The 10 Most Recommended Law Firms 2020

2020 | Volume-2 | Issue-3

The 10 Most Recommended Law firms, 2020 Hiroo Advani

Founding and Managing Partner

ADVANI & CO. THE PIONEERS OF ARBITRATION LAW AND PRACTICE IN INDIA

OUTSTANDING LAW FIRMS CHANGING THE FACE OF THE INDIAN LEGAL INDUSTRY

I

ndia is the most populous democracy in the world, where the rights of the people and the enforcement of law have a very diverse relationship. The legal sector of the country has witnessed a major facelift over the years, incorporating various amendments for better outcomes. The profession of law holds a place of respect among other occupational groups. The dedicated lawyers and firms have taken various initiatives to develop and uphold the values of the industry, which has eventually led to its tremendous growth.

Furthermore, technological revolutions have taken this sector to newer heights, opening doors to unique opportunities. AI and machine learning are increasingly making their way into the legal sector, enhancing the decision-making process, while ensuring accurate and timely delivery of results. The Indian legal system has a rich history, with major contributions from some of the best lawyers and firms easing various procedures and ensuring swift delivery of justice.

Hence, this issue of Insights Success showcases some of the most prominent law firms of the country, who are making a difference by following their outstanding work ethics. They are driven to serve the society and ensure that justice is rightly served. This issue focuses on how the leading law firms of India are taking various steps to uphold law and justice.

The Cover Story of the issue features Advani & Co., a renowned firm specializing in arbitration law and practice in India. We have also highlighted Dhaval Vussonji & Associates; DSK Legal; Little & Co; O.P. Khaitan & Co. Solicitors and Advocates; Sagacious IP; S.K. Srivastav & Co; SKS Law Associates; SS Law; and Zaiwalla & Co. Solicitors. This issue also includes an educative article written by Mr. Sai Sushanth, the CEO of Sushanth IT Law Associates.

Hence, browse through the pages for further information on these elite law firms!

Editor’s Note Ananda Kamal Das

ARTICLE

26 Editor’s Pick Cloud Computing for the Legal Profession: Challenges and Opportunities

08

18

22

16

24

30

32

CONT ENTS 36

38

COVER STORY

CXO

08

18

16

Advani & Co. The Pioneers of Arbitration Law and Practice in India

Expert’s Opinion Some Popular Apps & Law

Dhaval Vussonji & Associates Upholding the Law with Dedicated Services

22

24

30

Little & Co A Tradition of Excellence and Legal Expertise

S. K. Srivastav & Co Devising Tailor Made Strategies for your Legal Needs

Sagacious IP Delivering IP Consulting and Research Services Globally

32

36

38

SKS Law Associates Safeguarding Intellectual Capital through Right Legal Advice

SS Law Firm Providing Professional Legal Services with a Personal Touch

Zaiwalla & Co. Solicitors Spearheading the Legal Arena with Innovation and Excellence

Editor-in-Chief Pooja M. Bansal Managing Editor Ananda Kamal Das

sales@insightssuccess.com

Publishing Control Team Shruti, Rahul

February, 2020

Quality Assurance Team Darshan, Abhishaj, Sneha

Corporate OfďŹ ces: Art & Design Head Amol Kamble Associate Designer Poonam Mahajan Art & Picture Editor Asha Bange Co-designer Priyanka Sr. Business Development Manager Megha Mishra Business Development Manager Nandan Deshpande Business Development Lead Ashwini Pahurkar Sr. Business Development Executive Nikhil Chavan Technical Head Pratiksha Patil Technical Specialist Amar Sawant

Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. Off. No. 22 & 510, Rainbow Plaza, Shivar Chowk, Pimple Saudagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411017 Phone - India: +91 7410079881/ 82/ 83/ 84/ 85 Email: info@insightssuccess.in For Subscription: www.insightssuccess.in Insights Success Media Tech LLC 555 Metro Place North, Suite 100, Dublin, OH 43017, United States Phone - (614)-602-1754 Email: info@insightssuccess.com For Subscription: www.insightssuccess.com

Digital Marketing Manager Prashant Chevale SME-SMO Executive Uma Circulation Manager Tanaji

Cover Price : RS. 150/Follow us on :

www.facebook.com/insightssuccess/

https://twitter.com/insightssuccess

We are also available on Copyright Š 2020 Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd., All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. Reprint rights remain solely with Insights Success. Printed and Published by Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. RNI NUMBER: MAHENG/2018/75953

Hiroo Advani

Founding and Managing Partner

The 10 Most Recommended

Law firms, 2020

Advani & Co.

THE PIONEERS OF ARBITRATION LAW AND PRACTICE IN INDIA

“

Mr. Advani, personally acts as lead counsel in all arbitrations bringing decades of arbitration expertise to the table, ensuring seamless proficiency and quality at all stages of the arbitration process

T

he last decade has witnessed numerous transformations in the Indian legal arena, especially in terms of judicial framework and legislative policies. Consequently, these changes have greatly impacted the fields of dispute resolution, taxation, insolvency laws, environmental laws, infrastructural contracts, and so on.

This brings us to the opinion that professional advocates and law firms play an indispensable role in legal proceedings throughout all spheres. The leading law firms of the country are leaving no stones unturned to provide the clients with the best possible services. One such firm providing unmatched expertise is none other than Advani & Co..

Established in 1987, the firm is the oldest specialized arbitration practitioner in India and has pioneered the growth of arbitration law and practice for more than three decades. The firm focuses on research and its vast experience equips it with better overall case management and strategic planning abilities.

The firms has delivered excellent results in securing early relief for its clients and has a success rate of over 80% in arbitrations in cross-border cases. Furthermore, Advani & Co. has successfully completed half a dozen arbitrations where the award has been in excess of USD 200 million.

The firm specialises in both domestic and international arbitration.

“

“

WE HAVE DELIVERED EXCELLENT RESULTS IN SECURING EARLY RELIEFS FOR OUR CLIENTS

A Visionary Leader The individual spearheading the firm is Mr. Hiroo Advani, the Founding and Managing Partner. A highly regarded name and world authority on arbitration law, he is one of the first Indian lawyers to be listed in the International Who’s Who of Commercial Arbitrators. Mr. Advani completed his schooling from Cathedral & John Connon High School, Bombay and graduated with a Gold Medal from Bombay University in 1970.

He obtained his Master’s Degree in Law from the University of Cambridge, UK. In 1987, he established Advani & Co. which has evolved as a leading name in arbitration law practice. Mr. Advani has conducted, a wide range of arbitrations mostly on construction projects and infrastructure including the energy/natural resources sector, oil refineries, financial services, and so on.

Mr. Advani has served as the lead counsel in a large number of International Arbitrations under different arbitration rules such as the ICC, the LCIA, UNCITRAL, Swedish Arbitration Association, Singapore Association of Arbitration, Zurich Chamber of Commerce, and ad hoc arbitrations in India.

