Interview: Advocate Sachin Mishra | Indirect Taxation Expert

Sachin Mishra is a distinguished legal expert with over eight years of experience in indirect taxation and general litigation. His expertise goes beyond mere knowledge; he is a specialist in representing clients before courts, high courts, tribunals, and quasi-judicial authorities, ensuring adept handling of complex legal issues.

Before establishing Legalyst Advocates, he made significant contributions to the legal field during his tenure at Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan Attorneys. During his tenure, he navigated the intricacies of indirect taxation, honing his skills in areas such as GST (Goods and Services Tax) and other key indirect tax laws, including Customs, Central Excise, Service Tax, and VAT. His proficiency in managing legal matters distinguishes him as a valuable asset in resolving complex legal challenges, making him a sought-after advocate in his field.

Interview: Sachin Mishra | Advocate

We recently got a chance to interview Sachin Mishra. Here’s the transcript of the Interview: Sachin Mishra

Legal Bites: What inspired you to pursue a career in law, and how did you choose your specific area of specialization?

Sachin Mishra: Growing up as the child of a soldier in the Army and attending Army Public School instilled in me a strong sense of duty and service to the nation. My teachers encouraged me to find ways to contribute to society, and law seemed like the perfect path. My interest in litigation blossomed during my time at Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan, where I was exposed to the ever-changing nature of advocacy. The complexity and impact of tax law drew me to specialize in this area, allowing me to assist both businesses and individuals facing tax disputes.

Legal Bites: What challenges do first-generation advocates encounter, and what areas should they focus on more during their college years?

Sachin Mishra: First-generation advocates often face the challenge of lacking established networks and guidance. During college, they need to focus on identifying a mentor who can provide insights and support.

Building a strong foundation in legal principles, participating in moot courts, obtaining practical experience and networking through internships are fundamental steps. Developing relationships with professors and peers can also help build a supportive network.

Legal Bites: Can internships at law firms be beneficial for law students' future careers? How did your own internship experience prepare you to handle challenging situations in your career?

Sachin Mishra: Absolutely, internships are invaluable for law students, providing real-world experience and networking opportunities. My internships taught me the importance of effective communication, problem-solving, and resilience in challenging situations. Building relationships with mentors and colleagues during these experiences equipped me with the skills and confidence to understand complex legal issues and client interactions in my career.

Legal Bites: How important is networking in the legal profession, and what strategies would you recommend for law students to build meaningful professional connections?

Sachin Mishra: Networking is crucial in the legal profession as it opens doors to opportunities and collaboration. Internships are the best way to start building a network, allowing students to meet professionals and learn from their experiences.

I recommend that law students attend legal events, engage in online forums, and maintain good relationships with mentors and peers. Utilizing platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals, interact with them, and follow their work can significantly enhance career prospects.

Legal Bites: What do you see as the most rewarding aspects of practising law, and how can law students align their career goals with these rewarding elements?

Sachin Mishra: One of the most rewarding aspects of practising law is seeing the positive impact on clients' lives, such as witnessing a smile on a client's face after securing a favourable order. Law students can align their career goals with these rewarding elements by focusing on areas of law that resonate with their passions and values. Seeking opportunities to make meaningful contributions and continuously learning can help them find fulfillment in their legal careers.

Legal Bites: How do you stay updated with changes in the law and legal precedents? What resources or strategies would you recommend for law students to do the same?

Sachin Mishra: I stay updated with changes in the law by reading legal journals, attending seminars, and engaging with online legal communities. For law students, I recommend utilizing resources like legal databases, subscribing to newsletters, and participating in study groups. Following influential legal practitioners and scholars on social media can also provide valuable insights into the latest developments.

Legal Bites: How do you manage high-stress situations and tight deadlines in your practice, and what advice would you give to law students on handling stress in a legal career?

Sachin Mishra: Managing high-stress situations is more manageable when you have healthy relationships with your peers. Keeping a positive attitude, always smiling, and cracking jokes help maintain a supportive environment. I cherish being part of such a noble profession, and this perspective helps me get over stressful situations.

For law students, building strong peer connections and finding joy in the work can help manage stress effectively.

Legal Bites: What are your thoughts on the balance between work and personal life in the legal profession, and how can law students prepare themselves for the demands of the job while maintaining their well-being?

Sachin Mishra: Achieving a balance between work and personal life in the legal profession is challenging but achievable. It's important to set boundaries, prioritize self-care, and make time for family and hobbies. Don’t wait for weekends to unwind—try to find time during weekdays as well. Take breaks from work whenever you feel exhausted and engage in activities like treks or long drives to recharge.

Law students should learn to manage their time effectively, practice self-discipline, and develop interests outside of law to prepare for the demands of the job while maintaining their well-being.

Legal Bites: How crucial are legal research and writing skills in the legal profession, and what suggestions would you offer to law students to improve their abilities in these areas before graduating from law school?

Sachin Mishra: Legal research and writing skills are fundamental in the legal profession, forming the basis for constructing persuasive arguments and drafting effective documents. I recommend that law students develop a habit of writing articles during their college days and collaborate with practising lawyers wherever possible. Participating in writing competitions and seeking feedback from professors and peers can further refine these abilities.

Legal Bites: Would you recommend platforms like Legal Bites to both law students and professionals, considering the valuable services they offer?

Sachin Mishra: Absolutely, platforms like Legal Bites offer a wealth of resources that are beneficial for both law students and professionals. They provide access to insightful articles, case law updates, and learning materials that can enhance one's legal knowledge and understanding. Further, they offer students the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, stay informed about current legal trends, and access diverse resources that contribute significantly to their learning and development.