This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team
You have an incredibly diverse legal career with expertise in several areas. Could you share with us what initially inspired you to pursue law as a profession?
Thank you for the kind words! Honestly, my decision to pursue law wasn’t something I planned from the beginning—it grew out of a strong desire to help people navigate a system that often feels overwhelming and inaccessible. Coming from a family with no legal background, I saw how intimidating the legal world could be for those without connections or guidance. That’s what inspired me: the idea that I could bridge that gap for people who felt unheard or unsupported.
When I started Juhi Arora & Associates, it wasn’t just about building a career—it was about creating a space where clients feel seen and empowered, knowing they have someone who genuinely cares about their rights and their story. Law, for me, has always been about standing up for fairness and justice, and every case reminds me why I took this path.
It’s been a journey filled with learning, growth, and moments of real impact. I often say that the beauty of law is that it’s not just about solving problems; it’s about giving people the courage to face them. That’s what keeps me going.
As the Founder of Juhi Arora & Associates, how do you manage the challenges of running a law firm along with your practice in high-profile cases and on several legal panels?
Honestly, it’s not easy, and there are days when it feels like I’m juggling too many things at once. But I’ve learned that you can’t—and shouldn’t—do it all alone. My team at Juhi Arora & Associates is my biggest strength. I’ve always believed in trusting and empowering the people I work with. They handle so much with confidence and dedication, which lets me focus on the things that really need my attention, whether that’s a high-profile case or contributing to a legal panel.
I also rely on good planning. It’s about taking things one step at a time and being realistic about what can be done in a day. I try to keep my priorities clear—clients always come first, but so does ensuring my team has what they need to succeed.
Of course, there are moments when it feels overwhelming, but that’s part of the journey. I remind myself that it’s not about being perfect—it’s about staying committed. What keeps me going is knowing that the work we do matters. Whether it’s helping a client in crisis or shaping a broader discussion on a legal issue, it’s all worth it.
At the end of the day, I think the key is to stay grounded, take a deep breath when things get hectic, and remind myself why I started this journey in the first place.
One of your notable cases was challenging a tender issued by NCERT in the matter of Samit Khanna v. UOI & Ors. What was the motivation behind this case and how did you prepare for it?
This case was particularly close to my heart because it wasn’t just about legalities—it was about fairness and accountability in public processes. The motivation came from the realization that the tender process in question wasn’t transparent. The eligibility criteria were vague, and the evaluation process seemed unfair, raising questions about whether it truly allowed equal opportunity for all participants.
Preparation for this case was intense and detail-oriented. We started with a thorough review of the tender documents, comparing them against legal standards for public procurement. This involved identifying where the process fell short and how it potentially violated principles of fairness and equality under Article 14 of the Constitution. We also researched past judgments to strengthen our arguments and present a clear picture of why this tender needed scrutiny.
For me, the case wasn’t just about challenging NCERT’s actions—it was about standing up for the idea that public institutions must be held to the highest standards of integrity. Fairness isn’t optional; it’s foundational. Cases like this remind me why I became a lawyer: to ensure that the principles of justice are upheld, no matter how complex the issue.
In family law, you have represented clients in cases such as Sandhya v. Manish and Kavita Malik v. State of NCT of Delhi. What are some of the key takeaways for you from these cases, especially regarding the evolving dynamics of marriage and divorce laws in India?
Family law cases are always deeply personal, and working on cases like Sandhya v. Manish and Kavita Malik v. State of NCT of Delhi has been both challenging and eye-opening. These cases have really shown me how the law is evolving in response to the changing dynamics of marriage and divorce in India.
In Sandhya v. Manish, we dealt with issues of domestic violence and financial dependency. It made me realize just how hard it can be for women to assert their rights within a marriage, especially when societal pressures or economic factors come into play. This case highlighted the importance of legal safeguards that protect women’s rights—both emotionally and financially—during and after a marriage.
Then, in Kavita Malik v. State of NCT of Delhi, the focus was on post-divorce maintenance, and it was heartening to see how the courts are increasingly taking a more holistic approach to divorce. It’s no longer just about ending a marriage; it’s about making sure that both parties can move forward with dignity and financial security.
The key takeaway for me has been how marriage and divorce laws are no longer seen just through the lens of tradition but are also evolving to protect individuals and ensure fairness. Whether it’s about addressing domestic violence or ensuring financial stability after a divorce, the law is moving toward a more inclusive and balanced approach, one that recognizes the complexities of relationships today.
These cases remind me why I’m passionate about family law—because it’s not just about the law itself, but about making sure people feel supported and heard in some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
You’ve been a strong advocate for women’s rights, and your efforts have earned you several awards, such as the Nari Shakti Award. In your opinion, how can the legal profession further empower women and ensure gender equality?
