Ph.D. program at the University of Rajasthan. The decision to focus on criminal law and criminology stemmed from a combination of personal motivation and academic curiosity. Growing up in an environment where societal issues, particularly crime, were frequently discussed, I developed an early interest in the root causes of criminal behavior and the societal mechanisms to address it. Criminal law and criminology offer insight not only into punitive measures but also into preventive aspects, which I find particularly compelling. My Ph.D. thesis, focusing on “Crimes Against Juveniles in India,” allowed me to delve deeper into specific issues affecting vulnerable populations, contributing to both academic discourse and practical solutions in the field.
You worked as a Junior Associate with an IP Law Firm before establishing your own practice. What motivated this transition and what were the initial challenges you faced while starting your firm?
I guess all experiences matter, be it me working as a Junior Associate in an IP law firm or any other, provided me with invaluable experience in routing all my legal impressions towards what laws says and its implementation. Talking specifically about the IP Law Firm I honed my skills in client management, legal drafting, and courtroom proceedings, which prepared me for the multidimensional demands of independent practice. However, I soon felt the urge to branch out on my own, driven by a desire to apply my legal skills across a broader spectrum of law and cater to a more diverse clientele.
The transition to establishing my own practice was both exciting and challenging. Initially, I faced difficulties in building a client base, as the legal industry is highly competitive, and establishing credibility as a new firm takes time. Managing administrative tasks, securing office space, and setting up operational systems were other hurdles. Yet, these challenges were instrumental in shaping my resilience and business acumen. Overcoming these obstacles strengthened my commitment to my clients and fortified my understanding of what it takes to thrive in independent legal practice.
As a Managing Partner at ManuLegal & Associates, you deal with complex legal matters in domains like corporate law, taxation, ADR, IPR, and criminal law. Could you share a memorable case or challenge you’ve encountered in your legal practice?
One of the most memorable cases I encountered at ManuLegal & Associates involved a complex corporate dispute intertwined with criminal allegations. This particular case required a nuanced approach, as it involved corporate stakeholders and accusations of embezzlement. We needed to navigate both corporate law and criminal proceedings simultaneously, balancing civil legal remedies with criminal defenses.
The case taught me a great deal about the intricacies of handling multi-dimensional legal matters, particularly the importance of collaboration across legal domains. Our team’s efforts ultimately helped secure a favorable outcome for our client, while reinforcing my commitment to a holistic approach in managing cases. This case underscored the value of multidisciplinary legal expertise and reminded me of the profound impact that comprehensive legal strategies can have on a client’s life and livelihood.
Your career spans across both legal practice and academia. How do you balance the practical demands of running a law firm with your academic pursuits and publications?
Balancing the responsibilities of running a law firm with academic pursuits is challenging but rewarding. I have always been passionate about contributing to academic literature, as it enables me to share my insights and learnings with future legal practitioners. I believe the more knowledge we share the more knowable we become. My approach to balancing these roles involves structured time management and a commitment to prioritizing both facets of my career.
I often schedule my academic commitments, such as lectures and research, around my practice’s caseload. Engaging in academia also keeps me updated with evolving legal theories and practices, which, in turn, benefits my clients. This dual commitment has enhanced my professional versatility and enriched my contributions to both the academic and legal communities.
Your Ph.D. dissertation focused on ‘Crimes Against Juveniles in India’ with a special reference to Rajasthan. Could you elaborate on the key findings of your research and how it contributes to the understanding of juvenile crimes in India?
My Ph.D. dissertation, “Crimes Against Juveniles in India,” focused on understanding the patterns, causes, and implications of juvenile crimes, with a particular emphasis on Rajasthan. One of the key findings of my research was the alarming prevalence of crimes perpetrated against juveniles, highlighting the need for targeted reforms in juvenile protection laws. I discovered that socio-economic factors, educational disparities, and lack of awareness contribute significantly to the vulnerability of juveniles.
My research also underscored the need for a stronger legal framework that specifically addresses juvenile protection, beyond the general provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act. The study’s findings advocate for improvements in preventive measures, awareness programs, and the establishment of rehabilitative support systems. By contributing to the understanding of juvenile crimes in India, I hope my research will aid policymakers and legal practitioners in implementing more effective protection mechanisms for vulnerable young individuals.
