In Conversation With Anish Vohra,Associate Partner, Pier Counsel | BW Legal World 30 Under 30

Many Congratulations on winning the BW Legal World 30 under 30. How has been your initial reaction after joining the elite club of BW Legal World 30 Under 30 Lawyers and Legal Influencers? How was your experience interacting with the Jury and of the event?  

Thank you for your kind words. I am truly humbled and honored to be a part of the prestigious BW Legal World 30 Under 30. Upon hearing the news, my immediate reaction was one of immense gratitude and a renewed sense of responsibility. This recognition is not just an individual accolade, but rather a testament to the collective efforts of my team and the unwavering support from my mentors and colleagues. It is a significant milestone in my career, marking the culmination of years of dedication, hard work, and perseverance.  

Interacting with the jury was an enriching and enlightening experience. Each member brought a unique perspective to the table, challenging my thoughts and beliefs, and further inspiring me to strive for excellence in my practice. The event itself was impeccably organized, providing a wonderful platform for networking and knowledge sharing among the best in the legal profession. I am deeply appreciative of this opportunity and will endeavor to uphold the trust and faith placed in me as I continue my journey in the legal world. 

Please walk us through your journey in this field of law? When did you first realize that law was your life’s calling? 

The journey to my current position within the legal profession has been a fascinating and challenging one. My interest in law first sparked during my high school days when I started participating in debate competitions. The intricate process of argumentation, the importance of structured thinking, and the power of words to influence the course of justice fascinated me, making me realize that law was my life's calling. 

I pursued this interest at the undergraduate level from Symbiosis International University, immersing myself in legal studies, where the complexity and profound impact of law in shaping society further solidified my decision. 

My professional journey started with an internship at a well-respected law firm, where I honed my skills and deepened my understanding of legal principles. Over the years, I've navigated through various roles, facing challenges and opportunities that have shaped me both personally and professionally. I've had the privilege of working with and learning from some of the best minds in the industry, each experience adding a new dimension to my approach towards law.  

 Who according to you has been your guide and mentor when you started working as a lawyer and what did you imbibe from him as a junior? 

Throughout my professional journey, I have been fortunate enough to have been guided by several mentors, but if I were to single out one person, it would be my first boss, Mr. Anand Kumar. He has been an instrumental figure in shaping my early years as a lawyer. 

From him, I learned not just the nuances of law and the art of advocacy, but also the ethics and principles that underpin our profession. He emphasized the importance of integrity, diligence, and compassion, values that I strive to uphold in my practice. 

One of the most important lessons I imbibed from him was the art of listening - to our clients, to the opposition, and to the court. This, he believed, was as important as speaking eloquently. He also instilled in me the importance of continuous learning, reminding me that the field of law is ever-evolving, and a good lawyer must always stay updated. 

Working with him was not just about understanding the black-letter law, but about understanding its spirit. He taught me that our role as lawyers extends beyond the courtroom – we are also counselors, negotiators, and problem solvers. These invaluable lessons continue to guide me in my professional journey, and I am deeply grateful for his mentorship. 

How did you decide on your practice area when you started looking for a job? How much do you think internships helped in carving out a pathway for young lawyers who intend to get in the profession? 

Choosing my practice area was a process of self-discovery, introspection, and exploration. My decision was influenced by my academic interests, my passion for social justice, and my experience during internships. I was intrigued by the intellectual challenges and societal impacts of my chosen field and believed it was an area where I could make a meaningful contribution. 

Internships played a pivotal role in shaping my career path. They provided me with practical exposure to the realities of legal practice and allowed me to apply the theoretical knowledge I gained in law school. I had the opportunity to work on diverse projects, understand the inner workings of a law firm, observe experienced lawyers in action, and even interact with clients. These experiences gave me invaluable insights into different practice areas, which helped me make an informed decision about my own career path. 

For young lawyers intending to enter the profession, internships can be a powerful tool. They offer a glimpse into the day-to-day work of a lawyer and expose you to the practical aspects of law that are often not covered in academic curriculum.  

