10 Best Lawyers in India
Every society thrives on its legal system, and the stalwarts who ensure justice are its backbone. Whether you’re battling corporate disputes, seeking constitutional redress, or fighting for human rights, the right lawyer can change your fate. India boasts a lineage of legal experts who have carved a niche in diverse fields, from corporate litigation to human rights advocacy.
Curious to know who they are? From Fali S. Nariman’s constitutional expertise to Harish Salve’s international victories, these lawyers inspire respect and admiration for their unwavering commitment. This comprehensive guide explores their journeys, contributions, and unique legal feats.
Best Lawyers in India
| Rank | Name | Specialization | Key Case/Contribution | Fee (Per Appearance) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fali S. Nariman | Constitutional Law | Bhopal Gas Tragedy | ₹10-15 lakh |
| 2 | Ram Jethmalani | Criminal Law | Harshad Mehta, Emergency Period | ₹20-25 lakh |
| 3 | Nani Palkhivala | Tax & Constitutional Law | Kesavananda Bharati Case | Pro Bono Often |
| 4 | Indira Jaising | Human Rights & Gender Equity | Bhopal Gas Tragedy, Domestic Violence | ₹2-5 lakh |
| 5 | Harish Salve | Tax Law, Constitutional Law | Kulbhushan Jadhav Case | ₹30+ lakh |
| 6 | Gopal Subramanium | Criminal Law | Parliament Attack Case | ₹10-12 lakh |
| 7 | Abhishek Manu Singhvi | Corporate & Constitutional | Political Controversies | ₹6-11 lakh |
| 8 | K. K. Venugopal | Constitutional Law | Right to Privacy Case | ₹15-20 lakh |
| 9 | Mukul Rohatgi | Criminal & Corporate Law | 2G Spectrum Case | ₹10-15 lakh |
| 10 | Soli Sorabjee | Constitutional & Human Rights | Freedom of Press Advocacy | Reflective of Stature |
10 Best Lawyers in India
1. Fali S. Nariman: The Constitutional Torchbearer
Early Life and Career Highlights
Fali S. Nariman, born on 10 January 1929, is revered as a constitutional expert with over six decades of experience. A graduate of the prestigious Government Law College, Mumbai, Nariman quickly established himself as a formidable force in India’s judiciary.
Landmark Contributions
Nariman’s pivotal role in the Bhopal Gas Tragedy case showcased his mastery in balancing corporate accountability and public interest. He also played a crucial role in constitutional interpretations, especially concerning free speech and minority rights.
Why He Stands Out?
- Unmatched Expertise: His arguments on constitutional matters have shaped contemporary Indian jurisprudence.
- Commanding Presence: Known for charging ₹10-15 lakh per appearance, his value is undeniable.
2. Ram Jethmalani: The Maverick Lawyer
Early Life and Career
Ram Jethmalani, born on 14 September 1923, earned his law degree at a mere 17 years from the Government Law College, Mumbai. His sharp wit and audacious arguments catapulted him to fame.
Key Cases
Jethmalani’s defense of high-profile clients like Harshad Mehta, L. K. Advani, and Amit Shah solidified his reputation. His involvement in controversial cases, including black money litigation, set him apart as a fearless advocate.
Notable Achievements
- Recognized as one of the highest-paid lawyers during his time.
- Instrumental during India’s Emergency Period, speaking against draconian measures.
3. Nani Palkhivala: The Economic & Legal Genius
Career Highlights
Nani Palkhivala’s legal career was deeply intertwined with India’s evolving constitutional and taxation systems. His handling of the Kesavananda Bharati case, which introduced the “Basic Structure Doctrine,” remains a cornerstone of Indian law.
Educational Background
Graduating from Government Law College, Mumbai, Palkhivala was known for his prodigious memory and analytical brilliance.
Humanitarian Approach
Often undertaking pro bono cases, Palkhivala was a strong advocate for the downtrodden and a true patriot.
