Shilpa Bhasin Mehra, a trailblazer and an inspiration. She epitomizes the fearless woman in legal services, standing apart as a symbol of unyielding determination and courage in a traditionally male-dominated arena. With her exceptional resilience and unwavering commitment to justice, Shilpa Bhasin Mehra has blazed a trail that countless women aspire to follow.

1. VOL. 12
ISSUE 01
2023
Balancing the Act
Challenges and Opportuni es
for Legal Women Leaders to
Push the Cause of
Gender Equality
W O R L D
I N D I A
Equal-in-Law
How Fearless Legal Stalwarts
are Pushing for Increased
Female Par cipa on in
Indian Jurisprudence?
Shilpa Bhasin
Mehra,
Independent
Consultant
S A Trailblazing Symbol
of Unyielding Determina on
and Courage
ilpa
hilpa
Bhasin
The
Fearless
Women
in Legal
Services
h
Mehra
Mehra
www.womenworldindia.com

2. No magic
wand will work.
We have to make our efforts.
It will be a long and
difficult struggle for us.

4. Editor's
Note

5. GauravPRWankhade
he scales of justice have long tilted
Tfor men in the arena of legal
services. But a seismic shift is
underway, spearheaded by a rising tide of
fearless women lawyers, judges, and
advocates who are not just changing the
game, they're rewriting the rules.
Gone are the days of hushed whispers and
stifled ambition. These intrepid women are
shattering glass ceilings with every
confident stride, their voices ringing clear in
courtrooms and boardrooms alike. They
wield their intellect and eloquence as
weapons, their unwavering resolve a shield
against prejudice and discrimination.
But their stories are not merely one of
overcoming historical imbalances. They are
a tapestry woven with threads of individual
brilliance, relentless innovation, and a
passionate commitment to justice.
There's the trailblazing litigator, her
arguments as sharp as her heels, dismantling
discriminatory practices and carving
pathways for others to follow.
Or the tireless advocate, her voice echoing
in underprivileged communities, ensuring
access to legal aid and amplifying the voices
of the marginalized.
Then there's the tech-savvy entrepreneur
who's revolutionizing legal services with
disruptive platforms, putting power and
accessibility at the fingertips of ordinary
citizens. And the visionary judge, her rulings
paving the way for gender equality,
dismantling archaic norms, and shaping a
more just tomorrow.
These are not superheroes – they are women
like you and me, fueled by an unwavering
belief in the power of law and the
indomitable human spirit. They face their
own challenges, battling biases and
navigating a landscape designed for a
different era. Yet, they persevere, their
resilience etched in every case they
champion, every barrier they break.
Their impact extends far beyond the
courtroom. They are mentors, inspiring
generations of young women to follow their
dreams and believe in themselves.
They are role models, shattering stereotypes
and proving that brilliance knows no gender.
They are architects of change, building a
legal system that truly reflects the ideals of
equality and justice.
So, let us stand and salute these fearless
women, the gavel's fiercest warriors. Let
their stories be heard, their victories
celebrated, their struggles acknowledged.
For in their relentless pursuit of justice, they
pave the way for a future where the scales of
justice finally hang balanced, a testament to
the unyielding spirit of those who dared to
fight for a better tomorrow.
This is not just about praising individuals;
it's about recognizing the collective power
of their movement. Together, these women
are changing the face of legal services,
dismantling systems built on inequality, and
crafting a brighter future for all.
Let us not only celebrate their achievements
but also join the charge, lending our voices
to theirs in the quest for a truly just world.
Their stories are narratives of inspiration,
resilience, and unwavering determination.
As you will flip through the pages of
Women World India’s exclusive edition, you
will witness the infinite energy running
through the underlying course of history. Be
mesmerized, avowed, amazed, and
enthralled!
The Gavel'sFiercestWarriors:
Celebrating
‘The Fearless Women in Legal Services’

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W O R L D
I N D I A
CoverStory
To be fearless, we need to
have knowledge on our
side, coupled with the
courage to stand our
ground, state our opinion,
with the ability to agree
to disagree, with the
client’s best interest in
mind always.
Shilpa
Bhasin
Mehra
A Trailblazing Symbol of Unyielding
Determina on and Courage
Shilpa Bhasin Mehra,
Independent Consultant
VOL. 12
ISSUE 01
2023
Balancing the Act
Challenges and Opportuni es
for Legal Women Leaders to
Push the Cause of
Gender Equality
W O R L D
I N D I A
Equal-in-Law
How Fearless Legal Stalwarts
are Pushing for Increased
Female Par cipa on in
Indian Jurisprudence?
Shilpa Bhasin
Mehra,
Independent
Consultant
S A Trailblazing Symbol
of Unyielding Determina on
and Courage
ilpa
hilpa
Bhasin
The
Fearless
Women
in Legal
Services
h
Mehra
Mehra

9. CONTENTS
COVER
STORY
Shilpa Bhasin Mehra
A Trailblazing Symbol of Unyielding
Determina on and Courage
08
Astha Sharma
A Journey of a First-Genera on Lawyer to
Making it as a Partner in AQUILAW
Neha Naik
The Most Impac ul Li gator Shaping
the Legal Present and Future
Shagun Badhwar
My Journey to Making a Difference,
One Step at a Time
22
32
Articles
18
26
Balancing the Act
Challenges and Opportuni es
for Legal Women Leaders to
Push the Cause of
Gender Equality
Equal-in-Law
How Fearless Legal Stalwarts
are Pushing for Increased
Female Par cipa on in
Indian Jurisprudence?
30

10. Shilpa Bhasin Mehra,
Independent Consultant

11. CoverStory
To be fearless, we need
to have knowledge on
our side, coupled with
the courage to stand our
ground, state our
opinion, with the ability
to agree to disagree, with
the client’s best interest
in mind always.
Shilpa
Bhasin
Mehra
A Trailblazing Symbol of Unyielding
Determina on and Courage

12. The greatest fear plaguing the human psyche is the
fear of the unknown. It is the lingering dread of
what lies beyond our comprehension, the shadowy
spectre of uncertainty that casts its influence over our lives.
Yet, it is often said that the antidote to fear is knowledge. As
we accumulate wisdom and insight, we are empowered to
replace our trepidation with enlightenment from the
ceaseless pursuit of understanding.
Throughout the annals of human history, fear has been a
persistent companion on our journey. The fear of what we
do not know, the unfamiliar and the enigmatic, has spurred
us to delve deeper into the realms of wisdom. And in this
unceasing quest, a dire need arises for fearless individuals,
particularly women, to take the helm.
In a world increasingly recognizing the value of gender
equality, the call for fearless women to break down barriers
and pave the way for future generations has never been
more urgent. As we embrace the idea that women, too, can
be architects of change, they must enter and transform
every sphere of human activity. One domain that urgently
requires the infusion of fearless feminine energy is the
legal, judicial, and administrative realm, where the
principles of justice and the rule of law hold sway.
Enter Shilpa Bhasin Mehra, a trailblazer and an inspira-
tion. She epitomizes the fearless woman in legal services,
standing apart as a symbol of unyielding determination and
courage in a traditionally male-dominated arena. With her
exceptional resilience and unwavering commitment to
justice, Shilpa Bhasin Mehra has blazed a trail that
countless women aspire to follow. She serves as a beacon of
hope, illuminating a path for the next generation of fearless
females to tread upon.
Praised by Clients
From the various roles she has played, as a legal consultant
to an in-house Head of Legal, praises have been heaped on
Shilpa.
One of them, Bob Heath, says, “I had the pleasure of
working with Shilpa at Smit Lamnalco, where she was
Group Legal Adviser, and I was Commercial Manager and
subsequently Commercial Director.
Shilpa had a great flair for understanding complex
situations and commercial realities, presenting them clearly
and succinctly to her non-legal colleagues. Coupled with
her enthusiasm, hard work and winning personality, these
The legal profession has always
enamoured me with its
knowledge, logic, black coat,
and the respect it commands.