Mr. Advani, personally acts as lead counsel in all arbitrations bringing decades of arbitration expertise to the table, ensuring seamless proficiency and quality at all stages of the arbitration process. He has prior experience as an Arbitrator, is a qualified Barrister and a leading counsel in many notable arbitration cases, thereby cultivating a rich diaspora of knowledge that enables a holistic and novel approach to the sphere of arbitration.

Exhibiting Excellence Advani & Co. has conducted maximum number of arbitrations in energy/natural resources

As the oil reserves in India are mainly owned by the Oil & Natural Gas Commission (ONGC), the bulk of the company’s claims have been against ONGC. The firm has also worked for various public sector undertakings (PSUs) including HPCL, SAIL, and JNPT in major arbitrations. Currently, it serves as Lead Counsel for a number of arbitration and litigation matters arising out of major contracts on behalf of Swiber Offshore Construction Pte Ltd. Advani & Co. is also well known for consistently offering its services to India’s largest construction company Larsen & Turbo (L&T). It has represented L&T in local and global disputes and continues to be their choice for major disputes. The firm’s sectoral expertise includes major companies in the power sector, the construction sector, tourism, coding & marking sector, and FMCGs. The firm has been constantly recognized for its dedicated endeavours.

Chambers & Partners, one of the most prestigious global directories for lawyers, have consistently ranked Advani & Co. in ‘Band I’ for arbitration in India. Global Law Experts, Who’s Who of Lawyers, Legal 500, and several other publications continue to rank the firm in their ‘Band I’ for dispute resolution. In 2017, the India Business Law Journal also awarded the firm with title, ‘the Best Dispute Resolution law firm in India’.

“

We provide results of international quality coupled with the necessary local insight

“

sector namely, for offshore oil & gas. It has acted and continues to act for the main global players in oil and gas including Halliburton, Schlumberger, Baker Hughes, Subsea7, NPCC, and several others.

Some of its other clients also include Dolphin Offshore, Great Eastern Offshore, Naik Services, and many more.

Areas of Specialization Advani & Co. provides its dedicated services spreading across various industries, which are mentioned below: Oil and Gas – The firm has been resolving disputes in the domain of oil and gas for decades. It has advised and continues to represent contractors, producers, processors, transporters, state agencies, joint ventures, insurance companies, and various other stakeholders.

Maritime Shipping – The firm has always focused on resolution of shipping, admiralty, and maritime disputes through arbitration. It has accumulated years of experience in advising major international corporations, ship owners, charterers, cargo interests, insurers and salvers, as well as numerous small companies.

Construction – In the construction industry, where arbitration is now the norm for method of dispute resolution, Advani & Co. has led representations for the biggest construction companies over the globe. It possesses multi-disciplinary expertise including technical and financial aspects. The firm has a history of success rates as high as 80% in securing awards.

Projects and Infrastructures – The firm routinely handles large-scale infrastructure and development projects, and has represented multiple parties from numerous jurisdictions. It has gained experience in handling disputes relating to time

delays, price escalation claims, claims for defective works, professional negligence, contract termination, and so on.

Finance – Advani & Co. is the first law firm in the region with a specialization in arbitrations in the banking and finance sector. This is quickly becoming a great strategic tool for large-scale organizations in achieving cost effective and technically sound awards in cross-border banking and financial disputes.

Renewable Energy – The firm is experienced in successfully handling disputes triggered at any and all points during the life cycle of renewable projects, from development to construction to operations. It is seasoned in dealing with a breadth of several contract structures with multiple subcontracts who are often subject to different legal regimes, which often trigger “back to back” contracts.

Upholding Social Responsibility Advani and Co. is extremely committed to its social duties.

It takes up various pro bono cases in areas of law such as consumer and environmental laws.

The firm’s lawyers frequently visit law universities to conduct lectures on various aspects of arbitration, train budding lawyers, and also coach students for moot court competitions. They are committed to spreading awareness amongst the legal community about arbitration law and its nuances.

“

“

WE PROVIDE COMPREHENSIVE REPRESENTATION AT ALL STAGES OF COMMERCIAL AND CIVIL CONTENTIOUS DISPUTES ACROSS THE GLOBE

It also offers a robust internship programme, which permits young law students to experience the practical aspects of working in a law firm and gear up for the upcoming challenges in the legal arena.

Addressing the Challenges The firm believes that the biggest challenge faced by law firms today is the need for keeping up to speed with developing areas of business and new laws. It states, “Lawyers need to constantly study and train to specialize in emerging practice areas to keep up with the growing needs of businesses and technology, be it blockchain technology, drones, or fintech. With clients becoming more savvy, it is up to the lawyers to keep pace with the times”. The firm believes in a multidisciplinary approach to all matters and this is achieved by bringing in the best experts and consultants in their respective fields, such as construction, tax, and finance, which enables the firm to present a strong case.

Deepak

Advani & Co. also addresses the challenge of appropriate consumer pricing due to increased competition of legal services in the market. Irrespective of the quality of legal service, affordability remains a key concern for most consumers. Unlike many multiservice firms, its boutique practice does not outsource any professional services, which enables us to provide services par excellence and increase accountability to its clients. All stages of the Arbitration process, right upto enforcement of arbitration awards, are managed in-house.

opportunity. It emphasizes on preparing and strategizing well to achieve success. The firm further adds, “Identify what unique aspect you can bring to the market and carve your niche. When Advani & Co. was founded, it was the only boutique arbitration practice in the country”.

Future Perspective

As a player in the industry for four decades, Advani & Co. has approached a cost-effective method by introducing a fixed fee cost model. The model provides our clients muchneeded budget certainty and cost predictability. We have alternative billing models such competitive hourly rates, and capped fees, based on the various stages of arbitration.

Advani & Co. has grown from strength to strength since its inception. It has always emphasized on dedicated client service and a refusal to give up until a positive outcome.

The firm adds, “Our clients’ referrals speak volumes to our quality of service”. It plans to fully embrace the future and evolve to the changes that are looming large.

One of the key ways in which the firm is bringing affordability, while being one of the first law firms in India to do so, is to assist clients who cannot afford the cost of arbitration by arranging funding from third parties.

“As lawyers, we need to move with the times and embrace the change by creating opportunities for ourselves,” the firm adds. It is on a constant mission to learn about new practices and businesses and we understand that the landscape is changing.

Advice for the Gen-Next The firm suggests that for anyone trying to start out their own law firms, it is important to treat each challenge as an

Subscribe Today Stay in touch.

Subscribe to Insightssuccess Get Insightssuccess Magazine in print, & digital on www.insightssuccess.in

www.insightssuccess.in

Cheque should be drawn in favour of : INSIGHTS SUCCESS MEDIA AND TECH PVT. LTD.

CORPORATE OFFICE Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. Off No. 22 & 510, Rainbow Plaza, Shivar Chowk, Pimple Saudagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411017.

