India

Advaita Legal was established 2013 and has expertise in construction, insolvency and tax disputes. The firm consists of 70 lawyers and key names of the firm include Atul Dua and Sujit Ghosh. Both of the key names are recommended for tax practice and Dua is singled out for his experience in competition and antitrust works. 

Tax disputes highlights include acting for JCDecaux Advertising India on an indirect tax case in relation to a claim of the input tax credit on a mobile advertisement. This was the first case in India to examine the law concerning property for the purpose of application of the provision of service tax in the context of mobile advertisement structures. The firm also represented BBC Global India before the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal on a direct tax case concerning complex transfer pricing issues.  

Elsewhere in insolvency practice, the firm advised Deepak Seth before the National Company Law Tribunal in an insolvency proceeding involving a collusion between the parties. The firm also represented Teamlease Digital on a case concerning a non-compliance issue of some of the provisions in Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016.  

Key clients of the firm include Central Electricity Regulatory Commissions, ESSAR Power, GMR Group, Kudgi Transmission, Shapoorji Pallonji Group, State Electricity Regulatory Commissions, and Tata Power Delhi Distribution.

Best known for its commercial work, the litigation team at Ahlawat & Associates has a particular focus on investment, financial services, joint ventures and corporate governance disputes. Avnish Ahlawat is one of the key contacts in the commercial dispute resolution team.  

Notable clients for the firm include Delhi Transport Corporation and Shilpkar India Designers & Contractors. Recent case highlights include representing the Delhi Transport Corporation in an arbitration concerning an engineering project. The firm also represented a local company on a contractual dispute involved Contract Act 1872.  

The firm collaborates with different firms to strengthen their practices in different areas such as cooperating with Ashok Maheshwary & Associates to offer accounting and legal services to clients. Also, the firm has a dedicated Japanese desk to provide legal services for both Indian and Japanese clients.

A boutique law firm AK Law Chambers advise on a range of dispute resolution areas but is best known for its construction work. The firm has offices in Bangalore and Chennai. The firm's dispute resolution team has four partners and 15 lawyers.  

Anirudh Krishnan is noted as one of the key figures within the firm and led a majority of case highlights during the research period. He has a particular focus on commercial disputes and arbitration.  

During the research period, the firm represented Stanbic Bank Ghana on an insolvency case against the corporate debtor; and acted for Shapoorji Pallonji Construction in a construction arbitration between contractors.

ALMT Legal is best known for its work in the commercial and transactions and tax disputes. The firm comprise of both lawyers and chartered accountants. Key contacts of the tax practice include Aliff Fazelbhoy and Statira Ranina.  

Case highlights include advising a client who is based in the United States on tax matters related to direct and indirect transfer of shares between the client and its affiliate company. The firm also worked for another client on issues related to tax and regulatory implications. Elsewhere, the tax team worked as a legal advisor for a Norway based engineering consultancy company on a matter concerning the taxability of employees who visit India.

Anand and Anand is among the strongest intellectual property firm in India with an exceptional track record. The firm is recognised by its peers and clients as one of the leaders in the market.  

Managing partner Pravin Anand is consistently described as a market leader for his work in intellectual property. The firm has set up a new special purpose vehicle with Gaggar & Partners to provide specialised legal services to clients in music and copyright industries on entertainment law related matters.  

During the research period, the firm represented a well-known artist and Padma Bhushan awardee Jatin Das against the Union of India for the destruction of the client's iconic art installation 'Flight of Steel' from the steel city. The firm also assisted Louis Vuitton Malletier on a trademark dispute in relation to the sale of counterfeit products bearing the client's registered trademark. Elsewhere, the firm also handled the first domain name dispute case in India which involved Yahoo.  

The firm has also worked on a handful of commercial and transactions related matters over the last 12 months which includes advising luxury brands and advertisement agencies on issues in relation to contract obligations.

Key clients of the firm include Embibe, Louis Vuitton Malletier, Philips and Tyco.  

Client feedback 

“They are outstanding in their field and are responsive to our legal needs in India.” – Intellectual property 

Pravin Anand 

“Absolutely outstanding performance before all courts.” 

Archeus Law has been active in disputes across the Indian market and has a focus on contract management and project advisory in different sectors like infrastructure and energy.  

Ranjit Prakash is a key name of the firm and was the lead partner on most of the cases worked on during the research period. He is recommended for work in construction and international arbitration.  

Over the past 12 months, the firm advised SEPCO1 Electric Power Construction on contract management and project advisory. The firm also advised NSL Consolidated on issues related to mining operation and investment. Elsewhere, the firm is working for Runh Power Corporation on issues concerning the power projects and engineering, procurement and construction contract.  

Apart from dispute resolution practice, the firm is also active in project advisory and contract management space. During the research period, the firm acted for SUCG Infrastructure India and its parent company in China by providing day to day legal advice to the clients in relation to the metro rail projects in India.

Argus Partners covers a full range of dispute practices and within that specialises in commercial and regulatory disputes, intellectual property and insolvency disputes. The firm has offices in Bangalore, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai. Abeezar Faizullabhoy is one of the key figures within the firm who frequently acts on commercial disputes.  

The firm has been busy in the intellectual property area, as shown by their case highlights during the research period. One case saw the firm representing Skoda Auto India in a litigation proceeding in relation to trademark infringement.  

In the competition space, the firm advised Skoda Auto India in a litigation challenging the certain provisions of the Competition Act as ultra-vires. The firm also acted for Industrial Laminates on a competition case related to railway tenders.  

In the insolvency area, the firm represented the committee of creditors before the National Company Law Tribunal and Supreme Court in numerous applications and petition. The firm also handled one of the cases under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 where the National Company Law Tribunal upheld the maximisation of value against the process.  

Elsewhere in the commercial sector, the firm represented McNally Bharat Engineering in an arbitration proceeding concerning breaches of infrastructure project contracts.  

Client feedback 

“The firm displays utmost professionalism in all engagements. The lawyers have great drafting skills and have consistently delivered as litigators in courts across the country. The firm also has a good network of independent experts and law firms across India. It has been great to work with Argus Partners so far.” – Commercial and transactions 

R Sudhinder 

“He is an excellent relationship manager; extremely responsive to the needs of the client. Advice is pragmatic. Excellent person to have. Will benefit from some support from seniors.” 

