Historically, the concept of legal chambers originated in the UK, but is not prevalent in India. Simply put, a set of Chambers is not set up in the same way as a law firm or an individual practice. Every lawyer who is a part of the Chamber is a self-employed sole practitioner. Together, many such lawyers work under a common aegis of Chamber to share resources and in this set-up, they do not form any formal partnership, LLP or any other incorporated entity, as we see with law firms. Individual lawyers are known as tenants or Members of Chambers.
Chamber facilities, be it office spaces, library or clerks are shared amongst the Members. This allows pooling of resources and a safe space to brainstorm ideas and legal strategies.
L&W Chambers is the first Chamber in India, catering exclusively to 1st generation lawyers.
We hope that in times to come, the Chamber will grow into a formidable institution in itself, attracting the finest first generation legal talent from across the country.
L&W Chambers is the initiative of Lawmen & White LLP, a leading full service law firm based in New Delhi. All Partners and all associates are 1st generation lawyers. L&W Chambers aims to be a platform and starting point for those 1st generation lawyers who are starting their independent practise.
We firmly believe that 1st generation lawyers across the country are a talented lot, but face many inevitable challenges and obstacles at the time of entry into the legal profession. As first generation lawyers, you may have faced, or be facing some of the issues enumerated below:
Lack of proper guidance and mentorship during law school: Most 1st generation lawyers are not aware of good internship opportunities, as quite a few of them are through word of mouth and get filled up before public applications are invited. Moreover, most take what they can get without any coherent plan or concrete structure to their internships over the three or five year period of law school.
Lack of guidance even after joining the profession: It is commonplace that in the profession, especially in litigation, there is no one to help you ‘learn the ropes’ after graduating from law school. Many lawyers even after graduation, have lack of proper drafting and court exposure, and nobody to teach them. You have to figure it out as you go, making mistakes and earning your superior’s ire, more often than not. Additionally you are given small roles and piecemeal work, even though you may be capable. High stakes matters are not assigned to you as you are told you lack the experience or are not good enough yet to competently handle the same handle.
Absence of affordable workspaces in proximity to courts: When every 1st generation lawyer aims to go independent, a workspace is the first priority for most. However, the stark reality is that with skyrocketing rents in South and Central Delhi, finding an office space often remains a distant dream. You have to settle for someplace far from courts, incur setup and infrastructure costs and most likely the really nice office space you’ve been eyeing will come at a hefty price – putting it out of reach.
Expensive setup costs: In addition to rent, setting up an office comes with other associated costs, including hidden administrative costs, hefty legal software subscriptions and library costs ranging in lakhs. Generational lawyers do not have to bear this and usually can simply take over the existing office setup.
Practical practise issues: Delays in filing, clearing of defects and getting cases listed. Also, confusion in the engagement of Senior Advocates. Finding a good Advocate -on-Record before the Supreme Court. Most importantly, the constant fear of losing clients and the lack of a safe space to run ideas and strategies with seniors in the profession.
Absence of a network: Most 1st generation lawyers do not have access to a network of lawyers across the country, or access to the top legal minds. This creates an unseen, unspoken barrier to entry, especially in respect to high stakes matters as well as clientele.
L&W Chambers is our endeavour to help mitigate and alleviate these problems, creating a strong and talented network of 1st generation lawyers. L&W Chambers aims to be a key player in Delhi’s legal landscape in times to come - exclusively for those who do not have any backing in the legal profession.
Lawmen & White LLP proudly announces the launch of L&W Chambers, India’s first exclusive law chamber dedicated to supporting first-generation lawyers, early-stage advocates, and legal professionals aspiring to establish or enhance their legal practice in Delhi, especially before the Supreme Court.
Please note that this is not a simple co-working arrangement. Those merely interested in a low cost office space need not apply as there are ample co-working spaces already available in South Delhi.
This pioneering initiative, spearheaded by Lawmen & White’s partners Ujjawal Anand Sharma and Prashant Sivarajan, offers unparalleled resources and strategic advantages for lawyers nationwide. The Firm and its Partners have been the recipient of multiple Legal awards, including being awarded consecutively by Forbes India.