Phone - India: 020- 7410079881/ 82/ 83/ 84/ 85 USA: 302-319-9947 Email: info@insightssuccess.in For Subscription : www.insightssuccess.in

Dhaval Vussonji & Associates Upholding the Law with Dedicated Services

T

he legal sector in India has witnessed a paradigm shift, with major enactments and reforms in various laws. It has evolved into a diverse and dynamic field opening doors for numerous career opportunities.

Furthermore, technology has played an important role, taking the sector ahead. The leading law firms of the country are leaving no stone unturned to resolve various cases and to deliver justice in time.

One such path breaking leader in the field of law is Dhaval Vussonji & Associates. Since its inception in 2013, the firm has grown to a team of 5 partners and 30 lawyers in Mumbai, with affiliate offices in Bengaluru and Delhi.

It employs a team of lawyers and advocates also qualified as solicitors, company secretaries, and chartered accountants. They assist the firm to deal with matters comprehensively, analyzing the legal, commercial, regulatory, compliance, and taxation aspects.

Areas of Expertise Dhaval Vussonji & Associates specializes in many fields including real estate, dispute resolution, insolvency and bankruptcy, banking and finance, capital markets and securities law, to among others. As one of India’s leading law firm in the real estate sector, it is known for its unique approach towards title diligence and review. The firm has been involved in some of the We believe in largest and complex acquisitions in recent times. It has investigated delivering quality, complex titles for agricultural lands, conducted in-depth investigation of professional, and the laws relating to humane rehabilitation, statute of limitations, solution-oriented principles of harmonious services interpretation, and jurisprudence.

“

The firm’s unparalleled commitment to quality, professionalism, effectiveness, and quick turnaround are the cornerstones of its service. “Our work ethic and the accomplished legal advice rendered by the team, under the powerful leadership of our partners is why we are trusted advisors to our clients”, states team Dhaval Vussonji & Associates.

Steadfast Leadership A key personality responsible for taking the firm to the heights of success is Ms. Prachi Dave, one of the Managing Partners. She has been a part of the firm since

16 | February 2020

Her deep understanding of the banking and financial services sector and private equity is well respected by leading financial institutions and borrowers alike. Her clients also rely on her expertise for the relatively newly introduced insolvency and bankruptcy laws.

“

Focused on Attaining Excellence The firm’s primary objective is to provide its clients with quality experience. It focuses on being accessible and responding promptly to the needs of the clients.

Selecting a solution-oriented approach and providing sound and legally compliant resolutions to its clients are its key priorities.

its inception. Ms. Prachi is a solicitor practicing on the original side of the Bombay High Court with over 13 years of experience. She advises clients with respect to their inbound as well as out-bound investments.

The firm has quickly established itself as one of the notable players in the field of litigation and alternate dispute resolution.

The team works with a solution-oriented approach, towards making the process hassle free for the clients and ensures that disputes are resolved efficiently and cost effectively. Its dispute resolution practice extends to real estate, company law, family law, banking and finance, slum rehabilitation schemes, redevelopment projects, and so on.

Dhaval Vussonji actively renders advice to several clients across power, cement, real estate, shipping, manufacturing, and transport industries on insolvency and bankruptcy matters, extensively. It keeps itself informed about the everevolving law, judgements under it, and due process to

www.insightssuccess.in

The 10 Most Recommended

Law firms, 2020 ensure that the clients remain well advised. The firm represents clients in the NCLT, NCLAT, and the Supreme Court with its competent litigation teams based in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru.

Giving back to the Society The firm is very conscious that as lawyers, they have the capacity to not only help but also influence society. It engages in many monetary and non-monetary community activities. Currently, it is working on about 10% cases, which are pro bono.

It is also a supporter of education, especially among children and young adults. The Firm part-sponsored an event by an NGO, Increasing Diversity by Increasing Access to Legal Education (IDIA), which is a pan India movement to train underprivileged students and help transform them into leading lawyers and community advocates.

Dhaval Vussonji Managing Partner

Future Perspective Marching forward, the firm plans to continue expanding its presence, moving into foreign markets and generating a stronger presence there via new and meaningful relationships with lawyers and counsels in those territories. Accordingly, it has joined hands with a partner for practice development, who is helping it to take concrete steps and realize its dream of broadening the horizons.

Advice to the Leaders of Tomorrow The firm’s advice to anyone starting off as start-ups or entrepreneurs in the business of law is to conduct an extensive research in the space they plan to build their business. It is imperative to assess what the market needs, and objectively assess whether their service is going to help bridge a gap. This is the basis on which young entrepreneurs can set their own firm’s vision and goal.

The firm states that young entrepreneurs should constantly invest in technology, make the time for innovation and keep themselves updated on what the changes in legislation are and how they can impact the clients’ businesses. It encourages them to have the foresight, and to raise concerns for their clients’ businesses far before the impact is actually felt.

Addressing the youngsters, the firm states, “businesses, after all, will lean in to you for this kind of prediction and astute knowledge”.

www.insightssuccess.in

Ms. Prachi Dave Managing Partner

17 | February 2020

SOME POPULAR APPS & LAW T oday, Mobile Apps are centre to our lives and if not all, there are some specific Apps that have turned to be the de-facto modes in the World. This article intends to bring in an awareness from a legal perspective while in no manner intends to affect the business and the downloads of these Apps.

FACE APP While the terms and conditions of this App state that no Cyber Security can be guaranteed to a user’s data, this App makes use of AI to switch looks of a user. The terms also state that you as a user, grant a perpetual, irrevocable, royalty-free, world-wide, fully paid, transferrable sublicensable licence to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, publicly perform and display your User Content and any name, user name, likeness provided in connection with your User Content in all media formats and channels now known or later developed, without compensation to you.

The net effect of this means your photos uploaded thereof may be used in various ways. This App provides a mandatory arbitration clause which puts forth that such arbitration shall be conducted in Santa Clara, California.

The same also implies that Class Action Lawsuits are

18 | February 2020

prohibited, and any user should file their claims within an year of the issue.

INSTAGRAM This App’s Terms of Use are hard to read than Dickens. The App does not take ownership of its User’s content, however, the user provides a similar license as stated above to this App. The user agreement provides a broad right over the User’s Content, pushing the envelope on the users to copyright infringement claims. The legal policies adopt one-sided approach protecting the content of the App, but not that of the user. This positions the other App developers working in synchrony with this App to offer extra functions like boosting likes, follower’s analysis etc. The users posting photos on this App should be alive to the fact that if they intend to modify or sell such photos on an exclusive license the same shall attract breach.

