Imagine a lawyer charging fees in lakhs or even crores for a single case. This happens in India, where some lawyers are among the highest paid in the world.
Here, we will introduce you to the highest paid lawyers in India. We will look at the top lawyers in India and their fees. These lawyers have built strong reputations through hard work and success in major cases.
List of Highest Paid Lawyers in India
Here is the list of prominent lawyers in India that charge the highest:
- Abhishek Manu Singhvi
- Arvind Datar
- Ashok Desai
- C. Aryama Sundaram
- Fali S. Nariman
- Gopal Subramanium
- Harish Salve
- K.K. Venugopal
- K.T.S. Tulsi
- K. Parasaran
- Kapil Sibal
- Mukul Rohatgi
- P. Chidambaram
- Ram Jethmalani
- Salman Khurshid
- Sidharth Luthra
- Soli Sorabjee
Note: The names of the top paid lawyers in India listed in this blog are arranged in alphabetical order. This arrangement is not indicative of their ranking or standing relative to each other.
Best Lawyers of India (Top Paid)
Let’s talk about the highest paid lawyers of India in detail, with their fees, notable cases and achievements, and brief background.
1. Abhishek Manu Singhvi
Abhishek Manu Singhvi is one of the richest lawyers in India, known for his expertise in constitutional law, commercial law, and arbitration. He is also a politician.
Born on February 24, 1959, Singhvi completed his education at St. Columba’s School, New Delhi, and St. Stephen’s College, Delhi. He further pursued law at Trinity College, Cambridge, and obtained a Ph.D. from Harvard University.
Singhvi began his legal career in 1983 and was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India in 1997. He has also served as a Member of Parliament and the spokesperson for the Indian National Congress.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| Sahara-SEBI Case (2012) | Represented Sahara Group in its dispute with SEBI over refund of investments. | Supreme Court ordered Sahara to refund investors, leading to high-profile negotiations. |
| 2G Spectrum Case (2010) | Defended several accused in the 2G spectrum allocation scam. | Supreme Court canceled 122 licenses; ongoing litigation and trials. |
| Arvind Kejriwal Defamation Case (2016) | Represented Arvind Kejriwal in defamation cases filed by various politicians. | Managed to get several cases quashed or settled. |
| Novartis Patent Case (2013) | Represented Novartis in the patent case concerning the drug Glivec. | Supreme Court denied the patent, emphasizing affordable healthcare. |
| Padmanabhaswamy Temple Case (2020) | Represented the royal family of Travancore regarding the administration of the temple. | Supreme Court upheld the royal family’s rights to manage the temple. |
Abhishek Manu Singhvi Fees
Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi fees per day is approximately ₹6 to ₹15 lakhs in the Supreme Court and high courts. For complex corporate and arbitration cases, his fees can be significantly higher.
His annual earnings are estimated to be in the range of ₹10 to ₹14 crores, considering his extensive involvement in high-value cases and advisory roles.
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2. Arvind Datar
Arvind Datar is among the top 10 Indian lawyers, known for his expertise in constitutional law, taxation, and commercial law.
Born on October 18, 1957, Datar completed his education at the Madras Christian College and obtained his law degree from the Madras Law College.
He started his legal career in 1980 and was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Madras High Court in 2000.
Datar is also a noted author, having written several authoritative books on taxation and constitutional law. His deep understanding of the law and his clear articulation of legal principles have earned him a reputation as one of India’s best lawyers.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| Vodafone Tax Case (2012) | Represented Vodafone in its landmark tax dispute with the Indian government. | Supreme Court ruled in favor of Vodafone, exempting it from the ₹11,000 crore tax demand. |
| Section 66A of IT Act (2015) | Challenged the constitutionality of Section 66A of the Information Technology Act. | Supreme Court struck down Section 66A, upholding freedom of speech online. |
| Triple Talaq Case (2017) | Represented one of the petitioners challenging the practice of instant triple talaq. | Supreme Court declared instant triple talaq unconstitutional. |
| Right to Privacy Case (2017) | Argued for the recognition of privacy as a fundamental right under the Indian Constitution. | Supreme Court ruled that the right to privacy is a fundamental right. |
| National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) Case (2015) | Represented petitioners challenging the NJAC Act. | Supreme Court struck down the NJAC Act, upholding the collegium system for judicial appointments. |
Arvind Datar Fees
Lawyer Arvind Datar fees per day is approximately ₹5 to ₹12 lakhs in the Supreme Court and high courts. For complex commercial and constitutional cases, his fees can be higher.
