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Anupama Mehra
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Updated on Aug 14, 2024 11:07 IST

The top criminal lawyers in India have secured their positions through rigorous education, an unwavering work ethic, and participation in cases that have influenced the nation's legal framework. Here is a summary of ten leading criminal lawyers in India, highlighting their educational background, estimated salaries, and some of their most notable cases.

Top 10 Criminal Lawyers in India

Top 10 Criminal Lawyers in India

Creating a list of the top criminal lawyers in India involves considering their education, experience, notable cases, and the impact they've had on the legal system. Here is an overview of ten prominent criminal lawyers in India, along with their educational background, salary estimates, and some of their most famous cases.

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  1. Ram Jethmalani

Ram Jethmalani was one of India's most prominent and distinguished criminal lawyers, known for his sharp intellect, legal acumen, and flamboyant personality. Here’s a brief overview of his education, career, salary, and notable cases:

Q:   Is AIBE exam easy or difficult?

A:
As per the exam analysis of AIBE question paper in the previous years, the question paper of AIBE is generally moderately difficult with major focus on current events in law domain with respect to core legal subjects. Every year, AIBE exam is expected to be of easy to moderate difficulty level. However, BCI plans to make testing parameters stricter, in upcoming sessions, therefore, candidates can expect it a bit tougher than past years. Candidates can find out difficulty level of AIBE over the last few years here - https://www.shiksha.com/law/aibe-exam-analysis.

Q:   Which book is the best for AIBE exam 2024?

A:

The bar examination is no longer an open book examination. Therefore, candidates appearing for AIBE 19 should be careful of choosing best books for AIBE preparation. However, getting best books for AIBE examination can become a challenge as the syllabus is vast.  Candidates appearing for the bar examination must prepare with Bare Acts without comments. The Bare Acts to be used while preparing for AIBE are:

  1. Indian Penal Code, 1860
  2. Indian Contract Act, 1872
  3. Indian Evidence Act, 1872
  4. The Negotiable Instrument Act, 1881 and others

Q:   How many chances are given to a candidate to clear the AIBE exam?

A:
There is no limit on number of attempts a candidate can make to clear All India Bar Examination. They can attempt the examination any number of times until they qualify it with a PASS remark in AIBE result. The Bar Council of India has earlier stated that candidates must ensure qualifying AIBE within two years of enrollment, however, it does not mean that they cannot appear for AIBE after that period or they only get two attempts. Rather, it means that if candidates are not able to qualify AIBE within two years of enrollment, then they will be required to re-enroll or get an extension for their provisional enrollment from their state bar council. Know all about AIBE here - https://www.shiksha.com/law/articles/all-india-bar-examination-blogId-100983.

Education

  • Bachelor of Law (LLB): Ram Jethmalani completed his LLB at the age of 17, which was exceptionally young. He graduated from the Government Law College, Mumbai.
  • Master of Law (LLM): He later earned his LLM, further solidifying his legal expertise.
  • Doctorate: Ram Jethmalani was also a Doctor of Law, having received honorary doctorates for his contributions to the legal field.

Career Highlights

Legal Practice: Jethmalani started his legal career in Pakistan before migrating to India post-partition. He quickly established himself as a leading criminal lawyer in India.

Politician: Apart from being a successful lawyer, Jethmalani was also an active politician. He served as a Member of Parliament and held positions such as the Minister of Law and Justice and Minister of Urban Development.

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Teacher: He was also a professor of law and taught at various universities, including the Government Law College, Mumbai.

Salary

Ram Jethmalani was known to be one of the highest-paid lawyers in the country. While exact figures can vary, it is reported that he charged anywhere between INR 10 to 20 lakh per appearance in court. For some high-profile cases, his fees could be even higher.