“A fine lawyer with a great problem-solving attitude. He's very solution-oriented and business-friendly. Has great sense of integrity and in-depth knowledge of official proceedings.” 

A prominent law firm AZB & Partners handles a full spectrum of dispute matters. The firm represents clients in all areas including commercial and transactions, antitrust, construction, regulatory, insolvency, international arbitration and tax. The firm is best known for its antitrust and tax practices in the market.  

Rajendra Barot and Vijayendra Pratap Singh are key individuals of the firm’s commercial litigation team. In the tax space, Vijayendra Pratap Singh and Ajay Bahl are recommended.  

Over the past year, the firm represented Jinneng Clean Energy Technology before the Madras High Court and Supreme Court in India on a case related to an anti-arbitration injunction, the doctrine of piercing the corporate veil and the effects thereof on arbitration agreements. The firm is also acting for Actis on a shareholder dispute involving the Arbitration and Conciliation Act and jurisdictional challenge. Elsewhere, the firm is representing Lauren Jyoti on a domestic commercial arbitration against an employer of the construction related to sophisticated legal questions on construction and operation of solar power plants and adducing of extensive technical evidence.  

In the construction sector, the firm represented PSA Mumbai Investments before the arbitral tribunal, High Court of Bombay and the Supreme Court on a dispute between the parties on a non-execution of the concession agreement by the client. This case is one of the landmark cases in India which illustrated the essential elements of a valid contract in order to bind the parties to an arbitration agreement contained in such contract.  

In government and regulatory area, the firm represented Nissan in an investor-state arbitration proceeding against the Government of Tamil concerning whether an amendment of tax legislation by the government will be considered as a breach of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between India and Japan. The firm is also defending Reserve Bank of India before the Supreme Court on a dispute related to the circulars on cryptocurrency.  

In tax, the firm represented the firm represented Star Group on a tax dispute related to the constitutional validity of certain provisions of the Indian Income-tax Act.  

Key clients of the firm include Actis, HSBC, Jinneng Clean Energy Technology, Kochi Cricket, Lauren Jyoti, Nissan Motor, Reserve Bank of India, Tata Steel and the Bank of New York Mellon.

Boutique firm Beruar & Beruar was founded in 2018 and has steadily grown since its formation. The firm has been developing its dispute resolution practice for both intellectual property and commercial disputes. Rahul Beruar is a key name in the firm's intellectual property practice.  

During the research period, the firm acting for Pearson Education before the Delhi High Court on a dispute concerning a copyright infringement against the counterfeiters. The firm is also representing GoEuro in a domain name dispute proceeding before the National Internet Exchange of India on matters concerning cybersquatting and hoarding of domain names. Elsewhere, the firm works for Kohler India Corporation before the High Court of Delhi on a dispute related to design infringement.  

In commercial space, the firm represented Macmillan Publishers India on a litigation proceeding concerning a breach of contract for the sale of books. Also, the firm represented Zee Entertainment Enterprises before the High Court of Delhi on matters in relation to an arbitration proceeding and a contractual dispute.  

Key clients of the firm include Cengage Learning, Codec Networks, Elsevier, Macmillan Publishers, MAHLE Group, McGraw Hill Education, Meru Mobility Tech, Ordinate Corporation, Pearson Education, Purolator, Springer Nature Group, Stallion Shox, Tech-Max Publications and Technical Publications.  

Client feedback 

“Being relatively new, the firm has got fresh talent. This makes them more agile and customer-focused. In the long run, they need to build a team with more depth and breadth of experience.” – Intellectual property 

Jyotsana Sinha 

“Jyotsna comes across as a very hard working and knowledgeable lawyer. She aims at providing the best solution in the shortest possible time.”

BMR Legal is a boutique firm with a strength in tax. Mukesh Butani is one of the key figures in the firm who specialises in tax-related advisory and dispute related works.  

Case highlights include acting for Spencer Stuart India in a matter related to a host of corporate tax. The firm also represented Spencer Stuart International on a dispute in relation to India-Netherlands double tax avoidance agreement and Income Tax Act. Elsewhere, the firm is representing General Motors in a litigation proceeding concerning the OECD Guidelines, US transfer pricing regulations and the United Nations Transfer Pricing Manual.  

In insolvency, case highlights include acting for a local company related to the new bankruptcy framework and whether a counteroffer could be accepted if the committee of creditors has declared a winning bidder already.  

Key clients of the firm include Goldman Sachs Services, Rolls Royce and Spencer Stuart India.

Dhir & Dhir Associates has been in operation since 1993 and the firm covers a full range of dispute practices. It has offices in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi. Best known for its works in insolvency, the firm's arbitration practice has also been on the rise. Key figures include Alok Dhir and Nilesh Sharma who specialise in insolvency work.

Case highlights include defending Soma Enterprises before the National Company Law Tribunal and Supreme Court of India in insolvency proceedings against State Bank of India on the matters related to repayment of the loan; acting for a committee of creditors through the resolution professional of Athena Demwe Power on an insolvency dispute related to the eligibility of resolution applicant under the new Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code.

In government and regulatory space, the firm represented Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of India in relation to its alleged violation of provisions of the constitution Cable Television Network Act and other relevant regulations.

Notable clients of the firm include Capri Global Capital, CSL Finance, DMI Finance, India Infoline Housing Finance, L&T Finance, Panchsheel Buildtech and Saha Estate Developers.

During the research period, the firm hired SarbasuchiDas Gupta as partner from Kotak Mahindra Bank to boost its corporate litigation practice.

Established in 2001, Economic Laws Practice (ELP) is recognised for its disputes work in competition and antitrust, international arbitration, regulatory and tax. Suhail Nathani, Rohit Jain, Jitendra Motwani and Naresh Thacker are key individuals in the firm. Thacker is singled out for his commercial and international arbitration expertise.  

Case highlights in tax include representing Welspun Global Brands in a matter related to whether the service tax is chargeable on service received from the foreign entity under reverse charge mechanism before the Customs, Excise and Service Tax Appellate Tribunal at Ahmedabad. The firm also represented Larsen & Toubro in arbitration proceedings concerning service tax.  

