India

Aarna Law operates from offices in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, focusing primarily on dispute resolution. Their dedicated disputes team, consisting of 22 professionals, handles cases across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, aviation, shipping, retail, banking, construction, infrastructure, oil and gas, and renewable energy. Key partners include Shreyas Jayasimha, who specializes in space law, art law, corporate law, and data privacy, and serves on the Executive Committee of the Federation of International Arbitration Advocacy in Geneva. Apoorva Guruprasad is notable for her expertise in construction arbitration. Recent achievements include securing a full refund with interest for a high-net-worth client in a construction quality dispute, managing an Execution Petition for a wholesale trade company, and challenging a Supreme Court ruling in an insurance claim case.

Established in 2011, Acuity Law is a full-service boutique firm with a dispute resolution practice that houses a team of 19 skilled advocates. They cover contentious matters spanning commercial and corporate, technology, media and telecommunications, labour and employment, tax, data protection, restructuring and insolvency and arbitration. The disputes lawyers have served as counsels before all court levels, including the Supreme Court of India and various tribunals such as the Securities Appellate Tribunal. In a recent case, the team represented SBS Holdings, a listed Japanese company, before the High Court of Delhi in seeking interim reliefs against a third-party litigation funder at post-award stage.

The key contacts are managing partner Souvik Ganguly, and partners Sidhartha Barua and Renjith Nair. Barua joined last summer from Luthra and Luthra Law Offices.

Agama Law Associates specializes in dispute resolution with a strong emphasis on arbitration, corporate and commercial disputes, and pre-dispute advisory strategies. Headquartered in Mumbai, the firm represents clients in the Supreme Court of India, state High Courts, various tribunals, and sectoral regulators. Key partners include Nitin Jain, who specializes in commercial litigation and insolvency restructuring, and Archana Balasubramanian, who focuses on dispute avoidance and management in commercial transactions. Prapti Kedia and Ravishekhar Pandey enhance the firm’s capabilities in commercial litigation and securities matters. Recent work highlights include advising a major e-commerce company on a pre-dispute issue, representing a real estate developer in insolvency proceedings, and securing a favorable ruling for a manufacturer of non-ferrous metal alloys.

Client feedback

"They have a strong litigation strategy in the shipping sector." – Shipping

Nitin Jain

"He has excellent industry knowledge."

The dispute resolution team at Agrud Partners represents clients at all levels of courts in India. The firm has a deep understanding of procedural and substantive laws and is skilled at strategising highly complicated litigations. Clients include development and investment financial institutions, ultra-high-net-worth individuals, non-banking financial companies, public sector banks, brokerage firms, technology and outsourcing model businesses, biotech firms and manufacturing companies. The key contacts for disputes are managing partner Sajid Mohamed and partners Sumit Raghani and Meghna Talwar. Talwar joined from Gagrats in late 2023.

Ahlawat & Associates is a full-service firm that was established in 1978. Since its founding, the firm has been primarily a litigation practice. Is disputes strengths lie in labour and employment, and insolvency. The insolvency team handles cases for and against financial creditors as well as operation creditors. It is one of the few law firms in India that has represented its clients across all 11 benches of the National Company Law Tribunals and the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal. The employment litigators have deep experience working with clients on the challenges they face in complying with labour laws in India – and when contentious matters arise, the Ahlawat team is ready to assist. The firm has offices in Delhi and Mumbai.The team is led by founding partner Avnish Ahlawat and partner Apoorva Misra.

AKS Partners is a well-established law firm based in the NCR region, specializing in corporate and transactional law. The firm is recognized for its sophisticated litigation practice, aligning strategies with clients’ business objectives for optimal outcomes. With extensive experience in various courts and tribunals, AKS Partners has earned a solid reputation for managing complex disputes across sectors like textiles, aviation, and infrastructure. The firm comprises a skilled team of litigators who emphasize a client-centric approach grounded in integrity and collaboration. The firm successfully defended the Airports Authority of India in a writ petition related to a tender process, resulting in a favorable court ruling. Managing partner Sonal Kumar Singh leads the disputes team, which also includes partners Payal Dayal and Faizur Rehman. The team recently represented the National Textile Corporation in arbitration concerning a joint venture agreement for the modernization of a textile mill.

Established in 2003, Alaya Legal celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. The dispute resolution offering spans the full range of practice areas, but it has a particular expertise in contentious labour and employment matters. The lawyers are experienced working at all levels of the court in India, from district courts to the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal. Its caseload includes contract, real estate, insolvency and labour disputes, as well as construction and infrastructure arbitration matters.

The key partner leading the disputes practice is Divjyot Singh. Singh is a labour and employment specialist, but also handles civil and commercial litigation and arbitration.

Singh and his team are acting for a public sector undertaking as the respondent in an arbitration involving disputes relating to the construction of a wind farm. They are also representing Zomato Private as the plaintiff in proceedings seeking an injunction and damages from the defendants for uploading a video containing incorrect and disparaging comments on YouTube. The team was successful in procuring interim orders, including an order directing YouTube to disable the URL containing the video.

In an employment-related matter, the firm represented a software company in a petition filed by a workmer before the High Court of Delhi challenging the ruling of the Labour Court refusing reinstatement and backdated wages to the worker. On the flip side, the litigation team assisted a worker as the petitioner before the High Court of Delhi in a writ petition filed against an order of the Labour Court dismissing the application of the worker for amendment of pleadings.

In another labour-related case, the team is assisting the client in a petition filed before the High Court against an award passed by the Labour Court. This case raised several novel questions, such as whether a person performing administrative, managerial and supervisory duties can be said to be a ‘workman’ under the Industrial Disputes Act 1947 and the principles governing the grant of backdated wages as the same cannot be claimed by the ‘workman’ as a matter of right.

Established in 2007, Alliance Law provides clients with a wide scope of dispute resolution services. The firm is noted for its core strengths in contentious corporate, banking and commercial matters, and it has experience fighting battles across sectors such as finance, technology, real estate and healthcare. Particularly, the team has a strong record of acting on contentious securities-related cases. The group’s corporate and commercial litigation practice is well rounded, covering securities laws, insolvency and bankruptcy law, insurance law, writ petitions, and contentious commercial transactions and real estate matters, before various legal forums in the country.

The disputes team is led by managing partner RS Loona and includes partner Ankur Loona and associate partner Aparna Wagle.

After the securities regulator suspended the licences of many commodities brokers in India, the Alliance Law team represented IIFL Commodities before the Securities Appellate Tribunal.

Client feedback

“They had good knowledge and, attention. Execution of the case was strong.” – Securities

“Alliance Law has expertise in corporate and commercial litigation.” – Commercial and transactions

“The Alliance Law team's drafting and research skills are remarkable. Their ability to assist their clients in any legal matter and to understand the client’s need is also noteworthy.” – Securities

Ankur Loona

“He is skilled and knowledgeable. He is good at understanding the matter and drafting.”

“He is well spoken and to-the-point, kind and smart. He is often the kindest person in the room and is usually the smartest. He will come back later with the correct answer if he is not sure.”

“He is very amiable.”

“Mr Loona is very cordial in his approach and is patient while listening to his clients. He gives excellent service.”

Aparna Wagle

“She was prompt to respond to the queries, kept her timelines and was up to date on the latest case laws.”

AMD Law is a prominent law firm specializing in intellectual property rights (IPR), with a strong presence in key cities like Gujarat and Mumbai. Known for its innovative legal strategies, the firm addresses challenges in patents, trademarks, and IP litigation. Managed by Ragini Shah, who brings over a decade of experience, AMD Law has established a solid reputation for safeguarding clients' intellectual assets across various industries, including healthcare, fintech, and manufacturing. A significant achievement includes successfully advising Noble Paints in a trademark infringement case, securing a crucial court order to protect the client's brand from counterfeit products. The firm also assisted Rewaa Fashion in a design law infringement matter, obtaining an injunction to halt the sale of infringing items. AMD Law has expanded its international collaborations, forming strategic alliances to enhance its global service capabilities. Their commitment to innovation is exemplified by their work with clients like Bajaj Electricals, securing patents for technologies developed in response to COVID-19. The firm’s focus on client-centered solutions continues to distinguish it in the competitive legal landscape.

As an intellectual property powerhouse that has been established for over a century, Anand and Anand needs no introduction. The firm is unanimously praised by the market across all practice and sectors as having the top IP litigators, particularly on the patent side. It routinely features in landmark decisions and its contentious-focused lawyers are highly sought after for novel, high-stakes and complex IP cases. The firm is a trusted name not just in court litigation, but also through mediation, arbitration and other alternative dispute resolution methods. The stats speak for itself with the firm winning 116 or 126 of the lawsuits clients instructed it on in 2022 alone and having an over 93% patent grant rate. The firm is spread out across four offices – New Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai and Noida – and comprises 400 professionals, including 29 partners and three directors. The firm also launched its Digital Group practice and end-end-Branding practice last year.

The Western practice of the firm collaborates with Naik Naik  & Co in Mumbai to form “Anand and Naik”. Relating to disputes, the joint firm offers corporate commercial litigation and international commercial arbitration, in addition to contentious IP. There is a strong focus on  media and entertainment, films, television, social media, e-commerce, sports and gaming, fantasy sports, and the teams are actively exploring emerging areas like OTT, broadcasting, digital media, Internet, convergence and tech-based hybrid areas like Fintech, Edtech, Agritech and Healthtech.

Managing partner and IP litigation maestro Pravin Anand, and partner Vaishali Mittal are key contacts. Other names to note are partners Dhruv Anand, Saif Khan and Shrawan Chopra. The firm recently hired the highly-esteemed Dr. Ajai Garg from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

The firm acted for Bollywood legend, Anil Kapoor to protect his personality and privacy rights. This sparked intense media coverage and highlighted current discussions into ‘dark patterns’. The client had filed a suit raising concerns that tools such as generative AI was being used to simulate or mimic the actor and prejudice his hard-earned goodwill and reputation.

In a marquee high-profile case that served as a global precedent, the team assisted Nokia in obtaining a protem security order, which was a first in India. This groundbreaking precedent was set during the pendency of its client’s SEP frand dispute with Oppo.  The court held that Nokia was entitled to receive a security payment at the outset even before the bench went into the details of whether Nokia’s patents were infringed and valid. The judgement is certain to have wide ramifications with the court explicitly stating that even in cases not concerning ex-licensees, the court will pass protem security orders, as the interests of SEP holders need to be protected.

Amazon and Microsoft continue to engage the team for its global tech fraud issues.

Client feedback

"We are satisfied with all aspects" – Intellectual property 

Anant Law, based in New Delhi, has rapidly established itself as a leading firm in competition and antitrust law, recognized for its innovative methodologies and profound understanding of complex legal challenges. Partners Rahul Goel and Anu Monga are highly regarded for their expertise, successfully representing a diverse clientele that includes startups and Fortune 500 companies. Anant Law is currently involved in landmark constitutional challenges to various provisions of the Competition Act, potentially reshaping regulatory frameworks in India. Among its notable successes, the firm defended the Builders Association of India in a major cement cartel case, where a penalty of approximately $1 billion was at stake.

Employment specialist Manishi Pathak founded Anhad Law in early 2021 after his departure from IndusLaw. The firm is one of the few law firms in the country to house a dedicated and standalone labour and employment practice. It covers the full spectrum of services for companies and employees, from advisory to mediation and litigation.

Client feedback

“Translates legal procedures and options to businesses in a way that we understand.” – Commercial and transactions

“Makes it easy for us by taking care of all legal and related administrative procedures.” – Commercial and transactions

Founded in 2021, Anirudh & Associates is best known as a Bangalore-based boutique with a specialisation in restructuring and insolvency. The team is experienced in handling R&I matters across multiple cities in India, adeptly leveraging the online hearing option afforded by the National Company Law Tribunal. In a David versus Goliath battle, the team represented numerous minority shareholders against Bharti Telecom after the telecoms giant attempted to reduce their share capital at an unfair price. After a year-long fight, the court judgment was decided in the clients’ favour.

Partner Anirudh Suresh is the key contact for dispute resolution. He is a commercial and insolvency litigation specialist.

Client feedback

“They do documentation and drafting well.” – Banking and financial services

“The team carefully understands the client’s problems, drafts a customised solution and gives personal attention.” – Bankruptcy

“They understand their client’s problem and add a humane touch to it.” – Commercial and transactions

“Good at strategic planning and the matter is seen through.” – Intellectual property

“The firm excels at company law-related matters, arbitration and white-collar criminal offences.” – White-collar crime

Anirudh Suresh

“Strong communications and case strategy.”

“He has integrity, professionalism and works on startup culture.”

“He is very energetic, clever and, above all, sincere.”

“He does lot of research and is very innovative.”

“Anirudh Suresh is an amazing lawyer. He is very experienced, positive-minded, results-oriented and a highly professional practitioner.”

“He is most energetic. He prepares well and presents in court many previous judgments which will be favourable to my case.”

Following its merger with the IP boutique Literati Juris in 2022, ANM Global has expanded its capabilities in contentious IP law. The firm serves a diverse clientele, from individuals to Fortune 500 companies, across sectors like media, entertainment, pharmaceuticals, and technology. Key contacts include managing partner Nidhish Mehrotra and head of IP Rahul Dhote. Recently, the firm represented Applause Entertainment in a complex trademark infringement case, successfully securing an injunction against unauthorized use of similar marks that sought to create a false association with the client’s brand.

Archeus Law is a boutique firm specializing in dispute resolution within the construction, projects, insolvency, and mining sectors. The firm excels in project advisory and contract management, with litigators experienced in energy and urban infrastructure projects. Founding partner Ranjit Prakash leads a team that includes partners Arun Mani, Rajdeep Choudhury, and Anshuman Pande. The firm notably represented Tantia Constructions in a $133 million arbitration against the National Highway Authority of India regarding a roads project in Bihar.