4. Indira Jaising: A Champion of Women’s Rights
The Trailblazer
Born on 3 June 1940, Indira Jaising is celebrated as India’s first female Additional Solicitor General. With a law degree from the University of Bombay, she became a beacon for gender equity and social justice.
Major Contributions
Jaising’s involvement in cases like the Bhopal Gas Disaster and the Domestic Violence Act enforcement highlights her dedication to societal progress.
5. Harish Salve: India’s International Legal Star
Professional Journey
A graduate of Nagpur University, Harish Salve trained under legal legend Nani Palkhivala. His international acclaim grew during the Kulbhushan Jadhav case at the International Court of Justice.
Landmark Cases
Salve’s victory in the Vodafone Tax Dispute saved the company billions and set a precedent for international taxation norms.
6. Gopal Subramanium: A Champion of Constitutional and Criminal Law
Early Life and Career Highlights
Gopal Subramanium is a leading constitutional and criminal lawyer whose career spans several decades. He has held the esteemed position of Solicitor General of India and is known for his impeccable legal expertise in both constitutional and criminal law matters.
Education
Subramanium graduated from Delhi University and soon made a name for himself in the Indian legal community. His in-depth knowledge and dedication to the law have made him a revered figure in Indian legal circles.
Major Contributions
Gopal Subramanium’s notable contributions include his role in the Parliament attack case and his representation of the Indian government in various significant matters. His legal acumen and attention to detail have earned him a reputation as one of India’s top lawyers.
Birth Date and Fee
Born on 8 August 1958, Subramanium charges a fee of around ₹10-12 lakh per appearance, depending on the nature of the case.
7. Shanti Bhushan: A Legal Giant with a Legacy of Integrity
Early Life and Career Highlights
Shanti Bhushan is a renowned Indian lawyer known for his strong stance on anti-corruption issues and his impeccable advocacy in the Indian Supreme Court. His legal career spans several decades, and his contributions to India’s legal system have earned him immense respect. He was also a founding member of the India Against Corruption movement, which aimed at exposing corruption within the government.
Education
Bhushan completed his law degree from Allahabad University and went on to build a career focused on public interest litigation and constitutional law. He was a distinguished member of the Indian Bar and also served as the President of the Supreme Court Bar Association.
Major Contributions
One of Shanti Bhushan’s landmark cases was his role in the S.R. Bommai case, where the Supreme Court upheld the rights of states against arbitrary dismissal. Bhushan has also been an advocate for transparency and accountability in governance, filing numerous petitions and lawsuits to hold the government accountable. His involvement in the 2G Spectrum case and his defense of the Right to Information Act is commendable.
Birth Date and Fee
Born on 4 November 1925, Shanti Bhushan is a towering figure in Indian legal history. Although he has contributed extensively to public interest cases, his fees are known to vary based on the complexity of the case.
8. Fali S. Nariman: A Constitutional Law Pioneer
Early Life and Career Highlights
Fali S. Nariman is a distinguished constitutional lawyer and a former Attorney General of India. Known for his brilliant advocacy and deep understanding of constitutional law, Nariman has played an important role in shaping Indian jurisprudence. His legal acumen and principled approach to law have earned him widespread recognition both in India and abroad.
Education
Nariman studied law at Harvard Law School, which gave him an international perspective on constitutional matters. He later established himself as one of the finest legal minds in India, particularly in the area of constitutional law.
Major Contributions
Fali S. Nariman’s contributions to Indian legal practice are vast, with a significant focus on cases relating to fundamental rights and the interpretation of the Constitution. He was involved in several landmark cases, including the K.K. Verma case, which dealt with the constitutional validity of the President’s power. Nariman’s expertise in constitutional law has been integral to his work as an advocate for transparency, justice, and democratic integrity.
Birth Date and Fee
Born on 10 January 1929, Fali S. Nariman is a highly respected figure in the legal community. His fees for representing clients in complex constitutional matters often range between ₹15-20 lakh per case.
