Top 10 Most Influential Restructuring and Insolvency Lawyers in India 2023

India’s corporate landscape has transformed tremendously in the past few years, particularly with the evolution of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). This seismic shift in the insolvency legislation has necessitated the business community’s need for exceptional legal expertise in the area. The following presents a non-exhaustive compilation of notable lawyers who have been instrumental in shepherding companies through the intricacies of IBC and played a vital role in several significant insolvency mandates.

The introduction of the IBC has brought about a regulatory revolution in India’s financial world, creating a more efficient process for reorganizing and restructuring insolvent businesses. These lawyers have provided advice to debtors, creditors, and committees of creditors involved in these cases, as well as representing their interests in court. They have also been involved in negotiating restructuring plans and advising on distressed investments. Through their rigorous work, they have not only held the hands of their clients through the insolvency process but also contributed to shaping the insolvency law landscape in India.

The lawyers listed below have represented a range of parties in high-profile insolvency matters, showcasing their diverse skill sets and experience. In the process, they have set multiple legal precedents that serve as key references for future insolvency matters in India. These individuals embody the changing face of Indian insolvency law practice, with their skillsets developed through years of practice and an in-depth understanding of the Indian business arena and the IBC.

Ashwin Bishnoi

Firm: Khaitan & Co

Based in New Delhi, Ashwin Bishnoi is renowned for his knowledge in advising clients on IBC insolvency processes. He also has further experience in distressed investments. His industry specialization is restructuring and insolvency.

Kumar Saurabh Singh

Firm: Khaitan & Co

Operating from Mumbai, Kumar Saurabh Singh is known for representing debtors, resolution professionals, and committees of creditors in notable IBC mandates.

Ajay Shaw

Firm: DSK Legal

Ajay Shaw, based in Mumbai, often represents resolution professionals and liquidators in corporate insolvency proceedings. He also assists clients with framework planning for resolutions. His industry focus is in Restructuring/Insolvency.

Sumant Batra

Firm: Kesar Dass B & Associates

Sumant Batra, a Delhi-based lawyer, is a force to be reckoned with in the market. With his expansive experience, Batra has handled some of the most significant insolvency mandates in India, especially cases with cross-border elements.

Suharsh Sinha

Firm: AZB & Partners

Based in Mumbai, Suharsh Sinha is well regarded for his expert counsel in insolvency and restructuring matters. He often acts for resolution professionals, financial institutions, and distressed asset investors.

Alok Dhir

Firm: Dhir & Dhir Associates

Alok Dhir is a highly commended Delhi-based insolvency expert boasting vast experience in India’s legal market. He is highly esteemed for advising on conflicts within this domain.

Deep Roy

Firm: Equilex

Mumbai-based Deep Roy has a notable legal practice, advising resolution professionals and committees of creditors. His expertise extends to representing stakeholders before the National Company Law Tribunal.

Pooja Mahajan

Firm: Chandhiok & Mahajan

Pooja Mahajan spearheads the firm’s insolvency practice from Delhi. In addition to restructuring and distressed transactions advice, she is renowned for her expertise in IBC.

Gaurav Gupte

Firm: Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas

Mumbai-based Gaurav Gupte excels in advising corporate clients and lenders on corporate insolvency resolution processes under the IBC, and has a firm grasp on negotiating resolution plans.

Dhananjay Kumar

Firm: Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas

Dhananjay Kumar, a partner at Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas in Mumbai, has accumulated significant experience working on high-profile insolvency matters for a varied range of parties, including creditors’ committees and resolution professionals.