Aretha Legal is a leading full-service law firm based in New Delhi, with an associate office in Bengaluru. Founded in 2022, the firm has quickly earned recognition for its expertise across diverse areas, including corporate and commercial litigation, and contentious intellectual property, real estate, and energy matters. Notable work includes representing Yathartha Foundation in a Supreme Court case on adoption reforms and advising NBCC in a high-value real estate dispute. The firm’s achievements are underpinned by its team of skilled lawyers, including founding partners Ray Vikram Nath and Prashant Kumar, and rising talents like Vara Gaur and Rahul Bhattacharjee.

Argus Partners boasts a formidable disputes team, recognized for its expertise in commercial, contractual, insolvency, arbitration, regulatory, banking, and taxation disputes. The firm has established a strong reputation for its involvement in high-profile insolvency matters, with a history of advising clients on litigation strategies and dispute resolution. The disputes group is led by senior partners R Suhinder, Abeezar Faizullabhoy, and Ranjit Shetty, supported by a team of other experienced litigators. Recently, the firm represented HDFC in a significant litigation against IL&FS regarding a loan rental discounting facility, which is set to clarify lender rights under contracts for assigning receivables.

Ashwathh Legal is an intellectual property boutique that focuses on IP rights, litigation, enforcement, data privacy, and compliance. The firm's diverse portfolio covers various sectors, including life sciences, media, technology, and e-commerce. Key clients include LT Overseas, Ambuja Cements, and Nivea India. Managing partner Prabhu Tandon leads the team. Recently, the firm defended Dabur India in a disparagement case filed by Zydus Wellness Products regarding an advertisement for one of its products.

Established in 2022, Axiom5 Law Chambers is a specialist competition and policy boutique firm that was founded by ex-AZB & Partners senior partner and head of competition Samir Gandhi. Gandhi’s credentials and the fact that he has been a leading lawyer in this space over the past two decades have given him a ringside view of the development of antitrust law in India. He was a counsel to the CCI in its earliest litigation; later, back in private practice, he worked on pioneering antitrust cases and merger filings. He has been a powerful voice in the formulation of competition policy in India since its inception, including as a member of the ad hoc group the competition authority on the formulation of its merger regulations and also as a special government invitee to the Competition Law Review Committee. His firm advises on the full range of issues related to competition law, including litigation and enforcement, complex merger filing advice, counselling and compliance, and competition policy and advocacy. Its sector strengths include media and entertainment, and technology.

In addition to Gandhi, the firm’s leadership includes partner Rahul Rai and counsel Shivanghi Sukumar. Just over a year ago, the team welcomed Senior advisor PK Singh, who has tenures at the CCI and Provident Fund Regulatory Development Authority.

The team recently successfully represented Tata Motors in securing the closure of an inquiry by the CCI into alleged abuse of dominance and anti-competitive vertical restraints.

AZB & Partners is a leading full-service law firm in India, recognized for its expertise in commercial and transaction law. The firm has a strong reputation for handling complex litigation and arbitration cases, making it a trusted partner for many top companies, including global giants like Google and Facebook. Key individuals include Zia J. Mody, co-founder and managing partner, along with senior partners like Rajendra Barot and Vijayendra Singh. One notable case involved the firm successfully representing Google in the Madras High Court against multiple lawsuits from app developers, leading to a landmark ruling that protected the company's rights under Indian law. In corporate litigation, the firm advised IHH Healthcare on disputes related to shareholder management, ensuring client interests were safeguarded.

Client feedback

"The legal strategy they suggested for the litigation worked well for us. It was slightly different from the strategy suggested by other law firms to the other co-defendants. In the overall scenario, the AZB strategy was better and well-suited to the litigation." – Commercial arbitration

"The expertise in law their counsels bring, combined with their understanding of business, is very appreciable and makes them unique and our most preferred lawyers." – Competition/antitrust

"It’s a fantastic international arbitration team. They are always accessible and consistently provide very high-quality advice. They have the ability to deconstruct even the most complex disputes with ease and come up with a winning strategy that is both commercial and reliable." – International arbitration

Bharat Bhudolia

"Bharat's strengths include being detail-oriented, having excellent analytical and understanding skills, commitment to work, subject-matter expertise, and strong team support."

Abhimanyu Chopra

"He is a thorough professional who knows the market and the job. He is available almost anytime, even late at night, and always returns calls within the hour."

Abhyudai Singh

"He has a good hold of legal knowledge, applies it practically to provide business solutions, and possesses excellent litigation management skills."

Vijayendra Pratap Singh

"VP is a phenomenal lawyer who consistently delivers. He is accessible, very easy to work with, and dependable. He remains unfazed by difficult issues and manages to find workable solutions even in the toughest of cases. Truly a superstar lawyer!

Beruar & Beruar, an intellectual property boutique, recently celebrated its sixth anniversary and has established a diverse clientele, including Fortune 200 companies and startups. The firm actively engages in civil, commercial, and criminal litigation across all court levels in India, as well as before the Intellectual Property Appellate Board. Co-founder and managing partner Rahul Beruar is the main contact. In a recent case, the firm represented a domestic proptech company in a trademark infringement and disparagement suit, successfully securing an injunction against defendants using the company’s name in a web series.

Bharucha & Partners has a widely respected disputes team, with its partners boasting a proven track record of successfully handling complex commercial disputes. The partners have more than five decades of litigation experience collectively and the firm adopts a strategy of creating lean teams of skilled lawyers to meet the needs of its clients. The firm has offices in Mumbai, New Delhi and Bengaluru, and has represented clients in more than 30 different courts, including the Supreme Court of India and the High Courts around the country. The team has also made frequent appearances before various specialist tribunals such as the Competition Commission of India, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and Appellate Tribunal, and the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity. This year the firm has been elevated into the top tier for its white-collar crime prowess.

Senior partner MP Bharucha is very well respected by market watchers. He leads a five-partner-strong dispute resolution group that includes Sneha Jaisingh, Sudeshna Guha Roy, Kaushik Moitra and counsel Sonam Gupta. Senior partner and arbitration specialist Hiroo Advani joined with his team in September 2024.

In a recent highlight, the firm represented Federal Bank before the NCLT in respect of its claims over a sizeable sum in relation to the corporate insolvency process of Reliance Capital. JSW Steel engaged the disputes team to challenge orders of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), Western Zone Bench, for wrongly transferring matters to the NGT, Principal Bench.

BMR Legal is a prominent boutique law firm in India specializing in tax law, including corporate international tax, transfer pricing, and customs. The firm is recognized for its expertise in complex tax litigation and advisory services, making it a trusted partner for high-profile clients like Accenture and Procter & Gamble. With a commitment to advancing tax policy and research, BMR Legal frequently collaborates with governmental bodies and research organizations. Key individuals include Mukesh Butani, the managing partner, and partners Seema Kejriwal and Shankey Agrawal, all of whom have extensive experience in tax matters. One significant case involved BMR Legal representing an FMCG giant in the Supreme Court, challenging a directive for a 10% withholding tax on dividends, asserting a lower rate under the India-Netherlands tax treaty.

Chambers of SS Pujari founder Sachin Pujari is a qualified Advocate on Record (AoR), practising before the highest court levels in India. He specialises in special leave petitions, transfer petitions, writ jurisdiction and matters pertaining to constitutional, election and service laws. He also advocates for clients before the NCLT and NCLAT for managerial disputes and insolvency proceedings. Pujari is acting for an individual who was wrongfully removed from the position of director at his own software company. He additionally successfully represented a client in a matter pertaining to a dispute arising out of an agreement between the client and a company over unpaid dues.

Chandhiok & Mahajan is renowned for its antitrust practice, frequently advising clients on leniency, merger control, and cartel investigations. The firm serves blue-chip clients, including Google, Intel, and Samsung, and is recognized for its expertise in leniency mandates. The insolvency practice has seen significant growth, working with a diverse range of clients in various proceedings. Competition specialist Karan Chandhiok leads the disputes team alongside partners Deeksha Manchanda and Avinash Marnath. The firm continues to represent Google in an investigation regarding its Play Store payments policy, successfully arguing that the fees charged were not excessive.

Full-service firm Clasis Law is experienced with contentious commercial and insolvency matters. It has two offices, in New Delhi and Mumbai, and has a diverse domestic and international client base across several sectors. In addition to its litigation offering, the team is active on international commercial arbitration matters. The Clasis lawyers are currently representing various financial institutions, companies in the hospitality sector, shipping companies and information technology companies before the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) for initiation of the insolvency resolution process against corporate debtors.

Partners Mustafa Motiwala and Shwetabh Sinha are the key figures for general commercial disputes, contentious shipping issues and insolvency matters. Motiwala’s practice also focuses on competition, intellectual property, estate, and technology, media and telecommunications.

In one recent highlight, the firm defended an Indian company, the shareholder of an Indian chemicals company, in a shareholders dispute case before the Bombay High Court. The team acted for an investment banking adviser in invoking enforcement proceedings against Arshiya for a foreign arbitral award.

Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas stands as one of India’s largest full-service law firms, boasting an experienced dispute resolution team renowned for its capabilities. With a legacy of excellence, the firm handles complex commercial and corporate disputes, including arbitration, insolvency, and competition law matters. The team has recently seen an uptick in contentious insolvency work. Key figures include managing partner Cyril Shroff and various department leaders such as Indranil Deshmukh and Faraz Alam Sagar. The team recently represented the National Stock Exchange in a successful appeal against a significant monetary penalty imposed by the Securities Exchange Board of India.

Client feedback

"Drafting and research are done very well." – Commercial arbitration

"CAM has a high-quality, knowledgeable team. For complex matters, they provide subject-matter experts, allowing the client to work with just one firm across various related legal areas. This includes disputes, M&A, specific contracts, IP, corporate matters, litigation, regulatory, and tax issues." – International arbitration

Indranil Deshmukh

"He provides brilliant analysis of complex issues."

Aditya Mehta

"He is passionate about helping clients, an excellent organizer of counsel from various legal areas into one cohesive strategy, a creative problem-solver, and provides training to clients for dispute resolution and negotiations."

Lomesh Nidumuri

"He is transparent, approachable, and committed."

Full-servce firm D&T Juris was founded in 2018. It has an expansive dispute resolution practice covering arbitration, contentious insolvency, criminal, competition, IP and corporate matters, among others. The firm’s key clients include Ernst & Young, Moser Baer, Carlton London, Lava International, Pierre Cardin, Forever New Apparels and Amsterdam RAI. The team also regularly represents governmental and regulatory bodies such as the Telecom Sector Skill Council, Delhi Pollution Control Committee and Income Tax Department of India. Managing partner Nishant Datta is the key contact.

The team recently assisted a steel manufacturer to obtain a favourable outcome in a complex case involving multiple agreements and the absence of an arbitration clause in one of the agreements.

Dentons Link Legal is a prominent law firm in India specializing in projects, infrastructure, and energy. The firm is recognized for its comprehensive approach to large-scale and long-term projects, including roads, airports, and energy transactions. With significant expertise across various sectors, Dentons Link Legal excels in providing legal guidance throughout the entire project lifecycle, from regulatory advice and financing to dispute resolution. Key leaders of the team include Atul Sharma, the executive chairman, and managing partners Anand Srivastava and Nusrat Hassan. One highlight involved advising Delhi International Airport in a tariff determination dispute with the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority, which was pivotal in establishing fair airport service charges.

Dhaval Vussonji & Associates passed its 10th anniversary last year. It is recognised in the market for its strong real estate practice. The firm has more than 60 lawyers in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Delhi. Four of its six partners are real estate specialists, with managing partner Dhaval Vussonji also being a chartered accountant. The disputes practice services domestic and international conglomerates, as well as high-net-worth individuals at all levels of court. In addition to Vussonji, the key contacts for disputes are co-managing partner Prachi Dave and Sonam Mhatre.

The team acted for the operational creditors of Binani Cement in a case that laid a legal precedent for the protection of rights of operational creditors during a resolution under the IBC in India. The team was equally instrumental for Honest Shelters in a long-running real estate dispute relating to a project known as “Palais Royale” in Mumbai. The legal issues involved in the case include whether temporary structures on common access forming part of the property were in a dilapidated state, whether the client was entitled to seek demolition of those structures, and whether ordering demolition would mean dealing with assets of a corporate debtor undergoing a corporate insolvency resolution process. The case also involved determining the jurisdiction of the Bombay High Court or the National Company Law Tribunal in deciding the issue.

Dhir & Dhir Associates is renowned for its leading insolvency practice and maintains an active dispute resolution division. The firm's specializations include not only insolvency but also commercial, construction, and government regulatory disputes. With a significant presence before the Board for Industrial and Financial Reconstruction and its Appellate Authority, the firm handles over 60% of such cases in India and manages more than a quarter of the country’s non-performing assets. The firm operates from five offices in Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune, and Bengaluru, with a representative office in Japan. Managing partner Alok Dhir leads the disputes team, which includes partners Maneesha Dhir, Sachin Gupta, Rahul Tyagi, Varsha Banerjee, and Karan Batura. The firm recently achieved a milestone by successfully completing the first Pre-pack insolvency resolution case initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic, securing approval for a pre-pack scheme for Amrit Indi. Its client roster includes notable entities such as Avantha Holdings, Binani Industries, and Essar Steel India.

DSK Legal underwent significant transformation two years ago with the addition of a large litigation team from Luthra and Luthra Law Offices, greatly enhancing its dispute resolution capabilities. The firm now offers expertise across various areas, including commercial litigation, IPR, regulatory matters, securities, and arbitration. The team is recognized for tackling complex and high-profile cases, including winning one of the first arbitrations under the Singapore International Chamber of Commerce’s rules. The disputes team is led by managing partner Anand Desai and includes partners Abdhullah Hussain, Sajit Suvarna, Kunal Mehra, Kanika Chaudhary Nayar, and others. Recent highlights include representing Bharti International Singapore in an SIAC arbitration regarding a contract dispute over satellite internet services and advising the Andhra Pradesh Excise Department in an abuse of dominance case before the competition regulator.

Client feedback

"Ashish Pahariya and the DSK Legal team have been our go-to external advisors. They are prompt in their responses, sensitive to client needs, and provide top-notch legal advice." – Banking and Financial Services

"They provide detailed analysis of the case." – Competition/Antitrust

"Their advice is concise and to the point." – Competition/Antitrust

Abdullah Hussain

"He provides concise and to-the-point advice."

