A soccer evening that changes everything: Dharm Veer Singh Krishnawat on 10 years at Rödl & Partner

published on 10 June 2021

How did you find your way to Rödl & Partner back then?

While studying at the University of Freiburg, I was looking to intern with a law firm who has multi-jurisdictional practices and multiple locations across the globe. Coincidently I met Mr. Rahul Oza at a bar in Freiburg while watching the 2009 UEFA Cup Final between Shakhtar Donetsk & Werder Bremen. Mr. Oza introduced me to Rödl & Partner and in the year 2010, I did my internship at Rödl & Partner's Eschborn office. My time there was exceptional and I certainly got a great exposure and learning.

In which position/with which tasks did you start your work?

Soon after completing my internship, I joined the Mumbai office of Rödl & Partner as Associate. It was set-up in 2008, therefore, I am associated with our Mumbai office (almost) since its inception. I was primarily focused on commercial transactions but my role was more of a generalist. As our practice in Mumbai was growing, every day was challenging as we used to handle new issues of diverse nature. Those days were surely very dynamic and exciting.

How has your field of activity developed and what is your current task?

In the last 10 years, Rödl & Partner grew leaps and bounds in India. We successfully dealt with all aspects of business transactions including complex mergers and acquisitions, strategic alliances and joint ventures. Currently I am focused on Green Field Turnkey Projects and Dispute Resolution.

What was the best event during your time at Rödl & Partner?

I enjoy participating in Forum Global (one of the largest foreign trade events in Germany, hosted by Rödl & Partner) as it gives a great opportunity to connect with clients and colleagues and exchange ideas. However, the best event for me was the Global Lawyer Summit 2018 (a 3-day internal conference in Riga with the aim of further developing Rödl & Partner's international legal practice). We spent the majority of time getting to know each other better, both personally and professionally. Under the leadership of Ms. Rita Santaniello, we launched the Data Protection Practice Group. The so called “Riga Group” regularly interacts to discuss developments in the field of data protection globally. As India is on the edge to get its own data protection laws, our newly developed expertise will be surely of help for our predominantly German clients investing in India.

What do you particularly appreciate about Rödl & Partner?

I really appreciate the multidisciplinary and international approach at Rödl & Partner. Interacting with colleagues globally and working together across service lines is a unique and attractive feature. Practice silos can create barriers in a firm's as well as individual's growth. At Rödl & Partner I regularly get opportunities to collaborate and coordinate with colleague of different service lines and jurisdictions, which helps me to learn and adopt to new mindsets.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I am an avid traveler. In last 10 years, I travelled to more than 40 cities across 16 countries. I approach every destination with a positive attitude and willingness to learn new things. I personally feel that lawyers must travel as it helps them to develop the ability to see another point of view, another way of life. Disconnecting from routine life also helps in building overall confidence and gives fresh perspectives.

What do you wish for the/your future?

I wish for the end of pandemic so that we all can be back to our normal lives. I really look forward to meet my colleagues and friends, without restrictions, once the pandemic is over.