13. The Fearless Women in Legal Services
skills enabled her to find solutions and facilitate agreement
in some very difficult contractual negotiations involving
parties who came to the table with widely divergent
viewpoints.
In addition to her extensive legal knowledge, Shilpa’s
ability to create practical solutions to difficult problems
makes her stand out from other legal advisers.”
Another client, Fawaz Abdulla, says, “I have consulted Ms
Shilpa on several occasions for legal advice and contract
preparation. Express Group companies have often engaged
her services to negotiate legal disputes. She has consis-
tently given us excellent, practical and timely advice and
legal documentation, and she also has a vast network of
lawyers in UAE and India to consult for any specialized
requirements. I would recommend her services to anyone,
and she is my go-to person for all legal matters.”
One colleague, Pankaj Kankan says, “I was lucky enough to
work with Shilpa on two occasions. Previously in Smit
Lamnalco and then recently with Svitzer. Shilpa is super
professional and comes with years of experience and
knowledge. Being in the Commercial and Operations
function, my interaction with Shilpa was on a day-to-day
basis. Generally, as a head of Legal, it is easy to point out
the shortcomings or red flags in the various transactions
with Customers, Stakeholders, JV partners,
Vendors/Suppliers etc. but Shilpa is different. She comes up
with solutions and has a great problem-solving attitude. She
comes across as a Business Partner supporting growth and
a high level of customer centricity. To add to this, her
empathetic nature makes her a great team player. Thank
you so much for being a great colleague and more impor-
tant a friend for life.”
In gratitude, Shilpa says, “It is extremely gratifying when
one’s work is appreciated.”
Realizing Her Dreams
Shilpa’s exceptional journey in the legal profession had its
roots in a childhood dream that began when she was just ten
years old. From a young age, she envisioned herself as a
lawyer, and this aspiration was not merely a fleeting whim
but a deeply ingrained passion. It’s a dream that took firm
hold, nurtured by the surroundings she grew up in, for
Shilpa is the fourth generation in her family to be intimately
involved in the legal world. In her words, "The legal
profession has always enamored me with its knowledge,
logic, black coat, and the respect it commands."
This fascination with the multifaceted aspects of the legal
field, from its profound understanding of the law to its
dignified attire and reverence in society, served as the
bedrock of her journey.
For Shilpa, the legal profession was not merely a career but
a lifelong pursuit of learning. She understood that as
lawyers, they are perpetual students, and the journey of
acquiring knowledge is a never-ending odyssey. She adds,
“I started my career in the office of the legendary Mr. K.K.
Venugopal. I visited the Supreme Court of India daily and
watched him argue many landmark constitutional cases.”
Embracing this ethos, she considers herself a work in
progress, constantly evolving and refining her skills. Her
niche within the vast realm of law is in contracts and
resolving disputes, areas that demand meticulous attention
to detail, a keen understanding of contractual intricacies,
and the wisdom to navigate the labyrinth of legal disputes.
When starting one’s career, watching the stalwarts and
absorbing life lessons from them is great. “My specializa-
tion has been the law of contracts. The beauty of contracts
is that the range is so wide, from simple to hugely complex,
from a few pages to hundreds. Speaking my mind and giving
my honest opinion (always in the interest of my clients)
gives me the confidence of being fearless,” she states.
From her early fascination to her current specialization,
Shilpa’s journey in the legal profession is a testament to her
unwavering dedication to a dream nurtured from childhood
and her commitment to the pursuit of knowledge.
From Inspirations to Being Inspirational
Shilpa's wellspring of inspiration flows from the profound
influence of her father, Dr. Lalit Bhasin, who stands as her
foremost source of motivation. As she reflects on the forces
that have shaped her journey, she candidly expresses,
"Inspiration was all around me, with my father being my
biggest inspiration."
Dr. Lalit Bhasin's guidance and unwavering support have
imparted invaluable wisdom and fueled her passion for the
legal profession. It is a testament to the profound impact
that a mentor, especially within the family, can have on
one's life.
However, Shilpa’s inspiration is not a solitary endeavour;
she believes in the power of sharing knowledge and
experience to inspire others. She says, “My clients tell me
they appreciate my proactiveness, accessibility and genuine
interest in their welfare.” In her own words, she recognizes
that there is no better way to inspire others than by

14. disseminating the wealth of wisdom accumulated
through one’s journey. As a result, she remains open and
approachable, always willing to engage with younger
lawyers embarking on their path in the legal profession.
“Clients, for me, are not just a one-case matter. They are
relationships that I nurture. I think they can feel the
honest connection in my approach,” she adds. She
actively participates in talk shows and contributes
articles to encourage and guide others in their pursuits.
By sharing her story and insights, Shilpa exemplifies the
idea that true inspiration lies in personal success and the
willingness to uplift and empower others, leaving an
indelible mark on those who seek to follow in her
footsteps.
A Brilliant Distinction
Shilpa’s exceptional distinction in legal services stems
from her unique and multifaceted perspective, allowing
her to traverse both sides of the legal spectrum
seamlessly. With experience working in law firms and
serving as an in-house legal advisor, she has occupied
positions on both sides of the table – as a lawyer and
client engaging law firms. This invaluable dual
perspective has equipped her with a profound
understanding of the intricacies of legal matters, as well
as the insight to gauge client expectations and needs.
Shilpa’s exceptional distinction is further underscored by
her pragmatic and no-nonsense approach to her
profession. She prioritizes efficiency and cost-
effectiveness, recognizing that clients seek swift and
economical results. Her commitment to streamlining
legal processes and delivering outcomes in the most
efficient manner possible has earned her a reputation for
being a legal practitioner who understands the intricacies
of the law and respects her clients’ time and resources.
One of the standout features of Shilpa’s approach is her
advocacy for mediation to resolve disputes. Even before
entering the arbitration realm, she diligently seeks
amicable solutions to her clients’ legal issues. This
perspective showcases her commitment to reducing the
burden of lengthy litigation, preferring to find a common
ground that benefits all parties involved. She truly
believes in her father’s famous quote, “A poor settlement
is better than a successful litigation.” In her view, a well-
negotiated settlement is often preferable to a protracted
and potentially costly legal battle. This forward-thinking
and collaborative approach sets Shilpa apart as an
exceptional legal professional, dedicated to winning
cases and achieving resolutions that serve her clients’
best interests.
Clients for me are not just a
one case ma er––They are
rela onships that I
nurture––I think they can
feel the honest connect in my
approach.