Sagar Kadam

"He is extremely thorough in drafting and executing documentation for real estate transactions. He is highly responsive, client-focused, and goes the extra mile for his clients."

Ashish Pahariya

"He is a subject-matter expert, prompt in his approach, and sensitive to client needs."

Dua Associates is a full-service Indian law firm with offices in multiple cities, including New Delhi, Gurgaon and Mumbai. They provide a wide array of dispute resolution legal services, including white-collar crime defence, insolvency and bankruptcy assistance, and commercial transactional litigation work. Key individuals at the firm include Rajdeep Panda, Munawwar Naseem and Shiraz Patodia. They bring a wealth of experience and dedication to their respective practices.

The firm's insolvency practice is particularly noteworthy. Led by experienced partners including Angad Varma, the team has acted on behalf of clients from various sectors, including aviation, corporates, asset reconstruction firms, NBFCs, and banks. They have represented clients in high-stakes matters before the Supreme Court, High Courts, and the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). Notable work highlights include representing APRN Enterprises in a high-value insolvency proceeding against Sahara India Medical Institute, advising Assets Care & Reconstruction Enterprise in the corporate insolvency resolution process of Supertech, and representing SBI Ventures in an intervention application before the NCLT in New Delhi.

The team’s commercial disputes practice has had an excellent year as well. Under the leadership of Panda, the team has advised on a wide range of commercial dispute matters, from cross-border disputes to those involving high-value acquisitions. They have successfully represented clients such as TransAsia Private Capital and the Commercial Bank of Dubai in enforcing foreign judgments and decrees in India.

The firm's white-collar crimes practice, led by Patodia, is another area of strength. The team has extensive experience in handling matters related to anti-bribery and corruption laws, conducting internal investigations, and defending companies and individuals against allegations of white-collar crimes. They have represented multinational clients in high-profile cases involving the CBI, Serious Fraud Investigation Office, and other regulatory authorities.

Recent work highlights include successfully defending a major chemical company in an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation related to improper payments, conducting internal investigations into unethical practices for an agro-chemical company, and advising a domestic company on potential insider trading liabilities. Other names to note in this practice area along with Patodia include Ashish Singh, Divya Sharma, and Juhi Chawla.

The dispute resolution group at Economic Laws Practice is highly regarded for its expertise in competition law, international arbitration, regulatory, and tax disputes. The firm has developed a strong white-collar crime practice, gaining recognition in this area. The team prides itself on its in-house advocacy capabilities, allowing for comprehensive reviews of relevant matters in disputes. Over the past year, the team has actively engaged in shareholder disputes, oppression and mismanagement cases, and significant private client and intellectual property disputes. The disputes team includes partners Naresh Thacker, Jitendra Motwani, Dinesh Pednekar, Mumtaz Bhalla, Shailesh Poria, and Abhay Chattopadhyay. Recently, the team represented the Cricket Club of India in a shareholder dispute regarding the requisition of an extraordinary general meeting, addressing critical questions concerning the Companies Act.

Client feedback

"The firm provides excellent full-service legal support." – Real estate

Ediplis Counsels is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, with a litigation department renowned for its strength in intellectual property law. The firm specializes in sectors such as technology, media, consumer goods, insurance, and energy. The leadership team includes senior partners Aditi Verma Thakur, Nishant Kewalramani, Vishal Jain, Ashmia Chalia, and Achal Shekhar, and operates from four offices in Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and Jaipur. The team recently aided Shenzhen Reolink Technology in developing an enforcement strategy and successfully represented the client in a squatter action.

Founded in 2019 by a former partner of Economic Laws Practice, Equilex focuses on restructuring and insolvency law. The firm provides comprehensive advice on matters under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), including restructuring transactions. Its diverse client roster includes public banks and resolution professionals, non-banking financial companies, and multinational corporations. Deep Roy, an insolvency expert, serves as the primary contact. Recently, the firm was engaged by Grant Thornton Bharat to assess the liability of IL&FS group companies as of the cut-off date, guiding them through the principles of the IBC.

Fidus Law Chambers is gaining recognition for its expertise in intellectual property litigation. The firm handles a wide range of IP disputes, including trademark, copyright, design, trade secret, and geographical indication cases, boasting a high success rate in its litigations. The leadership team includes managing partner Shwetasree Majumder and partners Diva Arora, Tanya Varma, Prithvi Singh, and Astha Negi. In a notable case, the firm assisted Adobe in its lawsuit against a typo-squatter for registering misleadingly similar domain names. The court awarded significant damages of $250,000, marking a record in cyber-squatting cases in India. Key clients include Agoda, Air Canada, Google, and NBC Universal.

Established in 1896, Fox & Mandal is one of India's oldest law firms, with a robust dispute resolution team exceeding 100 professionals based in Kolkata. The firm serves a wide array of clients in both the private and public sectors, including corporates and family businesses. Key contacts include managing partner Debanjan Mandal and joint managing partner Kunal Vajani, along with partners Sanjiv Trivedi, Kunal Mimani, and Vikrant Pachnanda. Recently, the team successfully represented Union Bank of India in a claim before the Dubai Court of First Instance, recovering a multi-million dollar amount related to a loan agreement.

Fox Mandal & Associates has a comprehensive pan-India litigation team adept at handling a diverse range of disputes. The firm's specialties include intellectual property, employment, insolvency, real estate, and banking law. The team also manages matters across various sectors, including non-banking financial transactions, arbitration, and consumer laws. Key partners include Kaustuv Chunder, Jeevanandham Rajagopal, and Arindam Guha. The team recently represented the Microfinance Institutions Network in a constitutional challenge against the Andhra Pradesh Micro Finance Institutions Act.

Gaggar & Partners is widely recognised for its expertise in competition and antitrust matters. The disputes team is also experienced in several other areas, such as advising clients in civil commercial disputes, white-collar crime, personal laws including divorce, custody, estate management, real estate disputes and arbitrations.

It represents on all sides of the competition spectrum – sometimes for the Competition Commission of India (CCI) and at other times for domestic and international private clients. It has also been engaged separately by the investigative arm of the antitrust regulator for representation in certain sensitive cases relating to the evolving jurisprudence on investigation. The firm has been involved in most of the high-stakes and jurisprudence-setting cases in the genre across various fora. For instance, the competition team has handled the largest case in Indian competition history relating to cartels and worked on the largest penalty imposed in a case for abuse of dominance. Similarly, the firm has pioneered in cases relating to the leniency regime in India.

The key individuals for dispute resolution are managing partner Monica Lakhanpal and partner Sumedha Dang. Vaibhav Gaggar is a market-leading counsel for contentious competition matters, notably for anti-competitive agreement and abuse of dominance cases.

Recently, the firm obtained a favourable order for Mega Corporation in an SEBI appeal to examine the appeal’s scope before the Supreme Court. It is also acting for Krishna Buildestate Private in multiple writ petitions by Jaiprakash Associates challenging, inter alia, the powers of the Delhi MSE Facilitation Council to refer cases to the Delhi International Arbitration Centre. The Central Association of Private Security Industry has instructed the team for its challenge against the Department of Revenue for making amendments in the notification relating to the taxation of security services.

Key clients include Citibank, Denso Ten, Fastway Transmission, Haicheng Vivo Mobile, Hyatt Hotel, Intex Technologies, Orris Infrastructure and Toyo Tire Corporation.

Gravitas Legal, founded in 2015, has established a solid reputation in contentious insolvency, commercial litigation, and white-collar crime. With offices in Delhi and Mumbai, the firm handles a wide range of legal matters, including civil writ petitions, public interest litigation, and corporate disputes. Key partners include Tanuj Sud, Rahul Gaikwad, and Rajeev Aggarwal. Recently, the firm represented the promoters of Asian Ispat and Asian Colour Coated Group India in contesting Lookout Circulars issued against them, as well as assisting the valuer of Punjab and Maharashtra Co-op Bank in a criminal bail application.

Dispute resolution boutique GSL Chambers was founded by two Advocates on Record (AoRs) and it is an AoR-registered firm. It is headquartered in Delhi, with offices in Indore and Bengaluru. The lawyers represent clients across all forums in India and have experience in various sectors. The team is passionate about the law and serving society, and has a thriving pro bono practice. It has an impressive client roster of leading names, such as Axis Bank, Bajaj Finserv, HDFC Bank, Johnson & Johnson, Kimberly Clark and Tata Housing Services.

Co-founding partners Arjun Garg and Abhinav Shrivastava are the main figures handling the firm’s disputes matters.

The team acted for a unitholder in the Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund insolvency, raising issues with respect to rights of unitholders during winding up. The lawyers filed a writ petition on behalf of the client raising the issues with respect to the rights of unitholders in the fund giant’s wind-up. Since the petition raised substantial issues of constitutional importance and was also supplemented with adequate factual material, it was treated as the lead petition by the High Court. This matter is a first-of-its-kind, as never before has any mutual fund scheme been wound up in India. This would settle the Securities Law on the topic of the winding up of mutual fund schemes in India.

In a public interest challenge, the firm represented the petitioner in a case filed against the Union of India before the Supreme Court in relation to the lack of fire safety measures in India. The impact of this litigation would be to have better infrastructure for firefighters and to have more accountability at every level with the introduction of a uniform stringent Fire and Emergency Safety Act by all state governments.

Hammurabi & Solomon Partners is a well-established firm with a strong focus on government, regulatory, and restructuring and insolvency practices. The firm is known for its public policy initiatives and ADR services, including arbitration and mediation. The team has experience handling complex arbitration cases involving both public and private entities. Key figures include managing partner Manoj Kumar and senior partner Shweta Bharti. The firm recently opened new offices in Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Chennai. The team represents global agency Dentsu Aegis in various litigation matters across India and is engaged by Mother Dairy for a trademark infringement case.

Client feedback

"The firm has excellent partners and associates who are well-versed in relevant laws. Their drafting skills are outstanding, and advocates are available for timely legal advice and meeting deadlines." – Commercial arbitration

Rohit Jolly

"He has effective communication skills and a problem-solving approach."

HSA Advocates is recognized for its strong presence in contentious energy, construction, and infrastructure disputes. The firm frequently represents clients in litigation and arbitration related to various projects, including power, roads, and clean energy. HSA Advocates provides broad support in civil, criminal, and constitutional law disputes. Founding partner Hemant Sahai leads a talented team that includes partners Abhirup Dasgupta, Amrita Narayan, and others. Recently, the firm represented ONGC Nile Ganga in an international commercial arbitration regarding the recovery of funds from a North African country.

The dispute resolution group at IndusLaw comprises seasoned professionals handling all matters of corporate litigation and arbitration. The firm features strong, stable and competent litigation teams equally across all offices to provide true pan-Indian service. IndusLaw has offices in Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Chennai. The advocacy-focused team handles a diverse range of matters, such as international and domestic arbitrations, commercial disputes, intellectual property, real estate, insolvency, writ petitions, constitutional law, recovery suits, public interest litigations and pro bono work. At present, the lawyers are handling around 2000 live cases before different courts and judicial forums.

Thirteen partners helm the litigation and dispute resolution department, including noted lawyers Amit Jajoo, Mayank Mishra, Palecanda Chinnappa, Sushmita Gandhi and Shabbeer Ahmed. There are over 40 disputes-dedicated associates across the three offices in Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore.

Recent work highlights showcase the firm's strength in various areas. In a significant case, the IndusLaw team represented the BKG Group in commercial suits against Karvy Stock Broking, successfully pursuing claims for recovery of nearly $50 million. The firm assisted the client in navigating a complex situation involving the illegal diversion of funds by Karvy, leading to ongoing litigation aimed at reclaiming assets. In another notable matter, the firm acted for a state industrial development corporation and the state government in challenge proceedings related to the partial final awards for Phase 1 and 2 against the clients. This ICC arbitration arose out of a shareholders agreement dispute with a foreign investor for investment into a large petrochemicals company.

IndusLaw also represented the Committee of Creditors of Reliance Broadcast Network in proceedings before the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal. The team successfully defended the creditors against challenges to their commercial decisions regarding a resolution plan, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the insolvency process. At present, the firm is actively involved in cases related to significant investments and disputes in the real estate sector. 

Demonstrating the broad spectrum of work, the IndusLaw disputes team is also engaged in various tax-related disputes. The lawyers are representing clients like MRF in challenges against the enforcement of GST laws, with ongoing litigation that could have substantial financial implications.

Key clients of the disputes group include an enviable range of domestic and international conglomerates and financial institutions such as Arvind Mills, BGR Energy Systems, Big Basket, DBS, Diageo, Finolex Cables, ICICI Bank, JM Financial, Mahindra & Mahindra, PhonePe, Tata Communications, Unacademy, West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation and YES Bank.

Client feedback

"They demonstrated a clear understanding of our requirements and helped us achieve the targeted outcome." – Commercial arbitration 

"Their strategy was distinct, supported by meticulous and detailed documentation, which won the case for us. They also provided excellent guidance on engaging senior counsels." – Commercial arbitration 

Shabbeer Ahmed 

“He has a very deep understanding of the issue and provides personal attention."

"He is knowledgeable in the subject, responsive, meticulous, and offers correct guidance regarding senior counsel selection."

Divij Kumar 

"He is responsive, intelligent and easily accessible." 

Intellectual property-focused firm Inttl Advocare is a well-known name among peers and clients for its heavyweight litigation practice. It is headquartered in New Delhi with a branch office in Mumbai. Eminent IP litigator Hemant Singh runs the firm and has handled more than 2,000 cases over his three decades of experience in all elements of IP – from trademarks and patents to copyrights and industrial designs. He has worn multiple different leadership hats at prestigious India IP associations and committees over the years and he played a pivotal role in the matter where the Supreme Court extended the term of Justice Manmohan Singh as the chairman of IPAB for another year. The firm has featured in several landmark IP judgments delivered by the Indian courts.

Managing partner Singh and senior partner Mamta Rani Jha are the firm’s key intellectual property litigators.

