Rishabh Cyril Shroff

What has been the highlight of your practice over the past 12 months?

Out of the last 12 months, 6 have been spent in dealing with a pandemic and lockdowns, working from home. Even during this time and despite these challenges, I am proud that my work and that of the firm has not suffered in any manner. During this time, my team and I handled a complex family settlement, which got negotiated and signed during lockdown itself. In addition, we are at the final changes of an extremely large and complex family settlement for a major business family, which progressed significantly with our help during this time. It involves 3 generations of family members, large listed companies and complex interlocked structures - all these dynamics which I helped the client family navigate successfully. The details will be out in the public domain soon. This has been professionally and personally satisfying. I would call both these assignments my key highlights. In addition, I am proud that our outreach during this time has been extensive, and many new clients and families have come to us for their estate planning. This is also due to the fact that we have done a large number of training and thought leadership sessions virtually during this time. The highlight for me here is the intellectual effort and rigour that goes into preparing and delivering these sessions.

How did you get into private client?

Always been a passion and fascination of mine. I am also the 4th generation member of a family business of lawyers, so I understand the issues and dilemmas that any family business and its younger generations may face. This helps me empathize and give better advice, as I have been in their shoes.

What advice would you give rising stars/new lawyers in the private client world?

I would advise them to be bold and find their own platform in this world. Private client work is relatively new in India, and hence gives an excellent way to build your name from a young age. Find the type of work that appeals to you, and pursue it relentlessly.

What is your favourite quote?

"Where there is a Will, there are 500 relatives!"

Do you have any outside interests or hobbies?

I love to play badminton, and I try and plan every weekend. I also try to play the piano (not sure if I play it well though).

When the restaurants reopen, where would you like to go?

Wasabi (Taj) - Japanese food.