At the recent General Counsels Association of India (GCAI) conference in New Delhi, legal experts and industry leaders gathered to discuss the evolving role of corporate legal advisors. The event, themed “Rethink-Redefine-Re-Evolve the Legal Profession in India,” emphasized how in-house counsel are no longer just legal advisors but strategic partners in corporate decision-making.
The Shift from Courtrooms to Boardrooms
Dr. Sanjeev Gemavat, Founder of GCAI and Group General Counsel at SR Group, opened the conference by highlighting the need for India’s legal framework to expand beyond its litigation-centric focus. He argued that with India’s increasing global integration, specialized non-litigation legal services are in greater demand. However, the current legal system remains outdated, failing to recognize in-house counsel as practicing legal professionals.
The discussion took off with a panel titled “What Will the Indian Market Look Like in the Next 10 Years?” moderated by Ami Parikh, General Counsel of Asian Paints. Experts weighed in on the growing significance of corporate legal teams, the impact of foreign investments, and regulatory challenges. Daksh Alhuwalia, Founder of Aikyim Law Offices, called for structural changes in the judicial system, advocating for greater trust in legal proceedings, predictable outcomes, and a ‘loser pays’ principle to discourage frivolous litigation.
AI, Compliance, and the Future of Legal Practice
A recurring theme throughout the conference was the rise of artificial intelligence and its implications for the legal industry. Sharmishta Chakrabarti of Skadden Arps noted that while AI is currently just a tool, lawyers must proactively harness its capabilities before automation reshapes the profession. Mini Menon VandePol of Baker McKenzie added that AI-driven legal tools could enhance efficiency, though concerns about data security and client confidentiality must be addressed.
Keynote speaker Subhash Chandra Garg, former Finance Secretary and Executive Director at the World Bank, outlined the three layers of law that corporate lawyers navigate—fundamental constitutional laws, governance laws, and compliance frameworks. He stressed that legal professionals must transition from reactive roles to proactive and leadership-driven approaches.
The Expanding Role of General Counsel
Dhanendra Kumar, former Chairperson of the Competition Commission of India, delivered a compelling address on the growing influence of general counsel in corporate strategy. He emphasized that these professionals are no longer just legal watchdogs but trusted advisors who help shape a company’s long-term direction. Despite this, they still lack recognition as practicing legal professionals and remain excluded from appearing before regulatory bodies.
“A general counsel is now virtually a friend, philosopher, and guide to the board of directors and the company as a whole,” Kumar remarked, calling for systemic reforms to better integrate in-house legal advisors into India’s corporate governance framework.
Bridging Law and Technology
Another panel discussion, “Futuristic GCs: What Will It Take and What Truly Matters?” explored how legal teams must adapt to emerging technologies and geopolitical shifts. Speakers, including senior government officials and corporate leaders, discussed India’s lagging pace in AI adoption and the need for flexible legislation that can evolve with technological advancements.
Dr. Rajiv Mani of the Ministry of Law and Justice highlighted that AI’s regulatory future remains uncertain, with ongoing discussions on a new Information Technology Act to address these concerns. Manpreet Singh Ahuja of PwC India stressed that corporate legal teams must move beyond traditional compliance roles and actively contribute to business innovation.
The Road Ahead
As businesses navigate an increasingly complex regulatory environment, the role of general counsel is set to expand even further. From shaping corporate governance to influencing policy decisions, in-house legal teams are becoming indispensable strategic assets. The conference made it clear—legal professionals in India must evolve, embrace technology, and push for systemic reforms to stay relevant in the corporate world.