Notable Cases

  • Indira Gandhi Assassination Case: Jethmalani defended Satwant Singh and Kehar Singh, who were accused in the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
  • Harshad Mehta Scam: He represented Harshad Mehta, a stockbroker involved in a major financial scandal in the early 1990s.
  • Jessica Lal Murder Case: He defended Manu Sharma, the main accused in the Jessica Lal murder case, though Sharma was eventually convicted.
  • Afzal Guru Case: Jethmalani defended Afzal Guru, who was accused in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack, arguing that he was not given a fair trial.
  • Haji Mastan Case: Jethmalani represented Haji Mastan, a notorious smuggler, and underworld figure, in various legal matters.
  • Kanimozhi in 2G Scam: He represented DMK politician Kanimozhi in the 2G spectrum case, which was one of the largest corruption scandals in India.

Legacy

He passed away on September 8, 2019, at the age of 95. His legacy as a brilliant lawyer and a fierce advocate for his clients lives on. He was known for his unconventional approach, often taking on controversial cases and defending individuals regardless of public opinion. His contributions to the legal field, his mentorship of younger lawyers, and his impact on Indian jurisprudence remain unparalleled.

Q:   What are the passing marks for AIBE exam?

A:

The passing marks for the AIBE (All India Bar Examination) exam vary from year to year and are decided by the Bar Council of India. However, candidates must score a minimum of 40% marks to pass the exam. The AIBE is not an open book exam anymore, and candidates are allowed to carry Bare acts without notes to the exam center. However, candidates must ensure that they have a thorough understanding of the concepts and topics as they will be required to apply their knowledge to solve the questions. The exam is conducted in multiple-choice format, and candidates must answer 100 questions within a duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes. The questions are based on various legal subjects such as constitutional law, contract law, criminal law, family law, and professional ethics and conduct. Candidates who pass the AIBE exam are awarded a Certificate of Practice by the Bar Council of India, which allows them to practice law in India. Candidates who do not pass the exam can appear for the exam again in the next session by paying the requisite fees.

Q:   What happens if one fails the AIBE exam?

A:
If a student fails to qualify All India Bar Examination AIBE then they can appear for the next session of the examination. Qualifying for the All India Bar Examination AIBE is necessary to practice law in India. Purpose of AIBE Exam: 1- The All India Bar Examination is a certification exam to earn the COP Certificate of Practice). 2- The Certificate of Practice is mandatory for practicing law in India. For more information, you may visit the Shiksha All India Bar Examination exam page. (https://www.shiksha.com/law/aibe-exam). I hope this will help you.

Q:   How do I study for AIBE exam?

A:

In order to crack the AIBE Exam candidates need to have a dedication and plan. Here are some tips you can follow the clear the Bar examination in first attempt:

  • First, be well-versed with the AIBE syllabus and exam pattern
  • Second, pick the best subject-wise AIBE books for preparation
  • Lastly, make a detailed study plan and follow it consistently
  • Dedicatedly follow the study plan created
  • Keep revising the topics already studied
  • Attempt previous year AIBE question papers
  • Take AIBE mock tests

Q:   Is AIBE an open-book exam?

A:

Till 2020, the All India Bar Examination was an open-book exam. However, in 2021 Bar Council of India changed this pattern. This means that students can no longer take the help of books and study material to attempt or solve the question paper. That being said students are still allowed to carry Bare Acts without notes with them. For more details, you may visit the Shiksha AIBE exam page. (https://www.shiksha.com/law/aibe-exam).

I hope this will help you.

Q:   Is All India Bar Examination (AIBE) tough?

A:

Yes, AIBE is indeed tough. Candidates who qualify in the AIBE exam are issued COP certificates that allow the candidates to practice law in a court of law in India. Without the COP certificate, one cannot practice law in Indian courts. Both 3-year LLB and 5-year LLB graduates are eligible to appear in the AIBE exam.  Hence, it is not only tough but indeed mandatory for lawyers. In order to crack AIBE exam, candidates need to make sure that they are consistent and regular with their preparation.

Also Read: 5 famous Indian lawyers 

  1. Harish Salve

 Harish Salve is one of India's most esteemed and high-profile lawyers, particularly known for his expertise in constitutional, commercial, and international law. He has represented India in several significant cases on the global stage and is recognised for his exceptional legal acumen.

Education

Chartered Accountancy (CA): Before pursuing law, Harish Salve initially studied chartered accountancy and worked briefly as a CA. His background in finance has been beneficial in his legal practice, particularly in commercial law.