His annual earnings are estimated to be in the range of ₹8 to ₹12 crores, considering his involvement in high-profile cases and his advisory roles.
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3. Ashok Desai
Ashok H. Desai was among the eminent lawyers of India and a legal scholar known for his expertise in constitutional law, commercial law, and human rights.
Born on December 18, 1932, in Nagpur, Maharashtra, Desai completed his education at Government Law College, Mumbai. He began his legal career in the early 1950s and quickly established himself as a prominent advocate.
Ashok Desai served as the Solicitor General of India from 1989 to 1990 and as the Attorney General of India from 1996 to 1998. His legal acumen and dedication to the rule of law earned him widespread respect and numerous accolades, including the Padma Bhushan in 2001.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973) | Contributed to the landmark judgment that established the Basic Structure doctrine. | Supreme Court ruled that the basic structure of the Constitution cannot be altered by amendments. |
| Vineet Narain Case (1997) | Played a key role in the case that led to significant reforms in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). | Supreme Court issued guidelines for the independence and functioning of the CBI. |
| Narmada Bachao Andolan Case (2000) | Represented the petitioners challenging the construction of the Sardar Sarovar Dam. | Supreme Court allowed the dam’s construction but emphasized rehabilitation measures for displaced persons. |
| T.M.A. Pai Foundation Case (2002) | Argued for the rights of private educational institutions regarding admission policies. | Supreme Court upheld the autonomy of private educational institutions in setting their own admission criteria. |
| Godhra Riots Case (2002) | Represented victims in the aftermath of the Gujarat riots. | Significant judicial oversight and interventions to ensure justice for the victims. |
Ashok Desai Fees
Lawyer Ashok Desai’s fees per day was approximately ₹5 to ₹12 lakhs in the Supreme Court and high courts. His fees varied depending on the complexity and significance of the case.
At the peak of his career, his annual earnings were estimated to be in the range of ₹8 to ₹12 crores.
Also Read: Top Female Lawyers in India
4. C. Aryama Sundaram
C. Aryama Sundaram is one of the top paid lawyers in India, known for his expertise in corporate law, commercial litigation, and constitutional law.
Born into a family of legal luminaries, Sundaram completed his education at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, and studied law at the Government Law College, Mumbai.
He began his legal practice in the early 1980s and quickly rose to prominence due to his sharp legal acumen and persuasive advocacy.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| BCCI v. Cricket Association of Bihar (2014) | Represented the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in various legal matters, including the IPL spot-fixing scandal. | Led to significant reforms and restructuring within the BCCI. |
| Vodafone Tax Case (2012) | Represented Vodafone in its landmark tax dispute with the Indian government. | Supreme Court ruled in favor of Vodafone, exempting it from the ₹11,000 crore tax demand. |
| Tata-Mistry Dispute (2016) | Represented Tata Sons in the corporate governance dispute with Cyrus Mistry. | NCLAT ruling set aside by the Supreme Court, upholding Tata’s position. |
| DLF Case (2011) | Defended DLF Ltd in the Competition Commission of India (CCI) case regarding unfair trade practices. | CCI imposed a significant penalty on DLF, setting a precedent for future antitrust cases. |
| Entry of Foreign Law Firms (2018) | Argued against the entry of foreign law firms in India. | Supreme Court ruled to restrict foreign law firms from practicing in India, protecting the interests of domestic law firms. |
C. Aryama Sundaram Fees
Sundaram charges approximately ₹7 to ₹15 lakhs per appearance in the Supreme Court and high courts. For major corporate and commercial cases, his fees can be higher.
His annual earnings are estimated to be in the range of ₹10 to ₹14 crores.
5. Fali S. Nariman
Fali S. Nariman is one of the most respected and influential lawyers in India. Born on January 10, 1929, he has had a long and distinguished career in law.
Nariman completed his education at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, and then studied law at the Government Law College, Mumbai.
He began his legal practice in 1950 and was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India in 1971. He has served as the President of the Bar Association of India and has also been a member of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| Emergency Period Cases (1975-1977) | Defended civil liberties during the Emergency declared by Indira Gandhi. | Strengthened the judiciary’s stance on civil liberties. |
| SP Gupta v. Union of India (1981) | Advocated for transparency in judicial appointments. | Recognized as the “First Judges Case,” impacting judicial independence. |
| Bhopal Gas Tragedy Case (1984) | Represented Union Carbide in the compensation litigation following the disaster. | Led to a settlement of $470 million for the victims. |
| T.M.A. Pai Foundation v. State of Karnataka (2002) | Addressed the rights of private educational institutions. | Affirmed the autonomy of private educational institutions. |
| Vodafone Tax Dispute (2012) | Represented Vodafone in a high-profile tax dispute with the Indian government. | Supreme Court ruled in favor of Vodafone, boosting investor confidence. |
Fali S. Nariman Fees and Earnings
Nariman charges approximately ₹10 to ₹20 lakhs per appearance in the Supreme Court.