15. Leading Her Team
Shilpa’s leadership style is a testament to her belief that a
leader is only as effective as the team they lead. Her
approach to leadership is marked by a profound
understanding that the success of any endeavour hinges on
the collective efforts and cohesiveness of the team. She
embodies a philosophy of leading from within, opting for a
subtle and nuanced approach to convey the message
without resorting to overt aggression or dominance.
Shilpa’s control is characterized by her open-mindedness
and willingness to embrace fresh ideas and diverse
perspectives. She values the power of discussion and
brainstorming as catalysts for innovation and problem-
solving. Her leadership encourages an environment where
team members are encouraged to share their insights and
engage in constructive dialogue. She recognizes that such
discussions bring forth new ideas and shed light on existing
challenges in a different, more comprehensive manner.
In essence, Shilpa’s management panache is rooted in the
principles of collaboration, openness, and the empowerment
of her team. Her unassuming and inclusive approach fosters
an atmosphere where team members feel valued, and their
contributions are acknowledged. Through her leadership,
she ensures the team’s effective functioning. She creates a
culture of continuous improvement and innovation, where
every voice is heard, and collective brilliance is harnessed
to achieve success.
Techno-Transformed Law
Being an experienced leader, Shilpa shares her opinion on
how adopting modern technologies impacts her industry
and how they adapt to the change at her firm. “Technology
is constantly changing, and we must adapt to it to be
relevant. We must befriend technology and not treat it as a
challenge threatening our work or importance. Technology
and AI can do the research and filing work, for example, in
seconds that would take us so many hours. We need to be
open to change and embrace it. We have to be in a constant
learning and adapting stage to truly benefit from
technology.”
According to Shilpa, Legal transformation is very crucial.
And it is happening as we speak. “What was considered the
same for centuries is now being updated frequently, and the
tools available to us at present are something that we could
never have imagined. Either we adapt to the transformation
or be outdated and perish. I personally like to learn and
keep abreast with the rapidly changing landscape of legal
transformation. By sharing my experience and successes, I
would like to encourage others in my profession also to
adapt and upskill themselves.”
A Monumental Wisdom
In her advice to budding entrepreneurs aspiring to venture
into the legal sector, Shilpa says that the legal space is
enormous, with new branches ever evolving, like Legal
Technology. ‘Find where your interests are, put in the hard
work, be open to learning, and grab opportunities for real-
life learnings from the seniors in the profession. Be
receptive, yet have a mind of your own.’ “Especially for the
younger generations, be respectful to the leaders of our
profession, who did all the hard work and carved a name
for themselves without Google and AI.”
On envisioning scaling her services, solutions, and offerings
in the future, Shilpa divulges, “The most important gift that
technology has given us is that of time.” The word Legal
has always been associated with long-drawn battles, delays
and most time-consuming processes. She wants to offer her
clients better, more efficient, cost-effective solutions.
Disputes are best resolved, and settlements are the way
forward. “A believer in negotiations, I would advocate this
path to my clients.”
Shilpa’s journey in the legal services sector is a testament to
the power of knowledge and the courage to face the
unknown. Through her relentless pursuit of legal expertise
and unwavering dedication to the cause of justice, she has
shattered preconceived notions and carved a name for
herself. Her fearless advocacy for the rights of the
vulnerable and marginalized has made her a formidable
force in the legal profession and a role model for those who
dare to dream beyond boundaries.
A Flame Ablaze
Shilpa’s fearlessness has been evident throughout her life’s
ups and downs. In her own words, “My life has been quite a
rollercoaster ride. From shifting base to a new country in
1993 after I got married and starting my legal career there,
to being declared dead in 2003 and a long rehab to now
working for myself. I have truly lived a very interesting life
(to say the least).”

16. It has so happened that after a year of starting her profes-
sional career, Shilpa got married and shifted to Dubai,
UAE. Shilpa’s journey was nothing short of an adventure,
as she embarked on a new chapter in her life. The year was
1993, and she had just stepped into the United Arab
Emirates with wide-eyed wonder. Everything around her
was novel–the country, the people, and the culture. Adding
to the thrill was the fact that she had recently tied the knot,
making this experience a uniquely shared one with her
partner. In contrast to the modern skyscrapers that the UAE
is famous for today, the landscape was simpler and slower
back then. Shilpa had to start from scratch, immersing
herself in the local way of life, adjusting to the nuances of a
different culture, and embracing a world full of new
experiences. Despite the initial challenges, the UAE’s
welcoming atmosphere made her feel at home sooner than
she had expected.
Dawning the Darkness
Within no time she established herself as a lawyer in the
foreign country, eventually learning about the many
intricacies of UAE’s civil law jurisdiction. Everything was
going fine until Shilpa’s journey took an unexpected turn in
March 2003 when she was struck by viral meningitis. This
harrowing experience left her in a coma for a staggering 40
days, and when she finally emerged, she faced a new battle
- being paralyzed from the waist down for two-and-a-half
years. Her life was turned completely upside down, and the
road to recovery was slow and challenging.
In 2006, Shilpa made a courageous return to some form of
work, with clients who were understanding and considerate
enough to visit her at home for discussions on legal matters
and contracts. By 2010, she had made a full-time return to
the marine company she had been working with back in
2003.
Despite the physical challenges she had to overcome,
Shilpa’s determination knew no bounds. In 2015, she
founded her own consultancy firm. Although she still
requires support to walk, her unwavering spirit and
steadfast work ethic have kept her professional capabilities
and achievements completely intact. Shilpa’s remarkable
story of resilience is an inspiration to all who hear it.
All Battles Aren’t Legal
The best way to fight personal and professional battles is by
becoming introspective and retrospective. As a teenager, the
idea of being a writer never quite resonated with Shilpa,
despite her mother’s belief in her writing skills. Her early
writing experiences were confined to birthday cards, and
she didn’t take it seriously at the time. As a lawyer, her
writing was primarily focused on legal opinions and
contracts.
However, a significant turning point came when her life was
disrupted by illness, and she embarked on a journey of
introspection and self-discovery during a prolonged period
of rehabilitation.
“Laws, Acts, Conventions, Regulations, Amendments,
Constitution…. as lawyers, we think these are the things
that matter and govern our life. We forget that these are
man-made and our life is a gift of God. He pulls the strings.
Being a lawyer, everything for me was so logical, chrono-
logical and set by precedents. Until now….
An experience like mine reveals who is the Supreme
Creator. We can keep making schedules, agendas and
sequence of events. But we don’t know what the next
moment has in store for us. I was a picture of fitness, never
has any illness to talk about and suddenly I collapsed and
went into a deep coma. It was like black and white, the
contrast very striking.
My life was adjourned sine die. The medical experts had no
answers. When I was in coma, they gave me a 0% chance of
survival. When I came out of coma, during my long
rehabilitation process, there was no specific time period for
recovery. We are so accustomed to specific reasons, time
frames, causes and effects. Now all that didn’t seem to
apply. My disease was a deadly viral meningitis, which
could just happen to anyone. There is no treatment as such
for it. One virus and look at the consequential damages.
Suddenly, my logical thinking, thanks to the legal educa-
tion, was in question.
I realized that there is no logic in such time of crisis and
also no answers. There are only prayers and the hope that
God will listen to your prayers. It’s strange when doctors
use words like ‘miracle.’ I am alive because God heard all
the pleadings. I must have had brilliant lawyers defending
me because the judgement was in my favour. I won the
case.” – Excerpts from the Book ‘All Battles Aren’t
Legal,’ by Shilpa Bhasin Mehra, Publisher, Universal Law
Publishing Company Pvt. Limited, 2006.
In her praise, Indian National Congress President Sonia
Gandhi says about the book: “This inspirational story,

17. which reveals Shilpa’s extraordinary qualities of both
heart and mind, is a tribute to the power of love, to the
strength and support that close family ties can provide
and, above all, to the brave and undaunted spirit of the
author.”
Being Born Again
During the challenging period of her life when Shilpa faced
the daunting effects of paralysis for two-and-a-half years
starting in 2003, she found solace and an outlet for her
thoughts through writing. This newfound free time provided
Shilpa with the opportunity to explore her writing abilities
more extensively. Paralyzed on the bed, writing became her
window to the world and a tool for self-expression. She
began jotting down her thoughts, akin to keeping a personal
diary. Her writings delved into the intricacies of her daily
life, her family, keen observations of her surroundings, the
kaleidoscope of emotions that coursed through her, and
reflections on her unique situation.
What started as a modest collection of 10 pages soon
burgeoned into an extensive document, spanning over 100
pages. In those moments of vulnerability and introspection,
Shilpa discovered the profound therapeutic impact of
writing and its ability to help her navigate the complexities
of her life. Her book “All Battles aren’t Legal” was released
by Dr Karan Singh in December 2005 in the presence of
legendary figures like Mr. Fali Nariman, Mr. Kabil Sibal
and Dr. Naresh Trehan. This experience planted the seeds of
her future journey as a writer, allowing her to share her
unique perspective and experiences with a wider audience.
In 2007, she began contributing articles to ‘Lawyers
Update,’ a prominent legal magazine in India. Her writings,
shared on social media, caught the attention of Khaleej
Times, a prominent publication in the UAE, which offered
her a platform to share her thoughts and insights with a
broader audience through a regular column.
Through this journey, Shilpa came to realize the profound
therapeutic value of writing and how it has become an
integral part of her life, enabling her to express herself,
reflect on her experiences, connect with others on a
profound level, and returning to her fearlessness.
Inspite Her Petite Built, the Fearless Stands the Tallest
Her take on the traits a fearless women lawyer must possess
is: “To be fearless, we need to have knowledge on our side.
We need to do our homework to stand up for the case/cause
By sharing my experience
and successes, I would like to
encourage the others in my
profession to adapt and
upskill themselves.