The firm successfully represented Taiwanese HTC Corporation in a trademark infringement suit before the Delhi High Court against Chinese company LV Degao. The case set a precedent for trademark owners to take action against infringers using their trademarks for goods outside the class of registration. It also highlighted the importance of protecting well-known trademarks and the limitations of relying solely on class-wise registration of trademarks. The ruling also clarified the scope of protection offered by a particular section of the Trade Marks Act and the grounds for challenging the validity of a trademark registration.

Client feedback

“I recommend them for everything. They have a very strong and deep IP litigation team, as well as prosecution teams. They are smart, practical, business-minded and client-focused. They always make the client feel valued and love their client’s brands as if they were their own.” – Intellectual property

“Very clear and helpful advice, and cost-efficient.” – Intellectual property

“Great at communication.” – Intellectual property

“They provide a close follow-up on the matters entrusted to their care and on their clients.” – Intellectual property

Mamta Jha

“Mamta is strong, fierce and incredibly intelligent. She is innovative and hard working. She is highly successful at managing litigation and her team as she always sees the clear solution and she is incredibly giving of her time and talents. She is respectful and highly respected.”

Yashwant Grover

“Personable with excellent written communication.”

“He cares deeply about his clients and IP cases.”

Jerome Merchant & Partners is recognized for its expertise in banking and finance, particularly in bankruptcy matters. The firm advises investors and lenders on restructuring debt, enforces rights under the IBC, and challenges prejudicial proceedings. In addition, the team provides comprehensive commercial litigation services. Key contacts include Murtaza Somjee and Rhia Marshall. Recently, the firm represented Global Music Junction in a litigation matter before the Delhi High Court regarding a licensing agreement breach, seeking interim relief.

J Sagar Associates is known for its regulatory and infrastructure strengths, while also excelling in commercial litigation and white-collar crime. The firm maintains a pan-India presence with offices in seven major cities. The dispute resolution team is comprised of experienced practitioners who have handled numerous high-profile cases across various infrastructure sectors.

Client feedback

Divyam Agarwal

"Divyam Agarwal is cool-headed, a good listener, and has a problem-solving attitude. He is also budget-friendly."

Juris Corp is best known for its expertise in working with players in the banking and financial services space. It has extensive experience in handling complex insolvency cases, acting for various stakeholders, including banks and asset reconstruction companies. Key partners include co-founder and senior partner Jayesh H and Saurabh Sharma. One highlight involved representing ECB lenders in the corporate insolvency resolution process for Reliance Infratel Limited, challenging decisions regarding the composition of the Committee of Creditors. Another significant case saw Juris Corp successfully advising an asset reconstruction company in a challenge to a corporate debtor's resolution plan, arguing vital issues related to financial debt definitions under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code.

Founded in Hyderabad in 2005, Juris Prime specializes in the banking and financial services sector, working closely with multiple banks and financial institutions. The firm has experienced significant growth in contentious insolvency matters, recently representing resolution professionals in the NCLT to secure approval for their resolution plans. Key contacts include managing partner VVSN Raju and senior partner AVP Reddy.

Krishnamurthy & Co (K Law) has an active dispute resolution practice staffed with seasoned litigators. Its intellectual property expertise is well known. The team is experienced in resolving commercial, civil, criminal and constitutional law matters for clients across many sectors. Its members have advocated in various judicial, quasi-judicial and administrative forums around the country. This year the firm moves up a rank in the commercial and transactions table.

The key dispute contacts are senior partner Ayush Agarwala and partner Shujath Ahmed. Agarwala is an insolvency and projects specialist, while Ahmed is a contentious IP expert. Nikhil Krishnamurthy is the firm’s IP guru.

In a significant highlight, the team continues to represent the Material Recycling Association of India in a writ petition filed in the Supreme Court seeking strict implementation of the orders and directives passed by the government for non-levy of demurrage, detention charges and other penal charges from importers across India by shipping lines and container freight stations. When the case concludes, it will have a nationwide impact on all importers in the country who have been forced to pay penal charges to shipping lines, container freight stations and inland container depots.

The IP group is acting for Peel-Works Private in a trademark infringement matter against GTS Bullet Rice. The proprietor of GTS Bullet Rice obtained an ex-parte order of injunction against the client on the ground that selling GTS products on its mobile app, Taikee, would amount to infringement of the proprietor’s trademark and copyright. The contention was raised that GTS products having been lawfully acquired by Peel-Works, they were entitled to sell them on Taikee, as provided for under the Trademarks Act. The Bangalore civil court, upon considering the defence raised by Peel-Work, vacated the ex-parte order and held that since the client was using the Plaintiff’s registered trademark only for the purpose of identification of goods or services as those of the proprietor, the same does not amount to infringement.

Litigation partner Aditi Mittal departed for Kochhar & Co mid-2022.

The firm’s key clients includes Axis Bank, Bank of India, Caterpillar India, Edelweiss, Flipkart Internet, IL&FS Engineering and Construction, L&T Finance Holdings, Mahindra & Mahindra, TTK Prestige and Xander Finance.

K Singhania & Co. Advocates & Legal Advisors is a well-regarded law firm in India, specializing in dispute resolution, particularly in commercial and corporate matters. The firm has ample experience navigating complex legal challenges. Key individuals include managing partner Krishan Singhania and Saurabh Verma, who bring extensive expertise in various sectors, including maritime, aviation, and corporate law. One highlight for the team was representing India’s largest food delivery app, Swiggy, in a public interest litigation aimed at establishing regulations for food delivery aggregators. This case has the potential to shape the regulatory landscape for the entire industry.

K&S Partners is a top-tier intellectual property specialist firm that excels in handling contentious matters. Its dispute resolution practice has highly experienced litigators equipped to handle all aspects of enforcement of IP rights through civil and criminal proceedings, as well as border enforcement measures. It also has a niche expertise in geographical indications. Its patent litigators all have technical qualifications, providing them with an edge in complex patent cases. The firm represents both domestic and international clients across all sectors of business and has been involved in landmark, precedent-setting IP cases. Its five offices in Gurgaon, Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai and Hyderabad house 120 legal professionals.

The criminal enforcement team regularly deals with enforcement agencies and is known among clients for its capabilities in internet monitoring, investigations and surveys, filing cyber complaints with cyber cells, actions against online counterfeiters, conducting raids, negotiations in plea bargaining proceedings and obtaining successful judicial convictions. The firm has acted for both domestic and international clients in enforcement matters across sectors such as pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, automobiles, software, clothing, footwear, electrical and electronic products. The team also has the bandwidth to advise clients on trademark enforcement matters in some of India’s neighbouring countries – namely, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan.

The IP disputes team features key partners and trademark specialists Prashant Gupta, Ashish Marbaniang, Deepak Gogia and Shashank Singh, as well as patent partner and litigation chair Sanjeev Kumar Tiwari. Firm founder and legal fraternity stalwart Jyoti Sagar still plays an active role on the team.

Karanjawala & Co is a leading litigation boutique based in New Delhi, founded in 1983. It has built a strong reputation for handling landmark legal matters, with over 625 reported judgments in the Supreme Court. The firm has expanded its practice beyond the Supreme Court to include all subordinate courts and tribunals in the National Capital Region. Managing partner Raian Karanjawala oversees a 13-partner disputes department. The firm has recently carved out a niche in consumer protection and real estate regulatory litigation, representing clients in high-stakes matters.

Keystone Partners is a boutique firm formed by a collective of first-generation lawyers who specialize in commercial litigation and international arbitration. With a focus on construction disputes and regulatory matters, the firm has expanded its practice to include contentious energy and technology cases. Senior partner Pradeep Nayak leads a nine-partner disputes group, and the team has successfully represented various charities in complex legal matters, including petitions related to arbitration agreements.

Client feedback

"They focus on materials, apply their mind, and come up with good arguments independently. The depth of their disputes experience is evident in the quality of representation they provide." – Bankruptcy

"Their advice is honest and always in the best interest of the client." – Commercial and transactions

"They exhibit a professional approach, competency, and transparency. They provide clear legal advice without setting unreasonable expectations." – Labour and employment

Arunima Athavale

"She is a very good listener and communicator, knowledgeable, and prompt. She coordinates our legal response very well."

Karan Gupta

"He provides clear legal advice, discusses internally before suggesting solutions, and follows up on pending matters."

Rose Joy

"She is polite, professional, patient, knowledgeable, and a problem-solver."

Sita Kapadia and Sulabh Rewari

"Sita Kapadia applies her mind and digs deep into the material. Sulabh Rewari is forthright and has great judgment. He manages both costs and quality quite well."

Pradeep Nayak

"He is highly competent, adopts a professional approach, is open and straightforward, and is willing to listen to the client's view."

Dharshini Sugumaran

"She has profound knowledge and strong communication skills."

Khaitan & Co is a leading law firm recognized for its extensive expertise in commercial and corporate dispute resolution. With a reputation for consistency and depth across various practice areas, the firm provides exceptional support in construction, competition, regulatory, and insolvency matters. The disputes team comprises over 30 partners and 150 lawyers, with key figures including Ajay Bhargava and Sanjeev Kapoor. Recently, the firm represented Antrix Corporation in a significant dispute with Devas Multimedia Private, as well as Swiss Singapore in a case against RS Fuels.

Client feedback

"Their strategy, preparation, and communication are commendable." – Commercial Arbitration

“They have a strong track record in litigation and dispute resolution, excelling in corporate and commercial law by providing valuable insights on various corporate matters, including the management of legal bills and invoices for significant cases. Their diligence in keeping clients informed with timely updates, combined with a meticulous attention to detail, ensures that all aspects of a case are thoroughly examined and addressed.”- Commercial and transactions

"They offer sage and sound advice, are unflappable, ready to run novel arguments, and demonstrate mastery of the law." – International Arbitration

Kingshuk Banerjee

"Kingshuk is an ace disputes lawyer and a master strategist for complex commercial disputes. He is easy to work with and has a competent team supporting him. He demonstrates excellent knowledge and a proactive approach."

Ajay Bhargava

“Ajay Bhargava is professional and responsive, ensuring that clients are kept informed with timely updates while adopting a client-centric approach to address all their requirements. His close attention to detail enables him to effectively manage complex legal matters, and he values collaboration, working well with both his team and clients.”

Sanjeev Kapoor

“Sanjeev is calm and collected, possessing a comprehensive understanding of the law that inspires confidence and trust in his advice. He provides timely responses, is always available, and demonstrates a keen understanding of his clients' needs.”

Nandini Khaitan

“Nandini excels at organizing teams and managing cases with a proactive approach to litigation. She assembles exceptional teams, prioritizes tasks effectively, and focuses on the most critical areas.”

Karun Mehta

“Karun has a positive and solution-oriented approach, demonstrating a deep understanding of his clients' needs and requirements. His exemplary listening skills allow him to explain legal concepts clearly without being overly technical.”

Khurana & Khurana specializes in intellectual property law and currently manages over 350 litigation matters nationwide. The firm has recently secured high-profile clients such as Avery Dennison, Jio, and Huawei. With a workforce of over 200 professionals across ten offices in India and branches in Southeast Asia, the firm is expanding its data privacy and protection practice. Founding partner Vinod Khurana leads the firm, along with managing partner Tarun Khurana. Recently, the litigation team represented SD Containers in a case against Mold-Tek Packaging before the Supreme Court.

King Stubb & Kasiva is known for its expertise in handling complex disputes and delivering pragmatic legal solutions. With a network spanning eight cities and over 200 lawyers, the firm serves a diverse clientele, including multinational corporations, startups, and financial institutions. The firm has achieved considerable success, such as securing a favourable jurisdictional decision in an international arbitration case involving Times Strategic Solutions, and defending Strides Pharma Science against an appeal related to a consignment of life-saving medicines. Key individuals leading the dispute resolution practice are Sukrit Kapoor and Deepika Kumari.

Client feedback

"They have supported us excellently." – International arbitration

"KSK serves as our primary litigation partner." – Labor and employment

"So far, KSK has performed well in all tasks assigned to them." – Product Liability and recall

Sukrit Kapoor

"Sukrit has excellent domain knowledge and always keeps discussions short and to the point. He is a solution-oriented lawyer and easily approachable. We are highly impressed with his vocabulary and presentation skills."

Smita Paliwal

"She is always available, maintains a calm attitude, and has strong subject knowledge."

Avani Sinha

"She is highly responsive and understands the requirements well."

Kochhar & Co offers comprehensive dispute resolution services, boasting one of the largest litigation practices in India with 60 dedicated lawyers. The firm handles over 300 cases annually across multiple sectors, focusing on corporate and commercial litigation, white-collar crime, and tax-related disputes. The disputes team is led by chairman and managing partner Rohit Kochhar, alongside senior partners Krishna Vijay Singh and Manish Dembla. Recently, the firm represented CMA CGM Asia Shipping in a high-profile shipping collision case that raises significant legal questions regarding maritime regulations.

Client feedback

Gaurav Chatterjee

"Mr. Gaurav Chatterjee demonstrates exceptional analytical skills, commitment to delivering results, strong interpersonal skills, and effective problem resolution."

Krishna & Saurastri Associates is a well-established law firm in India, widely recognized for its expertise in intellectual property (IP) law. With offices in Mumbai, New Delhi, Bangalore, Pune, Chennai, and Ahmedabad, the firm offers comprehensive IP services, including litigation, transactions, trademark and patent prosecution, and copyright protection. The team is led by managing partner Anshul Sunil Saurastri. The firm recently achieved a landmark decision from the Bombay High Court on the patentability of atomic energy inventions, demonstrating its ability to handle complex cases. It also secured favourable orders in high-profile trademark and design infringement matters. The firm filed over 3,000 trademark applications and 2,000 patent applications in the past year.

Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan is best known in the market for its leading tax and IP practices. It has 14 offices across 12 cities. The IP group is famed for its contentious patent know-how, where the subject matter requires deep and detailed knowledge. The firm is a market leader in plant genomics and plant variety protection. The firm’s robust tax practice specialises in GST, income tax, customs and litigation. In addition to these areas, the firm is active in antitrust and insolvency litigation.

The firm’s key contacts for disputes are managing partner and tax specialist V Lakshmikumaran, executive partner and IP expert Prashant Philips, and competition and tax partner Charanya Lakshmikumaran.