Bachelor of Law (LLB): Salve later pursued law and earned his LLB from Nagpur University. He trained under his father, N.K.P. Salve, a renowned lawyer, and former Union Minister, and then under Soli Sorabjee, a former Attorney General of India.

Career Highlights

Senior Advocate: Harish Salve was designated a Senior Advocate by the Delhi High Court in 1992, marking his entry into the upper echelons of the legal profession in India.

Solicitor General of India: He served as the Solicitor General of India from 1999 to 2002, during which he represented the Indian government in several important cases.

International Practice: In addition to his practice in India, Salve has also represented India and other clients in international arbitration cases. He is a member of the English Bar and practices as a barrister at Blackstone Chambers in London.

Salary

Harish Salve is one of the highest-paid lawyers in India. He reportedly charges between INR 6 to 15 lakh per appearance in court. For international cases, especially in arbitration, his fees are significantly higher, sometimes running into millions of dollars.

Notable Cases

  • Kulbhushan Jadhav Case: One of Salve’s most high-profile cases was representing India at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case against Pakistan. He argued for the stay of Jadhav’s execution and won the case, with the ICJ ruling in India’s favor.
  • Vodafone Tax Dispute: Salve represented Vodafone in a landmark case against the Indian government over a USD 2.5 billion tax demand. The Apex Court ruled in favor of Vodafone, stating that the company was not liable to pay the tax.
  • Ambani Gas Dispute: Salve represented Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries in a high-stakes gas pricing dispute against Anil Ambani’s Reliance Natural Resources. The Supreme Court ruled in favor of Mukesh Ambani’s company.
  • Constitutional Challenges: Salve has argued numerous cases involving significant constitutional questions, including those related to fundamental rights, freedom of speech, and the limits of executive power.
  • Sardar Sarovar Project: He represented the Narmada Bachao Andolan in the Supreme Court concerning the environmental and human rights issues associated with the Sardar Sarovar Dam.
  • Decriminalisation of Homosexuality: Salve was involved in the legal battles that eventually led to the decriminalization of homosexuality in India in 2018.

Legacy and Influence

Harish Salve is regarded as a legal luminary in India and internationally. His practice spans a wide array of legal areas, from constitutional law to commercial disputes and international arbitration. His ability to articulate complex legal arguments with clarity and his deep understanding of both Indian and international law have made him a sought-after lawyer globally.

Salve is also known for his philanthropy and contributions to legal education. He continues to influence the legal landscape in India and remains a role model for aspiring lawyers.

Also Read: Best Law Specialisations in Demand - Criminal Law, Environmental Law, Taxation Law, Civil Law

  1. T. S. Tulsi

T. S. Tulsi is a distinguished Indian lawyer and senior advocate who has made significant contributions to the field of criminal law. He is known for his expertise in handling complex and high-profile criminal cases and has served as a legal advisor to the Government of India.

Education

Bachelor of Laws (LLB): K. T. S. Tulsi pursued his law degree from Panjab University, Chandigarh, where he laid the foundation for his legal career.

Further Legal Training: Tulsi trained under prominent lawyers and gained valuable experience in the legal field, which helped him establish himself as a formidable advocate.

Career Highlights

Senior Advocate: K. T. S. Tulsi was designated a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India, a recognition of his legal acumen and contributions to the legal profession.

Additional Solicitor General of India: He served as the Additional Solicitor General of India from 1990 to 1996. In this role, he represented the government in several important cases and played a crucial role in shaping legal strategies.

Rajya Sabha Member: In addition to his legal practice, Tulsi has also served as a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India's Parliament. This role has allowed him to contribute to legislative discussions and advocate for legal reforms.

Salary

T. S. Tulsi is one of the top criminal lawyers in India and commands substantial fees for his legal services. Although specific figures are not publicly available, it is well-known that senior advocates like Tulsi charge high fees, often ranging from INR 5 lakh to INR 10 lakh per appearance, depending on the complexity and profile of the case.

