Top 10 Powerhouse Mumbai-Based Lawyers Shaping India’s Corporate/M&A Landscape in 2023

Mumbai is known for its bustling trade and distinct global taste, particularly when it comes to corporate law and mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Its formidable legal landscape is powered by a group of exceptional and commendable Mumbai-based lawyers. They are experts in overseeing complex business negotiations, safeguarding companies from legal snares, and assisting in influential corporate acquisitions. Their work goes beyond local frontiers, often making a significant impact on the global M&A scene.

These lawyers with their remarkable experience and expertise have made a distinctive name for themselves in the global market. Each of them with their unique style of work, portfolio, and client list form the backbone of Mumbai’s vibrant environment for corporate law and M&A. This article profiles ten of the key contributors and their respective firms, providing insights into their accomplishments and the value they bring to India’s corporate legal landscape.

They have colorful and intriguing journeys, which have seen them counsel many international corporations, champion cross-border transactions, and expertly manage critical acquisitions. Let’s delve deeper into the professional lives of these brilliant individuals who also happen to be the pillars of Mumbai’s business law world.

Anand Desai

Anand Desai, the Managing Partner at DSK Legal, is known for his adept handling of both domestic and international deals and disputes. Anand’s areas of expertise include corporate acquisitions and share transactions, including the structuring and negotiation of cross-border deals. His expertise extends to represent businesses and individuals alike, making him a veteran in the legal field.

Rabindra Jhunjhunwala

Stationed in Mumbai, Rabindra Jhunjhunwala of Khaitan & Co advises on significant cross-border agreements. He is highly regarded by peers and often oversees the India component of global M&A transactions. His nuanced understanding of the law has earned him recognition and respect in the legal circles.

Sridhar Gorthi

A prominent figure in cross-border investments and acquisitions, Sridhar Gorthi of Trilegal is well-known in Mumbai’s legal market. His portfolio extends to well-known domestic and international clients, reinforcing his standing as an industry leader.

Alka Bharucha

Senior Partner at Bharucha & Partners, Alka Bharucha leads an impressive career through her engagements in domestic and cross-border deals. She particularly focuses on transactions in the TMT space, making her a prominent name in the industry.

Apurva Diwanji

Apurva Diwanji, from Desai & Diwanji, has helped numerous international companies establish themselves in India. Even in the absence of a firm website, his reputation precedes him as a well-known name in the Mumbai legal market.

Zia Mody

Mumbai based Zia Mody, one of India’s pre-eminent lawyers from AZB & Partners, leads her team on high-end acquisitions, joint ventures, investments, and delisting. She is recognized for her work with multinational corporations and major Indian corporates.

Darshan Upadhyay

Based in Mumbai, Darshan Upadhyay of Stratage Law Partners is known for his efficiency in closing acquisitions and share purchases. He has considerable experience advising corporates in the healthcare, life sciences, and chemical sectors.

Rajat Sethi

From the Mumbai office of S&R Associates, Rajat Sethi handles inbound investments and cross-border acquisitions on behalf of both buyers and sellers, strengthening his rapport in the corporate legal sector.

Nishant Parikh

Considered a highly regarded lawyer, Nishant Parikh’s activity incorporates restructuring and joint venture work, along with large M&A deals. He is a partner at Trilegal’s Mumbai office, further establishing his reputation in the Mumbai legal market.

Akshay Chudasama

Known as one of the top corporate lawyers in India, Akshay Chudasama is the managing partner of Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co. His expertise extends to high-end M&A deals, where he represents both domestic and international clients, particularly from the real estate sector.

These seasoned professionals continue to redefine the legal landscape in India. They have carved out a niche for themselves in the field of corporate law and M&A, making Mumbai not just India’s commercial capital but also its legal powerhouse.