Designed explicitly for first-generation lawyers practising in Delhi, as well as for advocates who may be practicing from their home states or who lack regular access to an office in Delhi, L&W Chambers bridges the gap, providing crucial infrastructure, mentorship, guidance and support.
Be a part of history: This is the 1st ever initiative in the country to engage with first generation lawyers and attempt to build a bigger, better and collective future together.
Exclusive Membership: Full Membership of the Chambers is currently limited to only 25 1st generation lawyers who are willing to make a mark.
Premium Address Advantage: Positioned in the heart of South Delhi in the upscale Defence Colony area, the Chambers are in close proximity to all major judicial forums such as the Supreme Court, High Court, Patiala House Courts, Rouse Avenue Courts, NCLT, NCLAT, NGT, CAT etc. The Chambers offer unrivalled proximity to courts, government offices, and key legal hubs. Whether you're heading to a hearing or meeting a client, you'll find everything within convenient reach. A premium South Delhi address will add to your professional prestige and will enhance client appeal.
Dedicated Workspace: Personal desk and seating arrangement in a premium South Delhi location, ideal for professional meetings and client interactions.
Legal Library Access: Full access to SCC Online case database as well as offline Supreme Court cases. We are also planning on adding a set of commonly used legal commentaries and essential legal resources.
Opportunity for professional growth: We offer mentorship programmes tailored to each member's needs. Whether you are newly qualified or a somewhat experienced 1st generation lawyer, our senior members will guide you in honing your advocacy skills, mastering courtroom strategy, and navigating complex cases with confidence and precision.
Networking Edge: Opportunity to leverage the Chambers ailiation with the esteemed Lawmen & White firm, reinforcing credibility and client confidence. Grow your network within a community of like-minded legal practitioners. Exchange insights, debate legal theories, and collaborate on challenging cases in a space that encourages intellectual growth and camaraderie.
Comprehensive Litigation Support: At a minimal cost, the Chamber will offer unlimited printing facilities, and dedicated clerk services to assist in filing cases before the Supreme Court, Delhi High Court, as well as other courts and tribunals. The Chamber will organise regular interactive sessions with the Partners as well as with top legal minds including Senior Advocates, retired Judges etc.
Opportunity for work: Once we have assessed your assimilation in the Chamber, as well as your subject area, there is every likelihood of being allotted work by Lawmen & White LLP as well as from other law offices, in respect of which you will be paid professional fees commensurate with the nature of work. This opportunity will likewise be of more importance to Visiting Members, who may be natively practising in their home State. Additionally, as the Chamber develops, we are sure that Members themselves would happily refer work to one another, in their chosen area of expertise.
By joining L&W Chambers, 1st generation lawyers can significantly elevate their legal practice, enhance visibility, and gain strategic access to Delhi’s legal corridors, enabling them to compete eƯectively both locally and nationally.
We invite dynamic, ambitious, and dedicated lawyers eager to build their Supreme Court practice or enhance their professional presence in Delhi to apply now. Seize this exclusive opportunity to be part of a transformative legal initiative.
Your law school or CV doesn’t matter.
We are especially on the lookout for lawyers who bring:
A sharp legal mind and a strong academic foundation
An ability to think clearly, write persuasively, and speak fearlessly Emotional intelligence and professional integrity
A genuine enthusiasm for law and the legal profession.
Prior experience in litigation, clerkships, or advisory work is welcomed. We recognise that great lawyers come from diverse paths.
Please send an email with the title ‘Application for L&W Chamber Membership’ to recruitment@lawmenandwhite.com containing the following :
Cover letter (1 page) setting out your interest and what you’re looking for in being a part of the Chamber
An example of recent written work or draft (ideally one you’re proud of)
Two references (or names and contact details)
We are committed to equal opportunity and active inclusion. We warmly encourage applications from all backgrounds and communities.
Applications would be shortlisted and a virtual interview would be held with prospective applicants would be held.
Permanent Members (Total 25): For Members who would be using the Chamber office spaces on a daily basis - To be discussed at the time of interview.
Visiting Members (total 40): For Members who are based out of Delhi but would like to have a base in Delhi for meetings etc. and want to enjoy the other facilities of the Chamber (excluding daily office space use) – To be decided on an individual basis at the time of interview.
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post from L&W Chambers.