18. we represent. Fearless does not mean aggressive or
disrespectful. To be fearless, we need to have the courage of
our convictions. Knowledge coupled with the courage to
stand our ground, state our opinion, with the ability to
agree to disagree, with the client’s best interest in mind
always.”
With her exemplary work, Shilpa has torn down the walls
of gender bias and opened the doors for countless women
who aspire to follow in her footsteps. Her presence in the
legal arena sends a powerful message: women have a
rightful place in the corridors of justice, and their fearless
voices are indispensable in shaping a more equitable and
just society.
A legal wonder, Shilpa Bhasin Mehra stands as ‘The
Fearless Woman in Legal Services,’ an embodiment of
courage, knowledge, and unwavering determination. As we
celebrate Shilpa’s extraordinary contributions, we also
acknowledge the bright future she represents, where
fearlessness in women is not just encouraged but celebrated
as an essential catalyst for progress and justice. She is a
shining example of the fearless feminine force that is
transforming our world, and through her, the dream of a
more equitable and just society becomes a tangible reality.

19. Chooseyourdreams
overyourfears

20. 18
How Fearless Legal
Stalwarts
are Pushing for Increased
Female Participation
in Indian Jurisprudence?
Equal-in-Law

21. 19
he Indian legal system, once a
Tbastion of male dominance, is
witnessing a tectonic shift. At
the forefront of this change are the
fearless legal stalwarts who are
spearheading the “Equal-in-Law”
movement, a relentless pursuit of
increased female participation in
Indian jurisprudence.
In India, the legal arena has historically
been perceived as a male-dominated
domain. However, an evolving
narrative is emerging, propelled by the
relentless efforts of fearless female
legal luminaries who are championing
greater female participation and
representation in the country’s legal
system. These stalwarts are reshaping
the landscape of Indian jurisprudence,
advocating for gender equality, and
breaking down barriers to ensure a
more inclusive legal profession.
While progress has been made – with
more women judges adorning the
benches and law graduates entering the
profession – the journey towards
equality remains arduous. Deep-rooted
biases, inadequate infrastructure, and
socio-cultural hurdles still impede
women’s progress in this traditionally
male-dominated field.
The journey toward gender parity in
the Indian legal sphere has been
challenging, yet the determination and
resilience of these trailblazing women
have been pivotal in driving change.
They are not only excelling in their
legal careers but are also actively
engaged in creating pathways for
aspiring female lawyers to thrive in
this field.
But the “Equal-in-Law” champions are
not deterred. They are a diverse group
of legal luminaries, from seasoned
barristers and judges to tenacious
young lawyers and passionate activists.

22. These legal stalwarts have shattered
stereotypes and navigated through
traditional norms, demonstrating
exceptional competence, expertise, and
leadership across various facets of law.
From serving as judges, advocates,
legal scholars, to initiating social
reforms and policy changes, their
impact reverberates through the
corridors of justice. Driven by a shared
vision of justice and inclusivity, they
are employing a multi-pronged
approach to tackle the challenge:
Shattering Stereotypes: These
stalwarts are actively dismantling the
perception of law as an exclusive
“men’s club.” Through mentorship
programs, workshops, and public
awareness campaigns, they are
showcasing the success stories of
exceptional women lawyers, inspiring
young girls to dream big and defy
limiting beliefs.
Building Bridges, Not Barriers:
Recognizing the lack of adequate
support systems for women entering
the legal profession, “Equal-in-Law”
initiatives focus on creating safe spaces
for networking, knowledge sharing,
and peer support. These networks
provide invaluable guidance,
mentorship, and opportunities for
collaboration, empowering women to
navigate the often-daunting legal
landscape.
Championing Policy Reform:
Advocacy groups within the “Equal-in-
Law” movement are relentlessly
pushing for policy changes that address
the unique challenges faced by women
lawyers. This includes advocating for
better maternity leave provisions,
childcare facilities in courts, and
stricter measures against sexual
harassment within the legal
community.
Reimagining Judicial Diversity: The
fight for “Equal-in-Law” extends
beyond mere numbers. These legal
stalwarts are also advocating for a
more diverse judiciary, one that reflects
the social realities of India. They
champion the appointment of more
women judges from marginalized
communities, ensuring a judiciary that
is truly representative of the people it
serves.
Crucially, their efforts extend beyond
the courtroom. These pioneers are at
the forefront of initiatives advocating
for gender-sensitive laws, women’s
rights, and access to justice. Their
contributions are instrumental in
addressing gender-based disparities
within the legal system and fostering
an environment that encourages more
women to join and flourish in the legal
profession.
By amplifying their voices and
leveraging their positions, these
women are paving the way for
increased female participation in the
legal realm. They mentor aspiring
lawyers, provide guidance, and create
platforms for networking and skill
enhancement, ensuring that more
women can confidently tread the path
toward a successful legal career.
Moreover, these fearless legal stalwarts
emphasize the importance of
inclusivity and diversity within the
legal fraternity. Their advocacy for
equal opportunities, fair representation
in leadership roles, and proactive
measures to eliminate gender bias
serve as cornerstones for a more
equitable legal ecosystem.
The journey toward achieving gender
equality in Indian jurisprudence is
ongoing. The concerted efforts and
unwavering commitment of these
fearless legal stalwarts serve as an
inspiration and catalyst for
transforming the legal profession into a
more gender-inclusive and progressive
sphere.
The impact of the “Equal-in-Law”
movement is already palpable. More
women are graduating from law
schools, entering the judicial arena,
and carving their niche in diverse legal
specializations. But the journey
towards true equality is far from over.
Continued efforts are needed to
dismantle systemic biases, address
infrastructural shortcomings, and
create a level playing field for all
aspiring lawyers, regardless of gender.
The unwavering commitment of these
legal stalwarts serves as a beacon of
hope, inspiring both future generations
of women lawyers and a more
egalitarian legal system. As the “Equal-
in-Law” movement gathers
momentum, we can truly hope for a
future where women not only
participate in Indian jurisprudence but
also actively shape its course, ensuring
justice for all.
As these luminaries continue to
champion gender equality and strive
for increased female participation in
Indian jurisprudence, their collective
impact echoes through the halls of
justice, paving the way for a more
equitable and diverse legal landscape
in India.
20

