Former CAM Partner, Matrix Partners GC launch First Principles Law

Former Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas Partner Akshay Jeet Bhat and Matrix Partners General Counsel Prasad Subramanyan have announced the launch of First Principles Law.

First Principles Law is a boutique law firm focused on providing legal advisory services in corporate transactions, including private equity and venture capital investments, acquisitions and divestments. 

The firm currently has two partners and a team of six associates.

Bhat, an alumnus of NUJS (Class of 2005), began his career at the erstwhile Amarchand Mangaldas and later became a Partner at Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, where he worked until May 2025. His experience spans two decades, during which he has advised on a range of transactions, including including Tata Electronics’ acquisition of Wistron, investments and exits from companies like Akshayakalpa, BoAt, Cred, Ola Electric and Mamaearth

Speaking about the firm, Bhat said,

"I’m excited to begin this new chapter in my professional journey. With First Principles Law, we aim to address a real gap in the legal services landscape, especially in venture capital, private equity and mid-market transactions. We also hope to build a firm that consistently attracts exceptional legal talent—a place where professionals can do impactful work in an environment that supports their growth and helps them reach their full potential."

Subramanyan has over ten years of transactional experience, having worked both as a Partner at Rajaram Legal (now River Law) and as Head of Legal at Matrix Partners. His practice includes advising on venture capital, private equity and strategic M&A transactions.

"After years across leading law firms and as in-house counsel, I felt a strong urge to build something different—something that truly reflects the values I’ve long believed in. With First Principles Law, we’re creating a firm from the ground up, focused on quality, fairness, and client-first service. Our aim is to deliver world-class legal advice while fostering a culture where talented professionals can thrive, do meaningful work, and take pride in what we’re building together."

The partners, while at their previous organizations, have advised on investments by institutional investors such as Accel, Alpha Wave, Bessemer Venture Partners, Fireside Ventures, RPSG Capital Ventures, Peak XV (formerly known as Sequoia Capital India), Elevation Capital, Lightspeed India and Z47. Their experience includes advising on investments into and exits from companies including Akshayakalpa, Bigbasket, Bombay Shaving Company, Delhivery, Urban Company, Ola Electric, Darwinbox and VerSe (Dailyhunt).