Mr Robin Ratnakar David is an independent counsel with nearly 35 years of experience at the Supreme Court of India and the Delhi High Court, specialising in arguing complex commercial disputes across the country. Mr David, holding prestigious titles such as Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (FCIArb), Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA), and Fellow Prime Dispute (FPD) is a respected arbitrator, empanelled with Delhi International Arbitration Centre (DIAC), National Project Approval Committee (NPAC), National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI), International Council of Archives (ICA), World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), and Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA). He served on the Governing Council of the Indian Council of Arbitration and was an Equity Partner at the law firm, Dua Associates, until 2023. In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Mr David was honoured with the Global Dispute Resolution Award of the year at the Prime Dispute Awards 2023-2024.
1. Please introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Robin David, and I have been a practising advocate for nearly 35 years. I regularly appear as counsel before the Supreme Court of India, the Delhi High Court, and various other forums. I earned my BSc from Loyola College, Chennai, and my Bachelor of Law (BL) from Government Law College, Coimbatore. After my studies, I moved to Delhi to begin my practice.
When I moved to Delhi — over three decades ago now — I had no established connections. It is amusing, looking back, but my only thought at the time was a desire to work with Mr Soli Sorabjee. That dream may have remained unfulfilled, but my journey over these past 35 years has been incredible. More than anything, it has instilled in me a deep sense of empathy for lawyers starting out without a “good pedigree”. One of the highlights of my career is seeing many of my mentees become leaders in their fields.
Reflecting on my professional journey, one of my most significant arguments was in B.K. Educational Services (P) Ltd. v. Parag Gupta and Associates1, which became the first authoritative Supreme Court ruling on the interplay between the Limitation Act, 1963 and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016. Another highlight of my career was obtaining a favourable judgment from the Supreme Court in Kaithuami v. Ralliani2, a landmark ruling that provided much-needed protection to widows under Mizo Customary Law.
Beyond my practice as counsel, I am empanelled as an arbitrator with various institutes, leveraging my extensive experience to facilitate the resolution of disputes outside the courtroom.
2. You are a BSc (Physics) graduate from Loyola College. What inspired you to pursue a career in law afterward, and did your background in Science present any challenges during your time in law school?
After earning my BSc in Physics, my mother’s encouragement and wisdom inspired me to pursue a career in law. Initially, I had doubts about making such a significant transition, but she saw potential in me as a lawyer that I did not see in myself. Her belief motivated me to become the first lawyer in our family, which was a significant milestone.
While law school was challenging, my Physics background proved beneficial. The analytical skills and problem-solving techniques I honed in Physics gave me a unique edge in tackling legal issues. Rather than being a hurdle, my scientific background became a valuable asset in navigating the field of law.
3. Please tell our readers about your journey at Government Law College, Coimbatore.
Moving from Loyola College in Madras, where I studied Physics, to Government Law College in Coimbatore was quite a shift, both academically and culturally. The differences between the two cities initially posed challenges in adapting to life in Coimbatore. However, I was fortunate to form friendships with some remarkable individuals who made Coimbatore feel like home. I also had the privilege of representing Government Law College in cultural events and participating in quiz and elocution competitions.
I had the honour of staying with a local family, Dr and Mrs Samuel, whose exceptional care and warmth greatly contributed to my well-being. I maintain a strong bond with this gracious family and my friends, many of whom are well-known lawyers and Judges.
My heartfelt gratitude goes to Coimbatore, especially my classmates and friends, for their support and kindness. Coimbatore has earned a special place in my heart, and I consider it my second home. The connection I feel with the city is enduring, and I cherish the opportunity to return and reconnect with the friends who embraced me so wholeheartedly during my studies.
4. During your school and college days, you played cricket and hockey, and you currently play golf. Additionally, you participated in the photography exhibition organised by the Delhi High Court in 2023 and 2024. How important is it to engage in extracurricular activities apart from academics and professional interests while pursuing legal studies or even during your professional career?
Engaging in extracurricular activities while studying or working in law is beneficial. Playing cricket, hockey, and golf has not only kept me fit but also taught me valuable lessons in teamwork, strategy, and perseverance — qualities that are crucial in the legal profession. Additionally, participating in the photography exhibition at the Delhi High Court in 2023 and 2024 deepened my passion for photography and storytelling.
These activities offer more than just physical health benefits; they provide a mental break, reduce stress, and prevent burnout. Balancing work with hobbies has helped me stay motivated and reminded me that there’s more to life than just the courtroom. Pursuing passions outside of law makes a lawyer well-rounded and happier.
5. You started your legal practice in the early 1990s and have practised for about 35 years. What changes do you observe in the courtroom atmosphere when you compare your initial days with the practice of young lawyers today?
The essence of the courtroom has not changed, but the legal profession has undergone dramatic shifts since the early 1990s. Back then, we relied on typewriters, rotary dial landline phones, single-sided court paper, and physical libraries. While we thankfully still have physical libraries, technology has revolutionised legal practice today, not only with online legal research and virtual court appearances but also with the integration of artificial intelligence and the emergence of areas like cybercrimes and smart contracts.