23. Beingyourownboss

24. Life is meeting everything and everyone for the first
time in each new moment that passes you by, seeing
the world with renewed perspective each time, and
learning from each experience that adds to your repertoire
of knowledge. Nonetheless, there are as many humanly
possible ways of comprehending, thinking, mindset,
perspectives, and outlooks.
Add to that personal, professional, socio-cultural, political,
economic, and a plethora of other desires, dreams,
demands, needs, and ambitions to diversify the individuals’
approaches, and conflicting situations are bound to arise in
everyday life where we frequently cross each other’s path.
Sometimes, whether willingly or unwillingly, these personal
and professional conflicts cannot be resolved outside of a
court of law. While entering the courts, we––as an
individual, professional, business, corporate, or public or
private entity––might find ourselves scared to our wits if
not guided by trustworthy and faithful legal guidance in the
form of professionals such as Astha Sharma, Advocate on
Record (AOR) and Standing Counsel for the State of
West Bengal, Supreme Court of India – Partner,
AQUILAW.
Restoring Your Beliefs
Astha has over a decade of experience before the Supreme
Court of India, various High Courts, and Statutory
Tribunals across Delhi, focusing on Civil, Criminal,
Constitutional, Commercial, and Corporate Disputes. Being
an Advocate on Record, at the Supreme Court of India, the
practice and procedure of litigation in the Supreme Court is
her forte. Prior to AQUILAW, she has been practicing
independently since 2017, after being associated with PLR
Chambers & Co., an Advocate on Record Firm for over a
year. Before that, she was primarily associated with Mr.
Sunil Fernandes, AOR, and assisting him in matters
pertaining to the then State of Jammu and Kashmir. She
completed her LL.M in Criminal Law, Criminology &
Forensic Science from National Law University, Jodhpur
(DE), in 2013 and her B.A.LL. B from Army Institute of
Law, Mohali in 2010.
As the Standing Counsel for the State of West Bengal
currently, Astha is the representative of the State in the
Supreme Court of India, and responsible for representing
the interest of the Govt. in cases ranging from Civil,
Criminal and Constitutional issues.
Elaborating about her law firm, she says that AQUILAW, a
Kolkata based Law Firm, with offices in Delhi and
Mumbai, is a leading law firm working at the intersection of
corporate, government, technology, and business. She
conveys, “Through diversity among its lawyers, chartered
accountants, economist, and a competent support system,
the firm caters to end-to-end solutions for our clients.”
AQUILAW specializes in various industry sectors, as well
as corresponding practice areas to provide solutions, driven
toward the long-term goals of its clients. The Firm’s core
practice areas include dispute resolution including domestic
and international arbitration and litigation, criminal
litigation, real estate, infrastructure projects, corporate and
commercial, policy, and GST/Indirect Tax.
A Passionate Journey of Zealous Love
Briefing about her own journey into the legal profession,
Astha says that while she was in School, her family and
friends would often joke that her gift of gab or her love for
arguing, and the manner in which she would analyze and
dissect any issue to bring it to its logical conclusion, would
make her a good lawyer. What was meant to be a regular
22

25. comment, soon turned out to be her chosen path, when
during a career counselling session, she was introduced to
the legal world, and what she had only seen in the movies,
up until then, became a more realistic and achievable goal.
“So, while I was a science student in School, I knew that
law is what I would like to pursue further. Being from the
Defense Background, Army Institute seemed like the
obvious choice back then, and it has been one of my best
decisions so far, both the profession and the institute,” she
reflects.
Further recollecting on challenges faced by her initially,
vis-à-vis the challenges now, Astha shares that the biggest
challenge while in Law College was learning to live outside
the comfort of her home, being responsible and
independent, while trying her best to cope with classes,
assignments, moot courts, and figuring out internships,
which would help augment her career. She reminisces,
“Hostel life, where you are literally living in each other’s
pockets and have zero personal space, to figuring out course
options, thinking what if I make a wrong choice were all a
constant worry, and those seem trivial in comparison to life
as a Legal Practitioner, today.”
Being a first-generation lawyer, has its own struggles, and
finding the right mentor and guide in Mr. Fernandes, right
out of College, has been a true blessing, she states, but is
quick to add that even then, being a woman in this
profession, Astha has to work twice as hard, right from the
basics, “Where a clerk is more comfortable in taking
instructions from a male colleague and eager to dismiss
what you have to say, to handling and coordinating with the
Registry staff, and ensuring that your work speaks for itself
and that you are not in the profession, only till you find a
partner and get married, but serious about making a place
for yourself.” She goes on to add that, “litigation is hard on
you both physically and mentally, and every day brings in
new challenges, so one has to truly love what one is doing
to survive in this profession, to be wanting to get up each
morning, with the same zeal and enthusiasm, as the day
before.”
An Exceptional Expert with an Edge
Telling more about the various specialized legal offerings,
solutions, or services that she provides to her clientele,
Astha reveals that as the majority of the work she does,
Astha Sharma
Advocate on Record (AOR) and
Standing Counsel for the State
of West Bengal,
Supreme Court of India – Partner
AQUILAW
23

26. involves matters from the State, she has to constantly advise
Govt. officials and various State Departments, about legal
options available to them to protect the interest of the State,
that clubbed with the fact that in Supreme Court, one gets to
deal with cases of all kinds, and is not restricted in the areas
one practice in.
“For some, it might mean that you are a master of none, but
a jack of all trades, but for me personally, it only means that
there is never a dull moment, and you are on edge 24X7
while getting to work on cases dealing with a variety of
legal issues, without being restricted to one particular
specialization,” she explains.
The work also entails strategizing on politically sensitive
cases, anticipating the next moves, and keeping oneself
abreast of a lot of ancillary factors. “Being a first-
generation lawyer, from a Non-political family, the kind of
work she has done in the past 12 years, and what I am
exposed to on a daily basis, makes me feel extremely
fortunate, and it is always a great feeling, when the clients
are happy, which I must confess, is not an easy feat,” she
states.
Shedding light on the impact of technological advance-
ments on the Law space, she believes the COVID-19
Pandemic, brought in greater technological advancements
in the Legal sphere, which though did exist in the past but
were not easily accepted, as most people were hesitant to
adapt to the changing times, and were comfortable with
how things were.
She says, “Being put in a position, where we had no choice
but to accept Zoom Calls and Google Meets, WhatsApp
groups for coordination, VC Links every morning, using
emails and WhatsApp as acceptable modes of service and
interaction with not just the Clients, but other counsels and
Registry Staff, and using soft copies of petitions for
arguments rather than lugging around the bulky files.”
She goes on, “Now when we look back, it seems that these
basic changes, may have changed how the system has
always been. It has not only increased efficiency, but most
people I know, are better equipped at managing their time
while waiting in Court, saving time travelling for meetings,
and there is overall access to information at your fingertips,
in the smart world. I am equally surprised at the Senior
Generation, who at one point in time struggled with sending
Text Messages or emails on the Phone, adapting to the
changing times with such panache.”
Influencing Future Generations
According to Astha, “All of us, are influencers in our own
individual right, I believe. More often than not, we do not
realize how something we do in an extremely casual
manner, impacts someone else especially the younger
generation of lawyers.”
Having someone who has found their foothold in the
profession, coming from similar backgrounds, and seeing
them do good, is always inspiring. On top of that, having
the determination to achieve something, and not shying
away from hard work, has made existing in this profession
a little easier. She says that she has been indeed privileged
to have found seniors willing to guide her, peers, eager to
encourage her, and celebrate each and every achievement,
no matter how small, and younger colleagues who are ever
so curious and eager to take in all that this profession has to
offer, and who with their constant queries, make sure that
she does not have an occasion to be complacent. “I am also
grateful for the opportunities I have had to assist and brief
Our profession is not all guts
and glory and that each and
every client you come across,
will leave their worries, anxieties,
and negativity on your table,
and it is on you to ensure that
it does not affect you personally.
24