The IP team recently represented Microsoft Technology Licensing in an appeal against a refusal order from the Indian Patent Office. The competition team successfully represented and obtained a favourable order for the Federation of Corrugated Box Manufacturers of India in a case relating to an all-India cartel in the kraft paper industry.

Client feedback

“Highly recommended for IP, tax and liaising with the respective authorities. They are also proactive in strategy.” – Intellectual property

“LKS puts complex tax matters into simple terms and explains these issues to arbitrators, which actually is well appreciated by them.” – Tax

“With their simplicity and clarity in arguments, we won many arbitration cases.” – Tax

Charanya Lakshmikumaran

“Simplicity and clarity in her arguments.”

“Many of the arbitrators do not have experience in tax-related disputes. Ms Charanya explains them in terms they could understand, which was appreciated by all the arbitrators.”

Malathi Lakshmikumaran

“Personal and committed connection to the client; understands the business; takes initiative and ownership.”

“She ensures that there is thought given to forward paths and strategy.”

Law Offices of Panag & Babu, based in India, is recognised for its exceptional expertise in international arbitration, commercial disputes, regulatory matters, and insolvency disputes. The firm prides itself on delivering comprehensive arbitration services, characterised by a strategic approach that integrates drafting, argumentation, and in-house management of cases. With a dedicated team of over 20 lawyers, the firm handles a diverse range of arbitration matters, including high-stakes claims exceeding $2.5 billion, making it a preferred counsel for major multinational conglomerates in India. Key partners such as Sherbir Panag and Samudra Sarangi lead a practice distinguished by its ability to manage complex cross-jurisdictional cases.

The firm currently manages over 10 active high-value arbitration mandates, showcasing its capability in navigating intricate disputes with cross-jurisdictional elements. The firm’s commercial disputes and arbitration practice is distinguished by its client-centric strategies, focusing on maximising commercial returns and minimising uncertainties related to costs and outcomes. This approach includes offering flexible fee models and detailed cost estimates, which enhance client confidence in navigating complex disputes. The firm’s ability to handle intricate, cross-jurisdictional issues further underscores its technical competence and reputation in the arbitration landscape.

In terms of key work highlights, the firm has handled significant international and domestic arbitrations. For instance, in an international arbitration seated in Singapore, the firm represented a multinational construction conglomerate in a case involving claims of approximately $100 million. Additionally, in a domestic arbitration based in New Delhi, it acted on behalf of one of India's largest renewable energy companies, navigating claims and counterclaims before three former Chief Justices of India.

The firm also represented a Taiwanese construction company in an international arbitration seated in Jaipur, dealing with public infrastructure projects. Further, in Hyderabad, it successfully managed a dispute for a US-based OTT technology solutions provider regarding the termination of technology servicing agreements, with claims of around $27.5 million.

In the area of arbitration-related disputes and advisory, the firm represented a global civil engineering company in an emergency arbitration in Singapore concerning the restoration of bank guarantees. It also secured interim reliefs before the Telangana High Court for a US-based OTT platform regarding claims linked to technology servicing contracts.

In insolvency and related disputes, the firm acted for an insolvency trustee appointed by the Delaware Bankruptcy Court, managing the administration of assets for one of the largest edutech companies in India facing insolvency. It also represented a leading wind turbine manufacturer in an appeal before the Supreme Court of India related to a significant insolvency matter.

In the realm of regulatory litigation, the firm represented a leading construction multinational facing blacklisting in proceedings before the Rajasthan High Court and assisted one of India’s largest private banks in proceedings initiated against them for alleged violations before the Securities Appellate Tribunal. The firm also advised a prominent medical device manufacturer in a challenge against penalties imposed by the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority.

In white-collar crime, the firm has advised members of parliament facing allegations of corruption and breach of ethics, as well as a prominent political figure accused of fraud and bribery. Its proactive approach in complex commercial disputes further highlights its strategic prowess, representing a US insolvency trustee in a commercial suit involving assets of insolvent entities valued over $2.5 billion.

Law Offices of Rony Oommen John is a growing law firm based in New Delhi. It specialises in dispute resolution, particularly in taxation and regulatory matters. With over 16 years of experience, Rony Oommen John, the firm’s founding partner, has established a strong reputation for handling complex litigation and arbitration cases. The firm’s strengths lie in its deep understanding of commercial disputes, regulatory frameworks, and white-collar crime defense. One of the firm’s notable recent achievements includes successfully challenging the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on mining royalties in a constitutional case before the Supreme Court, which has significant implications for the mining industry.

Client feedback

"They excel in drafting, strategizing, and conducting research on unique legal approaches." – Bankruptcy

"They handle drafting, arguing, cross-examination, and advising clients with expertise." – White-Collar Crime

Rony John

"He has excellent subject knowledge, is highly responsive, and consistently meets deadlines."

"He analyzes and identifies issues effectively, offering practical solutions."

"He has an eye for detail, listens patiently to clients, demonstrates excellent drafting skills, and has in-depth legal knowledge. He is also a cross-examination expert and maintains a low profile while remaining available round the clock to advise clients."

Bengaluru-based Law Square is a prominent law firm founded by Sanjay H Sethiya in 2013. The firm has built a reputation for its proactive approach to legal challenges, particularly in commercial transactions and dispute resolution. The disputes team is led by partners Arpitha Ananthram and Akshatha Prasad. A recent key highlight of the firm’s work is its representation of Mindlogicx Infratech Limited in a $35 million commercial suit, where the lawyers successfully challenged opposing claims regarding incomplete work, ultimately securing a favourable ruling. In another significant case, the firm assisted Dayalu G in navigating legal hurdles to develop a $250 million residential project, ensuring project continuity despite challenges from local authorities.

Legacy Law Offices focuses on disputes related to construction and infrastructure, with a strong contentious labor practice. The firm is known for its arbitration expertise and has acted as counsel in several landmark construction cases. Managing partner Gagan Anand is a prominent arbitration counsel, supported by senior partner Sadiqua Fatma and other partners. The firm has successfully obtained stay orders against contract terminations and encashments of bank guarantees. Recently, it represented Rohan Rajdeep Rajasthan Infra Projects in a dispute over tunnel construction and assisted Rohtak Panipath Tollways in arbitration against the National Highways Authority of India regarding a highway project.

Client feedback

"Legacy maintains a continuous flow of communication regarding case updates. Their accessibility to partners and their diligence in providing timely opinions and solutions are commendable." – Construction

"The lawyers handle all issues with precision and provide practical advice that is highly useful. Their exhaustive knowledge of the real estate sector is evident in how they manage legal matters concerning such transactions." – Real Estate

"The firm works in a time-bound manner, keeping clients stress-free through regular communication and updates. Their dispute resolution and corporate teams excel in contract drafting, ensuring legal needs are addressed effectively." – Real Estate

Gagan Anand

"He offers a refreshed perspective on projects and holds relevant knowledge to help avoid disputes. He has been a valuable addition to our projects."

"He is a master of his craft, holding great expertise in construction and infrastructure. His wisdom has been extremely beneficial, and his firm is always our go-to for opinions and legal guidance."

Sadiqua Fatma

"She is a skilled advocate with the ability to represent her clients effectively, even in complex cases. Her experience in handling construction arbitrations is evident in how she strategically manages disputes and advises on projects."

Jitender Kumar

"He communicates effectively and clearly explains the outcomes of court dates."

Legal Scriptures Advocates & Solicitors offers a broad range of dispute resolution services, specializing in commercial litigation and arbitration across various sectors. The firm addresses white-collar crimes and contentious issues in banking, real estate, telecom, and energy. Key partners include Abhijit Mittal and Anukalp Jain. Recently, the firm advised the Union of India in a significant case involving government employee-related issues, where the Delhi High Court ruled that personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces are entitled to benefits under the Old Pension Scheme.

Luthra and Luthra Law Offices has one of the most prominent disputes teams in India, featuring 24 litigation and arbitration partners and a total of 120 lawyers. The firm expanded significantly after integrating seven partners from Atlas Law. The firm’s arbitration practice is heavily involved with Public Sector Undertakings in high-stakes commercial disputes. Key contacts include managing partner Harry Chawla, litigator Ritu Bhalla, and competition expert Gurdev Bhatia. Recently, the firm defended the Committee of Creditors of Reliance Capital in insolvency proceedings before the Supreme Court and represented the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association in a contentious competition matter.

Maheshwari & Co provides comprehensive dispute resolution services to both onshore and offshore clients across all judicial levels in India. The firm is particularly strong in banking and finance, telecommunications, manufacturing, infrastructure, and energy sectors, handling various contentious commercial, civil, criminal, and white-collar matters. Key contacts include managing partner Vipul Maheshwari and partner Dharmender Verma. The firm operates three core offices in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Lucknow, and has a network of offices throughout India.

Majmudar & Partners has a distinguished 76-year legacy in dispute resolution, with a strong reputation in the Bombay High Court and the Supreme Court of Delhi. The firm emphasizes high-quality legal services and frequently engages in complex and innovative disputes. Its areas of expertise include civil and criminal litigation strategy, injunctive relief, banking disputes, and both domestic and international arbitrations. The firm also handles intellectual property cases, testamentary matters, debt recovery, commercial claims, and breach of contract disputes. Following the pandemic, there has been a notable increase in commercial litigation and insolvency-related work. Key contacts in the dispute resolution team are partner Neerav Merchant and of counsel Fraser Alexander.

Mansukhlal Hiralal & Co is recognized for its expertise in high-stakes securities, commercial, and government litigation. Established in 1910, the firm has a rich history and a deep bench of experienced litigators. Its dispute resolution practice focuses on arbitration, mediation, civil litigation, and a variety of contentious matters, including insolvency, real estate, tax, intellectual property rights, banking, and employment issues. The firm has 25 fee earners and operates offices in Mumbai and Delhi. In 2021, the firm was empaneled with the Indian Securities Market Regulator (SEBI) and has successfully represented the regulator in multiple high-profile cases before both the High Court and the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT). Additionally, the firm secured empanelment with Oil and Natural Gas Corporation in early 2022 and actively advocates on its behalf in various legal forums. Key contact for the disputes practice is partner Bhushan Shah, who specializes in securities, white-collar crime, and insolvency cases. Also notable is Purvi Shah Asher, an expert in white-collar crime litigation.

Mason & Associates is a boutique firm specializing in intellectual property law. With a strong focus on contentious IP issues, the firm excels in litigation strategies, anti-counterfeiting, anti-piracy enforcement, patent disputes, and competition matters. Recognized for its expertise in copyright and IT, key clients include B9 Beverages, Snapdeal, and Thomas Cook India. Leading the disputes practice are managing partner Neel Mason and partner Sabia Veqar. A notable case involved representing AceVector against Twitter, successfully obtaining an injunction to remove URLs infringing on the client’s trademark and copyright.

MRP Advisory is a specialized law firm focusing on construction, infrastructure, and engineering law. Based out of Dubai, the firm has offices in India, specifically Delhi and a new upcoming one in Gurgaon.  Heading up the MRP India disputes team is partner and construction arbitration specialist Gunjan Chhabra. The firm excels in both domestic and international arbitration, representing clients in complex disputes across various sectors, including commercial and residential construction. One notable achievement saw the team assist Rudranee Manisha JV in a contractual dispute relating to a highway upgrade project in Maharashtra. The firm successfully obtained a favourable ruling from the Delhi High Court. 

MSA Partners has a focused dispute resolution team that is noted for commercial litigation and arbitration in the electricity, telecoms, natural resources and infrastructure sectors. Apart from these specialisms, the team also actively represents and advises clients across a broad range of civil, commercial, regulatory, corporate, intellectual property rights, and other issues. The lawyers regularly appear before the Supreme Court, various High Courts, electricity regulatory commissions and the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL), the National Company Law Tribunal and Appellate Tribunal, Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board, and other quasi-judicial tribunals and appellate tribunals.

Partners Anand Ganesan and Swapna Seshadri are the key contacts for disputes. They both specialise in contentious energy, commercial and government and regulatory matters.

One highlight saw the firm acting for Sai Wardha Power Generation against the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission in appeals filed before APTEL. The outcome of the matter would have far-reaching consequences, as the interpretation of a rule of the electricity regulations is an issue being adjudicated upon. Before the same tribunal, the team is assisting Kamal Encon Industries in an appeal regarding right to inter-state supply without there being a separate feeder to identify the power generation.

Charotar Gas Sahakari Mandali, DNH Power Distribution,KSK Mahanadi Power Company andMahindra & Mahindra also engaged the firm last year.

Based on Mumbai, Mulla & Mulla and Craigie Blunt & Caroe is a distinguished legacy law firm recognized for its expertise in construction, finance, and maritime and shipping laws. It has robust transaction, advisory and disputes practices servicing these areas. The firm is led by key partners Burjor Antia and Shardul Thacker, and it maintains a strong presence across multiple cities such as Delhi and Bangalore. One notable case involved the lawyers representing a client in a Special Leave Petition before the Supreme Court, challenging adverse decisions from lower courts regarding a case dismissed for non-prosecution over a decade ago. The firm successfully secured a ruling in favour of the client, emphasizing the complexities surrounding tenancy rights.

Client feedback

"Their opinions and arguments helped us achieve the desired outcome." – Commercial and Transactions

"They provide effective and timely communication, understand client expectations, and devise strategies accordingly. They are also available for conferences and discussions at short notice." – Real Estate

"Their legal analysis is good, their team is competent, they respond rapidly, and they provide clear advice." – Shipping

Yazdi Dandiwala

"He ensures client satisfaction, demonstrates strong subject knowledge, and is always available. His professional advice and wisdom have consistently helped the company achieve long-term solutions."

Siddharth Thacker

"He makes himself available for discussions at short notice, adopts a pragmatic approach, keeps the client’s interests as a top priority, and provides timely, practical solutions. He is a good human being with a positive outlook towards his work."

Shardul Thacker

"He is always prepared, a good communicator, understands client needs, and has immense experience in the sector."