In government and regulatory, case highlights include acting for Multiplex Association of India on an issue concerning the challenge of the price-cap regulation. The case is related to whether the government can regulate prices charged by private businesses for goods and services that are not essential commodities.  

In commercial space, the firm represented Welspun Enterprises on a dispute before the High Court of Delhi in relation to the contract between its client and Indian Oil Corporation.  

Notable clients of the firm include Adani Power Maharashtra, Biocon, Federation of Indian Pharmaceuticals, HCL Infosystems, Heligo Charters, Indian Drug Manufacturers Association, Larsen & Toubro Sapura Shipping, Multiplex Association of India and the State of Jammu & Kashmir.

Client feedback 

“Despite the matter being routinely adjourned, the firm has been as proactive as possible in courts to maintain steady progress.” – Energy  

Naresh Thacker 

“Since obtaining a consent order and enforcement works itself has required little direction. But when strategic decisions were needed to be made, Naresh provided a reliable hand.” 

Rising law firm Fair & Just Legal Solutions has its strength in insolvency. Commercial disputes and insolvency focus partner Sharad Tyagi is a key individual in the firm.  

During the research period, the firm advised JP Engineers on insolvency proceedings against Indo Alusys Industries concerning corporate insolvency resolution process and also represented the client before courts concerning the new Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code.

Client feedback 

“Despite being a young practice, the firm has a knowledgeable team and is available whenever needed.” – Insolvency  

Sharad Tyagi 

“Mr Tyagi has good knowledge of the newly introduced Insolvency law in India. His response and prompt availability are commended.” 

Fox Mandal & Associates’ key practice areas include commercial and transactions, government and regulatory, intellectual property and international arbitration. Key contacts of the firm’s commercial litigation team include Prashantha Kumar, Kaustuv Chunder, T Vijayakumar Reddy, Rajesh Vellakkat and Santosh Singh.  

During the research period, the commercial disputes team were kept active with a number of cases including representing Bharat Petroleum Corporation, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation, Indian Oil Corporation and Union of India before the High Court relating to the right of persons with disabilities in liquid petroleum gas distributorship.  

In insolvency space, the firm represented clients including HCL Technologies and Wells Fargo EGS on a series of disputes relating to non-payment of operational debt.  

In the intellectual property area, the firm acted for Haw Par Corporation on a dispute concerning an IP infringement case. The firm is also representing Jet Lube before the High Court of Delhi on a dispute in relation to the trademark infringement.  

Other key clients of the firm include Bank Note Paper Mill India, Barclays Bank, Bharat Heavy Electricals, Hyperkonnect Technologies, Indian Oil Petronas, Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency, Jotun India, Olympia Infratech and Viacom18 Media.

Gaggar & Partners is a boutique firm recognised for its competition and antitrust work. The firm has joined Anand and Anand to form a new special purpose vehicle to provide specialised legal services to clients in music and copyright industries on entertainment law related matters. Notable figures in the competition and antitrust team include Vaibhav Gaggar and Monica Lakhanpal.  

Over the past year, the firm represented a Fortune 500 Japanese company in a competition case concerning cartels in the automobile spare parts sector in India. This is the first case in India which Leniency Rules under the Competition Act is being challenged. The firm is also representing the Competition Commission of India concerning a writ petition led by the Indian Chartered Accountants Institute challenging the constitutionality of decisions taken by its client.  

Key clients of the firm include Competition Commission of India, Hyatt and Saral Communication.

Best known for its transitional work, boutique firm Gandhi & Associates also provides a wide range of disputes services including commercial litigation, insolvency and tax litigation. Vishal Gandhi is the founder and head of the firm who is recommended for commercial and international arbitration practices.  

A key case for the firm during the research period saw the firm representing Anil Sachidanand on a dispute against Motilal Oswal Financial Services. The firm also acted for Sudesh Iyer before the Supreme Court in relation to challenging an arbitral award.

Hammurabi & Solomon is a full-service law firm with a particular focus on commercial disputes. The firm also advises clients on arbitration, mediation and negotiation and case management practice. The firm's arbitration caseload is on the rise. Shweta Bharti is a notable figure within the firm who advises on commercial and transactions related disputes.  

Case highlights include representing a telecommunication company before the appellant court where its client has been restricted from selling products in certain areas in India. The firm also acted for a well-known company in the public sector before the High Court of Delhi on a dispute related to the prescribed rates by the New Delhi Municipal Corporation.  

During the research period, both John Thomas and Digajmaan Mishra have merged their firms with Hammurabi & Solomon to strengthen the dispute resolution practice of the firm.

IndusLaw highlights litigation and dispute resolution as a cornerstone of their practice. The firm provides a full range of dispute resolution services and has been active in areas like commercial and transactions, competition and antitrust and government and regulatory. Palecanda Chinnappa and V Srinivasa Raghavan are key contacts of the commercial disputes team. Srinivasa Raghavan is also singled out for his intellectual property works.  

During the research period, the firm represented Rajiv Bansal in a high profile arbitration case concerning a dispute between the promoters of Infosys and the current board of directors. The firm is also representing ISKCON Bangalore on a dispute related to the title over a property.  

In an intellectual property case, the firm acted for Sarine Technologies before the Supreme Court on a dispute related to copyright infringement. The firm also represented Galatea India on a patent infringement dispute.   

Notable clients of the firm include 3M India, Aegion, Arvind, Citibank, Flipkart, Google, Mahindra & Mahindra, Morgan Stanley, Oravel Stays, Quikr, SAIF Partners and Sarine Technology.  

In the research period, the firm hired new partner Swapnil Khatri to its Mumbai office from Wadia Ghandy to boost the firm's litigation and dispute resolution practice.

K&S Partners is a boutique law firm dedicated to providing legal services related to intellectual property since 1994. The firm comprises of more than 110 professionals. The firm has offices in Bangalore, Chennai, Gurgaon, Hyderabad and Mumbai.  