27. stalwarts in the Legal Profession, where every conference
and interaction, is a learning experience,” she expresses.
She further feels that the access she has to the judicial
system being a legal practitioner has also paved way for her
to take up social causes, which have always been close to
her heart like Human Rights and Wildlife Protection.
Having the opportunity to take up these issues in the
Supreme Court through various Public Interest Litigations,
and having brought about a minuscule change through
favourable orders is definitely rewarding, and her way of
giving back to society, and making use of her qualifications,
in the best possible way.
Truthful Insights
In her advice to the aspiring legal enthusiasts willing to step
into the legal space today, Astha shares, “Aspiring legal
enthusiasts, in my opinion, are not only better equipped
than we were while we took our first steps in this field, but
are also clearer in their thoughts, as to what are their goals
and how best to work towards them.
My honest advice would be to understand that the profes-
sion is not all guts and glory and that each and every client
you come across, will leave their worries, anxieties, and
negativity on your table, and it is on you to ensure that it
does not affect you personally. You need to give equal
importance to your mental well-being and know when to
take a step back, breathe deeply, and reorganize your
thoughts, before diving in deep again. Use technology to
your advantage, and never hesitate to discuss your doubts or
put across a point, because those may very well be the fresh
perspective we need.” She would also suggest that to
succeed in this sphere, one should strive to lead a Disci-
plined life, simple things like being on time, and responding
to texts/calls in a timely manner, if not immediately, go a
long way.
According to her the legal space is reshaping post-
pandemic, and the struggles of the last two years, are finally
giving way to good work, more interactions in the court
corridors and an endeavour to not let the hard times take
over. She explains, “Even though the Courts in our Country,
were quick to adapt to Virtual Hearings, we still have a lot
to achieve in terms of actual physical infrastructure,
especially at grass root levels.”
While more and more women are joining the profession,
there is a need for the infrastructure and basic amenities to
be attuned to that change. It is also a refreshing change to
see that the profession is more welcoming of women with
status changes through marriage, pregnancy, and/or giving
birth, and they are not career-ending events, as they were in
the past.
25

28. As one of the most fundamental principles of human
civilization, the law of the land has the tenacity on
which humanity has been founded. The force of
law has enormous power to shape our lives in the past,
present, and future. A progressive legal profession is at the
heart of an advanced society with a positive forward
momentum.
Now, the global legal community recognizes that gender
equality in the legal profession is the first and foremost
barometer of genuine progress. Only when the legal
profession and society fully embrace this factor will legal
professionals be able to shape the social future for the
better.
According to Advocate Neha Naik, Associate Partner at
Phoenix Legal, the firm has a healthy gender ratio and age
diversity, making the team extremely vibrant and bursting
with energy to collaborate and deliver outstanding quality.
She says, “Though we believe in excellence and delivering
high-quality advice, the firm’s ethos is extremely warm and
appreciative, making it an ideal workplace.”
Pragmatic Legal Perspectives
Phoenix Legal is a full-service law firm founded in 2008,
with offices in New Delhi and Mumbai. The firm services
an extremely diverse clientele, Indian as well as interna-
tional. Neha adds, “We are known in the industry to give
research-backed, practical, and commercially viable legal
advice with a high degree of partner involvement.”
Neha, who has been practising law for the last ten years,
graduated in 2012 from Government Law College after
completing her LLB, before which she held a B.Sc.
(Biotechnology). She also did her LLM – Intellectual
Property Law from the University of Mumbai. Her work
spans commercial litigation, arbitrations, and a fair bit of
advisory. She reflects, “I started my career in the field of
Intellectual property litigation and then diversified into
general commercial litigation.”
Currently, Neha is focused on Insolvency and restructuring-
related disputes and complex advisory. Her first brush with
the law was in the final year of B.Sc Biotechnology when
they (the students) briefly studied intellectual property laws.
It interested her and drove her to the extent that she decided
to pursue law after graduation. She found it extremely
intellectually stimulating and relevant to society in general
compared to other professions. “As time passed, I have
realized that it is a continuous learning process with no
boundaries on the kind of problems that you are required to
solve,” She states.
She recalls that as a young lawyer, the main challenge was
to fit into the legal fraternity and find an apt place for
herself that would allow her to grow intellectually. “This is
initially the most challenging part when you are bound to
choose what kind of firm or practice you wish to join. As a
law practitioner, you face different challenges, which could
sometimes require you to think on your feet and sometimes
deep dive into facts, mull over them and then come up with
unique arguments and solutions. Maintaining a positive and
peaceful attitude is especially important, as the competitive-
ness and stakes at hand may cause you to become anxious
at times. Lastly, maintaining a work-life balance is
challenging and needs a cautious effort,” she explains.
An Unprecedented Shift
Neha shares that her legal offering is extremely diverse and
sector agnostic. Her work ranges from pre-litigation,
litigation strategies, and dispute resolution to comprehen-
sive legal advice/opinions to clients.
She has managed various high-stakes commercial and civil
The Most Impac ul Li gator Shaping
the Legal Present and Future
26

29. Advocate Neha Naik
Associate Partner
Phoenix Legal
WE ARE KNOWN IN THE
INDUSTRY TO GIVE
RESEARCH-BACKED,
PRACTICAL, AND
COMMERCIALLY VIABLE LEGAL
ADVICE WITH A HIGH
DEGREE OF PARTNER
INVOLVEMENT.
27

30. disputes across all sectors. Lately, after the introduction of
the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, a large portion of her
practice shifted to advisory and disputes in this sector. As
the law was developing, she had the opportunity to witness
the change very closely, advise on some of the most
complex matters in India, and represent and work with
stalwarts in this field. This is accompanied by other
mandates covering other law sectors such as intellectual
property, contractual, employment, entertainment, medico-
legal, etc., which bring in the variety and keeps her
encouraged as a law practitioner.
Regarding technological advancements’ impact, Neha says
that the effect of tech on every aspect of a law practitioner’s
functioning is huge and a game changer. “Technology has
changed the methods of not only research but also drafting
and briefing.”
With the commencement of virtual courts due to the
pandemic, the method of maintaining briefs and arguing
also underwent a huge change. The ease with which one can
now brief a counsel, attend hearings, or even argue virtually
was never thought of, even a few years back. Nevertheless,
the depth and accuracy that are required to be maintained
when presenting arguments remain the same.
She adds, “However, I would say that there has been an
unprecedented shift in how things have leaned on technol-
ogy in the past two years.” This has certainly ushered in a
new era that is more time and cost-efficient.
In the Zone of Serenity and Sensibility
Many factors make her stand out as an influential
personality in the legal field. She perfectly represents the
thought process of lawyers of her generation, which has
undergone a shift in terms of the way they approach their
work. Bringing in quality legal advice which is practical
and commercially viable is a skill that is extremely
necessary for today’s day and age when companies and
individuals are looking at sensible outcomes to their
disputes, keeping in mind the long-term impact.
Having the ability to remain unfazed in high-pressure
situations to achieve a desired outcome is something Neha
has worked on over the last few years. She realized that the
best results are obtained by keeping a strong, calm mind
rather than being affected by stress, which almost always is
expected to be a major factor involved in high stake
matters. Apart from that, meticulous planning, reading your
documents from cover to cover is of utmost necessity to
achieve efficiency and can never be compromised. She says
that she has been fortunate enough to work with the best in
the industry, which has greatly shaped her approach and
work ethic.
Neha believes that the coming generation of lawyers will
have an edge in terms of being technologically savvy right
from the start of their careers.
The Dynamic Wisdom
In her professional advice to aspiring legal enthusiasts
willing to step into the legal space today, she states that
“Aspiring lawyers should be ready to work hard and put
their hearts and minds into delivering sound legal advice.
Last but not least, taking care of oneself and prioritizing
your health and family should never be compromised.”
According to her, the Indian legal space has been through
some turbulent or rather dynamic times like everything else
these past two years. The onset of the virus changed the
game, especially for the judicial proceedings and work
culture in the legal industry. This compelled the legal sector
and the judiciary to adapt, which gave birth to virtual
proceedings and a work-from-home (WFH) culture.
So, the current working culture is leaning towards a digital
approach instead of the earlier paper-heavy approach,
which is a welcome change. “Needless to say, digitization
comes with its sets of issues, which can be improved over
time for speedy disposals and more productivity,” She feels.
Apart from this, the Indian Legal Space is dynamic and is
evolving rapidly. “Given the sheer population of India and
the caseload of filed cases, yes, there is a lag in the judicial
system which needs to be tightened.” However, the scenario
is changing like never before.
India is an upcoming superpower and a rapidly growing
economy; coupled with the globalization of work, the
exposure that Indian lawyers are now getting in terms of
international work and collaborations is amazing.
28