SMULE This App brings in questions of copyright as the owners of copyright have the right to decide how their musical compositions are used, distributed. Further, the copyright owners also have the right to determine royalties, licenses, karaoke’s or not with regard to their works. Uploading the songs sung by you through this App over WhatsApp and

www.insightssuccess.in

Expert’s Opinion

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mr. Sai Sushanth is a Cyber Law Expert & Techno Legal Consultant. He is the CEO of Sushanth IT Law Associates, a cyber law consulting firm. He has re cently b e en acknowledged and awarded as ‘Best Cyber Lawyer of the Year 2019’ by India Legal. His recent e-book is ‘Chatbots & Law: Indian Cyber Legal Perspective & International Perspective’ (California's New Bot Law & EU GDPR).

social media shall expose you to copyright violations. It shall be advisable to share links to this App instead of uploading the video since uploading can be considered redistribution of potentially copyrighted material. Users should be aware that their videos may be taken down in case of copyright infringement.

DUBSMASH The legality of videos created through this App is ticklish.

Sharing and posting such videos in public forums like Facebook, WhatsApp or any other social media may almost be considered illegal no matter however funny the video maybe. However what needs to be looked into is whether the video created through this App is distinctly new or the nature of the copyrighted work used is limited and its impact is merely negligible.

TIKTOK This App opens up pandoras box of questions from a legal perspective. While the App pushes content posted by users into ads without the user’s permission specifically where the user is featured in the content. The App clearly states that you grant a perpetual, non-exclusive, irrevocable, royalty-free, world-wide, fully paid, transferrable sublicensable licence to it with regard to your content.

The App also puts in great responsibility and burden of proof on the user while creating a video using the App. The

www.insightssuccess.in

App also clearly outlines that any videos created using the App shall not intimidate or harass anybody or create a conflict of interest or solicit fake reviews, cause defamation or offensive or hateful content or deliberately provoke or antagonise, troll, bully, harm, hurt, scare, distress, embarrass or upset any person. Further the App may generate revenue through the sale, advertising, sponsorships, promotions of your content. The App also directly or may authorise others to cut, crop, edit your content. The App amusingly waives any or all rights of privacy with regard to User Content.

CONCLUSION This article examines the legal policies relating to these Apps and analyses them in a common man’s lingo and perspective making a user acquainted and cognisant of the same. Given the present scenario of users trying to make their videos presence viral over the Internet, I think it is time to set forth specific legal policies and regulatory frameworks with regard to such viral posts. It becomes increasingly important to revisit the intermediary guidelines, specifically to protect the privacy of an individual in the light of the recent Supreme Court judgement making Right to Privacy a fundamental right.

These are some illustrations of how User’s Content, Privacy, Cyber Security are made sitting ducks while it is interesting to see how legal landscape surrounding the Apps unfolds with the passage of time.

19 | February 2020

Little & Co. A Tradition of Excellence and Legal Expertise

F

or more than 160 years, Little & Co. is providing its legal expertise and services across India and worldwide. The Firm was established in 1856 under the able guidance of Mr. John Pares Bickersteth and was the first partnership firm to be registered under the Indian Partnership Act, 1932. The Firm is based in Mumbai and is one of the oldest firms of Advocates and Solicitors in India.

Little & Co is known for its integrity, efficiency and high intensity of partner involvement. It combines the legacy of the best practices along with the contemporary legal prospects, to bring the clientele the most efficient and practical advice in the most competent and organized manner.

endeavours to provide quality legal advice in the areas of Infrastructure, Real Estate, Banking and Finance, Capital Markets and Financial Securities, Taxation, Intellectual Property Rights, Mergers, Acquisitions and Joint Ventures, Litigation, Arbitration and Mediation, etc.

Dedicated Leaders with Extensive Experience:

Mr. Jayendra Kapadia is the Joint Managing Partner of Little & Co. He earned his degree of LL.B. from the University of Mumbai in 1974. He leads the team of Litigation and Arbitration and has extensive experience in the areas of Banking and Finance, Corporate Law, Real Estate, Admiralty Law A Peek into the History Our robust presence for etc. Mr. Kapadia has been more than a century and admitted as Solicitor on the The Firm has had the honor of Rolls of the Bombay representing the East India a half speaks for our Incorporated Law Society in Company, the Secretary of unequivocal renowned 1976. He has been State for India, the recognized by the Indian Government of Bombay ability to serve a wide Business Law Journal as one Presidency and its successors, of the 35 Legal Icons in 2019 spectrum of clientele of both and finally, the State of A-List and one of India’s Top Maharashtra till 1974. The national and international 100 Lawyers in 2016 A-List.

Firm has acted as Solicitors to Mr. Kapadia has been awarded the Great Indian Peninsula standing the Corporate Intl. Global Awards Railway and continued to act for it for Maritime Lawyer of the Year in till its merger with the Central India in 2014. He was invited as a Railway. The incorporation of the Tata distinguished guest for the Singapore Iron and Steel Company was done with the Convention Signing Ceremony and Conference assistance of the Firm and its then partner Mr. held in Singapore in August 2019.

T.C.B. Acworth signed the company’s original Memorandum of Association.

Mr. Ajay Khatlawala is the Joint Managing Partner of Little & Co. He has done LL.B. from the University of Services Offered Mumbai in 1977. He has been admitted as Solicitor on the Rolls of the Bombay Incorporated Law Society in 1981.

Little & Co is one of the leading firms of Advocates and Mr. Khatlawala practices in Litigation and Arbitration, Real Solicitors in India. It embraces its legacy and has a strong Estate, Project Finance and Transactions, Banking and client-focused value system and a practical as well as Commercial Laws, Electrical Law, Constitutional Law, solution-oriented approach to problem solving. The Firm

“

“

22 | February 2020

www.insightssuccess.in

The 10 Most Recommended

Law firms, 2020 Corporate Law and Aviation Law including Aircraft Leasing. He has been awarded with 2014’s Corporate Intl. Global Awards Property Acquisitions Lawyer of the Year in India.

Challenges and Opportunities for Indian Corporate Law Firms The rise of technology has brought a lot of changes in various industries and it is directly affecting the Indian law firms as well. Clients on the other hand have become more demanding because of the easy availability of information. In this digital era, prudent use of technology can also be seen as an opportunity for the law firms.

Jayendra Kapadia

Joint Managing Partner jkapadia@littlecompany.com

Future Ahead The Firm proposes to expand in future on several parameters, including but not limited to the volume of matters being attended to by the Firm, the quality of work being delivered to the clients and the Firm’s engagement with foreign law firms and foreign clients.

Piece of Advice to the Budding Start-Ups and Entrepreneurs The leaders of the firm advise, “It is good to have a dream and a vision, but it is equally important to know the challenges ahead of you. Our only advice, as a law firm, would be to know the applicable laws in advance and the manner in which is required to be complied.”

LITTLE & CO., Advocates & Solicitors Central Bank Building, 3rd Floor M. G. Road, Fort, Mumbai 400 001.

