I’m an A0 working in a random law firm doing corp law stuff. We have a general practice, client centred work - basically do what the client asks for. I hate it all. The deadlines are unrealistic, there is no senior guidance, absolute lack of training, high expectations, and the nature of work feels more clerical (mapping documents, copying precedents, data entry). I dislike that the commercial aspects of things take priority over the law, and many times the client’s wishes are catered to. All of that is fine, but I need the law.

I’ve done litigation internships. Got great feedback, my seniors relied on my first cuts which were filed. I liked going through the files to find arguments to craft and do research on the law. It was exciting. I like the fact that my seniors had control over their time, had vacations, but more importantly, they had ownership of their work and the money they made.

Dad’s a lawyer and I’m thinking of moving to litigation given that it flows more naturally to me, and I cannot find myself interested enough in corp law work. I’ve thought about this, and I don’t think I can do this long term.

How is litigation in a city like Mumbai or Delhi? What are the growth prospects? What makes young lawyers choose corp law jobs (apart from the money)?

Moreover, if there are folks who moved out of law firms to do litigation (either in a firm or chamber) how was it like? Would you recommend moving to a firm’s disputes practice first or directly to a chamber?

TIA