The annual income of Fali S. Nariman is estimated to be in the range of ₹10 to ₹15 crores, considering his involvement in high-profile cases and advisory roles.
6. Gopal Subramanium
Gopal Subramanium is among the highest paid advocate in India, known for his expertise in constitutional law, commercial litigation, and arbitration.
Born on August 15, 1958, Subramanium completed his education at Hindu College, Delhi University, and then studied law at Campus Law Centre, Faculty of Law, University of Delhi.
He began his legal career in the early 1980s and was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India in 1993.
Subramanium served as the Solicitor General of India from 2009 to 2011 and has been involved in several landmark cases that have shaped Indian jurisprudence.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| 2G Spectrum Case (2010) | Represented the government in the high-profile 2G spectrum allocation scam. | Supreme Court canceled 122 licenses, leading to reforms in telecom policy. |
| Right to Education Case (2012) | Argued for the implementation of the Right to Education Act, 2009. | Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of the Act, mandating free and compulsory education for children. |
| Sohrabuddin Sheikh Encounter Case (2010) | Represented the CBI in the case involving the extrajudicial killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh. | High-profile convictions and ongoing trials for several accused. |
| Padmanabhaswamy Temple Case (2020) | Represented the royal family of Travancore regarding the administration of the temple. | Supreme Court upheld the royal family’s rights to manage the temple. |
| Arbitration in Vodafone Tax Dispute (2014) | Acted as arbitrator in the international tax dispute involving Vodafone. | Contributed to the arbitration process, leading to a favorable settlement for Vodafone. |
Gopal Subramanium Fees
Lawyer Gopal Subramanium fees per hearing is approximately ₹8 to ₹15 lakhs in the Supreme Court and high courts. For international arbitration cases, his fees can be significantly higher.
His annual earnings are estimated to be in the range of ₹10 to ₹13 crores, considering his involvement in high-value cases and international arbitrations.
7. Harish Salve
Harish Salve is one of India’s top lawyers, renowned for his expertise in constitutional, commercial, and taxation law.
Born on June 22, 1955, Salve comes from a prominent family of lawyers and politicians. He completed his education at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, and studied law at Government Law College, Mumbai.
Salve began his legal career in 1980 and was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India in 1992. He has served as the Solicitor General of India from 1999 to 2002.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| Kulbhushan Jadhav Case (2017) | Represented India at the International Court of Justice against Pakistan. | ICJ stayed Jadhav’s execution, ruled in favor of India. |
| Vodafone Tax Dispute (2012) | Defended Vodafone in a high-profile tax dispute with the Indian government. | Supreme Court ruled in favor of Vodafone, boosting investor confidence. |
| Tata-Mistry Dispute (2016) | Represented Tata Sons in the corporate governance dispute with Cyrus Mistry. | NCLAT ruling set aside by the Supreme Court, upholding Tata’s position. |
| Sabarimala Temple Entry (2018) | Argued for women’s right to enter the Sabarimala Temple. | Supreme Court allowed entry of women of all ages to the temple. |
| Antrix-Devas Case (2011) | Represented Antrix Corporation in the contract dispute with Devas Multimedia. | Arbitration award against Antrix challenged and partially overturned. |
Advocate Harish Salve Fees
Lawyer Harish Salve fees per day is approximately ₹10 to ₹25 lakhs in the Supreme Court and other high courts. For international cases, his fees can go up to ₹30 lakhs per day.
His annual earnings are estimated to be in the range of ₹15 to ₹20 crores, considering his involvement in both domestic and international high-stakes cases.
8. K.K. Venugopal
Next in our list of top 10 advocates in India is KK Venugopal. He is known for his expertise in constitutional law and public interest litigation.
Born on September 6, 1931, in Kerala, Venugopal completed his education at Madras Christian College and later studied law at the University of Madras.
