Two distinguished legal professionals, Nakul Dewan and Niranjan Venkatesan, have achieved the prestigious designation of King’s Counsel (KC) in England, marking a significant milestone in their illustrious careers. Their appointments fall under the “civil only” category, with formal ceremonies slated for March.
This honor, historically known as Queen’s Counsel when the monarch is female, is a testament to exceptional expertise in advocacy and legal acumen. The rigorous selection process, governed by the independent King’s Counsel Appointments panel, assesses candidates on their courtroom excellence, legal understanding, ethical standards, and contributions to the justice system.
Nakul Dewan: A Global Advocate
Dewan, a Senior Advocate and barrister at Twenty Essex, is celebrated for his prowess in commercial litigation and international arbitration. Operating across London, Singapore, and India, he has argued numerous landmark cases, shaping arbitration and commercial law. Among his many achievements, Dewan successfully challenged the Reserve Bank of India’s ban on cryptocurrency trading before India’s Supreme Court and represented clients in high-stakes disputes like the GMR Energy arbitration and a $500 million trust breach case.
A graduate of Delhi University and holder of advanced legal degrees from New York University and the National University of Singapore, Dewan’s career reflects a commitment to global legal innovation.
Niranjan Venkatesan: Scholar and Strategist
Venkatesan, a barrister at One Essex Court, specializes in commercial litigation and arbitration. He is a top-ranked advocate with expertise in energy and natural resources disputes. Having appeared in the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal on numerous occasions, Venkatesan also serves as a lecturer at the University of Oxford, where he completed his Bachelor of Civil Law with the distinction of the Vinerian Scholarship.
An alumnus of the National Law School of India University, Venkatesan’s career showcases a blend of academic excellence and legal mastery. His role in high-profile cases underscores his reputation as a legal strategist of the highest caliber.
A Legacy of Excellence
Dewan and Venkatesan join a distinguished lineage of Indian-origin King’s Counsel, including Harish Salve and Dipen Sabharwal, reinforcing India’s growing influence in global legal circles. Their appointments highlight not just individual brilliance but also the evolving contributions of Indian legal minds to the international advocacy arena.