Naik Naik & Co operates as a full-service firm with a robust litigation and arbitration division, comprising over 40% of its fee earners. Renowned for its media and entertainment law expertise, the firm also handles financial services and oil and gas disputes. Its comprehensive litigation services cover commercial disputes, corporate litigation, fraud, cybercrimes, consumer protection, and both domestic and international arbitrations. Managing partner Ameet Naik leads the disputes team, which includes deputy managing partners Abhishek Kale and Madhu Gadodia. The firm notably represented Amitabh Bachchan in a Supreme Court case safeguarding his personality rights.

Nishith Desai Associates is a prominent law firm offering a comprehensive suite of dispute resolution services with a strong international focus. The firm is recognized for its government and regulatory litigation, tax disputes, and international arbitration practices, serving a diverse clientele from technology, media, and telecommunications sectors. It features specialized teams for international dispute resolution and bilateral treaty arbitration. Key figures include Vyapak Desai and Sahil Kanuga. Recently, the firm represented a leading cryptocurrency exchange in a high-stakes arbitration at SIAC, underscoring its capability in complex financial disputes.

Client feedback

"The advice provided was well considered, commercial, and extremely clear. They are certainly my go-to firm in India for asset recovery." -Insolvency

"The firm excels in providing innovative, research-driven solutions, often ahead of market trends. It is recognized for its specialized knowledge in complex areas like tax, intellectual property, and corporate law. Its strong research and development focus, combined with a client-centered approach, allows it to offer high-quality strategic insights, especially for clients navigating regulatory challenges in emerging markets." – International arbitration

"NDA quickly gets to the bottom of the matter, focusing on determining the key strategic and practical next steps. Clients can have full confidence in the advice they deliver. They are fully aware of the complexities involved in advising foreign clients on cross-border issues and explaining the practical implications." -International arbitration

Alipak Banerjee

"Alipak Banerjee is appreciated for his strong analytical skills, strategic thinking, and deep understanding of his field. He has a reputation for thorough research, clear communication, and a solution-oriented approach. His strengths include the ability to distill complex information into actionable insights and stay updated on industry trends, enhancing his effectiveness in client advisement and decision-making. His dedication to quality and precision makes him a valuable asset in any high-stakes or dynamic environment."

"He is a highly intelligent, confident, and extremely capable lawyer. He focuses on separating the essential elements from the extraneous and has excellent client care skills."

Vyapak Desai

"He is always prepared."

Gowree Gokhale

"She provides in-depth studies and honest advice based on her extensive experience."She possesses deep knowledge of intellectual property."

Nine-year-old boutique tax firm Nitya Tax Associates is primarily focused on indirect tax advisory and related litigation. The firm has offices in Mumbai, Bangalore and Delhi that house more than 50 tax professionals overall. The firm holds the achievement of being one of the very few tax firms that successfully represented clients in obtaining favourable orders from various authorities for advance ruling under the newly introduced Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime. A few years back, the firm expanded to focus on matters of international trade and commerce, including advice on the recently introduced Customs Rules 2020 and Remission of Duties or Taxes on Exported Products Scheme.

The key contacts are managing partner Puneet Bansal and partners Dharnendra Kumar Rana and Deepak Suneja.

A recent highlight saw the firm represent Avenue Supermarts before the Bombay High Court against a rejection of application filed under a legacy dispute resolution scheme.

Numen Law Offices, established three years ago, concentrates on corporate advisory, dispute resolution, and criminal litigation. The firm manages a wide range of contentious commercial disputes and is equipped with a dedicated arbitration team. Its expertise encompasses various criminal matters, including white-collar crimes and serious fraud investigations. Key partners include Arush Khanna and Lakshmi Raman. Recently, the firm represented an ex-director of First Step Properties in an investigation concerning allegations of fraudulent conduct against company members.

Obhan & Associates is well-regarded for its expertise in intellectual property, technology, and media law, but it also adeptly manages complex commercial disputes. The firm handles a wide array of issues related to corporate laws, competition laws, and bilateral investment treaties. With offices in New Delhi, Pune, and Bangalore, the firm provides strategic pre-litigation advice to clients in various industries. Key contacts include managing partner Essenese Obhan. Recently, the firm successfully defended Pine Labs in a patent infringement case, obtaining a vacation of a previously issued injunction.

P&A Law Offices boasts a seasoned and multi-jurisdictional dispute resolution practice recognized for its involvement in significant corporate disputes. The firm’s litigation and arbitration team consists of over 40 lawyers, catering to various sectors, including pharmaceuticals and telecommunications. Managing partner Anand Pathak leads a strong disputes team, including partners Shashank Gautam and Nabik Syam. A current high-profile case involves acting for Amazon.com NV Investment Holdings in a Supreme Court appeal concerning a landmark dispute with Future Group, which raises critical legal questions under the Competition Act.

Phoenix Legal is known for its crisis management capabilities and expertise in handling sensitive disputes across India. The firm’s dispute resolution team works on constitutional, public interest, corporate, and civil matters at all court levels. Key partners include Abhishek Saxena and Manjula Chawla. Recently, the firm represented ARG Outlier Media in a trademark infringement case against Rayudu Vision Media before the Bombay High Court, showcasing its strength in media-related disputes.

Client feedback

Zoeb Cutlerywala & Gautam Bhatikar

"They are extremely professional, knowledgeable about the law, and commercially astute."

Pioneer Legal’s litigation practice encompasses a diverse array of disputes, including complex commercial issues and corporate fraud. The firm offers strategic advice throughout the litigation process, covering all court levels and arbitration forums. Key partners include Satish Kishanchandani and Narendra Dingankar. The firm notably represented National Bulk Handling Corporation in a suit to recover funds under a Memorandum of Understanding and acted for Multi-Verse Technologies in a case against Zee Entertainment Enterprises regarding unlawful app suspension on the Google Play Store.

Poovayya & Co has built a reputation for its strong litigation practice, particularly in commercial disputes, regulatory challenges, and insolvency cases. With offices in Bangalore and New Delhi, the firm serves a diverse clientele, ranging from multinational corporations to individual clients. The firm has worked extensively with technology companies, on both the buy-side and the sell-side. Not only is it well versed in domestic litigations, but the lawyers have been instructed in multi-billion-dollar disputes across various jurisdictions including the US, the UK, the UAE and Mauritius. Its lawyers are recognized for their strategic approach, focusing on early resolution of disputes through effective negotiation and alternative dispute resolution methods. This proactive stance not only helps clients save time and resources but also aims for favourable outcomes with minimal disruption to their operations.

The firm's strength lies in its experienced team of legal professionals, including senior partners like Manu Kulkarni, Dharmendra Chatur, and Ankit Parhar. Kulkarni has over 16 years of experience in constitutional and administrative law, civil and commercial litigation, and international arbitration. He is well-respected for his insight into complex legal issues and has successfully represented various high-profile clients. Dharmendra Chatur, another partner, specializes in commercial transactions, competition law, and government regulations. His expertise has been instrumental in navigating complex legal landscapes for clients in various sectors. Ankit Parhar, also a partner, focuses on civil and commercial litigation, regulatory matters, and arbitration, contributing significantly to the firm’s success in these areas.

Demonstrating its litigious prowess, the firm represented X Corp (formerly Twitter) in its challenge against blocking orders issued by the Indian government under the Information Technology Act. This case is notable for its implications on freedom of expression and government authority. It was also a first-of-its kind litigation where blocking orders of the central government have been challenged by an intermediary. Additionally, the team successfully advised Coffee Day Global in a major arbitration against Mysore Amalgamated Coffee Estates, dealing with significant financial claims.

On the IP side, the team was involved in a trademark dispute for Manipal Academy of Higher Education, successfully protecting the client’s brand against infringement.

Poovayya & Co also excels in contentious government and regulatory matters, having advised various clients on compliance and litigation against governmental decisions. A key achievement in this practice area was advising the Retailers Association of India in challenging the Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Act, which sought to impose language requirements on retail signage, a case that has implications for businesses operating in Karnataka. In another case, the team represented a leading FMCG multinational in challenging a government decision that withdrew certain entitlements, which could have affected the client’s operations significantly. The team also assisted Parle Agro in a classification challenge regarding their products under the GST regime, which is crucial for the company’s financial interests.

The firm’s commitment to social justice is also evident through its pro bono work, such as representing individuals in public interest litigation aimed at improving accessibility for persons with disabilities in public transportation.

Client feedback

"The Poovayya team, led by Dharmendra Chatur, possesses exceptional strategic advisory and representation capabilities. They provided us with timely and well-reasoned advice that has significantly helped us safeguard and scale our businesses. Overall, their team's legal abilities are strong, and they are continually improving in cross-border litigation." – Commercial and transactions 

"The team is prompt and always up to speed on legal developments. We appreciate their honest and critical feedback and legal advice." – Commercial and transactions 

"The team is very organized and dedicated to working on our cases, demonstrating excellent preparedness." – Commercial and transactions 

"They respond promptly and are highly knowledgeable in their subject matter" – Commercial and transactions 

"The Poovayya team excels in case strategy and effectively handles very complicated litigations." – Commercial and transactions 

"They are terrific at understanding and evaluating the risks involved in legal disputes. Their in-depth research and advice enable our organization to make informed decisions." – Commercial and transactions 

Dharmendra Chatur 

"We have known Mr. Chatur since he was an associate at Poovayya. He has developed his ability to manage our matters and consistently provides us with excellent advice on navigating our complex commercial disputes in India and the United States. His main strength lies in his deep understanding of our business's commercial realities, which allows him to suggest the most creative legal solutions. We have always benefited from his sound counsel and can vouch for its pragmatism. " 

"Dharmendra has been our single point of contact from Poovayya team. He is a very pragmatic and honest lawyer who is skilled in looking at a matter from all possible scenarios and developing a comprehensive approach. We are very happy to have him as our legal counsel in India. " 

"He is qualified, friendly, knowledgeable, and effective in presenting before courts." 

"His availability and patience in managing our cases are commendable. He is also very attentive to detail and maintains a level-headed approach in difficult situations." 

Manu Kulkarni 

"Manu is one of the most sought-after litigators in Bangalore today. His approach to our cases, combined with his legal expertise and humble attitude, is highly appreciated. We thoroughly enjoy working with him and his colleagues, including Dharmendra Chatur and Ayushi Goyal, on our litigations." 

"Manu is skilled at assessing and clearly communicating the risks involved in legal disputes. He is also transparent about our organization's standing in each dispute regarding the merits of the matter." 

"Calm and composed, he possesses excellent oratory skills, in-depth knowledge of the subject, and is an active listener. He is assertive and well-mannered." 

Prosoll Law is a boutique criminal law firm based in Delhi, handling a range of issues from anti-corruption to money laundering. Founded by Harsh Sharma, the firm serves a diverse clientele, including bureaucrats and business leaders. Associate partner Vaibhavi Sharma plays a key role in the practice. A notable case involves defending the co-founder of Micromax Informatics against bribery allegations related to unauthorized construction activities.

PSL Advocates & Solicitors is a boutique firm with expertise in international arbitration and regulatory disputes. The firm has offices in major Indian cities and specializes in various legal areas, including tax and construction law. Founding partners Sameer Jain and Suvigya Awasthy lead a strong disputes team. The firm acted for Madhucon Projects in an arbitration against the National Highways Authority of India in a case that served as a critical precedent for the adjudication of disputes arising from infrastructure projects where delays are caused by government agencies. 

Client feedback

"They are excellent in the area of construction." - Construction

Sameer Jain

"He is knowledgeable, a nice person, and humble."

"He possesses domain knowledge, a sense of responsibility, and sincerity."

Rahul Chaudhry & Partners is a prominent intellectual property (IP) law firm. With a strong presence in Mumbai, Delhi and Gurugram, the firm has built a reputation for providing comprehensive legal solutions to clients across various sectors, including technology, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. Key partners like Rahul Chaudhry and Anuradha Salhotra lead a dedicated team that excels in trademark prosecution, enforcement, and IP litigation. One significant case involved representing Nexxbase Marketing in a trademark dispute against a competitor, resulting in a favourable interim injunction from the Supreme Court. This ruling reinforced the importance of protecting established trademarks and preventing consumer confusion.

Regius Legal is a multi-service law firm with a focus on dispute resolution and litigation. Established in 2018, the firm has grown to employ over 40 lawyers and has a proven track record in high-profile cases involving serious criminal charges. Key contacts include founder Kiran Jain and senior partner Ish Jain. Recently, the firm represented Vardhaman Estate Corporation in a complex real estate dispute regarding redevelopment and conveyance rights in Mumbai.

Remfry & Sagar is a leading and long-established intellectual property firm in India, known for its extensive prosecution practice across trademarks, patents, designs, copyrights, geographical indications, plant varieties, and domain names. Headquartered in Gurugram, its team of top specialists advises clients on licensing, franchising, and domain name registration. The firm handles both commercial and transactional IP as well as litigation, serving a diverse roster of clients in sectors such as banking, pharmaceuticals, TMT, and real estate.With new offices in Bengaluru and Chennai, the firm has enhanced its capacity to meet client needs and increased its staff.

RK Dewan & Co is a leading intellectual property law firm with over 81 years of experience. The firm is known for its active IP litigation practice, featuring a team of more than 180 specialists. It handles cases across India and is a top PCT filer from the country. Key figures in the disputes group include Mohan Dewan and Niti Dewan. The firm continues to act for Finolex Industries in filing several trademark infringement suits in relation to the client's well-known mark.

RPV Legal, formed in 2015 from a historic law chamber, specializes in commercial disputes and white-collar crime. The firm has extensive experience in high-value international arbitrations and represents a diverse clientele, including sovereign states and corporations. Key contacts include partner Kunal Verma and senior partner and AoR Yugandhara Pawar Jha. The firm has managed disputes worth over $10 billion in the past, highlighting its significant role in complex legal matters.

Client feedback

"They have a great and responsive team that takes the time to investigate thoroughly and understand the merits and facts of each case. This gives them a deep understanding, enabling them to argue effectively on our behalf." -Commercial and transactions

"RPV Legal prepared a statement of claims after reviewing all documents." -Commercial and transactions

"They provide exceptional strategic insight and thorough, responsive legal support." -Commercial and transactions

Sooraj Sharma

"As a first-chair advocate, Sooraj combines exceptional advocacy with strategic brilliance, making him our top choice for complex international arbitrations involving multiple jurisdictions and diverse legal frameworks."

