This interview has been published by Namrata Singh and The SuperLawyer Team
Congratulations on your new role as a partner at MRP Advisory. Could you share some insights into your journey from Law School to becoming a dual-qualified legal professional? What inspired you to pursue Indian and UK qualifications, and how will these qualifications enhance your role at MRP Advisory?
My journey into law began unexpectedly from a science background, where I initially aimed to become an engineer. However, my need for intellectual challenge and a sense of justice led me to law. The pursuit of both Indian and UK qualifications was driven by a desire to gain a comprehensive understanding of global legal systems and to enhance my ability to handle complex cross-border disputes. These qualifications not only broaden my legal perspective but also allow me to offer nuanced advice that bridges different legal systems of law and cultures. At MRP Advisory, this dual qualification will enable me to better serve our domestic clients in contracts with foreign substantive law and international clients, ensuring expert navigation of diverse legal challenges with a well-rounded approach.
With over a decade of experience in commercial litigation and arbitration, what motivated you to join MRP Advisory at this point in your career? How do you anticipate the firm’s focus and resources will impact your work in the arbitration landscape, both in India and internationally?
Joining MRP Advisory is an exciting new chapter in my career, motivated by the firm’s reputation for innovation and its robust approach to construction and infrastructure disputes. The firm’s emphasis on leveraging cutting-edge resources and its commitment to a global perspective align perfectly with my background in domestic and international arbitration. At MRP Advisory, I anticipate that our collective expertise and resources will enhance our ability to tackle complex arbitration disputes and further strengthen our position in both the Indian and international arbitration arenas.
Given your extensive experience representing clients before both national and international arbitration tribunals, how do you plan to leverage this expertise in your new role at MRP Advisory? Are there specific strategies you intend to employ when handling disputes in different arbitration forums, such as ad-hoc versus institutional arbitration?
In my new role at MRP Advisory, I plan to leverage my experience by adopting a tailored approach to different arbitration forums. For ad-hoc arbitration, I will focus on flexibility and adaptability, ensuring that our strategies align with the specific needs of each case. For institutional arbitration, my approach will emphasize utilizing the established rules and procedures to streamline the process and enhance efficiency. By combining these strategies, I aim to deliver effective resolutions and uphold the firm’s high standards in both national and international disputes.
Your profile highlights significant expertise in FIDIC contracts. How do you see your knowledge in this area contributing to MRP Advisory’s practice, especially in the context of construction law and dispute resolution?
I believe that my expertise in FIDIC contracts will significantly contribute to MRP Advisory’s construction law practice by providing deep insights into the complexities of international construction agreements. FIDIC contracts, with their intricate clauses and global usage, often present unique challenges in dispute resolution. I hope that my knowledge will help the firm navigate these complexities, ensuring that we offer precise and informed advice. This expertise will be integral in managing construction disputes effectively, enhancing our ability to represent clients in both contract management, contractual negotiations and dispute resolution processes.
Having served as an arbitrator and mediator at various organizations, including the Court of Arbitration for Art and Sama, how will these experiences influence your approach to mediation and arbitration in your new role? What key factors do you believe will contribute to successful outcomes at MRP Advisory, and how will you ensure impartiality and fairness?
My experiences as an arbitrator and mediator have provided me with a nuanced understanding of the arbitration process and the importance of impartiality. In my new role I hope that these experiences will guide my approach to mediation and arbitration, ensuring that I apply best practices and maintain fairness throughout. Key factors for successful outcomes include a thorough grasp of the subject matter, effective communication, and a commitment to neutrality. I will continue to uphold these principles by carefully balancing the interests of all parties and applying a detailed and reasoned approach to each case.
You were honored with the “Pioneering Women Leadership Award.” What challenges have you faced as a woman in the legal field, and how have these experiences shaped your approach to leadership and mentorship at your new firm?
The “Pioneering Women Leadership Award” is a testament to the challenges I’ve faced and overcome as a woman in law. I plan to continue to foster a culture of inclusivity and mentorship.
Considering your extensive background in arbitration and mediation, What trends or factors do you believe will drive this shift, and how will the firm position itself in this evolving landscape?
Yes, the increasing complexity of disputes and the desire for more efficient, cost-effective resolution methods are driving this shift. ADR, particularly arbitration and mediation, offers flexible solutions that can accommodate the needs of modern businesses. We are well-positioned to leverage these trends by continuing to enhance our ADR capabilities and adopting innovative approaches to meet the evolving needs of our clients.
Outside of your legal career, what hobbies or activities do you pursue to unwind and stay balanced? How do these personal interests contribute to your overall professional life, and do they influence your approach to your new role at MRP Advisory?
To maintain balance, I believe it is important to engage in mindfulness practices, exercise, and creative activities such as painting. These activities can help manage stress and maintain a clear, focused mind. This in turn contributes to effectiveness in handling complex legal matters. Creative pursuits offer a valuable outlet for relaxation and creative thinking, which enhances overall problem-solving abilities.
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