Tele: +91-22-2265 2739; 4049 9100 Website: www.littlecompany.co.in

www.insightssuccess.in

Ajay Khatlawala

Joint Managing Partner ak@littlecompany.com 23 | February 2020

S. K. Srivastav & Co Devising Tailor Made Strategies for your Legal Needs S. K. Srivastav & Co, established in 1985, is a highly reputed and professionally managed ISO 9001:2000 certified Law Firm, providing reliable and practical legal advice across all sectors. The Firm has established itself as one of the Leading Law Firm in Mumbai, India.

provide high quality legal services to clients throughout the region. The Firm is retained as Legal Counsel by large number of business houses.

The Firm has an accomplished team of talented & experienced lawyers who are committed to deliver the best Legal solutions. The Firm provides personalized professional and result oriented services to its clients.

The Firm efficiently and effectively serve’s its clients’ needs and expectations which has resulted in many long standing and close client relationships.

The Founder, Mr. Satish Kumar Srivastav is the leading light and expertise in Civil, Corporate, Commercial, Constitutional, Arbitration & Dispute Resolution & Intellectual Property matters. Mr. Srivastav has been the guiding force, who has successfully steered the Firm to global heights.

The Firm’s Head Office is located in Mumbai within walking distance from High Court of Judicature at Bombay and also has Branch Office at New Delhi. The Firm has Associate Law Firms representing them in major cities of India. The Firm is having established wide networking relationship with a large number of International Law Firms. With Greater interest being shown in Indian operations, the Firm is ideally suited to act as a window for clearer and up-dated view in India.

The Firm is specialized in the field of Civil, Corporate and Commercial, Arbitration and Dispute Resolution, Intellectual Property, Real Estate, Education and Constitutional matters. The Firm is closely associated with Chartered Accountant Firms & Tax Consultants in order to offer one stop service to Foreign Direct Investors in the field of investments in real estate including Repatriation, Advice on entry and exit strategies for overseas Investors, Entity Structuring and in particular SPV formation, FEMA regulations, Direct tax implications.

Over the years the firm has grown from strength to strength and is poised for further expansion in order to

An Anecdote about the Leader

Mr. Srivastav has been practicing at Bombay and Delhi High Courts, Supreme Court of India as well as the Supreme Court of England & Wales. He has appeared and handled matters in several Courts in India.

His acumen in handling disputes has elevated him to be the most preferred legal Counsel for a large number of Business Houses. He also acts as an Arbitrator and is an accredited Adjudicator and Mediator with considerable experience. He has done his LL.M from Mumbai University, Master in Business Management (MBA) and got accreditation of Solicitor from Law Society of England & Wales and Fellowship from International Bar Association, alongside attaining a Diploma on several legal frameworks.

The USP The Firm develops as aggressive, practical, innovative, and state of art strategies for its diverse clients base to resolve cases on acceptable terms. Once the Firm is retained, the clients can sleep well at night with confidence that they are in capable hands of the Firm.

Awards and Accolades Delivering services seamlessly over the years, the Firm

24 | February 2020

www.insightssuccess.in

The 10 Most Recommended

Law firms, 2020 has been acknowledged and appreciated at the following prestigious platforms.

LISTING The Firm is listed in world renowned Law Directories - Legal 500 Asia Pacific, Asia Law Profile (guide to Asia – Pacific Leading Domestic and Regional Law Firms), HR.Org. INTERNATIONAL NETWORK The Law Firm is part of several International Network such as World Link for Law, Association of European Lawyers (AEA), Society of Indian Law Firms (SILF) and International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), International Centre For Alternative Dispute Resolution (ICADR).

Satish Kumar Srivastav Founder

“

We Believe, We Fight, We Win

“

• Commercial Law Firm of the Year in India – Corporate INTL Global Awards –UK, 2014 • Top 250 Leading Firms – Intercontinental Finance Magazine, 2014 • One of the Leading Firms Around the World – International Bar Guides Worldwide,2014 • Best Arbitration Law Firm in India – The Lawyers Network (TLN), 2014 • Promising Advocate & Solicitor – Advocate G.M. Shitahatti Memorial Award, 2018 • Businessworld Global Legal Summit & India Leaders Award, 2019 • Civil Litigation Law Firm of the Year Corporate INTL Global Award, 2019

For more information regarding the company, do visit https://www.srivastavandco.com/.

www.insightssuccess.in

25 | February 2020

Editor’s Pick

M

odern technologies are increasingly making their way in almost every industry and the legal sector is also not untouched with the magic of their benefits. Even law firms and lawyers of this modern era are also interested in incorporating these technological advancements in legal activities and procedures. In spite of that, there are many lawyers and law firms who are skeptic about adopting modern technology in their day-to-day activities. Cloud computing is constantly evolving and is widely being used in many businesses. Law firms can take the next step towards technological advancement and can adopt cloud computing in their operations. But before doing so, they should clearly understand the concept, applications, advantages, and disadvantages of cloud computing to ensure its successful utilization.

When we use cloud computing, we are running programs and storing data on the internet, rather than using the computer’s hard drive. In cloud

26 | February 2020

www.insightssuccess.in

CLOUD COMPUTING FOR THE

www.insightssuccess.in

Legal Profession CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES

27 | February 2020

computing, the computer is merely used as a gateway to the application, and the software and files are stored online. A large number of cloud-based technologies are used in businesses these days including Google Docs, Dropbox, and Carbonite to maintain a backup of data.

Cloud computing technologies have been in use since the 1950s, but the important question is can it be properly used in law offices, for example, cloud-based legal billing and trust accounting soft wares. To answer that, the benefits and challenges of cloud computing should be considered.

Benefits of Cloud Computing From the perspective of the legal profession, there are many benefits that cloud computing can offer to laws firms. Cloud software can play many important roles as a virtual attorney. These benefits have been highlighted below.

Mobility Legal firms nowadays are connected to various computer systems at the same time. One can access information anywhere and anytime from any corner of the world with the help of internet connection. It provides a tremendous advantage in courts or mediation sessions when the lawyers have access to all their files and documents while these opposing attorneys don’t.

Independence Cloud soft wares provide the advantage of operating system independence. Users can utilize Mac or Windows OS as per their convenience. Many applications can also be accessed from remote locations with the use of laptops, tablets, or smartphones.

Cost Friendly Cloud soft wares cost less money for installation and almost zero or negligible maintenance costs. They require a very small monthly fee rather than a huge purchase cost.

Moreover, there is no need of hiring dedicated IT staff or outside consultants to set up the software.

Recovery from Disasters Major and minor accidents and disasters in the office can destroy client files, even if they are on the hard drive of the computers. Maintaining offsite backups are also slow and costly, and still may not protect against large-scale disasters. Maintaining backup files in cloud storages provide protection against disasters and even major catastrophes.

Challenges of Cloud Computing Although cloud computing provides numerous benefits, there are also many potential drawbacks of moving to the cloud. Firms should properly asses the liabilities and

28 | February 2020

compare them with the advantages to make sure whether the cloud is the right step for them. The challenges in using cloud computing for the legal profession have been described below.

