In Conversation With Tejasv Anand, Principal Associate, Khaitan & Co.

Please throw light on what drove you towards the legal profession?

The driving force behind my choice of profession stems from the profound impact I witnessed the judiciary and the lawyers exerted. Observing the role of the judiciary as a vigilant overseer of both the executive and legislative branches ignited within me a deep-seated passion to contribute to this noble field. The impact of this profession on the lives of the public and their trust in the judicial system served as additional sources of inspiration for my decision to pursue this profession.

Tell us about your roles and responsibilities as Principal Associate at Khaitan & Co.

In my current role, my primary responsibility involves comprehending and studying the legal challenges faced by our clients. Subsequently, my team and I strategise the best course of action. Working within a specialised team focused on White Collar Crimes, the stakes are exceptionally high, necessitating a meticulously effective strategy that considers all potential scenarios. A comprehensive approach to each case is paramount.

Being a part of the litigation team, my duties encompass drafting pleadings, presenting arguments, and in certain instances, collaborating with and briefing Senior Advocates. These diverse responsibilities present numerous challenges, yet they also offer abundant opportunities for learning and personal growth, constituting an immensely enriching experience. As a senior member of the team, fostering close client relationships is integral to my role and responsibility in the team. Consequently, my aim is to deliver legal solutions that are not only effective and efficient but also practical and cost-efficient.

How do you see the artificial intelligence and machine learning bringing about change in the legal profession?

The evolving role of artificial intelligence both captivates and unsettles us. Among the myriad challenges lawyers face, balancing time management and work-life equilibrium looms large. However, AI presents an opportunity to alleviate these burdens by assuming tasks such as document review, proofreading and to a limited extent legal research too. For independent young counsels, AI features like chatbots offer efficiency gains by quick responses to their clients and prospective clients, sparing time and reducing the manpower costs substantially. Moreover, the legal industry stands poised for a surge in business by introducing legal tech products, enticing various legal tech companies into the fray. Concurrently, AI's impact on legal education technology promises heightened accessibility and cost-effectiveness in legal learning.

Nevertheless, while acknowledging these advancements, I believe that Technology can only complement, not replace, the human element intrinsic to the legal profession. Though machine learning will continue to play a pivotal role, it will never supplant the indispensable role of lawyers and judges. They navigate complexities in the law, interpret statutes, and apply legal principles to unique scenarios—all tasks that require human intuition, empathy, and contextual understanding. Nevertheless, the impact of technology on the legal profession in the coming years would be exciting to witness.

It's imperative to acknowledge that while AI and machine learning would undoubtedly reshape the legal landscape, the legal profession holds a pivotal role in its application to the public's lives. The Judges, Lawyers, Lawmakers and Law enforcers will need to keep pace with the rapid advancements in AI development and address disputes arising from its implementation. Additionally, the judiciary must continue its dual role as a vigilant watchdog and an advisor to legislators concerning laws governing AI and machine learning as the same would have wide ranging consequences. This symbiotic relationship between AI and the legal profession underscores the necessity for ongoing adaptation and collaboration to ensure that legal frameworks evolve alongside technological innovations, safeguarding both justice and public welfare.

What is your success mantra and what advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career path?

The most invaluable advice I've received, witnessed, and put into practice is the importance of maintaining impeccable work ethic. This quality not only distinguishes a lawyer before their seniors, clients, colleagues but also before the Hon’ble Courts. For me, "work ethic" doesn't entail working incessantly or at irregular hours. Instead, it involves adeptly managing tasks, meeting deadlines, providing clients with accurate and transparent information, and offering the best possible advice. Another essential principle is always being truthful and just before the Hon’ble Courts. As legal professionals, we carry the significant responsibility of being officers of the court, thus it's imperative to uphold fairness and honesty in all interactions with the judiciary. Lastly, I would stress the significance of embracing constructive criticism and utilizing it to refine one’s skills as a lawyer. Whether it comes from senior colleagues, clients, or the Hon'ble Courts, such feedback enriches one’s journey with invaluable wisdom and knowledge. These guiding principles have been instrumental in my professional journey thus far, and I'm confident they will continue to shape my career for years to come.