The app, dubbed Nishith Mobile, is available on the respective platforms’ app stores and includes the latest client alert “hotline” knowledge articles normally published on the firm’s website, as well as push notifications of new articles directly to those who download the mobile app.

Managing partner Nishith Desai said: “It makes it easier for people to access all the knowledge that we have.”

“Information has been democratised,” he added, and explained that NDA was a “knowledge driven firm” that had produced hundreds of articles in its time that it was always keen to share. While other law firms might use the ideas or information in the articles, he said that ultimately a benefit would nevertheless flow to the firm, such as being recognised for thought-leadership.

The email announcing the app stated:

“As you know Nishith Desai Associates has always been at the forefront of technology and innovation. In an effort to make information and knowledge on legal, tax and regulatory subjects, more accessible to our viewers, we have launched a mobile application, Nishith Mobile.

“The idea is to update and educate our audience on an ongoing basis by providing prompt and live access to the changing business environment in India. The application is a cross-platform app for Android, Apple IOS and Blackberry OS 10. We hope our new feature allows you to connect with us more often!”

International law firms have been launching mobile apps for the past several years, ranging from simple portals to their website to more complex apps that provide access to statutes and court cases or graduate recruitment.

An online marketing expert wrote last year that apps for law firms can provide effective marketing, though they should be invested in only after a good web site that is also optimised for mobile.