Notable Cases

  • Jessica Lal Murder Case: Tulsi represented Manu Sharma, the main accused in the Jessica Lal murder case. The case was widely covered in the media and highlighted issues related to the criminal justice system in India. Despite initial setbacks, Tulsi’s involvement brought significant attention to the legal proceedings.
  • Nirbhaya Gang Rape Case: K. T. S. Tulsi was one of the lawyers who appeared in the Supreme Court during the Nirbhaya gang rape case, a case that shook the nation and led to major legal reforms concerning crimes against women.
  • Punjab Militancy Cases: Tulsi has represented several high-profile cases related to the militancy in Punjab during the 1980s and 1990s. His work in these cases has been both challenging and impactful, dealing with issues of national security and human rights.
  • Terrorism Cases: Tulsi has also been involved in defending clients accused of terrorism-related charges, making significant contributions to the legal discourse on terrorism laws in India.
  • Harshad Mehta Securities Scam: Tulsi represented some of the accused in the infamous Harshad Mehta securities scam, one of the largest financial scandals in India’s history. His role in the case demonstrated his expertise in handling complex white-collar crime cases.

Legacy and Influence

T. S. Tulsi is highly respected in legal circles for his deep knowledge of criminal law and his ability to navigate complex legal challenges. He is known for his commitment to upholding the rule of law and his efforts to ensure that justice is served, even in the most challenging cases.

Tulsi’s influence extends beyond the courtroom, as he is also an advocate for legal reforms and has been active in legislative matters through his role in the Rajya Sabha. His career serves as an inspiration for many young lawyers, and his contributions to the legal field continue to be significant.

Also Read: Top 10 Legal Firms in India that Hire Law Graduates

  1. Gopal Subramaniam

Gopal Subramaniam is a distinguished Indian lawyer and senior advocate known for his deep expertise in constitutional law, commercial law, and criminal law. He has held several prominent positions, including that of Solicitor General of India, and has been involved in many landmark cases in Indian legal history.

Education

Bachelor of Laws (LLB): Gopal Subramaniam pursued his LLB from Campus Law Centre, University of Delhi, one of the leading law schools in India. He was known for his academic excellence and quickly established a reputation for his analytical skills in legal studies.

Further Legal Training: Early in his career, Subramaniam trained under some of the most respected names in the legal profession, including former Attorney General Soli Sorabjee, which significantly influenced his legal approach and career.

Career Highlights

Solicitor General of India: Gopal Subramaniam served as the Solicitor General of India from 2009 to 2011. In this capacity, he represented the government in several critical cases before the Supreme Court of India. His tenure as Solicitor General was marked by his profound legal arguments and contributions to major legal battles.

Senior Advocate: He was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India at a young age, a recognition of his outstanding legal abilities and contributions to the legal field.

Committee Chairperson: Subramaniam has also chaired various important committees, including the committee that proposed amendments to the Prevention of Corruption Act, reflecting his expertise and influence in shaping Indian legal frameworks.

Salary

As one of the leading lawyers in India, Gopal Subramaniam commands high fees for his legal services. Senior advocates like Subramaniam typically charge fees ranging from INR 5 lakh to INR 10 lakh per appearance, depending on the complexity and profile of the case. His annual earnings are substantial, reflecting his position at the pinnacle of the legal profession in India.

Notable Cases

  • Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid Case: Gopal Subramaniam played a significant role as an amicus curiae (a friend of the court) in the Ayodhya dispute case. His contributions were instrumental in ensuring a fair and balanced legal process in one of the most sensitive and significant cases in India's history.
  • Vodafone Tax Case: Subramaniam represented Vodafone in the high-profile tax dispute with the Indian government, a landmark case in international taxation law. The case involved complex issues of jurisdiction and taxation, and his arguments were pivotal in the Supreme Court ruling in favor of Vodafone.
  • 2G Spectrum Case: He was involved in the 2G spectrum case, one of the largest scams in Indian history, where he represented the government. His legal strategies and arguments were crucial in the Supreme Court’s decision to cancel the spectrum licenses, leading to significant legal and political repercussions.
  • Entry of Women in Sabarimala Temple: Gopal Subramaniam was one of the leading voices in the landmark case concerning the entry of women into the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala. He argued passionately for gender equality and religious rights, contributing to the Supreme Court’s historic judgment allowing women of all ages to enter the temple.
  • Amrapali Housing Case: Subramaniam was appointed as the court receiver by the Supreme Court in the Amrapali housing case, involving massive fraud and financial irregularities by the real estate company. His role was pivotal in protecting the interests of homebuyers and ensuring justice.