He began his legal career in the early 1950s and was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India in 1972. He has served as the Attorney General of India since 2017, a role he also held briefly in the 1990s.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| Babri Masjid Demolition Case (1992) | Represented various parties in the high-profile dispute over the demolition of the Babri Masjid. | Contributed to the legal proceedings leading up to the final judgment in 2019. |
| Coal Allocation Scam (2012) | Represented the government in the controversial coal block allocation case. | Supreme Court canceled numerous coal block allocations, emphasizing transparency. |
| Right to Privacy Case (2017) | Argued for the recognition of privacy as a fundamental right. | Supreme Court ruled that the right to privacy is a fundamental right under the Constitution. |
| NJAC Case (2015) | Defended the National Judicial Appointments Commission Act. | Supreme Court struck down the NJAC Act, upholding the collegium system for judicial appointments. |
| Sabarimala Temple Entry (2018) | Represented the Devaswom Board regarding women’s entry into the temple. | Supreme Court allowed entry of women of all ages to the temple, upholding gender equality. |
KK Venugopal Fees
Lawyer K.K. Venugopal fees per day is approximately ₹5 to ₹10 lakhs in the Supreme Court. As the Attorney General, he also receives a government salary and other benefits.
His annual earnings are estimated to be in the range of ₹8 to ₹12 crores, considering his involvement in high-profile cases and his role as the top legal advisor to the government.
9. K.T.S. Tulsi
K.T.S. Tulsi is one of the prominent lawyers of India and a politician known for his expertise in criminal law and constitutional law.
Born on November 7, 1947, in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, Tulsi completed his law education at Panjab University, Chandigarh. He began his legal career in the early 1970s and quickly gained a reputation for his skill in handling complex criminal cases.
Tulsi was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India in 1987. He has served as the Additional Solicitor General of India and is also a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| Jessica Lal Murder Case (2006) | Represented the prosecution in the high-profile murder case of model Jessica Lal. | The accused, Manu Sharma, was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment. |
| 2G Spectrum Case (2010) | Represented the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the massive telecom scam. | Supreme Court canceled 122 licenses; several accused were prosecuted. |
| Coal Allocation Scam (2012) | Represented the CBI in the investigation of irregularities in coal block allocations. | Supreme Court canceled numerous coal block allocations, leading to significant reforms. |
| Bhopal Gas Tragedy Case (1984) | Represented the victims of the Bhopal gas disaster in seeking justice and compensation. | Led to a settlement and compensation for the victims, with ongoing legal battles for additional reparations. |
| Nirbhaya Case (2012) | Represented one of the convicts in the brutal gang-rape case in Delhi. | The Supreme Court upheld the death penalty for the convicts, highlighting the severity of the crime. |
KTS Tulsi Fees
Lawyer K.T.S. Tulsi fees per appearance is approximately ₹5 to ₹10 lakhs per appearance in the Supreme Court and high courts.
His annual earnings are estimated to be in the range of ₹8 to ₹12 crores, considering his involvement in high-stakes cases, advisory roles, and political engagements.
10. K. Parasaran
K. Parasaran is among the most expensive lawyers in India, known for his expertise in constitutional law, civil law, and public interest litigation.
Born on October 9, 1927, in Srirangam, Tamil Nadu, Parasaran completed his law education at Madras Law College. He began his legal career in the early 1950s and quickly gained prominence due to his exceptional legal acumen.
Parasaran served as the Attorney General of India from 1983 to 1989 and has been involved in several landmark cases. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2003 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2011 for his contributions to the legal field.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi Case (2019) | Represented the Hindu side in the long-standing dispute over the Ayodhya land. | Supreme Court ruled in favor of building a Ram temple at the disputed site, allotting alternative land for a mosque. |
| S.R. Bommai Case (1994) | Played a significant role in the case concerning the dismissal of state governments and President’s Rule. | Supreme Court laid down guidelines to curb misuse of Article 356, strengthening federalism. |
| Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973) | Contributed to the landmark judgment that established the Basic Structure doctrine. | Supreme Court ruled that the basic structure of the Constitution cannot be altered by amendments. |
| Anti-Defection Law Case (1993) | Defended the constitutional validity of the Tenth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. | Supreme Court upheld the law, preventing elected members from switching parties. |
| 9 PM Prime Time Ban (1979) | Advocated for the right to freedom of speech and expression. | Supreme Court upheld the right to freedom of expression, reinforcing media freedom. |
K. Parasaran Fees
K Parasaran fees per day is approximately ₹5 to ₹12 lakhs in the Supreme Court and high courts.
His annual earnings are estimated to be in the range of ₹8 to ₹10 crores.
11. Kapil Sibal
Kapil Sibal is a prominent Indian lawyer, politician, and author known for his expertise in constitutional law, commercial law, and intellectual property law.