The Covid-19 Pandemic accelerated these advancements, leading to virtual courtrooms and online dispute resolution. Diversity has also improved, with more women entering the field since the appointment of the first female Supreme Court Judge in 1989.
Modern cases have become more complex due to globalisation and technology, necessitating continuous learning. Clients are now better informed and expect greater efficiency. It has been thrilling to be part of this transformation.
6. What were the major challenges you faced in the initial years of your practice? Additionally, building a clientele is a significant challenge for first generation lawyers. How did you overcome this obstacle in your early days?
My journey as a lawyer beginning in 1990 presented several challenges, particularly in finding the right senior lawyer to guide me, given my lack of connections in the legal field. Overcoming this, I relied on the wisdom of friends who both guided and misguided me. On a serious note, I was fortunate to meet Mr R.S. Suri, who introduced me to my first senior, Mr B.K. Sood. I am grateful to Mr Suri for his kindness. Mr Sood was an excellent mentor who emphasised the importance of being meticulous and always reminded me that successful lawyers protect two things: their time and their reputation. I also had the privilege of working with Mr Rahul P. Dave, another outstanding mentor and expert in commercial litigation.
Learning the practical aspects of litigation, which were not covered in law school, required keen observation of court proceedings and interactions between Judges and counsel. Court clerks provided valuable insights, and I grew to respect them greatly — though they sometimes do not answer my calls.
Building a clientele and establishing a reputation was a significant challenge without existing connections. To overcome this, I worked hard to prove myself, relying on word-of-mouth recommendations and the quality of my work. I focused on diligence, honesty, and doing my best in every case. Diversifying my practice and staying informed about industry developments were essential. It was also crucial to follow legal standards, treat clients with honesty, and uphold professional values.
7. Please share with our readers your experience working at Dua Associates and how your transition to an independent counsel practice has been?
At Dua Associates, the work culture is partner-driven, encouraging self-reliance and client-building, with a focus on financial targets — which are, of course, crucial for large law firms. Before joining the firm, I was an independent practitioner, and I maintained that independent work style during my two decades there; I rarely engaged outside counsel and argued cases myself, with my associates briefing me on various matters.
In 2020, I began receiving arbitrator appointments, which prompted my transition from the firm. Leaving Dua Associates helped me avoid conflicts of interest and secure more engagements, as counsel as well as arbitrator.
Working at a firm offers the benefits of support and infrastructure, but it can sometimes be limiting for an aspiring counsel. On the other hand, independent practice allows me more time to focus on crafting arguments, enjoy greater flexibility, and take on a wider variety of cases. Ultimately, the choice between firm work and independent practice comes down to individual goals and circumstances.
8. Please tell our readers about your journey as an arbitrator.
Your young readers might think of me as a fossil after this, but having started my practice in 1990 — before the current Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 even came about — you might assume that arbitrations were not as commonplace then as they are today. In actuality, I worked on dozens of arbitrations at the very start of my career alongside my senior, Mr B.K. Sood, in 1990 — mind you, these were under the then effective Arbitration Act, 1940. The journey from that point to securing my first appointment as an arbitrator in 2020 was long, hard, and challenging, but also rewarding.
The most challenging part of becoming an arbitrator is securing your first appointment — it took me 30 years. Building your presence, reputation, and acceptability within the legal community demands considerable effort and dedication. Having a “good pedigree” also helps. But now, acting as an arbitrator and writing awards is incredibly fulfilling. This experience also helps me as a counsel — giving me the privilege of seeing matters from the Judge’s perspective.
9. What advice would you give to young lawyers and law students on the dos and don’ts for succeeding in the legal profession, particularly in the field of litigation?
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The legal landscape is constantly evolving. It is essential to stay up-to-date with the latest legal developments — be it precedents, statutory changes, or societal shifts, as any and/or all of these factors can impact your practice.
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You will soon realise that everyone’s reputation precedes them in the legal fraternity, and there are no exceptions. To me, there is nothing better than having a reputation of honesty and reliability, which can become your greatest asset.
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In our legal profession, nothing accelerates growth like learning from experienced professionals. Insights from seniors can help you immensely. Embrace criticism — it makes you better.
Additionally, do not forget about climate change. Use whatever platform you have to advocate for environmental protection and address climate change. This issue is critical and requires the attention and efforts of all.
10. To end on a lighter note, what career path would you have chosen if you had not become a lawyer?
If I were not a lawyer, I would probably be a stand-up comedian. I mean, I already have experience dealing with tough crowds in court. Outside of court, I have a knack for turning everyday legal absurdities into humour. Picture me on stage, regaling audiences with tales of legal mishaps and quirky courtroom characters. Who knows, maybe I had even land my own Netflix special — “Counsel at Laughs!”