Legacy and Influence

Gopal Subramaniam is highly respected for his integrity, legal acumen, and contributions to various fields of law. His ability to handle complex and sensitive cases with poise and precision has earned him a formidable reputation in the Indian legal fraternity.

In addition to his courtroom success, Subramaniam is also known for his scholarly contributions to legal literature and his efforts in legal education. He is frequently invited to speak at prestigious forums and has authored several articles and papers on legal issues.

His legacy extends beyond his cases, as he has played a key role in shaping important legal precedents and influencing public policy through his legal expertise. Gopal Subramaniam continues to be an influential figure in Indian law, and his work inspires many aspiring lawyers and legal professionals.

Also Read: Top 10 Legal Firms in India that Hire Law Graduates

  1. Fali S. Nariman

Fali S. Nariman is a towering figure in the Indian legal fraternity, known for his unparalleled expertise in constitutional law and his contributions to shaping the legal landscape of India. With a career that spans several decades, he has been involved in some of the most significant legal battles in the country.

Education

Bachelor of Arts (BA): Fali S. Nariman completed his undergraduate studies at St. Xavier's College, Mumbai.

Bachelor of Laws (LLB): He pursued his legal education at Government Law College, Mumbai, one of India's oldest and most prestigious law schools.

Career Milestones

Senior Advocate: Fali S. Nariman was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India in 1971. This recognition marked him as one of the leading legal minds in the country.

Solicitor General of India: He briefly served as the Solicitor General of India in 1975, showcasing his legal prowess at the highest levels of government.

Member of Rajya Sabha: Nariman was nominated as a member of the Rajya Sabha from 1999 to 2005, where he contributed significantly to legal and constitutional debates.

Notable Cases

  • Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973): Fali S. Nariman played a crucial role in this landmark case that established the "Basic Structure Doctrine" in Indian constitutional law, limiting Parliament's power to amend the Constitution.
  • Bhopal Gas Tragedy Litigation: He represented Union Carbide Corporation in the legal proceedings following the Bhopal gas disaster, one of the worst industrial accidents in history. Although controversial, this case highlighted the complexities of legal representation and corporate accountability.
  • SR Bommai v. Union of India (1994): Nariman argued in this pivotal case, which laid down guidelines on the use of Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, significantly impacting the federal structure of India.
  • Presidential Reference Case (1974): In this case, he was instrumental in shaping the judiciary's independence, particularly regarding the appointment of judges.
  • Arunachal Pradesh President's Rule Case (2016): Nariman argued against the imposition of President's Rule in Arunachal Pradesh, reinforcing the principles of democratic governance and the limits of central power.

Salary and Earnings

As one of India’s top lawyers, Fali S. Nariman commands high fees for his legal services. While specific figures are private, it is known that senior advocates of his stature typically charge between INR 10 lakh to INR 15 lakh per appearance, reflecting his position at the pinnacle of the legal profession.

Legacy

Fali S. Nariman is celebrated not just for his legal acumen but also for his deep commitment to upholding the principles of justice and democracy in India. His contributions to constitutional law have left an indelible mark on the Indian legal system, and he remains an inspiration to generations of lawyers. His work has ensured the protection of fundamental rights and the balance of power between the different branches of government, making him one of the most respected figures in Indian legal history.

Also Read: Top 10 Government Law Colleges in India 2025

  1. Siddharth Luthra

Siddharth Luthra is a distinguished Indian lawyer known for his expertise in criminal law. He has made significant contributions to the Indian legal system, particularly in the areas of constitutional, commercial, and criminal law.

Education

Undergraduate: Siddharth Luthra completed his Bachelor of Arts in History from St. Stephen's College, University of Delhi.

Law Degree: He pursued his LLB from the University of Delhi.

Further Studies: He also holds an LL.M. from the University of Cambridge, where he specialised in International Law.