Ethical Issues Cloud computing may make things easier and time-saving, but can also bring some ethical issues. Attorneys should always be careful that technology doesn’t threaten their ethical responsibilities. Many law firms have taken opinions from their state bar associations before adopting new technology. Till date, all state bar councils have supported cloud computing usage as long as attorneys utilize it ethically.

Lack of Control Law firms should carefully and judiciously use cloud computing technologies. Firms cannot control their cloud service provider who may tamper with sensitive information. These service providers may share sensitive data with other parties or may make a duplicate copy of their case notes. Law firms should always properly research their cloud computing service provider. They should make sure that the service provider that they are opting for has a trustworthy professional record.

Breach of Data Sometimes keeping crucial data on the internet proves unsafe since chances of the data getting hacked or stolen will always be there. Law firms should opt for cloud services which employ strong protection and security measures, which cannot be easily broken. Firms should make a note of what protections are in place against a breach, and what actions need to be taken when a breach occurs and should take necessary steps accordingly.

Issues Related to Access An important factor in cloud computing technology is internet access and availability. If law firms are situated in areas which don’t have internet access, then it is better for them to perform activities manually without computer applications. Moreover, a Denial of Service attack can sometimes bring down the cloud provider’s servers. This may leave the law firms with no access until they come back up.

Cloud computing is an advanced technology with its mixed bag of advantages and disadvantages. Law firms should judiciously use cloud computing technologies making proper utilization of its various opportunities and advantages, and overcoming and dealing with the related challenges. If utilized thoughtfully, cloud computing can work wonders for law firms and can contribute to their growth and success.

www.insightssuccess.in

Sagacious IP Delivering IP Consulting and Research Services Globally

I

n recent years, India has done exceedingly well in the IP domain and as a result the overall IP regime of the country has entered a new league now. The implementation of objectives of first National IPR policy released in 2016 has led towards increased awareness about IP among the public at large, better administration along with speedy disposal of the matters in IP offices and special courts to deliver timely justice to the aggrieved parties. As a stakeholder, IP firms have also contributed in this direction by providing appropriate IP solutions and services to the inventors, entrepreneurs and other IP creators.

has also worked with organisations like Ranbaxy in the R&D and in-house IP Teams besides being founder of a Start-up acquired by 1MG. Recently, he was featured in the IAM’s list of ‘World’s Leading Patent Professionals 2019’ for his well-deserved endeavours in the field of IP.

One such firm showcasing its expertise in the IP domain is Sagacious IP. Established in 2008, this leading global firm is headquartered at Gurgaon, India with offices in USA, UK, Canada, Netherlands, China and Japan. Sagacious is an award-winning IP consulting and research firm offering innovative solutions and services to the global innovator community.

Furthermore, it offers its services to many of the world’s largest law firms, companies and other institutions to help them defend and strategize their IP enforcement activities.

The firm also provides information to the clients to ensure they lead innovation in their industry domain and optimally utilize their IP budgets.

The firm has been successfully solving business challenges for Fortune 500 companies, IP Law firms, inventors, universities, start-ups, MSMEs and patent licensing companies. With clients spanning over 45 countries, the firm has delivered over 12,500 projects in more than six languages. Since its inception, Sagacious has witnessed constant organic growth owing to it’s wide clientele and a world-class in-house team of 300 plus IP professionals.

The Dedicated Frontrunner Vivek Singh who is leading the IP Drafting, Filing and Prosecution practice at Sagacious IP is an IP Attorney and a Patent Agent with Techno-Legal and business background.

He has done Masters in Pharmacy (M. Pharm) from ‘Jamia Hamdard University’ and LLB from ‘Delhi University’. He has diverse work experience and knowledge of various IP domains like IP Prosecution, Strategy, Litigation, Searches, Public Policy & Govt. affairs, and so on.

Vivek has also served as a Deputy Director-IPR, FICCI. He

30 | February 2020

Distinct Offerings The firm provides a wide variety of services for the entire IP life cycle. It assists clients in Developing, Creating, Identifying, Protecting, Maintaining, Enforcing and Monetizing their IP rights.

The core services include: • Global patent search, information and analytics • Patent portfolio management • Patent acquisition, monetization, and licensing • R&D and Innovation management • IP drafting, filing and prosecution • Technology scouting and in-sourcing • Patent docketing and paralegal Opinion on recent Developments, Digitization and use of technology by IP offices and courts The e-filing platforms have revolutionised the earlier manual process where a lot of resources and time of the firms and attorneys was being exhausted. According to the firm, the digitization initiatives by the IP offices and courts have made it convenient to access the information from anywhere in the world. Courts have now even come up with dedicated mobile apps.

In India, earlier it used to take at least 5-10 years to get a patent granted or rejected but now patents have been

www.insightssuccess.in

The 10 Most Recommended

Law firms, 2020 granted in a record time of just 4-5 months and Trademarks too are being registered in just 5-6 months.

According to the team “The introduction of e-filings and video conferencing etc., at IP offices have made IP filings and prosecution faster, extremely convenient and economical with easy access from around the world”.

Today, as soon an objection or order is issued by the IP offices, the same is communicated to the concerned party via emails and/or SMS almost immediately.

“If ignored at the beginning, a start-up may suffer at a later stage while expanding. I have seen many cases where start-ups faced difficulties because of their ignorance towards protecting and enforcing their most valuable assets ie. IPRs on time. A brand or product is a promise to the customers and its reputation is critical for the success of the business. That’s why IP creators should be vigilant about IP rights and should protect and enforce their IP rights timely and efficiently” adds Vivek.

The Future Horizon Sagacious always keeps customer’s interest at the forefront. Accordingly, it carries out changes after calculating customer sentiments and engaging them proactively to drive innovation in its offerings and services. The company is in the process of introducing a ‘Customer Advisory Board’ that aims to focus on guiding its next set of products and services based on their inputs.

Sagacious IP also plans to introduce new products almost every year, with the objective of creating a complete ecosystem that offers end-to-end IP solutions.

www.insightssuccess.in

Vivek Singh

Head – IP Filing & Prosecution Practice

“

We guide leaders to drive innovation, be IP Savvy and build companies of tomorrow

“

Words of Advice The firm believes that awareness about IP and its value has increased significantly over the years. In the current scenario, every start-up and entrepreneur should thrive to become IP savvy. “A start-up must consider filing trademark applications for its important brand(s), product(s) or service(s) and patent application(s) to protect the invention and technology behind it,” adds the team. It also emphasizes on design and copyright protection.

31 | February 2020

SKS Law Associates

Safeguarding Intellectual Capital through Right Legal Advice

I

ntellectual assets which include intellectual property are an intangible and key asset for all businesses. It provides a competitive advantage as well as generates revenue when it is licensed out or assigned. In today’s competitive market, the demand for strong protection of these assets from being infringed is increasing. A leading firm and specialist in end-to-end intellectual property advice, SKS Law Associates (SKS) provides high-end professional services and legal solutions.