As a lawyer specialising in both criminal and corporate law, how do you see the intersection of these fields, particularly in areas like corporate crime, data protection, and intellectual property rights?
As a lawyer with a specialization in both criminal and corporate law, I often encounter cases where these fields intersect, especially in areas such as corporate crime, data protection, and intellectual property rights. Corporate crime has become a pressing issue, as global businesses face increasing scrutiny over issues such as fraud, insider trading, and data breaches. These cases not only involve criminal liability but also impact corporate reputation and operational integrity.
Data protection is another area where criminal and corporate law intersect. With the rise of digital platforms, protecting sensitive data has become paramount, and legal frameworks must address both corporate responsibilities and criminal liabilities associated with data breaches. Intellectual property rights also face challenges from digital piracy and infringement, which have criminal implications. My expertise in these fields allows me to offer clients comprehensive guidance that addresses both regulatory compliance and criminal accountability, ensuring they are well-prepared to navigate today’s complex legal landscape.
You’ve worked with a variety of organisations and governmental bodies. What changes or improvements would you recommend for enhancing the legal and institutional support for child protection laws in India?
Working with various organizations and governmental bodies has given me insights into the strengths and gaps in India’s child protection laws. To enhance legal and institutional support for child protection, I recommend several key improvements. First, there should be greater emphasis on preventive measures, such as community-based awareness programs, to educate families and children about their rights.
Second, the judicial process for child protection cases should be expedited to minimize the trauma and uncertainty faced by young victims. Establishing special courts with trained professionals dedicated to child protection cases could ensure faster and more sensitive handling of these matters. Finally, I believe that better coordination among governmental agencies, law enforcement, and non-governmental organizations is crucial for effective child protection. With these improvements, India’s child protection framework can become more resilient and responsive to the needs of vulnerable children.
As someone who has worked both as an educator and as a practitioner, what is one piece of advice you would give to those entering the legal field in India today?
For those entering the legal field in India, my advice is to embrace the learning process and maintain resilience. The legal profession is challenging and demands a lifelong commitment to learning, as the law is ever-evolving. New lawyers should focus on developing a strong foundation in legal principles and gaining practical experience through internships or clerkships.
Additionally, I encourage aspiring lawyers to be adaptable, as the legal field often requires one to navigate diverse areas of law and adjust to changing regulatory environments. It is also important to cultivate professional integrity and uphold ethical standards, as these qualities form the bedrock of a reputable legal career. By embracing these values and committing to continuous growth, new lawyers can make meaningful contributions to the legal field and their communities.
You have handled intricate legal matters across areas such as corporate law, taxation, ADR, IPR, and criminal law. What does success look like to you now?
To me, success has evolved far beyond conventional measures like profit or growth. Success now means creating a lasting impact and making a difference in people’s lives and in my industry that continues to resonate, even when I’m not directly involved.
Today, I define success as building a business that’s sustainable, resilient, and purpose-driven. It’s about more than just reaching short-term goals; it’s about creating a legacy, something meaningful that reflects my values and contributes positively to society.
I’ve learned that if my work is not aligned with my personal values or if it detracts from my well-being, it doesn’t feel like real success. I aim to build a business that not only thrives but allows me and my team to thrive alongside it.
In essence, success is about creating value, making a positive impact, and finding joy in the journey. It’s an ongoing, evolving goal rather than a single milestone, and it motivates me to keep learning, adapting, and growing every day.
Based on your extensive experience, what advice would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Embrace learning and adaptability as your greatest assets. In business, nothing will go exactly as planned. Markets shift, trends evolve, and obstacles arise when you least expect them. So, rather than striving for perfection, focus on building resilience and agility.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that failure is a stepping stone, not an endpoint. You’ll make mistakes, and you’ll face setbacks—probably more than once. But each mistake brings a new insight, and each setback is a chance to grow stronger and smarter. Don’t let fear of failure hold you back; lean into the challenges, and let them teach you.
Build a strong support network too. Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you—mentors, advisors, or even fellow entrepreneurs who understand the journey. No one builds success alone, and the perspectives of others can help you see things you might miss or encourage you when things feel tough.
Finally, remember to stay true to your values and your “why.” Having a clear purpose will ground you in moments of uncertainty and remind you why you started in the first place. Passion is a powerful motivator, but a meaningful purpose is what keeps you going over the long haul.
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