S Majumdar & Co, established in 1993, is a well-regarded IP law firm focusing on patent issues across various industries. Managing partner Subhatosh Majumdar leads a team known for advocating on behalf of Indian generic pharmaceutical companies. The firm recently defended Cipla in a notable patent infringement case against Vifor, with the court ruling favorably for the client regarding patentability and infringement.

S&A Law Offices, formerly Singh & Associates, is a full-service firm with a strong focus on litigation and alternative dispute resolution. With offices in major cities, the firm is active in various legal sectors, including commercial disputes and insolvency. Key partners include Manoj Kumar Singh and Gunita Pahwa. Recently, the firm represented RattanIndia Enterprises in a shareholder agreement dispute, showcasing its expertise in corporate law.

Client feedback

"S&A Law Offices provide standard legal services. They have good professionals with adequate industry expertise and experience in commercial arbitration."- Commercial arbitration

"Handling multiple matters effectively and efficiently for a dynamic industry like mining and commodities trading is what always amazes me. Their work ethic and client-first approach are unmatched. They are technologically driven, result-oriented, and maintain a very swift turnaround timeline." – Commercial and transactions

Shashwat Singh

"Shashwat is heading most of our matters. He has good leadership qualities. His legal knowledge and expertise meet our requirements, and he always has a solution to our problems and queries."

"His availability, punctuality, and patience in addressing our concerns, combined with his legal technical ability and sharp legal acumen, make him stand out."

S&R Associates, with offices in Delhi and Mumbai, is known for its strong corporate practices and dispute resolution expertise. The firm handles a wide range of complex commercial and regulatory disputes. Key partners include Niti Dixit and Shahezad Kazi. The firm recently assisted McDonald’s in a complex shareholder dispute involving arbitration and litigation, demonstrating its capabilities in high-stakes legal matters.

Client feedback

"They have very practical and detailed knowledge of how the Indian court system works and are adept at conceiving and implementing cross-border litigation strategies.” – Commercial and transactions

Niti Dixit

"She is strategic and clear."

"She is an excellent and hands-on lawyer."

Bangalore-based Saakshya Law is a corporate litigation outfit specialising in contentious issues involving public law, mining and natural resources and renewable energy. The team has represented clients at domestic and international arbitrations and is well versed with all the legal, procedural and regulatory compliances needed for various arbitral forums and chambers. Its key clients include Ajax Engineering, Bharat Electronics, Canara Bank, Greenko Group, JSW Steel, KCIC Group, Mfar Holdings, MSPL, Paschim Hydro Energy, Vedanta and West Coast Paper Mills.

Leading the disputes team are partners Aditya Narayan and contentious tax specialist Megha Malhotra Narayan.

In a recent highlight in the mining sector, the team acted for the Federation of Indian Mineral Industries on proceedings for the removal of production caps on iron-ore mining in the state of Karnataka. The challenge gives rise to important questions of law relating to the power of the Supreme Court to impose legal restrictions on carrying on industrial operations and raises important environmental law questions including in respect of application of the principles of sustainable development and the precautionary principle. In the event the suits are allowed, it will have systemic effects on the industry as a whole by increasing availability of raw material.

Client feedback

“It helped us by quickly turning around the pleadings, summarising our submissions for briefing the senior arguing counsels, and ensuring focus and attention from the managing partner himself on the matter.” – Government and regulatory

“The team worked pro bono for us, given that this was a social cause. However, despite it being pro bono, the team, starting from the partners through to the entire team, gave it all the requisite attention and focus like any other commercial client. The team is extremely professional with regard to its engagement.” – Government and regulatory

“They understand the issues at hand and address them in the most ethical manner.” – Real Estate

Aditya Narayan

“Extremely knowledgeable and very socially conscious and responsible. Very professional in his approach.”

“Responsiveness to the need of client and quality of input are key positive attributes.”

“We appreciate his probity, integrity and problem solving.”

Saga Legal offers a wide range of dispute resolution services, including regulatory and pre-dispute advisory work. The firm has successfully handled numerous cases at the Supreme Court level and has a strong record in alternative dispute resolution. Founder Gaurav Nair is the key contact. A recent highlight includes representing ex-directors of a corporate debtor in an appeal challenging a liquidation order.

Sagus Legal is a full-service boutique law firm, recently celebrating its fourth anniversary. The firm handles various disputes, particularly in the power sector, and has a cumulative dispute value exceeding $7.5 billion. Key partners include Anand Shrivastava and Shruti Kanodia. Notably, the team represents Odisha DISCOMs in an appeal concerning the Indian Railways’ status as a deemed distribution licensee under the Electricity Act.

Saikrishna & Associates is a premier firm specializing in contentious intellectual property and technology law, particularly copyright litigation. Recognized for shaping industry standards, the firm also addresses commercial and regulatory disputes. Key contacts include managing partner Saikrishna Rajagopal. The team continues to act for Guangdong Oppo Mobile Telecommunications and other Indian technology players in a high-stakes and high-profile battle against Interdigital Technology. 

Client feedback

"SKA is the top-notch law firm for handling policy and regulation, whether it involves tariff, content regulation, or protection of intellectual property rights." – Government and regulatory

Siddharth Chopra

"Siddharth has great knowledge of the Indian media and entertainment landscape, including tariff, content regulation, and intellectual property rights. He is proactive and stays on top of developments in the sector and comparable jurisdictions. His interpersonal skills include listening to viewpoints contrary to his own and correcting his course if he finds logic in the argument."

Sneha Jain

"She possesses depth of knowledge, the ability to multitask, and meets stringent deadlines while keeping costs in mind. Her interpersonal skills, knowledge of the subject, problem-solving abilities, and diligence are commendable."

Suhasini Raina

"She excels in client care and management."

Samvad Partners is a multi-specialist law firm known for its strong dispute resolution capabilities. The firm covers various litigation areas, including commercial, employment, and intellectual property disputes. The disputes team, led by partners Arjun Krishnan and Poornima Hatti, is expanding its mediation and insolvency practices. The firm’s client base includes notable organizations such as Delhivery and Yes Bank.

Client feedback

"They conducted quick and accurate reviews."- Commercial and transactions

"This was my first experience with a lawyer, and it was seamless from day one with Samvad. The team guided me well, and set things right no matter at what stage of the timeline we sought help. They completely engage with us and ensure they provide multiple options as paths to solutions." – Commercial and transactions

"They offer professional advice regarding government and regulatory matters." – Government and regulatory

Poornima Hatti

"She is responsive, accurate, and dependable."

"Poornima has a very high emotional intelligence quotient and ensures she understands the issue at the root level. She always starts meetings by making clients feel comfortable, organizes the facts correctly, and provides timely solutions. I greatly respect her efforts in promoting gender equality and women empowerment."

Vineetha Mohana Gopinathan

"She provides timely responses and valuable suggestions."

Dispute resolution is a core business for Bengaluru-based Sanctum Law. Apart from this, the firm is focused on real estate and general corporate law. In the south, the firm is recognised for its expertise in construction agreement-related arbitrations and agreement negotiations, and regulatory litigation against the government. The team’s experience covers a wide range of sectors, such as commercial, regulatory, real estate and intellectual property litigation, domestic arbitration and contentious matters relating to company, family, competition, consumer, service, labour, trade and criminal law. In the past 12 months, the firm has been proud of the 87% success rate, winning 20 of the 23 matters that were closed. There are still 167 matters pending.

The key contact at the firm is founder Sammith S. His practice spans government, tax, construction, labour, white-collar crime and commercial disputes. Sammith S is the sole empanelled legal adviser on the board of the Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India for Bengaluru and Karnataka. Senior consultant Shivananda S is an additional name to note for contentious regulatory matters.

The team secured numerous wins for its clients, such as successfully representing Kamalalaya Hiisoft before the High Court of Karnataka in overturning a trial court order of asset attachment.

Client feedback

“We recommend the firm for arbitrations in real estate and any other disputes in real estate .” – Real estate

“We have used their services for real estate. They advised us well for all our queries related to property.” – Real estate

“Very good advice and follow-through in land matters.” – Real estate

“Assimilation of facts is done well by the entire team at Sanctum Law. Before the matter is presented, it is discussed in detail with the clients.” – Real estate

“Sanctum has an excellent team in handling real estate litigation and has always got us good orders. The team is very prompt in responding and also quick in drafting and filing the petitions and ensures that they are taken up at the earliest, considering the huge backlog of cases in the courts.” – Real estate

“We appreciate their attention to detail and advice on the right direction and manner.” – Trust and Estates

Sammith Shivanand

“He is great at addressing clients’ calls and respecting their privacy.”

“Sammith tries to make time despite his busy schedule and is driven.”

“Excellent at everything.”

“He understands our queries really well and uses his legal knowledge to give us a long-term solution.”

“Very calm, results-oriented and the best performer.”

“He has an excellent knowledge of law in our area and comes up with solutions or otherwise backed with case laws in the most convincing manner. He is a leader and has built a team of like-minded professionals who have almost the same kind of approach. Kudos to him and his entire team.”

“Great attention to details and problem-solving attitude.”

“He is extremely knowledgeable and strategises very well, in addition to being very accessible and involved.”

“Sammith’s knowledge in the areas of practice is excellent. His responsive nature and leadership quality is very good. Having about 11-12 years of experience and managing a firm on his own is commendable.”

Saraf and Partners, established three years ago, provides comprehensive dispute resolution services across various sectors. The firm’s strength lies in its corporate transactional capabilities, complemented by its litigation expertise. Founder Mohit Saraf leads a team recognized for handling high-stakes commercial disputes. Recently, the firm successfully represented Fortis Healthcare in enforcing an arbitral award against Daiichi Sankyo.

Client feedback

"They have a client-focused approach and are strongly committed to delivering practical and effective solutions. They have earned their clients' confidence and are considered a safe pair of hands in international arbitration." – International arbitration

Sudeshna Guha Roy

"Sudeshna is an exceptional legal professional. She stands out not only for her robust legal knowledge but also for her strategic thinking. She firmly advocates for her clients and provides practical solutions aligned with their goals."

Sarthak Advocates is a full-service firm with a strong focus on commercial litigation, particularly in infrastructure and construction. With offices across India, the firm has garnered recognition for its insolvency practice. Key partners include Mani Gupta and Abhishek Tripathi. The firm recently represented the Unique Identification Authority of India in an arbitration regarding service payments and liquidated damages.

Client feedback

"Their documentation, legal coordination, preparation for legal arguments, and cross-examination are exemplary."-Commercial and transactions

"They are very thorough with research and extremely well-prepared regarding pleadings in bankruptcy."-Insolvency

Abhishek Tripathi

"He possesses in-depth knowledge of the IT industry and is very quick to understand issues."

Mani Gupta

"She has a problem-solving approach and listens to feedback with maturity."

Seraphic Advisors is a multi-specialist firm with a solid reputation in commercial and regulatory dispute resolution. With offices in major Indian cities, the firm has successfully handled cases for government organizations, including a significant matter for the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority against the Airports Authority of India. Key contact KPS Kohli leads the disputes practice, focusing on aviation and regulatory issues.

Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co (SAM) is a leading firm in dispute resolution, with a vast network of offices across India. The firm is known for its expertise in corporate and commercial litigation, as well as arbitration and white-collar crime. Managing partner Pallavi Shroff leads a robust disputes team that has represented Punjab National Bank in a high-profile banking fraud case exceeding $3 billion.

Client feedback

"Their advice is quick and to the point in commercial and transactional matters."- Commercial and transactions

"They develop strategies for the entire life cycle of arbitration proceedings, providing well-prepared summaries of case law, argument strategy, and alignment with the client's thought process, ensuring synchronization with senior counsel." – Commercial arbitration

Aashish Gupta

"He has a strong grip on legal points and a solid understanding of court proceedings."

Roopal Kulsrestha

"She is very responsive and effectively manages her team."

New Delhi-based Sim and San is a leading firm specializing in intellectual property rights. Known for its tailored solutions, the firm excels in areas such as trademark, patent, and copyright law. With a team of experienced partners, including Rahul Chaudhry and Anuradha Salhotra, Sim and San has demonstrated a strong track record for protecting clients' IP assets across various industries. A recent highlight for the team was its successful representation of Communication Components Antenna in a patent infringement case, before the Delhi High Court. This case marked a significant achievement in asserting the client's patent rights. In another notable matter, the firm successfully defended BharatPe in a trademark dispute with PhonePe, allowing the client to continue using its brand name.

Singh & Singh is a top-tier intellectual property firm known for its contentious IP work and expertise in media, telecom, and competition laws. The firm provides comprehensive litigation and advisory services. Key partners include Sudeep Chatterjee and Bitika Sharma. Recently, the firm represented Ericsson and Monsanto in a landmark case affirming patent rights over competition law.

Singhania & Partners is an established, respected full-service firm with a sizeable and experienced dispute resolution team. Its core litigation and arbitration areas are commercial, construction, and government and regulatory. The firm has developed specialities in disputes related to contracts with government authorities, consulting agreements, construction projects, building contracts and road construction. It is part of the TerraLex and IR Global law firm networks, and it sits on the legal advisory panels of Abhyudaya Housing & Constructions, Bawana Infra Development, Ramky Infrastructure, National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation, National Hydropower Corporation and Shapoorji Pallonji & Company. The firm has brought on board a new CEO from Google, Varun Jain.

The disputes teams are led by multiple senior lawyers, including managing partner Ravi Singhania, senior partners Shilpa Shah, and partners Vikas Goel, Shambhu Sharan and Madhu Sweta. Last year, the team welcomed disputes specialist Tarun Dua from Luthra and Luthra Law Offices.

The firm is representing Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Ltd (DFCCIL) in an arbitration against a joint venture between Tata Projects and Aldesa Constructions in relation to disputes over delays and the non-fulfilment of other contractual obligations for the construction of a portion of the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor.