Legal Career

Senior Advocate: Siddharth Luthra was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Delhi High Court in 2007, a mark of recognition for his legal acumen and contributions to the field.

Additional Solicitor General: He served as the Additional Solicitor General of India from July 2012 to May 2014.

Practice Areas: Luthra's practice encompasses various areas, including criminal law, constitutional law, human rights law, and commercial litigation. He is particularly noted for his work in white-collar crime and has represented several high-profile clients in complex cases.

Notable Cases

  • Nirbhaya Case: Siddharth Luthra was involved in the infamous Nirbhaya gang-rape case, representing the Delhi Police in the Supreme Court. The case had a profound impact on Indian law, leading to significant changes in the laws related to sexual offenses.
  • Aarushi Talwar Case: He was part of the defense team in the Aarushi Talwar double murder case, one of the most high-profile criminal cases in India.
  • Telecom Scam Cases: Luthra has also represented clients in various high-profile telecom scam cases, including the 2G spectrum case, showcasing his expertise in handling complex white-collar crime cases.

Salary

As one of India's top criminal lawyers, Siddharth Luthra commands substantial fees for his legal services. His fees can vary significantly depending on the complexity and nature of the case. It's estimated that his earnings could range from INR 5 lakhs to INR 15 lakhs per appearance in court.

Recognition and Contributions

Siddharth Luthra is highly regarded for his legal acumen, particularly in criminal law. He is also known for his contributions to legal education and frequently lectures at various law schools and legal forums. His expertise and reputation make him one of the most sought-after criminal lawyers in India.

Also Read: NIRF Law College Ranking 2024: Top 10 law colleges in India

  1. Abhishek Manu Singhvi

Abhishek Manu Singhvi is a prominent Indian lawyer and politician, recognized for his expertise in constitutional and corporate law. His distinguished career spans both legal practice and public service.

Education

Undergraduate: Abhishek Manu Singhvi completed his Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in Economics from St. Stephen's College, University of Delhi.

Law Degree: He pursued his LL.B. from the Faculty of Law, University of Delhi.

Further Studies: Singhvi earned a Master's degree in Law from the University of Cambridge, where he specialized in International Law and Constitutional Law. He also holds a DPhil from the University of Oxford.

Legal Career

Senior Advocate: Singhvi was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India in 1997, acknowledging his exceptional legal skills and contributions to the field.

Practice Areas: He is known for his work in constitutional law, corporate law, and public interest litigation. Singhvi has represented numerous high-profile clients in complex legal matters and has handled cases involving constitutional issues, commercial disputes, and public law.

Notable Cases

  • Constitutional Matters: Singhvi has represented clients in several landmark constitutional cases, including issues related to the Fundamental Rights and the powers of various constitutional authorities.
  • Corporate Disputes: He has been involved in significant corporate litigation, including disputes related to major business mergers, acquisitions, and corporate governance issues.
  • Public Interest Litigation: Singhvi has also been active in public interest litigation, addressing issues of national importance and social justice.

Salary

As a leading senior advocate, Abhishek Manu Singhvi commands high fees for his legal services. His fees can vary based on the complexity and prominence of the case. His earnings are estimated to be in the range of INR 10 lakhs to INR 30 lakhs per appearance in court, reflecting his stature and expertise.

Political Career

Abhishek Manu Singhvi has served as a Member of Parliament from the Rajya Sabha, representing the Indian National Congress. His political career complements his legal practice and has involved contributions to legislative debates and public policy.

Recognition and Contributions

Awards and Honors: Singhvi has received numerous accolades for his legal expertise and contributions to the legal profession. He is also known for his role as an academic, having taught and lectured on constitutional and international law.

Publications: He has authored several articles and papers on legal and constitutional issues, contributing to legal scholarship and public discourse.

Abhishek Manu Singhvi’s career is distinguished by his expertise in law, his contributions to public service, and his role as a prominent advocate in both legal and political arenas.

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  1. Mukul Rohatgi

Mukul Rohatgi is a distinguished Indian lawyer known for his extensive experience and significant contributions to the legal field. He has held prominent positions and has been involved in numerous high-profile cases throughout his career.