Do you think higher degrees like LL.M. can enhance the skill set for a lawyer? If so, according to you which is the right time to pursue the same for a lawyer who has just entered the profession? 

Absolutely, I firmly believe that higher degrees such as an LL.M. can significantly enhance a lawyer's skill set. An LL.M. not only deepens your understanding of specific areas of law but also exposes you to different legal systems, cultures, and perspectives. It can equip you with specialized knowledge and skills, making you a more competent and effective lawyer in your chosen field.  

However, the decision to pursue an LL.M. should be a carefully considered one, and the timing can greatly vary depending on individual circumstances. For a lawyer who has just entered the profession, it might be beneficial to gain some practical experience first. This real-world exposure can provide a clearer understanding of your interests and aspirations, helping you choose a suitable specialization for your LL.M. 

Do you believe that AI and Technology will supersede the lawyering skills in the coming times, especially with the recent hype around ChatGPT and other AI softwares? 

The advent of AI and technology in the field of law is not merely a possibility; it's a reality we're witnessing already. AI-powered tools like ChatGPT and others are revolutionizing the way we approach legal tasks, including research, document review, contract analysis, and even predicting case outcomes.  

However, it's important to understand that these tools are designed to augment human capabilities, not replace them. Law is a profoundly human profession that demands not just intellectual rigor, but also ethical judgment, emotional intelligence, creativity, and the ability to understand and interpret the complex interplay of societal factors in a given case. These are aspects where AI, in its current state, cannot supersede human lawyering skills. 

AI can automate routine tasks, reduce human error, and provide valuable insights, thereby freeing up lawyers to focus more on higher-order tasks that require these uniquely human abilities. It can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and even democratize access to legal services. 

The recent developments in AI underscore the importance for lawyers to adapt and equip themselves with the necessary technological skills. Rather than viewing AI as a threat, we should see it as a tool that can enhance our practice. The future of law will likely involve a symbiotic relationship between lawyers and technology, where each complements the other's strengths. 

What are you doing if not lawyering? What are your hobbies in general? 

One of my passions is PC gaming. It's more than just a pastime for me - it's a world where I can immerse myself in different realities, challenge my strategic thinking, and even connect with a global community of gamers. Music is another escape for me, and playing the guitar is a form of meditation. It's a creative outlet that allows me to express myself and unwind after a long day. I'm also a football enthusiast, and I love the camaraderie and competitive spirit that comes with it. It keeps me physically active and mentally sharp. 

Diving into the world of cryptocurrencies and NFTs is another hobby of mine. It's a fascinating realm where technology, finance, and art converge, and I enjoy exploring its potential and implications. I have a penchant for collecting statues. Each piece I collect is a testament to human creativity and craftsmanship, and they add an element of beauty and history to my surroundings. 

Finally, as an avid sneaker collector, I have a deep appreciation for the blend of design, comfort, and innovation each pair represents. This hobby not only allows me to express my personal style, but it also connects me with a vibrant, global culture of fellow enthusiasts. 

As a parting note, would you please recommend a favourite book that left a lasting impression on you? What has been your most recent read? 

I've always believed that books are an indispensable part of personal and professional development, offering insights and perspectives that enrich our understanding of the world. One such book that left a profound impression on me is "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee. This classic novel, while a work of fiction, offers timeless lessons about justice, morality, and the human condition that have deeply resonated with me as a lawyer. It underscores the importance of empathy and integrity, values that I strive to uphold in my practice. 

My most recent read is "Zero to One" by Peter Thiel. This book provides a unique perspective on innovation and entrepreneurship. Thiel challenges conventional wisdom and encourages readers to think differently, to move from zero to one rather than following the crowd. It's a thought-provoking read that has prompted me to reflect on my own approach to problem-solving and creativity in my legal practice. I would highly recommend both these books to anyone seeking intellectual stimulation and inspiration.