Born on August 8, 1948, in Jalandhar, Punjab, Sibal completed his education at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, and later pursued a law degree from the Faculty of Law, University of Delhi. He also holds a Master’s degree in History from Harvard University.
Sibal began his legal career in the early 1970s and has served as a Senior Advocate in the Supreme Court of India since 1983.
He has held several key political positions, including Union Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Human Resource Development, and Law and Justice.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| 2G Spectrum Case (2010) | Defended clients accused in the 2G spectrum allocation scam. | Supreme Court canceled 122 licenses; ongoing litigation and trials. |
| Triple Talaq Case (2017) | Represented Muslim organizations in the case challenging instant triple talaq. | Supreme Court declared instant triple talaq unconstitutional. |
| Sahara-Birla Diaries Case (2016) | Represented political figures in the case concerning alleged payoffs detailed in the Sahara-Birla diaries. | Supreme Court found the evidence insufficient to proceed with prosecution. |
| Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi Case (2019) | Provided legal representation in the long-standing Ayodhya land dispute case. | Supreme Court ruled in favor of building a Ram temple at the disputed site, allotting alternative land for a mosque. |
| Rafale Deal Case (2018) | Represented petitioners challenging the procurement process of Rafale fighter jets. | Supreme Court dismissed the petitions, upholding the government’s decision. |
Kapil Sibal Fees
Lawyer Kapil Sibal fees per day is approximately ₹8 to ₹15 lakhs in the Supreme Court and high courts. For complex and high-profile cases, his fees can be higher. He is considered one of the highest paid lawyers in india.
His annual earnings are estimated to be in the range of ₹10 to ₹15 crores, considering his involvement in high-stakes cases, advisory roles, and political engagements.
12. Mukul Rohatgi
Mukul Rohatgi is a prominent Indian lawyer known for his expertise in constitutional law, criminal law, and corporate law.
Born on August 17, 1955, Rohatgi completed his education at Government Law College, Mumbai. He started his legal career under the guidance of his father, Justice Awadh Behari Rohatgi.
Rohatgi was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Delhi High Court in 1994 and served as the Attorney General of India from 2014 to 2017.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| Gujarat Riots Cases (2002) | Defended the Gujarat government in cases related to the 2002 riots. | Successfully argued for several accused, leading to acquittals. |
| Coal Scam Case (2012) | Represented the central government in the coal block allocation case. | Supreme Court canceled 214 out of 218 coal block allocations. |
| National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) Case (2015) | Defended the NJAC Act and 99th Constitutional Amendment. | Supreme Court struck down the NJAC Act, upholding the collegium system. |
| Triple Talaq Case (2017) | Represented the central government in the case challenging instant triple talaq. | Supreme Court declared instant triple talaq unconstitutional. |
| Sahara-SEBI Case (2012) | Represented Sahara Group in its dispute with SEBI over refund of investments. | Supreme Court ordered Sahara to refund investors, leading to high-profile negotiations. |
Mukul Rohatgi Fees
Lawyer Mukul Rohatgi fees per hearing is approximately ₹10 to ₹20 lakhs in the Supreme Court and high courts. For complex cases, his fees can be higher.
His annual earnings are estimated to be in the range of ₹12 to ₹15 crores, given his involvement in numerous high-stakes cases.
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13. P. Chidambaram
Palaniappan Chidambaram, commonly known as P. Chidambaram, is a famous advocate in India and politician known for his expertise in corporate law, finance, and constitutional matters.
Born on September 16, 1945, in Tamil Nadu, Chidambaram completed his education at Presidency College, Chennai, and then pursued law at the University of Madras and Harvard Business School.
He began his legal career in the early 1970s and has held several significant political positions, including Union Finance Minister and Union Home Minister. Despite his political career, Chidambaram continues to practice law and is known for his sharp legal acumen.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| 2G Spectrum Case (2010) | Represented several accused in the high-profile 2G spectrum allocation scam. | Supreme Court canceled 122 licenses; ongoing litigation and trials. |
| Aircel-Maxis Case (2011) | Defended clients involved in the Aircel-Maxis deal under scrutiny for alleged irregularities. | The case brought significant attention to corporate governance and regulatory compliance. |
| Enron Dabhol Power Project (2001) | Provided legal advice during the dispute involving the Enron Corporation’s Dabhol Power Project. | The case highlighted issues in international contracts and arbitration. |
| Vodafone Tax Case (2012) | Advised on the tax dispute involving Vodafone’s acquisition of Hutchison Essar. | Supreme Court ruled in favor of Vodafone, exempting it from the ₹11,000 crore tax demand. |
| Bail Pleas for High-Profile Individuals | Represented various high-profile individuals in securing bail for economic and financial offenses. | Successfully argued for bail in multiple high-stakes cases, demonstrating his expertise in criminal law. |
P Chidambaram Fees
Chidambaram charges approximately ₹5 to ₹15 lakhs per appearance in the Supreme Court and high courts. His fees vary based on the complexity and profile of the case.