32. 30
alancing the scales of justice is
Bno easy feat for any lawyer,
but for women leaders in the
legal field, the act takes on a whole
new layer of complexity. They are not
just striving for legal victory, but also
navigating the often-uneven terrain of
gender inequality within their own
profession. This article delves into the
unique challenges and opportunities
faced by legal women leaders as they
champion the cause of gender equality,
both within the legal system and
beyond.
Challenges: A Tightrope Walk
Women in legal leadership roles often
encounter multifaceted challenges that
hinder their progress. Gender bias,
stereotyping, and glass ceilings persist
within law firms and legal institutions,
impeding the advancement of women
to higher positions. The scarcity of
female representation in top-level
positions remains a prominent
challenge, despite an increasing
number of women entering the legal
field.
Work-life balance presents another
significant hurdle for women leaders.
Juggling demanding work schedules,
client expectations, and family
responsibilities can be daunting. The
long hours and rigorous workload in
the legal profession sometimes lead to
burnout, affecting career trajectories
and personal well-being.
Challenges and Opportunities
for Legal
Women Leaders
Gender
Equality
to Push the Cause of
Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors:
Climbing the legal ladder can be
difficult enough, but for women, the
ascent is often steeper, with invisible
barriers impeding their progress to
leadership positions. Additionally,
societal expectations and implicit
biases can lead to "sticky floors" –
situations where women struggle to
progress beyond entry-level roles.
Work-Life Juggling Act: Balancing
demanding legal careers with family
responsibilities can be a constant
struggle, especially in a profession
notorious for long hours and
unpredictable schedules. Lack of
adequate childcare and other support
systems often disproportionately
impact women and hinder their career
advancement.
Hostile Work Environments:
Unfortunately, sexual harassment and
discrimination are still realities for
many women in the legal field. These
negative experiences can create a
hostile work environment,
undermining confidence and career
aspirations.
Opportunities: A Platform for
Change
Amidst these challenges, women legal
leaders have harnessed various
opportunities to push the cause of
gender equality forward. One key
aspect is mentorship and sponsorship
programs. Establishing support
networks and mentorship initiatives
has proven beneficial in nurturing
aspiring female lawyers and providing
guidance for career advancement.
Additionally, the global discourse on
diversity, equity, and inclusion has
gained momentum, offering
opportunities for women leaders to
advocate for policies that promote
gender parity within law firms and
legal organizations. Initiatives focusing
on promoting flexible work
arrangements, providing leadership
training, and addressing pay disparities
contribute significantly to fostering an
inclusive work culture.
Leveraging Leadership Positions:
Women leaders in law have a unique
platform to advocate for policy
changes and initiatives that promote
gender equality within the profession.
This includes pushing for improved
parental leave policies, mentorship
programs, and anti-discrimination
measures.
Mentorship and Role Models: By
sharing their own experiences and
offering guidance to younger women
lawyers, legal women leaders can
empower the next generation and pave
the way for a more diverse and
inclusive legal landscape.
Advocate from Within: As litigators,
judges, and legal scholars, women in

33. 31
law have the power to influence legal
frameworks and rulings that impact
gender equality.
They can challenge discriminatory
laws, advocate for women’s rights in
court cases, and contribute to legal
scholarship that advances the cause of
gender justice.
Beyond the Legal Sphere
Public Voice and Policy Advocacy:
Legal women leaders have a platform
to raise their voices beyond the
courtroom, influencing public
discourse and policy decisions on
issues related to gender equality. They
can engage in public speaking, media
appearances, and policy advocacy to
drive social change.
Breaking Stereotypes and Inspiring a
Generation: As visible role models,
legal women leaders can challenge
stereotypes and inspire young girls to
pursue careers in law. Their success
stories can demonstrate the
possibilities available to women and
encourage them to dream big and break
down barriers.
Embracing the Challenge
The rise of women-led law firms and
legal advocacy groups has opened new
avenues for female legal leaders to
address gender-specific issues and
advocate for systemic changes within
the legal profession. Through these
platforms, they champion initiatives
aimed at challenging gender
stereotypes, increasing representation
in leadership roles, and driving
organizational changes that support
gender diversity.
Embracing Technology and
Innovation
Technology has become a catalyst for
change in the legal landscape. Women
leaders leverage technological
advancements to streamline legal
processes, enhance efficiency, and
create more accessible legal services.
Embracing innovation allows them to
overcome traditional barriers and
expand their impact, ensuring a level
playing field for all legal practitioners.
Looking Ahead
As women legal leaders continue to
navigate these challenges and harness
opportunities, their perseverance and
dedication remain instrumental in
driving meaningful change. By
fostering a culture of inclusivity,
breaking barriers, and advocating for
gender equality, they pave the way for
a more diverse and equitable future in
the legal profession.
The path to achieving gender equality
in the legal field is demanding, but the
rewards are significant. By
acknowledging the challenges,
leveraging their unique positions, and
embracing the opportunities, legal
women leaders can continue to make
strides towards a more just and
equitable legal system, not just for
themselves but for all. Their
unwavering commitment to this cause,
both within the profession and beyond,
is crucial to creating a future where
women not only hold their own in the
courtroom but actively shape the laws
and rulings that govern our society.
Ultimately, the journey towards
achieving gender equality in the legal
arena requires collective effort and
sustained commitment from all
stakeholders. Empowering women
leaders, addressing systemic barriers,
and fostering an environment of equal
opportunity will undoubtedly lead to a
more balanced and equitable legal
landscape.

34. ou reach your dream destination successfully if you
Ybegin at the perfect inflection point in your life. Or
if you are inspired to know early on exactly where
you want to go with your career. For, Shagun Badhwar,
Counsel at AZB & Partners, her inspiration to enter the
legal field stems from her childhood aspiration of becoming
a lawyer. "For as long as I remember, I thought of being a
lawyer even though I do not come from a family of lawyers
- except my aunt, who is of course a huge inspiration even
today," she says.
Most aspiring lawyers join legal internships during law
school. Shagun's first legal internship was when she was in
high school, in the tenth grade. The students were asked to
consider what they wanted to do in the future and work
towards that goal in the summer. "My first choice then was
law. I interned with a litigation lawyer for about two
months in 2003, and I suppose that paved the way to where
I am now, even though I chose a different practice area
(corporate law instead of litigation). Then, and even now,
law as a career option seems like the right fit, because it
compliments my personality (analytical, rational, critical,
logical, and creative), and keeps me motivated, as it allows
me to believe I have a chance to make an impact daily. That
to me is imperative, as otherwise, it can be difficult to
sustain this, or any, other profession, in the long term.”
She always knew she wanted to make a difference in this
world, regardless of how small (ideally big). "We all want
to change the world and make a difference, for the better,
one step at a time. For me, this was my first baby step, and
hopefully, there are many more steps to go," she says.
An Ideal Impact
And what a significant difference she is making by
practicing in the corporate advisory team at AZB &
Partners and solving and/or advising on a variety of legal
issues for both corporate clients' and not for profit entities.
She has over a decade's experience in advising
multinational organizations on how to best structure their
business operations/investments in India, as well as
advising them on their day-to-day legal, regulatory, and
ethics and compliance issues. She advises domestic and
global clients on laws relating to foreign contributions,
labour laws, cryptocurrency regulations, data privacy, and
other business practice areas. "Our clients include global
charities, blockchain companies, cryptocurrency
exchanges, intermediaries, e-commerce companies, etc.,”
she informs.
Her professional career began after she received her
education in LL.B. Campus Law Centre, Faculty of Law,
the University of Delhi – (2009 – 2012), B.A. (Honours) in
Political Science – Jesus and Mary College, the University
of Delhi – (2006 – 2009), and her primary and secondary
schooling from Vasant Valley School – (1993 – 2005).
In 2012, just after her LL.B., she enrolled as an Advocate
with the Bar Council of Delhi. She started her career as an
Associate, at LexCounsel, Law Offices from January 1,
2013 – September 6, 2015; and thereafter she joined AZB
& Partners, Delhi on September 14, 2015. She became a
Senior Associate, at AZB & Partners, Delhi on October 1,
2018, and a Counsel in April 01, 2022, to present.
The Saga of AZB & Partners
Shagun says that AZB & Partners (the 'Firm') was founded
in 2004 with a clear purpose to provide full–service advice
to clients, across all sectors. The Firm brought together the
practices of CZB & Partners in Mumbai and Bangalore and
Ajay Bahl & Company in Delhi. The Firm has grown
My Journey to Make a Difference, One Step at a Time
32

