As the legal landscape in India evolves, certain individuals stand out for their exceptional legal acumen, unwavering commitment to justice, and profound impact on society. In this overview, we delve into the lives and achievements of top 5 lawyers in India up until 2024. From landmark court cases to advocacy for social change, these legal luminaries have left an indelible mark on India’s legal system, shaping its trajectory and inspiring future generations of legal professionals. Let’s explore the remarkable contributions of these influential figures who have helped define the course of Indian jurisprudence.
Following Are the Top 5 Lawyers in India
1. Fali Sam Nariman:
Fali Nariman, often referred to as the “Conscience Keeper of the Bar,” is a towering figure in Indian jurisprudence. Born in 1929, Nariman’s legal journey spans over six decades, marked by his exceptional brilliance and unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law. He has appeared in numerous landmark cases, particularly in constitutional law, where his profound understanding of legal principles and sharp courtroom advocacy have earned him widespread recognition. Nariman’s contributions extend beyond the courtroom; he has authored several books and articles on legal matters, enriching the legal discourse in India. His principled stand on issues of civil liberties and constitutional rights has earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and the wider community alike.
Since 1971, Fali Sam Nariman has been practicing law as an attorney, showcasing his legal prowess and dedication to the profession. In 1991, he was elected as the president of the Indian Bar Association, a testament to his esteemed standing within the legal community. Additionally, from 1972 to 1975, Nariman served as India’s Additional Solicitor General, where he played a crucial role in representing the government’s interests. However, he resigned from this position in response to the emergency order, showcasing his unwavering commitment to principles and ethics in the face of challenging circumstances.
Date of Birth: 10 January 1929
Death: 21 February 2024
Awards: Padma Bhushan Award in 1991, Padma Vibhushan Award in 2007, Gruber Prize for Justice awarded in 2002
Famous Cases: The horrific Bhopal gas tragedy, Golak Nath, SP Gupta, TMA Pai Foundation, and similar instances are just a few of the high-profile issues he had fought.
Books Written/ Additional Work: Some of his notable literary contributions are-
- God Save the Hon’ble Supreme Court
- The Constitution of India
- The State of the Nation
- Before Memory Fades: An Autobiography
- India’s Legal System
2. Ram Jethmalani:
Ram Boolchand Jethmalani, the legendary legal maverick, left an indelible imprint on India’s legal landscape through his fearless advocacy and larger-than-life persona. Born in 1923, Jethmalani’s legal career spanned over seven decades, during which he became known for his sharp intellect, quick wit, and unwavering commitment to justice. He was a formidable presence in the courtroom, renowned for taking on controversial cases and challenging established norms with his bold and unconventional approach. Jethmalani’s legal legacy includes landmark cases in criminal law, constitutional matters, and public interest litigation, where he fearlessly fought for the rights of his clients and the principles of justice.
At the age of 17, Ram Jethmalani accomplished a remarkable feat by graduating from Mumbai’s Government Law College with an LLB degree, demonstrating his early commitment to the legal profession. Widely regarded as one of the most accomplished criminal defense lawyers in India, Jethmalani’s legal acumen and courtroom expertise have earned him widespread recognition.
Notably, Jethmalani was renowned as the highest-paid lawyer in India, a testament to the value placed on his exceptional legal skills and the trust placed in his ability to navigate complex legal matters. His unparalleled success and unwavering dedication to the pursuit of justice have solidified his legacy as a legal luminary and a towering figure in India’s legal landscape. Despite his passing in 2019, Jethmalani’s legacy continues to inspire aspiring lawyers and advocates for generations to come.
Date of Birth: 23 September 1923.
Death: 8 September 2019
Awards: Human Rights Award by World Peace Through Law awarded in 1977, International Jurist Award
Famous Cases: Ram Jethmalani, known for his sharp mind and composed demeanor, undertook several high-profile cases, including the KM Nanavati vs. State of Maharashtra, Jessica Lall murder case, defense of the assassins of Rajiv and Indira Gandhi, Haji Mastan’s case, Afzal Guru case, Sohrabuddin fake encounter case, and the Spectrum 2G case. His involvement in these cases showcased his versatility and fearlessness in addressing complex and controversial legal matters, solidifying his legacy as a prominent figure in Indian criminal defense law.
Books Written/ Additional Work: Some of his notable literary contributions are-
- Big Egos, Small Men
- Conflict of Laws
- Conscience of a Maverick
- Justice: Soviet Style
- Maverick: Unchanged, Unrepentant
3. Soli Sorabjee:
Soli Sorabjee, a titan of Indian law, is revered for his profound understanding of constitutional principles and his unwavering commitment to defending civil liberties. Born in 1930, Sorabjee’s illustrious career as an advocate and legal scholar spans several decades, during which he has been at the forefront of numerous landmark cases that have shaped India’s legal jurisprudence. His dedication to upholding the principles of justice, democracy, and the rule of law has earned him accolades both nationally and internationally, solidifying his legacy as one of India’s most respected legal minds.