Key name of the firm is Rajendra Kumar who is recommended for intellectual property. Other key contacts include Prashant Gupta, Priya Rao and Sanjeev Kumar Tiwari.  

In the research period, the firm acted for Gilead Pharmasset on a dispute over a patent. Also, the firm is representing Lightning Technologies in an intellectual property infringement case where the firm successfully obtained an order of continuing stay against the infringer and to stop those infringing activities.  

In the trademark space, the firm represented AVR Kumbakonam Silver Shop and AVR Sons on domain name and trademark infringement disputes. Elsewhere, the firm acted for Valagro in a trademark infringement litigation against the client's former distributor and obtained an interim injunction successfully.

Keystone Partners is an independent Indian firm with a specific focus on dispute resolution. The firm has offices in Bengaluru, Mumbai and New Delhi. The firm provides a full range of dispute resolution services including commercial disputes, construction, government and regulatory, intellectual property and international arbitration.  

Arun Sri Kumar, Anupama Hebbar and Pradeep Nayak are key partners for disputes work. Hebbar is notable for her practices in government and regulatory, insolvency and intellectual property. Nayak is the key contact of the firm’s commercial disputes and international arbitration.

Case highlights in the research period include representing a diamond processing products manufacturer on a shareholder dispute between Indian shareholders and German shareholders of the client regarding the sale of shares. This case involves a sophisticated legal question as to whether the sale of shares outside India could be challenged before the National Company Law Tribunal in India. The firm is also acting for a local client in a legal proceeding to seek a declaration to terminate the development agreement entered by the client and a building for the development.  

In government and regulatory, the firm represented 20 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender alumni and students of the Indian Institutes of Technology in public interest litigation before the Supreme Court. The case was a landmark case in India where the court struck down Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code which criminalises homosexuality. 

Client feedback 

“We have received an exceptional response from the law firm in all our queries. It has been a good experience working with them; be it for research, drafting or briefing external counsels.” – Government and regulatory 

Anupama Hebbar 

“Always available and is very experienced in the sector. She is a pleasure to work with.” 

Khaitan & Co is a top Indian firm with offices in Bengaluru, Kolkata, Mumbai and New Delhi. The firm is well respected by the peers and clients in India for its dispute resolution work. The firm also advises on transactional matters and provides strategic plans before and after litigations. The firm is highly regarded in different dispute resolution practice areas including commercial and transactions, competition and antitrust, construction, government and regulatory, insolvency and international arbitration.  

Notable lawyer from the firm’s intellectual property team is Ajay Bhargava. Sanjeev Kapoor is a key contact for commercial disputes. Sudip Mullick is prominent in the construction sector.  

Case highlights in commercial disputes include representing a client in an arbitration on a dispute related to a fuel supply agreement which pertains to the levy of liquidated damages on account of shortfall in offtake of the fuel; and representing Candor Gurgaon Two Developers & Projects on a dispute involving a complex legal question like the evidential value of an oral agreement and agreement by conduct vis-à-vis a written agreement.

Other case highlights in the past 12 months include advising Mahindra & Mahindra and Mahindra Electric Mobility on a dispute against the Union of India and the Competition Commission of India (CCI) challenging the constitution, composition and functioning of the CCI and the Competition Appellate Tribunal.  

In the construction area, the firm represented a client in relation to the attribution of responsibility for delay in several complex construction projects. The firm also represented a client in arbitration proceedings against an insurance company concerning the law of subrogation and whether a contractor would be held liable for an incident occurred after the defect liability period has expired.  

The firm's regulatory team handled a case for Idea Cellular where the case is concerning the need for data protection regime in India. The firm also represented Multiplex Association of India before the Supreme Court on a dispute concerning the order made by the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir that the State of Jammu and Kashmir and the multiplexes and cinema hall owners in the States cannot prohibit cinema goers from carrying out their own food and beverage inside the theatre. Elsewhere, the firm represented Tamil Nadu Medical Officers Association on an important constitutional issue concerning the reservation for in-service doctors for the postgraduate medical admissions in the state of Tamil Nadu.

In an insolvency case, the firm advised the State Bank of India in a loan default proceeding against Alok Industries related to a corporate insolvency resolution plan. In international arbitration, the firm represented a client on an appointment of the arbitral tribunal before the Supreme Court concerning the disputes regarding a setup of a steel plant at the client's site.  

Client feedback 

“Very prompt response from a dedicated subject matter expert. What was obvious was the complete control of the senior partner who was there to guide the litigation through very effectively.” – Commercial and transactions  

“The firm's work in the commercial dispute area is up to mark. However, more awareness of regulatory matters is advised.” – Government and regulatory 

Ajay Bhargava 

“Very responsive, quick executor and approachable.”  

“He is really responsive to client needs. Very pragmatic, quick on the uptake and provides very innovative solutions.” 

L&L Partners, formerly known as Luthra & Luthra, has been busy handling work across all the core dispute resolution practice areas. The firm is particularly strong in commercial disputes, antitrust and regulatory, construction, insolvency and international arbitration.   

Rajiv Luthra, Sudhir Sharma and Bobby Chandhoke are key contacts within the firm’s commercial disputes team. Prashant Pakhiddey and Gayatri Roy are highlighted for their work in antitrust and IP related disputes respectively.

Case highlights include representing Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India in an insolvency dispute before the National Company Law Tribunal to obtain its approval for the resolution plan. The firm also represented Felguera Gruas India on client claims for damages and return of proceeds of bank guarantees against RVR India due to the termination of contracts.  

Elsewhere in the construction area, the firm acted for Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services before the Commercial Court to seek an injunction on encashment of the bank guarantee.  

Notable clients of the firm include Affle, Biocon, Facebook, Felguera Gruas, Flipkart, Lufthansa, LVMH, Mylan, Parsons Brinckerhoff, Pro Kabaddi League, Swatch Group, the India Today Group, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, Tupperware and Yahoo.

Lall & Sethi is an independent Indian firm dedicated to provide intellectual property dispute services to its clients. The firm was founded by Chander Lall and Sandeep Sethi in 1993. The firm has a good reputation in trademark contentious work.  

Key figures in the firm include Anju Khanna, Jyotideep Kaur, Raghav Malik and Tia Malik, while Malik led the majority of cases during the research period. 