His annual earnings are estimated to be in the range of ₹8 to ₹12 crores, considering his involvement in high-profile cases, advisory roles, and political engagements.
14. Ram Jethmalani
Ram Jethmalani was one of the most celebrated and controversial lawyers in India, known for his expertise in criminal law and his fearless advocacy.
Born on September 14, 1923, in Shikarpur, Sindh (now in Pakistan), Jethmalani completed his education in law at S.C. Shahani Law College in Karachi. He began his legal career at a young age and quickly gained a reputation for his skill and tenacity in the courtroom.
Jethmalani served as India’s Union Law Minister and was a Member of Parliament for several terms. He was known for taking on high-profile and often controversial cases.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| Nanavati Case (1959) | Defended naval officer K.M. Nanavati in a high-profile murder case. | The case led to significant changes in Indian legal history, including the abolition of jury trials. |
| Indira Gandhi Assassination Case (1984) | Defended Kehar Singh, accused in the conspiracy to assassinate Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. | Despite his efforts, Kehar Singh was convicted and executed. |
| Harshad Mehta Scam (1992) | Represented Harshad Mehta, involved in the securities scam. | Brought significant attention to financial market regulations and reforms. |
| Jessica Lal Murder Case (2006) | Defended Manu Sharma, accused of murdering model Jessica Lal. | Initially acquitted, but later convicted on appeal. |
| Afzal Guru Case (2001) | Defended Afzal Guru, accused in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack. | Despite Jethmalani’s defense, Afzal Guru was convicted and later executed. |
Ram Jethmalani Fees
Lawyer Ram Jethmalani charged approximately ₹10 to ₹25 lakhs per appearance in high-profile cases. His fees varied based on the complexity and nature of the case.
At the peak of his career, he was the richest lawyer in India. His annual earnings were estimated to be in the range of ₹15 to ₹20 crores.
15. Salman Khurshid
Salman Khurshid is among the india’s best lawyers, author, and politician known for his expertise in constitutional law, international law, and human rights.
Born on January 1, 1953, in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, Khurshid completed his education at St. Xavier’s School, Delhi, and later at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University. He pursued further studies at St. Edmund Hall, Oxford University.
Khurshid began his legal career in the early 1980s and has held several key political positions, including Union Minister for External Affairs, Law and Justice, and Minority Affairs. Despite his political commitments, Khurshid continues to practice law and is known for his eloquence and legal expertise.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| Ayodhya Land Dispute (2019) | Provided legal advice and representation in the high-profile Ayodhya land dispute case. | Supreme Court ruled in favor of building a Ram temple at the disputed site, allotting alternative land for a mosque. |
| Rafale Deal Case (2018) | Represented petitioners challenging the procurement process of Rafale fighter jets. | Supreme Court dismissed the petitions, upholding the government’s decision. |
| Triple Talaq Case (2017) | Advocated against the practice of instant triple talaq in the Supreme Court. | Supreme Court declared instant triple talaq unconstitutional. |
| Sahara-Birla Diaries Case (2016) | Represented political figures in the case concerning alleged payoffs detailed in the Sahara-Birla diaries. | Supreme Court found the evidence insufficient to proceed with prosecution. |
| National Herald Case (2015) | Defended Congress leaders in the case concerning the acquisition of Associated Journals Limited. | The case is ongoing, with significant legal arguments presented by Khurshid. |
Salman Khurshid Fees
Advocate Salman Khurshid fees per hearing is approximately ₹5 to ₹12 lakhs in the Supreme Court and high courts.
His annual earnings are estimated to be in the range of ₹8 to ₹10 crores.
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16. Sidharth Luthra
Sidharth Luthra is a popular lawyer in India, known for his expertise in criminal law, constitutional law, and commercial litigation.
Born on February 15, 1963, Luthra completed his law education at the University of Delhi and pursued further studies at the University of Cambridge, where he specialized in criminology.