SKS was established in 2007 with a vision of providing its clients’ services that help them create and maintain a valuable IP Portfolio and to leverage their intellectual assets for optimum commercial value. The firm is specialized in contentious and non-contentious work relating to patents, trademarks, copyright, industrial designs, geographical indications and plant variety protection. It also provides advice in complex areas such as licensing & technology transfer, protection of trade secrets and regulatory matters under the Biological Diversity Act. Awards and Recognitions • SKS has been recognized in ‘Asia Pacific Legal 500’ • Managing Intellectual Property (MIP) has recommended SKS Law Associates as ‘one of the top law firms in India’ for Patent Prosecution matters.

• SKS has been awarded ‘Newcomer of the Year in India’ Award 2010 by Corporate Intl Magazine Global Awards Committee, London, UK • The firm has been awarded ‘MEDCON Healthcare Legal Consultants of The Year’ in 2016 • It has been also named by IBLJ in Top 50 Indian Law Firms 2013

32 | February 2020

• SKS has been recommended by Indian Lawyer 250 in 2014 A Self-motivated Professional with Demonstrated Leadership Strengths Sunita K Sreedharan is the Founder and CEO of SKS Associates. She is a proficient lawyer as well as a patent agent licensed to practice in India. She earned her degree in LL.B. from Cochin University of Science and Technology and LL.M. from The George Washington University Law School. In her 20 years’ law practice, Sunita has developed expertise in Intellectual Property Law more notably Patent Law and by extension Biodiversity laws of India. Prior to this, she worked in the field of computer programming and computer education for about a decade.

She has provided legal advice to several esteemed institutes including the World Health Organization (WHO) on the effective implementation of International Health Regulations (IHR) in 2013 with follow up in 2015 and 2019 in Geneva. She was invited by the Royal Government of Bhutan to advise on the implementation of IHR 2005 in August 2013 in Bhutan, and to prepare the Draft National Health Law for their Ministry of Health in 2014-2015. She was also a member of the core team that prepared draft rules for the protection of traditional knowledge under the Biological Diversity Act 2002. Sunita is an artist and an author too and has authored a book and published a number of articles in Indian and foreign journals. She has been a WIPO resource person for the Training the Trainer Program.

Sunita has won several prestigious accolades like, ‘MEDCON 2016 Healthcare Legal Consultants of the

www.insightssuccess.in

The 10 Most Recommended

Law firms, 2020 Year’ Award, she has been named in the list of Top 100 Powerful Women in Law by World IP Forum, IP Gems of India 2018 and Star Women in Law 2019 and IAM 300: World’s leading IP Strategists 2019. Also, in the past years she has been recognized by leading organizations for her contribution to the industry.

View on IP laws in India The IP laws are slowly being aligned to provide for quick delivery of results in a rational manner based on clear and succinct evidence. The patent laws have been amended which recognizes the efforts of the start-ups, the contribution of women inventors. The recent IndoJapan Public Prosecution Highway (PPH) seeks to streamline the patent prosecution systems.

The National IP Policy of 2016 has been a boon to provide some policy guidelines, but much more needs to be done. It is now time for National IP Policy version 2.0. There are new emerging technologies such as AI that require a relook at patent laws and enact a robust data privacy laws etc.

Future Outlook SKS aims to work hard to keep their clients out of the courts and ensure that they are able to create and manage a strong IP Portfolio as well as monetize their IP and trade secrets effectively. “The firm also aims to continue contributing to policy matters to ensure that we have a fair and effective IP system and biodiversity laws,” says Sunita.

www.insightssuccess.in

Sunita K Sreedharan Founder & CEO

“

SKS Law Associates is a professional organization of lawyers and patent agents providing services in the area of intellectual property law to Indian and foreign clients

“

IP enforcement still requires some work in sensitizing the enforcement agencies. The fact that a copycat product having a similar trade dress and almost the same/similar trademark is out there in the market capable of causing serious skin problems or health issues, is not an overwhelming concern for the enforcement agency. They would like to wait for a High Court Order in a civil suit for trademark infringement.

33 | February 2020

SS Law Firm

Providing Professional Legal Services with a Personal Touch

T

he legal sector of India has witnessed numerous changes in the recent years. Various special laws have now been introduced, which has led to timely delivery of justice. The leading law firms are resolving various cases in just a span of few days to few months, easing things for the parties involved.

One such firm which upholds the law, while having a strong belief in justice and honour is SS Law Firm. With offices in Bangalore, USA, and Europe, it offers comprehensive range of legal services in different areas. The firm specializes in resolving disputes related to family/ divorce, criminal, personal injury, property and corporate law, civil, industrial designs, copyrights, and so on.

The firm believes in achieving excellence through enhanced performance and dedicated endeavours. It is of the opinion that every employee should work as one team, while upholding integrity and mutual respect. What sets SS Law Firm apart from others is its technical excellence combined with commercial insight. It possesses the ability to take the most complex questions and provide the clearest answers.

The Exceptional Leader SS Law Firm has made many noteworthy achievements under the dedicated stewardship of Advocate Sudhindra Bhat. He is a renowned lawyer in Bengaluru, where he offers his services as a litigator, property lawyer, corporate counsel, family lawyer, labour lawyer, and criminal lawyer.

He manages the day-to-day affairs of the firm.

Advocate Bhat has strong exposure in civil laws, commercial laws, corporate laws, family laws, and many more. He holds a law degree (B. Com LLB) and an MBA in finance. He has provided quality legal support and services to various clients raging from different sectors including outsourcing and offshoring industries, information

36 | February 2020

technology and services, banks, financial Institutions, insurance companies, real estate, and builders and developers.

A Team of Experts The company believes that its able team plays a key role in providing the full range of service capabilities to the clients.

SS Law Firm employs some of the most dedicated lawyers, including, P. Jaganathan, who is a high court advocate holding degrees such as LLB, MA, MBA, MMM, and ML. Usha has completed her LLB, MA, and ML, and is serving as an advocate.

The team also consists of Veerabhadrappa P, an advocate holding degrees in B.Com, LLB, and MBA. Nagraj B, a BA, LLB degree holder who also works as an advocate for the company.

Offering Outstanding Services The firm leaves no stone unturned to ensure that the clients are provided with the best services. It provides proper attention to the requirements of every client, assesses the situation, and solves every query and problem accordingly.

It provides various services to the clients which include drafting of deeds and agreement services, pro bono work, intellectual and property rights, immigration, arbitration and taxation, and much more. SS Law Firm specializes in cases related to family/ divorce, litigation/ dispute resolution, legal notice, corporate and commercial law, property and real estate, and so on.