Highlight cases include representing FILA on a trademarks infringement dispute and obtained an ad-interim ex-parte injunction; acting for Hugo Boss on a dispute related to infringement of trademarks. Elsewhere in the patent space, the firm acted for DSM Sinochem Pharmaceuticals Netherlands before the High Court of Delhi on a patent dispute.

Link Legal India Law Services has a broad disputes practice acting across a wide range of sectors including aviation, banking and financial service, construction and energy. Atul Sharma is a key figure of the firm’s commercial disputes team. Siddharth Srivastava is recommended for insolvency expertise.  

One case highlight from the research period saw the firm represent Delhi International Airport before the Supreme Court on a high profile dispute involving a determination of aeronautical tariff in respect of Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi.   

In the insolvency area, the firm acted for a consortium of over 20 banks led by Punjab National Bank against the defaulting borrower Surya Vinayak Industries and its guarantors for recovery of outstanding debt. Elsewhere, the firm represented Acteon India to oppose a petition under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code filed against the client by the operational creditor. The firm also works for Sundaresh Bhat with BDO India in an insolvency resolution proceedings.

In a commercial arbitration case, the firm represented Ramky MSW against Guwahati Municipal Corporation on a dispute related to an integrated municipal solid waste management project that was implemented in Guwahati. The firm also acted for NR Agarwal Industries an investment dispute.  

In the competition area, the firm represented SpiceJet concerning the actions by various airlines in fixing fuel surcharge for transportation of cargo. The firm also represented BDP Design Engineering in a litigation on the practice of architecture.

In the construction space, the firm acted for WAPCOS on contractual disputes arose out of a landmark infrastructure project Afghan-India Friendship Dam where the contractor was seeking of revision of rates. The firm also represented GMR Infrastructure against Doosan Power Systems India and GMR Chattisgarh Energy before the Singapore International Arbitration Centre. The case involved a unique issue relating to the applicability of the doctrine of alter ego to bind its clients to pay to Doosan.  

In government and regulatory, the firm represented Indraprastha Medical Corporation on a dispute regarding applicability of the revised minimum wage in Delhi.  

Key clients include Ansaldo Signalling and Transportation Systems, BDP Design Engineering, Chhattisgarh Energy, GMR Infrastructure, Hasbro, NR Agarwal Industries, Power Finance Corporation, Soma Enterprises and Wanbury.  

Client feedback 

“With a blend of youngsters and veterans in the legal field, Link Legal has an extremely talented team. The lawyers in the firm are quite well informed about the latest developments. Their strategic thinking and in-depth analysis of any issue assist the client in making decisions.” – Construction 

Atul Sharma 

“Atul Sharma is a veteran in dispute resolution. His understanding of construction contracts is well known. He is meticulous and thorough.” 

Siddharth Srivastava 

“Sidhartha is very good in dispute resolution. He has enviable expertise on the recent Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (India).” 

Mason & Associates has been operated since 2006 and has a specific focus on intellectual property disputes. Neel Mason and Ankit Relan are one of the key figures in the firm, where Relan handles commercial disputes in different sectors including healthcare, media and entertainment and sports.  

In the research period, the firm acted for Amar Biotech to secure its rights on the grounds that the defendant's patent is invalid under the Indian law. The firm also secured an amendment of the interim injunction for Google and YouTube to limit their liability in a trademark infringement case.  

Key clients of the firm include Amar Biotech, Google, Lahari Recording Company, National Internet Exchange of India, Phonographic Digital, Recorded Music Performance, T-Series, YouTube and Zostel.

Nishith Desai Associates is a prominent firm in India that regularly handles commercial, construction, government and regulatory, international arbitration and tax disputes. The firm is highly respected by peers and clients in the market.  

Key figures of the firm’s commercial disputes team include Vyapak Desai and Ashish Kabra. Moazzam Khan is a key figure for international arbitration practice. 

During the research period, the firm represented the Confederation of Real Estate Developers Association of India before the Competition Commission of India on matters related to anti-competitive activities and exercise of abuse of dominance by the respective state government through their statutory authorities Directorate of Town and Country Planning Haryana and Urban Development Authority.  

In commercial and international arbitration spaces, the firm represented Johnson & Johnson India in an ongoing international arbitration proceeding related to a commercial dispute. The firm also represented the client for the arbitration petitions before the High Court of Bombay and the Supreme Court. Elsewhere, the firm acted for an Indian fund against an Indian public listed infrastructure company and its promoters to enforce a domestic award that involved one of the largest cost orders in India. The firm obtained favourable orders from the court.  

Client feedback 

“The strengths of the firm is its pan India presence and its dedicated professionals. Well versed with the subject matter and the law. Skilled in persuasion. Diligent and collaborative.” – White-collar crime 

“Delighted with their ability to accurately represent my interests and perspectives. Very reliable, always reachable and impeccably professional.” – White-collar crime  

Ashish Kabra 

“Top notch, very professional, responsive, smart and always reliable. Very knowledgeable on the subject matter.” 

P&A Law Offices is a law firm dedicated to international commercial arbitration and works related to international investment in commercial law. Anand Pathak is head of the firm's dispute resolution team and a notable figure in the international arbitration market in the market.  

During the research period, the firm represented Daiichi Sankyo before the High Court and Supreme Court to enforce an arbitral award made in Singapore. Before the execution proceeding, the firm also represented Daiichi Sankyo before the arbitral tribunal in Singapore on a dispute claiming damages from its former promoters.  

In an international investment arbitration case, the firm acted for the Government of India on a dispute initiated by an investor based in the United Arab Emirates. The dispute concerns a bilateral investment treaty between the Republic of India and the Government of the United Arab Emirates on the protection and promotion of investments.  

In the competition area, the firm represented General Motors on a dispute regarding the constitutionality of certain provisions of the Competition Act 2002 and the regulations framed under the Competition Commission of India (General) Regulations 2009.   

Key clients of the firm include Amazon, Government of India, ICICI Prudential, ICICI Securities, LG Electronics India, LG Household and Healthcare, Mercedes Benz, Ministry of Heavy Industries of the Government of India, National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation and Zostel.  