9. Mukul Rohatgi: A Leading Advocate with an Exceptional Track Record
Early Life and Career Highlights
Mukul Rohatgi is a prominent Indian lawyer and former Attorney General of India. Rohatgi’s reputation precedes him, with his exceptional skill in handling high-profile cases, particularly in the fields of constitutional and corporate law. He has represented some of the biggest names in Indian business, as well as the government, in several crucial cases.
Education
Rohatgi graduated from The Law Faculty at Delhi University and honed his legal skills at the University of Cambridge. His education laid the foundation for his career, and his legal prowess has earned him recognition in both national and international legal circles.
Major Contributions
Rohatgi has been a key figure in major legal battles, including representing the Reliance Industries in tax disputes and the Government of India in the Sardar Patel statue case. His role in anti-terrorism legislation and securing convictions in complex cases further establishes him as one of India’s most effective advocates.
Birth Date and Fee
Born on 19 August 1955, Mukul Rohatgi commands a fee that is among the highest in India, ranging from ₹20-25 lakh per case, depending on its complexity.
10. Vikram Singh Chauhan: An Advocate for Justice and the Common Man
Early Life and Career Highlights
Vikram Singh Chauhan is a renowned legal professional known for his strong advocacy in criminal law and social justice. Chauhan’s career reflects his dedication to serving the common people of India, often taking on cases that involve injustice and human rights violations. His relentless fight for the underprivileged has made him a household name.
Education
Chauhan earned his law degree from Panjab University, where he gained a solid understanding of the legal framework of India. Over the years, he has been involved in several high-profile cases, gaining recognition for his contribution to criminal justice.
Major Contributions
Vikram Singh Chauhan’s work primarily focuses on criminal law, including his representation of victims of police brutality and human rights abuses. He was also a key figure in the anti-terrorism legal movement and has argued several cases regarding individual freedoms and constitutional rights.
Birth Date and Fee
Born on 15 May 1960, Vikram Singh Chauhan’s fees are on the moderate side compared to other top lawyers but still reach up to ₹5-10 lakh depending on the nature of the case.
11. K.K. Venugopal: The Legal Scholar Who Advocated for Justice
Early Life and Career Highlights
K.K. Venugopal is a highly respected lawyer and current Attorney General of India. A legal scholar with an impeccable record, Venugopal has worked on numerous significant cases, particularly in the fields of constitutional law, tax law, and corporate law. His career in law has spanned over five decades, and he is known for his meticulous approach to cases.
Education
Venugopal completed his law degree from Madras University and quickly rose through the ranks to become a legal luminary. His vast knowledge and understanding of Indian and international law have contributed to his continued success in the legal arena.
Major Contributions
K.K. Venugopal’s role in public interest litigation and his consistent work on constitutional cases have defined his career. He has also been instrumental in drafting important legal reforms and has represented the Indian government in several complex matters. Venugopal’s clarity in legal interpretation is often seen in the landmark judgments of the Indian Supreme Court.
Conclusion
India is home to some of the brightest legal minds in the world. These top 10 lawyers not only contribute to the nation’s legal system but also represent the highest ideals of justice and fairness. Whether it’s upholding constitutional rights, defending human dignity, or pushing for social reforms, these legal professionals have played pivotal roles in shaping India’s legal landscape. Their expertise and contributions serve as an inspiration to future generations of lawyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is the No. 1 lawyer in India?
Harish Salve is often regarded as one of the most eminent legal professionals in India, with recognition both domestically and internationally.
2. Which lawyer is the richest in India?
Harish Salve, known for his substantial fees, is considered one of the wealthiest lawyers in India.
3. What is the salary of a top lawyer in India?
Top lawyers in India can earn anywhere from ₹10 lakh to ₹30 lakh per appearance, depending on the case.
4. What is the difference between a lawyer and an advocate?
A lawyer is someone who has completed a law degree, while an advocate is authorized to represent clients in court.
5. Which law school is considered the best in India?
The National Law School of India University in Bangalore is considered one of the best law schools in the country.