He began his legal career in the early 1980s and was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Delhi High Court in 2004. Luthra has served as the Additional Solicitor General of India and is recognized for his sharp legal acumen and successful handling of high-profile cases.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| Nirbhaya Case (2012) | Represented the Delhi Police in the infamous gang-rape and murder case. | Supreme Court upheld the death penalty for the convicts, highlighting the severity of the crime. |
| 2G Spectrum Case (2010) | Represented the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the massive telecom scam. | Supreme Court canceled 122 licenses; several accused were prosecuted. |
| Tata Group vs. Cyrus Mistry Case (2016) | Represented Tata Sons in the corporate governance dispute with Cyrus Mistry. | NCLAT ruling set aside by the Supreme Court, upholding Tata’s position. |
| PIL on Acid Attacks (2013) | Filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking stringent regulations on the sale of acid. | Supreme Court directed the government to regulate the sale of acid and provide compensation to victims. |
| Coal Allocation Scam (2012) | Represented the CBI in the investigation of irregularities in coal block allocations. | Supreme Court canceled numerous coal block allocations, leading to significant reforms. |
Sidharth Luthra Fees
Lawyer Sidharth Luthra fees per hearing is approximately ₹5 to ₹15 lakhs in the Supreme Court and high courts. His annual earnings are estimated to be in the range of ₹8 to ₹12 crores.
17. Soli Sorabjee
Soli Sorabjee was one of India’s best lawyers, known for his expertise in constitutional law, human rights, and civil liberties.
Born on March 9, 1930, Sorabjee completed his education at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, and then studied law at Government Law College, Mumbai. He began his legal career in 1953 and was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India in 1971.
Sorabjee served as the Attorney General of India twice, from 1989 to 1990 and from 1998 to 2004. He was also a member of the United Nations Sub-Commission on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights.
Notable Cases and Achievements
| Case | Description | Outcome |
| Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973) | Contributed to the landmark judgment that established the Basic Structure doctrine. | Supreme Court ruled that the basic structure of the Constitution cannot be altered by amendments. |
| S.R. Bommai Case (1994) | Argued on the issue of President’s Rule and federalism in India. | Supreme Court laid down significant guidelines for imposing President’s Rule, strengthening federalism. |
| Keshavananda Bharati Case (1973) | One of the key lawyers in the case that defined the basic structure of the Indian Constitution. | Established that the basic structure of the Constitution is inviolable. |
| Vishakha Case (1997) | Advocated for guidelines to prevent sexual harassment at the workplace. | Supreme Court issued guidelines to prevent sexual harassment, leading to the creation of the Vishakha Guidelines. |
| 9 PM Prime Time Ban (1979) | Defended the media’s right to freedom of expression against government censorship. | Supreme Court upheld the right to freedom of expression, reinforcing media freedom. |
Soli Sorabjee Fees
Soli Sorabjee fees per appearance is approximately ₹5 to ₹10 lakhs per appearance in the Supreme Court and high courts.
At the peak of his career, his annual earnings were estimated to be in the range of ₹8 to ₹12 crores.
Top-Paid Lawyers in India and Their Fees
| Lawyer | Estimated Fees per Appearance (INR) |
| Abhishek Manu Singhvi | ₹6 to ₹15 lakhs |
| Arvind Datar | ₹5 to ₹12 lakhs |
| Ashok Desai | ₹5 to ₹12 lakhs |
| C. Aryama Sundaram | ₹7 to ₹15 lakhs |
| Fali S. Nariman | ₹15 to ₹20 lakhs |
| Gopal Subramanium | ₹8 to ₹15 lakhs |
| Harish Salve | ₹20 to ₹25 lakhs |
| K.K. Venugopal | ₹5 to ₹10 lakhs |
| K.T.S. Tulsi | ₹5 to ₹10 lakhs |
| K. Parasaran | ₹5 to ₹12 lakhs |
| Kapil Sibal | ₹8 to ₹15 lakhs |
| Mukul Rohatgi | ₹10 to ₹20 lakhs |
| P. Chidambaram | ₹5 to ₹15 lakhs |
| Ram Jethmalani | ₹10 to ₹25 lakhs |
| Salman Khurshid | ₹5 to ₹12 lakhs |
| Sidharth Luthra | ₹5 to ₹15 lakhs |
| Soli Sorabjee | ₹5 to ₹10 lakhs |
Importance of India’s Best Lawyers in Shaping the Legal Landscape
Upholding Justice and Rule of Law
- Interpretation and Application of Law: Top lawyers in India play a critical role in interpreting and applying the law. Their arguments and perspectives help judges understand complex legal issues, ensuring that justice is served according to the principles of the Constitution.
- Defending Rights and Liberties: Famous lawyers in India often take on cases that protect individual rights and liberties. By defending these rights, they ensure that the fundamental principles of democracy and justice are upheld.