Client feedback 

“They have good relationships with the senior counsel and are able to strategically retain them. However, their responsiveness could be improved.” – International arbitration 

Anand Pathak 

“He is good in understanding our needs.” 

Established in 2008, Phoenix Legal is a full-service law firm with a particular strength in insolvency. Jyoti Singh and Trinath Tadakamalla are key contacts for insolvency and commercial disputes practice respectively.

In the research period, the firm represented the Federation of Indian Airlines before the Supreme Court against a direction passed by the National Green Tribunal. The firm also represented Pioneer India Electronics on a dispute related to the recovery of outstanding receivable and tax liability.  

In insolvency area, the firm advising the Edelweiss Asset Reconstruction concerning the interpretation of key provisions of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code including the issues of constitution of the committee of creditors and determination of voting share of a financial creditor during the corporate insolvency resolution process, the powers of a resolution professional, verification and admission of claims.  

In an international arbitration case, the firm represented the Bocimar International for execution of four foreign arbitral awards. In this case, the firm has also secured an order for attachment of shares of the judgment debtor and appointment of an Advocate Commissioner to assist in the sale of shares of the judgment debtors in satisfaction of the decree.  

Apart from international arbitration, the firm is also active in intellectual property disputes. The firm represented the ARG Outlier Media Asianet News on a dispute related to the trademark infringement and domain name dispute.  

Key clients of the firm include ARG Outlier Media Asianet News, Federation of Indian Airlines and the Travel Corporation.

Boutique firm PSL Advocates & Solicitors has offices in Delhi and Mumbai. The firm focuses on international commercial arbitration, insolvency and tax disputes. Sameer Jain is the notable figure of the firm who is recommended for commercial disputes and international arbitration. He was the lead partner for most of the cases during the research period.  

Over the past year, the firm represented the Airports Authority of India in a commercial arbitration case on a dispute in relation to the powers of public authorities to evict unauthorized occupants from public premises in circumstances that there is an arbitration clause between the parties. The firm also represented Wipro on a dispute related to the breach of master service agreement between the parties and the non-payment of the respondent.  

In insolvency space, the firm advised the Bank of India in an insolvency proceeding related to the guarantors of the corporate debtor. Elsewhere, the firm represented SBS Transpole Logistics as an operational creditor against the corporate debtor where its client missed out the public announcement of liquidation. This case was a landmark case which set a precedent for admission of claims by creditors at belated stages.  

In a tax litigation case, the firm represented Universal Cylinders before the Supreme Court concerning a tax refund on a subsequent reduction of the sale price on price variation. This case creates a ripple effect for the benefit of manufacturer and suppliers of the petroleum goods the clarification of the relevant law. The Supreme Court stated that a sales tax assessee is entitled to receive the refund of excess tax paid on provisional sale price under the circumstance that the price gets reduced subsequently on price variation.  

The firm frequently advises high-profile clients including Russian government, Alumbra Entertainment and Wave Cinemas.  

The firm hired Soayib Qureshi and Angad Sandhu to strengthen its dispute resolution team. Qureshi focuses on commercial litigation, arbitration and white-collar crime. Sandhu specialises in anti-dumping law, commercial disputes, competition and taxation.

Founded in 1999, Rajani Associates covers a full range of dispute practices. A significant proportion of the firm’s works are commercial litigation and property laws-related matters. The firm's insolvency caseload is on the rise. Prem Rajanim, Devesh Juvekar and Mayur Shetty are key contacts of the firm’s commercial disputes team.  

In the research period, the firm advised Sony Music on matters in relation to an operational creditor against the debtor for loan payment of invoices for the services rendered under the license agreement. The firm also represented Maldar Barrels on a case related to a petition against a corporate debtor.  

Over the past year, the firm acted for the promotors of Suryalakshmi Cotton Mills before the Securities and Exchange Board of India in a proceeding related to violation of the rule of prohibition of insider trading. The firm also represented the directors of Offroad Productions on a dispute concerning disqualified directors.  

Key clients include Conros Steel, Maharaja Dyeing, Rashtriya Metals Industries, Sharad Agarwal, Topworth Steel and Power, Versatile Realtors and Vistar Metal Industries.

S&R Associates is a full-service law firm based in Mumbai and New Delhi. Niti Dixit is a key figure within the firm who is recommended for her expertise in international arbitration and government and regulation matters.  

All the firm’s case examples remain confidential, but shows activity in commercial disputes, competition and antitrust, and international arbitration practices.

Samvad Partners picks up notable work in the commercial and transactions, international arbitration, insolvency and intellectual property areas. Key contacts of the firm include Arjun Krishnan and Rohan George.  

Case highlights include representing the CCI before the Supreme Court on a case arose out of allegations of cartel formation by India’s incumbent telecom operators to block the entry of Reliance Jio Infocomm. The case was one of the important cases for the development of India's competition law jurisprudence. The firm also represented the CCI in another case before the Supreme Court where it was the first case in relation to the role of the commission as a regulator for mergers and acquisitions in India and the court clarify in respect of the relevant regulation.  

In insolvency, the firm acted for CG Power & Industrial Solutions against ACC on a dispute concerning whether the definition of ‘dispute’ under the new Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code would cover the pendency of an appeal against a court order upholding an arbitral award.  

Key clients of the firm include Antrix Corporation, Competition Commission of India and InterGlobe Aviation.

Sarthak Advocates & Solicitors is an independent law firm with a particular focus on corporate and commercial laws. The principal office of the firm is situated in New Delhi. The firm is recognised for its work in government and regulatory.  

The managing partner, Abhishek Nath Tripathi routinely interacts with governmental and regulatory authorities in India such as Department of Telecommunication and Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority, Reserve Bank of India and Securities and Exchange Bank of India. He is also recommended for his work in insolvency. Mani Gupta is noted for her experience in commercial disputes.  

During the research period, the firm represented OM Metals Infraprojects on a dispute challenging the arbitral award. The firm also represented Bharat Heavy Electricals before the arbitral tribunal on a dispute related to the prolongation of a civil contract.  