Education

Undergraduate: Mukul Rohatgi completed his Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) from the University of Delhi.

Law Degree: He pursued his LLB from the Faculty of Law, University of Delhi.

Legal Career

Senior Advocate: Mukul Rohatgi was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India in 1993, a recognition of his exceptional legal expertise and contributions to the field.

Attorney General of India: He served as the Attorney General of India from June 2014 to June 2017, representing the Government of India in various legal matters and advising on legal issues of national importance.

Practice Areas: Rohatgi is known for his work in constitutional law, commercial law, and public interest litigation. He has represented clients in complex constitutional and corporate cases, including matters related to the Supreme Court and various high-profile legal disputes.

Notable Cases

  • Constitutional Matters: Mukul Rohatgi has been involved in several landmark constitutional cases, addressing issues related to Fundamental Rights, the structure of government institutions, and the powers of constitutional authorities.
  • Corporate Disputes: He has handled significant corporate litigation, including high-profile mergers, acquisitions, and corporate governance issues.
  • Public Interest Litigation: Rohatgi has represented clients in various public interest cases, advocating for social justice and addressing matters of national importance.

Salary

As a leading senior advocate and former Attorney General, Mukul Rohatgi commands high fees for his legal services. His fees can vary based on the complexity and prominence of the case, with estimates ranging from INR 10 lakhs to INR 30 lakhs per appearance in court, reflecting his stature and expertise.

Recognition and Contributions

Awards and Honors: Rohatgi has received numerous accolades for his legal expertise and contributions to the legal profession. His tenure as Attorney General was marked by his role in representing the government in crucial legal matters.

Publications and Lectures: He has been involved in legal scholarship and has delivered lectures on various legal topics, contributing to the discourse on constitutional and commercial law.

Personal Attributes

Advocacy: Mukul Rohatgi is known for his strong advocacy skills, his ability to handle complex legal issues, and his contributions to the legal profession and public service.

Professionalism: His career is characterized by his commitment to legal excellence, his role in shaping legal and constitutional discourse, and his significant impact on the Indian legal system.

Mukul Rohatgi’s career is distinguished by his role as a leading advocate, his service as Attorney General of India, and his contributions to the legal field through high-profile cases and public service.

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  1. Kapil Sibal

Kapil Sibal is a renowned Indian lawyer and politician known for his extensive experience in the legal field and his significant contributions to Indian public life. His career spans various roles, including that of a senior advocate, minister, and legal advisor.

Education

Undergraduate: Kapil Sibal completed his Bachelor of Arts (BA) from the University of Delhi.

Law Degree: He pursued his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the Faculty of Law, University of Delhi.

Postgraduate Studies: Sibal also holds a Master of Laws (LLM) from Harvard Law School, which further advanced his expertise in legal matters.

Legal Career

Senior Advocate: Kapil Sibal was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India in 1983, recognising his exceptional legal skills and contributions.

Notable Cases: Sibal has represented clients in numerous high-profile cases, including constitutional law, corporate law, and public interest litigation.

Public Interest Litigation: He has been actively involved in public interest cases and has represented various clients in significant constitutional matters and human rights issues.

Political Career

Ministerial Positions: Kapil Sibal has served in several key ministerial roles, including as Minister of Human Resource Development, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, and Minister of Law and Justice.

Political Party: He is a senior leader of the Indian National Congress (INC) and has played a crucial role in shaping the party's legal and policy frameworks.

Notable Cases

  • Constitutional Matters: Sibal has been involved in landmark constitutional cases addressing issues such as the Right to Privacy, freedom of speech, and other fundamental rights.
  • Corporate Disputes: He has handled significant corporate litigation, including high-profile cases related to mergers, acquisitions, and corporate governance.
  • Public Interest Litigation: His role in various public interest cases has focused on social justice and constitutional issues.

Salary and Fees

Legal Fees: As a leading senior advocate and former minister, Kapil Sibal commands high fees for his legal services. His fees can vary based on the complexity of the case, typically ranging from INR 5 lakhs to INR 20 lakhs per appearance in court.