As a woman in law, I believe the legal profession plays a pivotal role in empowering women. One of the first steps is to increase women’s representation in leadership roles—whether in law firms, the judiciary, or academia. Diverse leadership brings new perspectives, and that’s essential for shaping a fairer legal system.
Mentorship is also crucial. Senior women lawyers need to actively support and guide younger women in navigating career challenges, from overcoming biases to achieving work-life balance. It’s about creating a support system that helps them grow and thrive in the profession.
We also need stronger policies to tackle discrimination head-on—ensuring equal pay, offering flexible work arrangements, and creating more inclusive environments for women.
Finally, training lawyers to handle cases involving women’s rights with greater empathy and sensitivity is key. When the legal profession takes these steps, we can set the stage for gender equality, not just within our field, but across society.
Your expertise as a Certified Mediator by DDRS shows your dedication to Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). How do you think ADR is transforming dispute resolution in India, and how can it be more widely accepted?
As a Certified Mediator by DDRS, I am deeply committed to Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) because it aligns with my core belief that disputes can be resolved more peacefully, efficiently, and collaboratively. ADR methods such as mediation, arbitration, and conciliation offer not just a cost-effective solution, but also one that prioritizes mutual respect and understanding. Given the growing pressure on our judicial system, ADR is an essential alternative that helps parties resolve their issues quickly, while encouraging a more cooperative approach to conflict.
In India, we’re starting to see a cultural shift towards ADR, particularly in commercial disputes, family matters, and labor issues. ADR creates a platform where parties can engage in open, productive conversations, leading to mutually beneficial outcomes. However, awareness around ADR is still developing, especially in smaller towns and rural areas, where many are unaware of its advantages or lack access to trained professionals.
To make ADR more effective, we need to focus on increasing awareness, providing better training for mediators, and ensuring ADR services are accessible and affordable for everyone. Legal reforms that integrate ADR into the mainstream legal framework would further promote its use. With continued support, ADR can not only help ease the burden on our courts but also foster a more peaceful, efficient, and collaborative approach to resolving disputes across the country.
As a lawyer, how do you maintain a work-life balance, especially when handling complex cases and public appearances? Are there any personal practices that keep you grounded?
Maintaining a work-life balance as a lawyer, especially when dealing with complex cases and public appearances, is certainly challenging, but it’s essential for both professional success and personal well-being. For me, it’s about prioritizing and setting clear boundaries.
Firstly, time management is crucial. I make sure to plan my day carefully—balancing court appearances, client meetings, and my family time. Of course, there will be days when work demands more attention, but I ensure that I carve out personal time in my schedule, whether it’s spending time with my children or pursuing my hobbies, like cooking or painting, which help me recharge.
I also delegate tasks to my trusted associates at the firm. Delegation is not about relinquishing control; it’s about empowering your team to handle matters effectively while you focus on the bigger picture. This helps in reducing the pressure on myself and ensuring that we’re all working together efficiently.
On a personal level, I’ve always found it important to stay grounded and connected with my roots. I practice gratitude regularly and believe in taking moments to reflect on how far I’ve come and how much I still have to achieve. This perspective helps me stay focused on what truly matters. I also make it a point to exercise—a good workout or a walk always clears my mind and helps me stay energized throughout the day.
Above all, self-belief is the key. When you’re confident in your abilities, you can handle the pressure without losing sight of your personal life. And yes, having a support system—especially family—plays a big role. My mother, for instance, has been a huge source of inspiration and support for me. Balancing work and personal life aren’t easy, but it’s all about managing your time, staying organized, and remembering that you’re in control of your journey.
As a woman in a highly competitive profession, what advice would you give to young women who aspire to pursue law, especially those who wish to establish themselves as successful legal practitioners?
As a woman in this highly competitive profession, my advice to young women aspiring to pursue law would be simple yet powerful: believe in yourself and never underestimate your potential. The legal field is demanding, and yes, it’s tough, but remember, as women, we are naturally resilient, intuitive, and capable of handling challenges that come our way.
First and foremost, education and continuous learning are key. Law is a dynamic profession that evolves with time, so you need to stay updated with the latest developments, case laws, and legal trends. Secondly, embrace hard work and discipline. There will be times when you’ll feel overwhelmed, but your perseverance will be what sets you apart. Don’t expect shortcuts to success; it’s the long hours and dedication that will ultimately take you far.
Additionally, don’t be afraid to take up challenges. When opportunities come your way, grab them with both hands, even if they seem daunting. Seek mentorship from senior lawyers and build relationships with your peers. Your network will help you grow both personally and professionally.
Lastly, I cannot stress enough the importance of integrity and honesty. In our profession, we deal with the truth, and the way you practice will define your reputation. Stand by your values, be ethical, and ensure that justice remains at the heart of everything you do.
Remember, success in law isn’t just about winning cases—it’s about the respect you earn, the difference you make, and the justice you help deliver. Keep your vision clear, stay grounded, and trust the process. You’ve got this!
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