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This post is part of our ‘A Day in the Life’ segment, where we showcase the lives of legal professionals. The segment aims to help you make inspired and informed career decisions.
Adv. Puneet Jain is currently practicing as an Advocate at the Delhi High Court, with over nine years of extensive experience in the legal profession. His practice spans a wide range of matters, including criminal law, civil disputes, matrimonial cases, and arbitration proceedings.
Over the years, he has successfully represented and advised clients across these domains, maintaining a strong commitment to professional ethics and effective advocacy.
What inspired you to start your independent practice, and what were the biggest challenges you faced while establishing your practice?
Earlier in my career, I was a judiciary aspirant with a strong fascination to be on the other side of the bench. However, life took its own course, and when I began appearing in courts, I discovered that this journey has its own adventures and thrills. Every day brings unique legal propositions that challenge me to read, research, learn, and argue—ultimately securing relief for my clients.
Being part of the justice delivery system, whether as a judicial officer or as counsel, has always been my goal, and the satisfaction of achieving justice for a client is truly unmatched… though I must admit, a good fee is also a nice bonus (laughs).
My decision to start my independent practice stemmed from a desire for professional autonomy, the ability to build direct client relationships, and the opportunity to handle matters with a personalized and result-oriented approach. I wanted the freedom to choose my cases, develop my own strategies, and establish a professional identity built on trust, competence, and integrity.
The initial phase was challenging—building a client base, gaining visibility in a competitive legal market, and managing every aspect of the practice, from client acquisition and case preparation to court appearances and administrative work. However, these challenges strengthened my skills, enhanced my resilience, and shaped me into a more resourceful and effective advocate.
Can you describe your specific responsibilities in this role?
As a practicing Advocate at the Delhi High Court, my responsibilities cover the complete spectrum of litigation work. I handle matters in criminal law, civil disputes, matrimonial cases, and arbitration proceedings. My role involves meeting and advising clients, assessing the merits of their cases, drafting pleadings and petitions, conducting thorough legal research, and formulating effective case strategies.
I regularly appear before the court to present arguments, cross-examine witnesses, and pursue reliefs on behalf of clients.
In addition, I manage all aspects of my independent practice—coordinating with juniors, briefing senior counsels when required, ensuring compliance with procedural requirements, and maintaining clear client communication.
Ultimately, my responsibility is to provide effective legal representation while upholding professional ethics and delivering the best possible outcomes for my clients.
What is the most important thing you’ve learned since starting in this role?
Since starting my independent practice, the most important lessons I have learned are the value of thorough legal research, the discipline required to manage time effectively, and the patience to handle complex and unpredictable situations in litigation.
I have realized that preparation is the foundation of success—knowing the facts, the law, and the possible counter-arguments in detail can make all the difference in court.
I have also understood that discipline, consistency, and professional ethics are non-negotiable in this profession. Most importantly, I have learned that you never truly know everything. In law, the moment you feel you have mastered a subject, the very next day you may encounter a new legal proposition that makes you wonder—“Do I really know this subject?” (laughs). This constant learning keeps me humble, curious, and motivated to grow as a legal professional.
What’s the one thing that surprised you about the role when you started?
One thing that truly surprised me when I started was the sheer unpredictability of this profession. No two days are ever the same—each matter brings its own set of facts, legal questions, and human dynamics. I initially believed that with thorough preparation, most things would go according to plan, but I soon realized that court practice often demands the ability to think on your feet, adapt instantly, and sometimes completely change strategy mid-hearing.
Another aspect that struck me was the range of human emotions you experience in a single day. Appearing in a criminal case invokes a very different mindset than appearing in a matrimonial matter, yet irrespective of personal emotions, as an officer of the court, you must always act in accordance with professional ethics and objectivity.
I was also pleasantly surprised by how much every case—whether big or small—teaches you. The learning curve in law never truly flattens, and this constant challenge is what makes the profession both demanding and deeply rewarding.
What does a typical day in your life look like?
A typical day in my life as an Advocate begins early, reviewing my cause list and preparing for the matters listed in court. I go through case files, fine-tune my arguments, and ensure all necessary documents are in order. Once in court, the day becomes a fast-paced marathon—running from one courtroom to another, always keeping an eye on the display board, and balancing interactions with clients, which range from receiving blessings to, occasionally, facing threats.
There are days when judges appreciate my arguments, and days when I get a sharp scolding—but both are part of the learning curve.