Notable clients of the firm include Archer Daniels Midland, Airtel, Archean Group, Chaudhary Group of Nepal, Coastal Projects, General Motors, Hindustan Power, Hindustan Zinc, POSCO, Sterlite Industries and Viterra.  

Client feedback 

“We are satisfied with the way they assist us in our legal matters. The partners are always involved in each issue along with the associates in providing cohesive and strategic solutions to our legal issues.” – Dispute resolution 

Abhishek Tripathi 

“Abhishek has in-depth knowledge of arbitration right from drafting various applications to appearing and arguing before the Tribunal. He is our go-to lawyer for all commercial legal issues.”

Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co is a top tier firm with offices in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Gurugram, Kolkata, Mumbai and New Delhi. The firm has expertise across all the dispute resolution practice areas, including commercial and transactions, competition law, construction, government and regulatory, insolvency, international arbitration and tax. The firm's practice in the aviation industry has been strengthened over the past year.  

Key names in the firm’s commercial disputes team include Dhruv Dewan, Aashish Gupta, Tejas Karia, Pallavi Shroff and Ajit Warrier. Shroff is also picked out for her experience in competition and antitrust disputes. Misha is recommended for her insolvency and tax practices.

Case highlights in the commercial disputes area include representing Ratan Tata and Amit Chandra in an ongoing appellate proceeding in relation to the petition filed by certain minority shareholders. This case involves one of the top and well-known industrial conglomerates in India. The firm is also acting for Zuari Agro Chemicals on an ongoing case in relation to the jurisdiction of the tribunal to pass appropriate remedial orders in a situation where the shareholders who were in control when the prejudicial acts complained of were committed are no longer in the management of the company.  

On the competition side, highlights from the research period include working for International Spirits and Wine Association of India on whether the monopoly in favour of a private entity can be created in trade in liquor. The firm also advised Uber concerning the allegations of anti-competitive conduct in the radio-taxi market in four different cities in India and the abuse of dominance in the market.  

In an international arbitration case, the firm represented Vikram Bakshi and Bakshi Holdings on a dispute concerning the seat of the arbitration and the definition of the scope and ambit of the arbitrability of the disputes. The firm also represented OCI Corporation before the High Court of Gujarat and Supreme Court for the enforcement of an arbitral award made in London.  

Key clients of the firm include AirAsia, Powerica, the State Bank of India, Tata Sons and Vodafone.  

Client feedback 

“The law firm has done a very decent job of identifying the merits and demerits, researching related judicial precedents and briefing the senior counsel. The firm took full ownership in reaching the logical conclusion of the matter.” – Commercial and transactions  

“Prudent yet aggressive. Their pragmatism and drive to win every hearing and submission are applauded.” – International arbitration 

“The litigation partner has run the case right from its beginning. This is a significant matter for the bank (he also provides support for other matters). He has been always available, approachable and is on top of every leg of the matter. Knowledgeable beyond just the law, practice and regulations.” – White-collar crime 

Rishab Gupta 

“There couldn't be a better arbitration lawyer in the field. Needs to focus on industry-wide solutions to advance the avenues for arbitration in the country.” 

Nishant Joshi 

“He is one of the most approachable, accessible and knowledgeable lawyers when it comes to criminal law; especially white collar crimes.” 

“His weakness is that he refuses to talk about himself or use platforms to showcase his strengths. Too humble!” 

Nitesh Jain 

“Outstanding.” 

Juhi Mathur 

“Very diligent, hardworking and most of all approaches her work with a lot of care.” 

Ajoy Roy 

“Outstanding professional with a refined sense of commercial law and business.” 

Sim & San advises on a range of dispute resolution practice areas but is best known for its intellectual property work. The firm's case also highlights work in international arbitration and commercial disputes. Key contacts of the firm’s commercial and intellectual property disputes team include Sangeeta Goel, Mohit Goel and Sidhant Goel.  

Notable work in the commercial disputes area includes representing IRCON International on a dispute related to the design and supervision services contract. The firm is also acting for Lifestyle Equities in an ongoing arbitration case related to the clothing industry.  

On the intellectual property side, highlights from the research period include a work for Sanrok Enterprises on a copyright dispute in relation to the infringement of the proprietary drawings of the client. The firm is also acting for Communication Components Antenna in an ongoing case related to the patent infringement. Elsewhere, the firm advising MakeMyTrip on a trademark infringement by the defendant.  

Key clients include Bright Enterprises, Lifestyle Equities, MakeMyTrip, Sanrok Enterprises and United Biotech.

Singh & Associates is a full-service firm with offices in Bengaluru, Gurugram, Mumbai and New Delhi. The firm has strengths in commercial and transactions, construction, insolvency and tax. The firm is active in diverse sectors including construction, energy, manufacturing, mining, real estate and shipping.  

Key contacts of the firm’s commercial disputes team include Manoj Singhm, Gunita Pahwa and Daizy Chawla.  

During the research period, the firm represented Jindal ITF in an ongoing case related to an appeal against its client and the interim order made by the arbitral tribunal under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act. The firm also advised Jindal SAW, Jindal ITF and Sulog Transshipment Services on matters related to the recovery of costs, damages, expenses and losses due to the negligence and breaches by the Crowley Accord Marine Management in providing management services.   

In the construction and infrastructure sector, the firm acted for JITF Urban Waste Management on a dispute relating to the concession agreement. This case involved a pioneer project initiated by the local government of Punjab. The firm also worked for Gwalior Bypass Project before the arbitral tribunal on a dispute related to the supplementary agreement in a construction project. Elsewhere, the firm successfully represented Era Infra Engineering against Aravali Power Company relating to the civil works executed by the client at Aravali Power’s power plant at Indira Gandhi Super Thermal Power Project.  

In a competition case, the firm advised Shrem Infraventure and Shrem Roadways to obtain the permission from the Competition Commission of India to invest in its subsidiaries under a provision of Competition Act.  

In the insolvency space, the firm defended for M B Malls against the case filed by the Oriental Bank of Commerce due to its client not able to repay the loan given.  

Key clients of the firm include Adel Landmarks, Cosmos Infra Engineering, Dilip Buildcon, Dunar Foods, Era Infra Engineering, Gorodissky and Partners, Hexa Tradex, PNC Infratech, Shrem Group and Themis Medicare.