After completing his legal studies at the Government Law College in Mumbai, Soli Sorabjee was admitted to the bar in 1953. In 1971, Sorabjee earned the designation of a senior advocate of the Supreme Court of India, recognizing his exemplary legal expertise and contributions to the legal profession. His reputation for legal acumen continued to grow, leading to his appointment as the Solicitor General of India, a position he held from 1977 to 1980.
Sorabjee’s remarkable career reached new heights when he was appointed as the Attorney General of India, serving from 1998 to 2004. Notably, he holds the distinction of being the only individual to have held the esteemed office for two consecutive terms.
Throughout his tenure as a legal luminary, Sorabjee has been recognized for his unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of justice, democracy, and the rule of law. His contributions to the legal field have left an indelible mark on India’s legal landscape, earning him widespread acclaim and respect both nationally and internationally.
Date of Birth: 9 March 1930.
Death: 30 April 2021
Awards: Kinloch Forbes Gold Medal in Roman Law and Jurisprudence awarded in 1952, Padma Vibhushan award in 2002, Justice K. S. Hegde Foundation Award, 2006
Famous Cases: The case of Maneka Gandhi, Keshavananda Bharati, IR Coelho, SR Bommai, BP Singhal, etc.
Books Written/ Additional Work: Some of his notable literary contributions are-
- Nani Palkhivala – The courtroom genius
- The Emergency, Censorship
- The Press in India
- World of All Human Rights
- Search for Values.
4. Gopal Subramanium:
Gopal Subramanium, a distinguished legal scholar and former Solicitor General of India, is celebrated for his erudition, integrity, and steadfast commitment to the rule of law. Born in 1958, Subramanium’s illustrious career has been marked by his profound understanding of constitutional principles and his unwavering advocacy for human rights and social justice.
As Solicitor General, he played a pivotal role in representing the Indian government in significant legal matters and upholding the principles of justice and equity. Subramanium’s contributions extend beyond the courtroom; he has been actively involved in legal education and advocacy, nurturing future generations of legal professionals and advocating for meaningful legal reforms. His dedication to public service and his relentless pursuit of justice have earned him widespread admiration and respect from peers and the public alike.
Date of birth: 18 December 1932.
Awards: National Law Day Award for Outstanding Jurist presented to him in 2009 by the President of India. In 2013, he received an honorary Doctorate in Law from the Central University of Orissa, Koraput, recognizing his significant contributions to the advancement of law in India.
Famous Cases: The BALCO case (2012), Ajmal Kasab case, 2G radio-spectrum, Raja Ram Pal v. Speaker, Bachpan Bachao Andolan v. Union of India, etc.
Books Written/ Additional Work: In addition to his extensive legal career, Gopal Subramanium has made notable contributions to legal scholarship. He has both contributed to and edited “Supreme But Not Infallible: Essays in Honour of the Supreme Court of India,” a comprehensive publication that critically evaluates the functioning of the Supreme Court of India. This influential work, published in 2004 by the esteemed Oxford University Press, stands as a testament to Subramanium’s commitment to advancing legal discourse and promoting critical analysis within the Indian legal framework.
5. Mukul Rohatgi:
Mukul Rohatgi, a legal luminary known for his sharp intellect and formidable courtroom presence, has made significant contributions to Indian jurisprudence. Born in 1955, Rohatgi’s distinguished career includes serving as India’s Attorney General, where he played a pivotal role in representing the government in crucial legal matters. His expertise in diverse areas of law, coupled with his unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law, has earned him widespread acclaim and recognition as one of India’s leading legal advocates.
Birth Date: 17 August 1955
Famous Cases: Mukul Rohatgi, recognized for his legal prowess, has defended various prominent cases, including representing the Ambani brothers in a gas supply lawsuit, handling the Y K Sabharwal property action, participating in the Jharkhand Assembly floor test case, and addressing legal matters arising from the 2002 Gujarat Riots, among others. His involvement in these high-profile cases underscores his versatility and expertise in navigating complex legal issues across different domains.
Conclusion:
The contributions of Fali Sam Nariman, Ram Jethmalani, Gopal Subramanium, Soli Sorabjee, and Mukul Rohatgi to India’s legal landscape are immeasurable. Through their expertise, integrity, and unwavering commitment to justice, these legal luminaries have not only shaped the course of legal jurisprudence but have also inspired generations of legal practitioners to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct. Their legacies serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the transformative power of law in building a more just, equitable, and inclusive society.