Influencing Legal Precedents
- Landmark Judgments: Top lawyers in India often argue cases that result in landmark judgments, setting legal precedents that guide future judicial decisions. These precedents shape the interpretation of laws and can lead to significant changes in legal practices and policies.
- Legal Reforms: Through their involvement in high-stakes cases, top lawyers can influence legal reforms. Their arguments and insights can highlight the need for changes in existing laws or the creation of new laws to address emerging issues.
Contribution to Legal Education and Scholarship
- Mentorship and Training: Many top lawyers are involved in mentoring and training young lawyers. Their experience and knowledge contribute to the development of the next generation of legal professionals.
- Authorship and Research: Renowned lawyers often write books, articles, and research papers that contribute to legal scholarship. Their work provides valuable insights into complex legal issues and helps shape academic discourse.
Public Interest and Advocacy
- Public Interest Litigations (PILs): India’s top lawyers frequently take up PILs, addressing issues of public concern such as environmental protection, human rights, and social justice. These cases can lead to significant societal changes and improvements in public policy.
- Advocacy for Social Causes: By advocating for social causes, top Indian lawyers bring attention to critical issues and drive changes in public perception and government policies.
Economic and Commercial Impact
- Corporate and Commercial Law: In corporate and commercial law, best lawyers of India provide crucial advice and representation to businesses. Their expertise helps navigate complex legal landscapes, ensuring that businesses operate within the law and manage risks effectively.
- International Arbitration and Disputes: Top Indian lawyers often represent clients in international arbitration and disputes, helping to resolve cross-border legal issues. Their work supports global commerce and international relations.
Shaping Public Policy
- Policy Advisory Roles: Many top lawyers serve as advisors to the government and policy-making bodies. Their legal expertise informs the development of policies and legislation, ensuring that they are legally sound and effectively address the intended issues.
- Participation in Law Commissions: Top lawyers of India often participate in law commissions and committees that review and recommend changes to existing laws. Their contributions are vital to the continuous improvement and modernization of the legal system.
Factors Considered for Ranking India’s Best Lawyers
- Professional Standing
- Public image and media presence
- Landmark cases
- Impact on judiciary
- Success rate
- Per appearance fees
- High-profile clients
- Client diversity
- Years of practice
- Academic contributions
- Public interest work
- Pro bono cases
- Professional achievements
- Contribution to legal reforms
FAQs About Top Lawyers in India
The highest paid lawyers in India include Fali S. Nariman, Harish Salve, Mukul Rohatgi, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, K.K. Venugopal, Gopal Subramanium, Ram Jethmalani, Arvind Datar, C. Aryama Sundaram, and Soli Sorabjee, among others. These lawyers are known for their expertise, high-profile cases, and significant contributions to the legal field.
A lawyer’s fees in India are influenced by several factors, including the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s reputation and experience, the stakes involved in the case, the client base, geographical location, demand and availability, success rate, operational costs, urgency, and the scope of services provided.
Top lawyers in India charge anywhere from ₹5 lakhs to ₹25 lakhs per appearance, depending on their reputation, the complexity of the case, and the stakes involved.
High-profile lawyers handle a wide range of cases, including constitutional law, corporate law, criminal law, commercial disputes, human rights issues, public interest litigations (PILs), and international arbitration. They often take on cases that have significant legal, financial, or societal implications.
Yes, top lawyers in India can refuse to take a case. They may do so for various reasons, including conflicts of interest, the nature of the case, availability, or personal principles. High-profile lawyers often have the discretion to choose the cases they want to represent.
Top lawyers in India significantly impact the legal system by shaping legal precedents, influencing legal reforms, defending fundamental rights, and contributing to legal education and scholarship. Their involvement in landmark cases often leads to important changes in law and policy.
Many famous lawyers in India take on pro bono cases to give back to society and support public interest causes. These cases often involve issues such as human rights, social justice, and environmental protection. Pro bono work helps ensure that individuals and communities without financial means can access legal representation.
Becoming a top lawyer in India requires a combination of excellent education, extensive legal knowledge, significant experience, and a successful track record in high-profile cases. Networking, continuous learning, and involvement in landmark cases also play a crucial role. Many top lawyers have also held key legal and governmental positions, enhancing their reputation and influence.
Yes, there are several renowned female lawyers in India who have made significant contributions to the legal field. Some notable names include Indira Jaising, who is known for her work in human rights and public interest litigation, and Menaka Guruswamy, who has been involved in landmark cases such as the decriminalization of Section 377.
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