The firm hired Rupesh Gupta as partner from SRGR Law Offices last year to boost its practices in litigation and alternative dispute resolution.

Singh & Singh is lauded as one of the leading intellectual property firms in India by peers and clients. The firm was also active in competition and antitrust-related disputes in the past year.

Key figures of the firm include Sudeep Chatterjee and Saya Choudhary who are recommended for their work in intellectual property.  

During the research period, the firm represented Entertainment Network India against HT Media on a trademark dispute involving the interplay between the internet and terrestrial channels. The firm also represented Samsung India Electronics on a dispute concerning trademark infringement, copyright, unfair competition, dilution and recovery of damages from the damages. Elsewhere, the firm acted for Zee Entertainment Enterprises before the High Court of Delhi on a copyright dispute.

In the competition area, the firm is working on a case related to the conflict between the Patent Act and Competition Act.  

Key clients of the firm include Havells, Orbit Corporate Leisure Travels, Prius Auto Industries and Samsung India Electronics.  

Over the past year, the firm hired two new partners to boost its practices. Anusuya Nigam joined the firm from Karanjwala & Co where his core practice area lies in intellectual property. K R Pradeep joined the firm to enhance its tax practice.

Client feedback 

“Singh & Singh is an IP law firm which has handled several matters which have laid down the IP jurisprudence in India besides numerous reported Judgments. Mr Sudeep Chatterjee, managing partner of the firm is a good strategist and a litigator having capability of finding simple solutions to complex problems and situations. Its lightning speed turnaround and cost-effectiveness as well as out of box thinking are some of its USPs. It is always a good learning opportunity when working with the ever so collaborative Mr Chatterjee.” – Intellectual property  

Sudeep Chatterjee 

“Able to understand legal issues from business and in house counsel perspectives. Provides doable solutions.” 

Singhania & Partners has been in operation since 1999. With offices in Bangalore, Gurugram, Hyderabad and New Delhi, the firm provides services in a wide of practices areas and is best known for its commercial disputes and construction practice. Key contacts of the firm’s commercial disputes team include Ravi Singhania, Shilpa Shah and Dipak Rao.  

In the research period, the firm worked for the subsidiaries of McGraw-Hill in India on issues related to reverse merger of McGraw Hill Education (India) into McGraw Hill Educational Services India. The firm also represented S&P Global in India on a case before the high court and the National Company Law Tribunal in relation to a merger within group of companies.  

In the construction sector, the firm is representing Punj Lloyd-embawang-Sembawang (India)-Joint Venture before the arbitral tribunal on a dispute between the contractor and a public authority over the construction of three elevated metro stations. The firm also represented C&C Constructions in a domestic construction arbitration and adjuration proceedings worth around $75.5 million.  

Key clients of the firm include Amfora Wine and Foods, Balmer Lawrie, Fanem Medical Devices India, Ingress Industrial, McGraw-Hill, NMB Minebea UK and Tupperware India.

Solomon & Co is one of the oldest law firms in India and is known for its commercial and construction disputes. It also often acts on insolvency and intellectual property related disputes while its arbitration caseload is on the rise. Jonathan Solomon is the key figure of the firm who led most of the highlighted cases during the research period. Solomon is particularly known for his work in insurance.

During the research period, the firm acted for Hewlett Packard Financial Services on the enforcement of an arbitral award with interest and costs.  

In the construction area, the firm represented Metro Developers on a dispute involving the redevelopment rights of a plot of land in Chembur. The firm also represented Worli Shivshahi Co-operative Housing Society on a dispute related to easementary rights for the property.

In the commercial disputes, the firm advised L&T Finance on a recovery of the financial assistance provided to the builder and its subsidiaries which are constructing a slum redevelopment project.  

In the insolvency area, the firm represented Lampex Electronics in a legal proceeding related to an insolvency resolution process against the corporate debtor. The firm also provided legal strategies to clients on matters concerning filing an application under the Reserve Bank of India Act before the National Company Law Tribunal.  

Key clients of the firm include HCL Technologies, Hewlett-Packard Financial Services, HSBC, Lampex Electronic, Metro Developers, Rochem India, Union Asset Management Company and Vakksh Capital Company.

Tandon & Company has offices in Delhi and Mumbai and represents clients in all areas of disputes. The firm's core dispute practice areas are commercial, intellectual property and regulatory. Founder Kunal Tandon is noted as one of the key figures of the firm and led all of the highlighted cases during the research period. He has a particular focus on commercial and intellectual property disputes.  

In the research period, the firm represented Bennett Coleman & Co on a trademark and copyright infringement dispute on the client's rights over the brand and trademark in television, digital and print media. The firm also acted for B4U Television in a copyright infringement case related to the client’s right for commercial exploitation of the motion picture.  

In the commercial sector, the firm represented Edelweiss Insurance Brokers on a contractual dispute concerning the insurance broker’s claim against the client and an insurance company for damages due to the alleged deficiency of services as insurance amount did not grant under a fire insurance policy.  

Notable clients of the firm include 9XM, B4U, Disney, Ernst & Young, HDFC Bank, IndiaCast Media Distribution, KPMG, State Bank of India, Sony and Sri Adhikari Brothers Television Network.

Veritas Legal is a boutique firm primarily focusing on commercial dispute resolution. The firm also handles work in intellectual property, pharmaceuticals and real estate. The firm's international arbitration practice has steadily grown over the past year.  

Rahul Dwarkadas is noted as the key partner of the firm specialising in litigation and alternative dispute resolution. He handles numerous commercial, government and regulatory and intellectual property-related disputes.  

During the research period, the firm represented Apex Realty on an arbitration case in relation to a contractual dispute. The firm also advised Pfizer on a dispute involving a business transfer agreement.  

In an insolvency case, the firm represented clients on a case challenging the approval resolution plan by the minority creditors. This case involved a fundamental legal issue of whether a minority financial creditor could be a stall in the entire resolution process by merely filing an application for some technical objection.  

Key clients of the firm include Apex Realty, IMICL Dighi Maritime, Lodha Pranik Landmark Developers and Pfizer.