After court hours, I shift to chamber work—meeting clients, drafting petitions, replies, and written submissions, and conducting in-depth legal research. Some days also involve briefing senior counsels, holding strategy conferences, or working on settlements in arbitration or mediation matters.
Evenings are usually spent preparing for the next day’s matters, keeping track of deadlines, and completing procedural formalities. The schedule is demanding and unpredictable, but that’s exactly what makes it dynamic, challenging, and intellectually stimulating—no two days are ever the same.
What are the Pros and Cons of your work?
Pros: Practicing as an Advocate is intellectually stimulating—every case brings a new challenge, requiring research, strategic thinking, and quick decision-making. The work offers immense personal satisfaction, especially when you secure justice for a client. It also gives me professional autonomy, the opportunity to meet and interact with diverse people, and the thrill of courtroom advocacy, which is unlike any other profession.
Cons: The profession can be highly unpredictable—case listings change, hearings get adjourned, and urgent matters often disrupt your planned schedule. The work is also demanding in terms of time, energy, and mental resilience, with no fixed working hours. Additionally, the initial years can be financially challenging until you establish a stable client base. Despite these challenges, the sense of purpose and fulfillment keeps me motivated.
How do you manage client development, court appearances, and administrative work as an independent practitioner?
As an independent practitioner, managing client development, court appearances, and administrative work requires a blend of discipline, time management, and prioritization. I start by organizing my schedule around court listings, ensuring that urgent hearings and filing deadlines are addressed first.
For client development, I focus on building trust through clear communication, timely updates, and delivering quality results. I also maintain professional networks, attend legal seminars, and rely on word-of-mouth referrals, which are invaluable in this profession.
Administrative work—such as filing, coordinating with clerks, and ensuring procedural compliance—is managed by setting aside dedicated time after court hours and, where possible, delegating routine tasks to juniors or support staff. Balancing all three areas is challenging, but with a structured approach and adaptability, it becomes manageable and even rewarding.
What qualities do you look for when hiring young lawyers or interns?
When hiring young lawyers or interns, I value attitude as much as aptitude. I look for individuals who are genuinely eager to learn, have strong research and drafting skills, and can think critically. Good communication, both written and oral, is essential, as is the ability to work under pressure and manage time effectively.
I also value discipline, sincerity, and professional ethics—qualities that form the backbone of a successful legal career. A willingness to take initiative, pay attention to detail, and adapt to the unpredictable nature of court work is equally important. In my experience, technical skills can be taught, but commitment, curiosity, and integrity must come from within.
What top tips would you give to young lawyers who want to build a sustainable independent practice?
My top tips for young lawyers aspiring to build a sustainable independent practice would be:
- Master the basics: Build a strong foundation in procedural and substantive law—thorough preparation is your greatest asset.
- Be patient: Success in independent practice takes time; the initial years may be financially and professionally challenging.
- Focus on quality work: Let your work speak for itself—client satisfaction and positive word-of-mouth are the best marketing tools.
- Keep learning: Law is constantly evolving, so stay updated and never assume you know everything.
- Maintain ethics and professionalism: Your reputation is your most valuable currency; protect it at all costs.
- Network wisely: Build genuine relationships with peers, seniors, and clients; the legal profession thrives on connections.
If you stay disciplined, adaptable, and committed to continuous growth, your practice will not only be sustainable but also deeply rewarding.
Please recommend any books or resources that you think every law student should explore.
For law students, I believe a mix of foundational texts, practical guides, and contemporary resources is essential. Some of my top recommendations are:
1. Foundational Texts:
- Constitution of India by P.M. Bakshi (for clarity on constitutional provisions)
- Principles of Statutory Interpretation by G.P. Singh
- Code of Civil Procedure by C.K. Takwani and Criminal Procedure Code by R.V. Kelkar
2. Skill-Building Resources:
- The Art of Cross-Examination by Francis L. Wellman
- How to Argue and Win Every Time by Gerry Spence
- Legal Writing in Plain English by Bryan A. Garner
3. Contemporary & Practical Learning:
- Reading Supreme Court and High Court judgments regularly to understand evolving legal interpretations.
- Following legal updates on portals like LiveLaw, Bar & Bench, and SCC Online.
Books give you the theory, but real growth comes from combining that knowledge with observation of live court proceedings and practical experience.
Disclaimer: Interviews published on Lawctopus are not thoroughly edited to retain the voice of the interviewee.
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