35. Today, being a
lawyer/advocate is not
just a profession but a way of
life, which gives you the ability,
freedom, and independence
to be your own person, and
there is no greater gift
you can give yourself,
especially as a woman.
Shagun Badhwar
Counsel
AZB & Partners
33

36. steadily and now has offices in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore,
and Pune.
The Firm is one of the prominent law firms in India and
provides advice based on an in-depth knowledge of the
legal, regulatory and commercial environment within which
our clients operate and a full understanding of their overall,
long-term business objectives.
According to Shagun the legal services they provide cover
these corporate, commercial, regulatory, financial, and tax
planning aspects. The Firm practice areas include mergers
and acquisitions; joint ventures and general corporate,
infrastructure, and project finance; real estate; regulatory
practice and securities laws; private equity and capital
markets; funds practice; social venture investments;
banking, finance, and microfinance; derivatives, and
litigation.
Her Constant Journey through the Learning Curve
Reflecting on the challenges she faced while entering the
legal field and comparing them to the challenges of today,
Shagun remembers that fresh out of law school, "I think
the biggest challenge was finding a law firm that is right for
you. At that time, one is willing to settle for any opportunity
that comes your way and that may not be ideal. I strongly
believe that the first few years lay the foundation for the
rest of your career and the learning curve is at its highest so
one must choose sensibly." For her, in hindsight, after an
initial couple of hiccups with interviews that did not work
out, she feels it all fell into place the way it was supposed
to, as she accepted her first job offer at LexCounsel, Law
Offices. She was fortunate to work there for almost three
years with some great lawyers and even better human
beings. "I truly believe I am where I am because of their
guidance and support. People often say that the "firsts" in
life are always special - I am glad my "first" job lived up to
that standard!”
The challenges completely change once life in a law firm
begins. As with most careers, the learning continues – like
building blocks. It is a journey, not a destination. It's about
perseverance and creating and nurturing the relationships in
your life that matter (personal and professional). And yes,
this cannot be emphasized enough, maintaining a healthy
work-life balance. This is a constant struggle, irrespective
of where you are in your career.
An Adept Counsel
Briefing about the various or specialized legal offerings,
solutions, or services that she provides to her clientele,
Shagun says the sector-specific sample of her practice areas
includes,
*Corporate: Advise global charities, including structuring/
restructuring their operations in India, in light of the
Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (including
registration, compliance requirements, reporting, penalties,
etc.), exchange control regulations, laws on the protection
of children in India (POCSO), and the Companies Act,
2013, including the corporate social responsibility
compliance.
*FinTech and Digital: Advise blockchain companies and
cryptocurrency exchanges on the structuring of business
operations in India (including proposed offerings like
stablecoins backed by currency, digital tokens, and non-
fungible tokens (NFTs)), considering regulatory and
compliance issues, under exchange control regulations,
securities regulation, anti-money laundering laws (PML and
KYC), etc.
*Data Privacy and Protection: Advice on data privacy
issues, including requirements applicable to handling and
processing of data, and intermediary liability for publishers
and news aggregators, handling of health data, under the
Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) and the rules, as
well as the proposed Personal Data Protection (PDP) Bill.
*E–Commerce: Advise on day-to-day marketplace
operations (such as structuring of programs for sellers,
vendors, and customers, and evaluation of proposals, from
an FDI and regulatory standpoint), and associated legal and
regulatory issues.
*Employment, Labour, and Benefits: Advise various
domestic and global businesses on issues of labour law,
including on, prevention of sexual harassment at the
workplace (POSH), maternity benefits, contract labour
regulation issues, etc.
The Seamless Tech Transition
According to her, the impact of technological advancements
in the Law is transformational, whether it is for lawyers or
our clients. Lawyers, similar to many other professionals,
experienced this during the first two years of the COVID-19
34

37. pandemic when daily routines were disrupted, and a vast
majority of the workforce was compelled to work remotely.
"Technology allowed us to transition seamlessly and
efficiently." Prior to this, I never believed that work from
home actually "works", but this unprecedented period that
we all went through, truly has me believing.
Additionally, being in a corporate advisory team that
regularly advises numerous fintech companies, they get to
witness the impact of rapid technological advancements on
businesses firsthand, almost on a day-to-day basis. The
biggest challenge here is for lawyers to keep pace with
these innovations and developments and understand the
interplay between such technologies, and the prevalent legal
and regulatory framework.
An Ever-Evolving Influence
When probed about what specialties/factors enable her to
stand out as an influential personality in the legal field,
Shagun divulges that while working in a corporate advisory
team at one of the pioneer law firms of the country, she has
got to be adequately equipped to advise on any facet of the
law, at any given point of time. There is no time for
stagnation, and one has to continuously be evolving, by
learning and developing ones' skill sets and competencies
on an everyday basis which she truly believes put one a cut
above the rest.
"I have to not only be well versed with the law which is
progressing in tandem with society (as it should) but also be
up to date with proposed enactments/policy initiatives, that
may have an impact on our client's operations both at a
macro and micro level. This, coupled with the fact that I
work side by side with some of the brightest legal minds in
the country, and constantly learn from them, ensures that I
am always able to provide our clients with commercially
viable advice, which is reliable, tactical, and practical, and
compliments the client's objectives," she cites. Teamwork
makes the dream work, and at AZB & Partners, "We make a
conscious effort to imbibe that in letter and spirit, by
mentoring our team members and encouraging each other
to do better!”
She says, "I also truly believe that in our profession,
support from our family and friends play a tremendous role
(in my case especially that of my parents who are my
biggest cheerleaders), without which I do not believe I
would be where I am in the first place.”
The Gift of Law: A Way of Life
In her advice to the aspiring legal enthusiasts willing to step
into the legal space today, Shagun appeals to 'Have patience
and dedication! Put that extra effort and spend that
additional time honing your skills at the start of your career.
These are opportunities that that you cannot bring back so
make optimum use!’
Finally, sharing her views on the evolving scenario of the
Indian Legal jurisprudence, Shagun says that the Indian
legal system has been, and will continue to be, dynamic,
especially in light of globalization, developing stakeholder
expectations on ESG principles, and evolving legal and
regulatory framework in the country, that create a very
dynamic internal and external work environment. "Today,
being a lawyer/advocate, is not just a profession but a way
of life, which gives you the ability, freedom, and
independence to be your own person, and there is no
greater gift you can give yourself, especially as a woman,"
she concludes.
35

39. The most successful
entrepreneurs
I know are optimistic.
It’s part of the job description.

40. W O R L D
I N D I A
www.womenworldindia.com