Client feedback

“Always follows deadlines and all the required compliance.” – Government and regulatory

Singularity Legal is a boutique law firm with a focus on international dispute resolution across Asia and Africa. The firm specializes in handling cross-border disputes, fraud investigations, and debt recovery. Lead partner Prateek Bagaria is licensed to practice in the Dubai International Financial Centre. The firm has managed claims exceeding $4 billion across various sectors, including energy and construction.

SKV law Offices is a specialist energy and regulatory firm. Established in 2013, the firm has grown its reputation for working on novel and complex energy and infrastructure mandates. Its client base includes corporations, governments, banks, consultants and other energy-sector market participants. The list of names the firm routinely represents is impressive: NTPC, The Tata Power Group, Reliance Power, Adani Power, Power Grid, NHPC, Vedanta, RattanIndia Power, Jaiprakash Power Ventures, GMR Energy, Hindustan Power, Mytrah Energy, Punj Lloyd, the Association of Power Producers, the National Solar Energy Federation of India, the Indian Wind Power Association and the Indian Sugar Mills Association.

Managing partner Shri Venkatesh is the lead contact for contentious work.

In a recent highlight, the team acted for Delhi Airport Metro Express on its battle against Delhi Metro Rail Corporation in relation to a dispute involving the construction of a high-speed airport express line. The team additionally successfully represented Tata Power Company against the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission in a dispute relating to the granting of a transmission licence on nomination basis. The Supreme Court of India by way of this judgment settled the position that large infrastructure projects can be awarded on nomination basis, departing from the competitive bidding route provided under a section of the Electricity Act.

SNG & Partners is well-known for its expertise in banking and finance disputes, offering a comprehensive range of litigation and arbitration services. The disputes team is led by senior partner Sanjay Gupta. Recently, the firm acted for Future Corporate Resources, challenging provisions of the Recovery of Debts and Bankruptcy Act on constitutional grounds.

Client feedback

"SNG & Partners are responsive and well-versed in letters of credit transactions in banking and financial services." – Commercial and transactions

Ajay Monga

"He is responsive and knowledgeable about letters of credit transactions."

Solomon & Co, with offices in Mumbai and Pune, was founded in 1909 and brings rich history and experience to its dispute resolution offering. Its disputes team has more than 25 lawyers dedicated to the practice and the group averages eight to 10 proceedings per day in Mumbai alone. Jonathan Solomon, who heads the dispute resolution team, has more than 50 years of experience and has specifically been appointed by the Bombay High Court to assist in several high-stakes litigations in the past. The firm’s commercial, construction, insurance, insolvency, intellectual property and arbitration work has kept the team busy.

Senior partners Jonathan Solomon and Aaron Solomon lead the disputes team, which includes partners Michelle Solomon Le Page, Soniya Putta and Shruti Maniar.

In one highlight, the firm successfully represented Pigments and Allieds in an arbitration dispute in the Bombay High Court for appointment of an arbitrator on the basis that the photocopy of the arbitration agreement was insufficiently stamped and the original agreement was unavailable. In another commercial matter, the team defended several IDBI group entities before the arbitral tribunal – it rejected a claim for refund of a forfeiture amount, which was held to be valid.

Partner Anagha Subramaniam departed last year to set up her own practice as an advocate.

Notable clients of the firm include Baroda Pioneer Mutual Fund, Gammon Infra, Genting Energy, Godrej Foods, HSBC, ING Bank, Larsen & Toubro, Shapoorji Pallonji Group and Yahoo India.

SPN Legal is a full-service law firm based in New Delhi and Bangalore. Its dispute resolution team regularly provides pre-litigation strategy advice and opinions to its clients and represents them before all court levels and tribunals across India. It has a track record acting on cases related to corporate, commercial, labour, IP rights, trade secrets, constitutional, criminal family and debt recovery disputes, among others. Partners Karan Nagrath and Nupur Kumar are the key contacts for dispute resolution.

Stratage Law Partners has emerged as a notable player in commercial disputes, aligning its practice with transactional strengths. Lead partner Bhavin Gada specializes in shareholder and regulatory disputes. The firm recently represented Assets Care and Reconstruction Enterprise in filing an original application before the debt recovery tribunal against the borrowers. 

Sujata Chaudhri IP Attorneys, established in 2014, focuses on contentious intellectual property matters, including litigation and enforcement. The firm serves clients across various sectors, including fashion and pharmaceuticals. Managing partner Sujata Chaudhri leads the team, which recently handled a landmark trademark cancellation case for the blockchain initiative Centre Consortium in the Delhi High Court.

The core disputes speciality at Tandon & Co is intellectual property, though it does offer a range of services in the areas of commercial litigation, real estate, product liability and recall, and contentious banking and project finance matters. The firm has offices in Delhi and Mumbai. In addition to representing clients before all national court levels, the firm has also appeared before the Delhi International Arbitration Centre, the Singapore International Arbitration Centre and the Singapore Chamber of Maritime Arbitration. Last year, the firm was very busy acting on multiple insolvency-related and commercial litigation matters for national clients. Key clients of the firm include Bank of Baroda, Central Bank of India, HDFC Bank and Step by Step Junior School Society.

Founding partner Kunal Tandon is the main contact.

The firm acted for Zee Entertainment Enterprises to defend against a distribution platform operator that filed a petition challenging the client’s disconnection notice for non-payment of additional demand. The team is defending the client’s audit report and its audit demand.

Tatva Legal, based in Hyderabad, provides comprehensive dispute resolution services across multiple sectors. The firm’s experienced litigators handle a range of matters, from corporate disputes to employment issues. Key partners include Sanjay Kishore and K Shivacharan Reddy. Recently, the firm assisted international physical bulk-trading firm Transcom DMCC for enforcement of an order passed by the Dubai International Financial Centre.

Client feedback

"Their research, activeness, and understanding of the law are very good in government and regulatory matters." – Government and regulatory

Ranjani Ramesh

"She has a strong understanding of law and legal procedures. She is very proactive in providing replies and resolutions."

Tempus Law Associates, founded by experienced Indian and New York licensed lawyers, specializes in contentious insolvency and corporate disputes. Co-founders P Raviprasad and Sundari Pisupati lead the disputes team. Recently, the firm represented a pharmaceutical R&D company in a significant NCLT matter concerning mismanagement and oppression by directors.

ThinkLaw, established in 2021, is a dynamic law firm based in Mumbai, India, focused on providing high-quality, research-driven legal advice. With a rapid expansion from five to nearly 30 lawyers in just three years, the firm is led by Tushar Ajinkya, who brings over 25 years of experience from prestigious law firms. ThinkLaw specialises in various practice areas, including corporate and commercial advisory, digital forensics, intellectual property, and dispute resolution.

The firm is particularly noted for its expertise in handling complex commercial disputes and arbitrations involving major corporations. It has successfully represented clients in high-stakes cases, including significant petitions before the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). 

All the cases submitted to Benchmark were confidential. 

TLC Legal is an indirect tax-focused boutique law firm that combines legal expertise with tax consultancy. The firm specializes in various tax-related matters, including GST and customs. Key contacts include managing partner Vipin Jain. The firm is currently representing Sterlite Technologies in a complex anti-dumping case before the Customs Excise & Service Tax Appellate Tribunal.

Trilegal is a prominent full-service firm with a sizeable team of seasoned dispute resolution experts. The firm excels in all traditional corporate areas but has particular disputes strengths in competition, complex commercial litigation, international arbitration, insolvency, tax, and white-collar crime. The team has a track record covering a broad spectrum of litigations across all forums, including the Supreme Court, various High Courts, lower courts, tribunals, and other regulatory and quasi-judicial commissions. A substantial portion of the firm’s caseload has a major international component – for instance, sensitive M&A-related disputes and complex commercial transactions. The firm consistently features in extremely complex high-stake disputes and multi-jurisdictional mandates.

Trilegal has deep and long-standing relationships with a large network of top-tier foreign law firms. With its place locked in among the best global disputes firms, the international arbitration team is a go-to choice for various international and domestic clients, including the ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India, Zee Entertainment Enterprises, Mitsui and Co, Wipro Enterprises, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Resilient Innovations, Goldman Sachs and GMR.

Dispute resolution head and partner Shankh Sengupta leads a team of disputes-focused partners that includes Jafar Alam, Ashish Bhan, Nitesh Jain, Tine Abraham, Pallav Shukla, Siddharth Ranade, and Anuj Berry. Other key figures are partners with practice specialities that overlap with the disputes group, such as competition specialists Gautam Chawla and Gauri Chhabra, white-collar crimes investigation specialist Kunal Gupta and tax specialists Himanshu Sinha and Samsuddha Majumder. 

The Trilegal team took centre stage in a high-profile corporate battle, representing four foreign investors in oppression-mismanagement proceedings and related pre-arbitration proceedings in a dispute against the founders of edu-tech giant, Byju's. Collectively, the clients had invested hundreds of millions and hold over a quarter of the shares in the company. It is the first time that various foreign investors have come together to complain of oppression and mismanagement in an Indian start-up and protest unfair dilution. 

The firm also acted for Resilient Innovations in a recovery suit against its former managing director for misappropriated amounts and for compensation for loss of goodwill, reputation and brand value suffered by the company and other connected suits and proceedings involving issues of corporate defamation. This is the first proceeding in India where a unicorn start-up has initiated proceedings against an ex-founder and CEO to uphold corporate governance norms and recover the funds misappropriated.

Client feedback

"Trilegal's experience in disputes related to construction contracts is evident in how they prepare claim documents and analyze the available information." - Construction

"Trilegal is commercial, extremely responsive, and a class above the rest in international arbitration." – International arbitration

"They are a top-notch firm with exceptional skills in international arbitration. Their performance is perfectly executed!" – International arbitration

Nitesh Jain

"Nitesh is a top-notch team leader with significant knowledge, experience, and skill in international arbitration, including highly complex, bet-the-company matters. He commands respect before tribunals and organizes his teams effectively."

"He is both commercial and sharp, which is a great combination. He also has a keen ability to read the tribunal well."

Shalaka Patil

"Shalaka is easy to communicate with. She is knowledgeable in her area of law and solution-oriented. Her team is competent, ensuring that clients are assured of the quality of work and advice provided."

Mohit Rohatgi

"He excels in strategizing and advising."

Himanshu Shekhar Sinha

"He is articulate and recognized as best in class for international tax and transfer pricing."

Triumvir Law is a boutique firm with a focus on international arbitration and strategic litigation. With offices in Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi, the firm handles various disputes, including those in consumer rights and specialized fields like technology. Partners Anubhab Sarkar and Aakash Parihar lead the disputes team. Recently, they represented Movements Digital India in a significant media-related case.

New Delhi-based Trust Legal has a robust dispute resolution and arbitration practice. It currently is handling more than 1,600 active cases for clients across various courts, tribunals and forums in India. The team focuses on commercial and corporate disputes, and has TMT sector speciality. It has an excellent track record in representing its clients for broadcasting regulatory concerns before specialised legal forums such as the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) and is well versed on working with the News Broadcasting and Digital Standards Authority, and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. It also has experience in litigation related to regulatory challenges against the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and various other petitions including broadcasting petitions filed by or against various sector participants. The firm’s clients in this space include leading production houses, television channels, multi-system operators and direct-to-home operators.

Partners Sudhir Mishra, Ritwika Nanda and Petal Chandhok lead the commercial disputes practice. Mishra and Chandhok are also specialists in contentious IP matters.

The team defended Oil India against a civil appeal filed before the Supreme Court of India pertaining to the complex enviro-litigation arising out of the blowout in a gas well in the state of Assam in 2020. It also acted for Kakade Infrastructure Private against the State of Maharashtra in a contentious dispute over the wrongful withholding of the tender amount of the client upon cancellation of the tender. Zee Entertainment Enterprises relied on the firm in a contentious dispute against Indiabulls Housing Finance revolving around four loan transactions. The same client additionally instructed the team for its defence against a copyright infringement suit filed by a leading Indian novelist.

Recent disputes clients include Essel Lucknow Raebareli Toll Roads, Exploring Infinities, Forty-Five Positive Tech, SITI Networks, Tetra Pak India, Yuccabe Italia and Zapped Technologies.

UKCA and Partners is a respected law firm based in New Delhi that specialises in corporate and commercial laws, insolvency and dispute resolution. Key individuals include Managing Partner Manisha Chaudhary and partner designate N Raja Singh, both of whom bring extensive experience in dispute resolution. In a commercial dispute, the team successfully advised MGF Developments in a high-stakes cross-border dispute. In another achievement, the firm assisted a client in a significant arbitration case against the Ministry of Defence, securing a favourable award.

Vaish Associates Advocates is an established law firm known for its expertise in tax law and litigation. With offices in New Delhi and Mumbai, the firm has built a strong reputation for providing high-quality legal services to a diverse range of clients, including multinational corporations and Indian industrial houses. The firm is recognized for its innovative solutions in direct tax litigation and has successfully represented clients in complex matters over the years. The key individuals for disputes are senior partner and direct tax specialist Neeraj K Jain and associate partner Aditya Vohra. The team recently represented Amadeus IT Group in a significant case regarding the company's permanent establishment status in India, which clarified tax liabilities for multinational firms. Another highlight was the successful defense of HCL Technologies in a tax matter concerning payments to foreign entities, reinforcing the principles of international tax law.

Veritas Legal is a growing commercial law firm established in 2015, focusing on corporate disputes and arbitration. Head of litigation Rahul Dwarkadas leads a team that actively engages in white-collar crime cases and real estate disputes. The firm is currently representing a co-founder of People Interactive India in an oppression and mismanagement proceeding before the NCLT. Additionally, it is acting for ICICI Bank in two lawsuits and assisting Mahindra Happinest Developers in a dispute with Shree Ashtavinayak Constructions over a terminated letter of award for a housing project. 

Wadia Ghandy & Co has a strong reputation in dispute resolution, particularly in banking and financial services. The firm has deep historical ties to the Mumbai courts, dating back to 1883. Key partners Bindi Dave and Pradeep Bakhru lead the disputes team. Recently, the firm represented Welspun in a case involving breaches of non-compete clauses in a shareholders’ agreement.

Client feedback

Ashutosh Kane

"He has excellent domain knowledge."