Recognition and Contributions

Awards and Honors: Sibal has received various awards and honors for his contributions to the legal profession and public service, including recognition for his role in shaping legal and policy reforms.

Publications and Lectures: He has authored several articles and has been involved in legal scholarship, contributing to the discourse on constitutional law and public policy.

Personal Attributes

Advocacy: Kapil Sibal is known for his strong advocacy skills, strategic legal thinking, and his ability to handle complex and high-profile legal matters.

Professionalism: His career is marked by a commitment to legal excellence, public service, and his significant impact on both the legal and political landscapes of India.

Kapil Sibal’s distinguished career is characterized by his role as a leading advocate, his contributions as a senior politician, and his impact on the Indian legal and political systems through his work in high-profile cases and public service.

Also Read: AIBE (XIX) 2024 (Latest News): Exam, Registration Date, Notification, Eligibility, Pattern

  1. Ravi Shankar Prasad

Ravi Shankar Prasad is a distinguished Indian lawyer and politician who has made significant contributions to both the legal profession and Indian politics. He is known for his expertise in constitutional law, his role as a senior advocate, and his tenure as a minister in the Indian government.

Education

Undergraduate: Ravi Shankar Prasad completed his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Patna University.

Law Degree: He pursued his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from Patna University.

Additional Studies: Prasad also studied at the Harvard Law School for specialized courses in law.

Legal Career

Senior Advocate: Ravi Shankar Prasad was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Patna High Court, recognizing his legal acumen and achievements.

Notable Cases: Prasad has represented clients in various significant cases involving constitutional and civil law. He is known for his work in matters related to human rights, constitutional law, and public interest litigation.

Public Interest Litigation: He has been involved in several high-profile PILs, addressing issues of public significance and constitutional importance.

Political Career

Ministerial Positions: Ravi Shankar Prasad has served in multiple key ministerial roles, including:

  • Minister of Law and Justice
  • Minister of Communications and Information Technology
  • Minister of Electronics and Information Technology
  • Political Party: He is a prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has played an influential role in the party's legal and policy initiatives.

Notable Cases

Constitutional Law: Prasad has been involved in significant constitutional matters, including cases related to fundamental rights, constitutional amendments, and legal reforms.

Technology and Communication: During his tenure as Minister of Communications and IT, he oversaw various initiatives related to technology and digital infrastructure, including reforms in telecommunications and information technology policies.

Salary and Fees

As a prominent senior advocate and former minister, Ravi Shankar Prasad's fees for legal services can be substantial. His fees are typically based on the complexity and prominence of the case, ranging from INR 5 lakhs to INR 15 lakhs per appearance in court.

Recognition and Contributions

Ravi Shankar Prasad has received various awards and accolades for his contributions to the legal profession and public service. His work in legal reforms and technology initiatives has been recognized both nationally and internationally.

He has been involved in legal scholarship and public speaking, contributing to discussions on constitutional law, legal reforms, and technology policy.

Personal Attributes

Advocacy: Ravi Shankar Prasad is known for his strong advocacy skills, his strategic approach to legal issues, and his ability to handle complex legal and political matters.

Professionalism: His career is marked by his commitment to legal excellence, public service, and his significant impact on the Indian legal and political landscapes through his work and reforms.

Ravi Shankar Prasad's career is distinguished by his role as a senior advocate, his significant contributions as a minister, and his impact on legal and technological reforms in India. His expertise and leadership have made him a prominent figure in both the legal profession and Indian politics.

Also Read: Judicial Service Exams 2024

These lawyers have not only represented high-profile clients but have also been involved in cases that have significant legal and social implications. Their education, often from prestigious institutions in India and abroad, coupled with years of experience, has cemented their positions as top legal minds in the country.

The top criminal lawyers in India have earned their place through rigorous education, relentless work ethic, and involvement in cases that have shaped the nation's legal landscape. Their careers serve as a testament to the dedication required to succeed in the challenging and competitive field of criminal law.

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"The pen is mightier than the sword". Anupama totally believes in this and respects what she conveys through it. She is a vivid writer, who loves to write about education, lifestyle, and governance. She is a hardcor... Read Full Bio

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