Facing Challenges Confidently The firm believes in overcoming all odds and delivering excellent services to the client. It states that the legal

www.insightssuccess.in

The 10 Most Recommended

Law firms, 2020 profession is a competitive one. It always has been, but these days—with rapid changes in the way one practices law—it seems to be even more so.

It is of the opinion that these changes can be exciting and dynamic, but with them comes a host of challenges. These include globalization/ competition, low-cost legal service providers, new lawyer development, technology, the internet, and challenging clients. It believes that lawyers will need to overcome them in order to stay competitive and relevant in their profession.

Towards a Promising Future

SS Law Firm identifies client confidence, recognition of quality work, and the growing dominance of India as a global powerhouse to be the key elements that would be driving the firm in the future. As per its opinion, the recent reforms and stringent policies laid by the government have unlocked new vistas of opportunities for the industry.

Words of Advice for Legal Aspirants Addressing young legal aspirants, the firm states that they should prepare themselves right from the beginning of their career so that they can excel in their endeavours.

Sometimes they may face difficulties while pursuing legal education. But during this phase, they should not give up.

Students should always remember that persistence pays.

It is important that students concentrate on their general intelligence and knowledge of law. The firm encourages them to constantly upgrade their skills and knowledge to enjoy a bright career.

www.insightssuccess.in

Advocate Sudhindra Bhat

“

We understand and respect our clients and always maintain positive relationships with them

“

Even after having amassed years of expertise, SS Law Firm considers itself as a learner in this domain and still refers to the basics for every assignment and that’s what differentiates it from the other players. Its ability to generate ‘out-of-the-box’ ideas and innovative solutions has earned respect and admiration for SS Law Firm over the years.

37 | February 2020

Zaiwalla & Co. Solicitors Spearheading the Legal Arena with Innovation and Excellence

T

he legal sector has witnessed major advancements in the recent years. With various amendments and introduction of new laws, it has gradually stepped into the big leagues. The leading law firms are embracing advanced technology, while transforming the entire game.

They are thriving in their endeavors with an entrepreneurial spirit and high-quality practice.

One such prominent performer in the legal sector is Zaiwalla & Co. Solicitors. The firm was established in Chancery Lane, London, in April 1982. With over 35 years’ experience in international arbitration and litigation, the firm specializes in shipping law and arbitration. Today, the UK law firm is a boutique outfit focusing on both litigation and arbitration. It acts for both domestic and overseas clients including corporations and state entities, as well as individuals.

A Front Runner in the Legal Arena The firm’s boutique size enables it to make decisions quickly, moving fast to capitalize on new areas of law. As a result, it attracts pioneering legal work – Zaiwalla & Co. Solicitors were one of the initial UK law firms (with Clifford Chance) to enter the international legal market in China and also one of the first to enter the Iranian legal market.

This pioneering spirit is reflected in the firm acting in groundbreaking international sanctions litigation Bank Mellat v HM Treasury (featured in The Lawyer’s ‘Top 20 Cases 2017’). Zaiwalla & Co represented the bank and fought to obtain a ruling from the High Court allowing the bank’s current damages claim of US $ 4 billion to proceed against the UK. In addition to enviable technical expertise, the firm offers clients the same service and effectiveness of any premium firm at far lower rates using flexible billing arrangements. It charges fees which are on average around 40% lower than larger city firms for lawyers of comparable expertise.

Exceptional Leadership Zaiwalla & Co. Solicitors is guided by Sarosh Zaiwalla,

38 | February 2020

the Founder and Senior Partner of the firm. He oversees all the activities relating to the firm which, over the years, has exported millions of pounds worth of legal services.

Over the years, Mr. Zaiwalla has been involved in over 1200 international energy, maritime, and construction arbitration in London and worldwide either as a solicitor, counsel, party-appointed arbitrator, or sole arbitrator. He has acted for many prestigious clients including the President of India, China National Petroleum Corporation, Bank Mellat, NIDC of Iran, and international public corporations.

Mr. Zaiwalla is a Freeman of the City of London and a Livery Man of the Worshipful Company of World Traders.

He was also a member of the International Court of Arbitration of the ICC, Paris, from 1990 to 2002. Mr. Zaiwalla is also a CEDR (Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution) mediator.

Proficient in Delivering Unrivaled Services Zaiwalla & Co. Solicitors is renowned for expertise across a broad range of areas of international commercial law. It handles cases across the full spectrum of the business and financial world with exceptional legal thinking, market understanding, and service tailored as per the specifications of the clients.

The firm is diverse in its cultural backgrounds, but united by one strong purpose: to service clients to the very best of their ability, cost-effectively. This pushes it to transform into an unstoppable force, while delivering the best services to the clients. Team Zaiwalla believes in taking up difficult challenges and overcoming all the odds. It has also attained expertise in English law, while a multi-cultural team has produced some remarkable successes for its clients and changes to English law.

Zaiwalla & Co. Solicitors specializes in various fields, which include, litigation, international arbitration, public international law and sanctions, banking, company commercial, construction, shipping, compliance and corporate crime, and many more.

www.insightssuccess.in

The 10 Most Recommended

Law firms, 2020 Shining throughout the Legal Arena Zaiwalla & Co. made many strides in the legal arena, while winning numerous accolades. Mentioning about the firm’s major accomplishments, Mr. Zaiwalla, in his book, ‘Honour Bound’, writes, “Starting Zaiwalla & Co. was exciting and its first ten years were a great success. In a decade between the years1982 and 1992, I built a solid core of clients, notably in the maritime sector but also stretching out, every now and again, into new and sometimes exotic fields”.

The firm’s expertise, combined with its understanding of different business cultures ensures a successful relationship with the clients. From litigation to arbitration, Zaiwalla & Co navigates the legal process in London with its clients to achieve the best commercial outcome.

Clients Speak The dedicated services of the firm has earned it many trusted clients over the years. Below mentioned are some words of trust from its prestigious clients: “I have great confidence in Zaiwalla & Co’s team to handle our cases. They explain the issues clearly and have never let us down and consistently deliver results.” – Loay Jolag, Transatlantic Aviation, Transport “The lawyers at Zaiwalla & Co are very reliable and efficient. I have been impressed by their determination in pursuing my personal difficult case.’’ M.R. Meskarian, Chief Executive, Persia International Bank PLC, Banking “The lawyers at Zaiwalla & Co are real fighters. They never give up. I have been consistently impressed by their determination in pursuing my commercial objectives in some very difficult cases.” Vineet Goel, Nav Bharat International Ltd, Grain Exporters

www.insightssuccess.in

Sarosh Zaiwalla Founder and Senior Partner

“

We have 30 years’ experience in international commercial arbitration & litigation with a very successful track record

“

Transcending National Boundaries The firm believes in offering its services not only in London, but in other countries of the world as well. Being a truly international law firm in London, Zaiwalla & Co draws on the experience of its multi-cultural lawyers to provide English law services to a wide range of international clients.

39 | February 2020