Behind the Gown: A Real Look at My Legal Practice
The courtroom is just one part of the picture. Take a look at the reality of my practice, from the hustle of High Court corridors and case preparation to the quiet moments that keep us going.
I am a lawyer, yes, but I am also a mother, a feminist, a bookworm, and someone who is still figuring things out. This is a glimpse into the ten truths that shape who I am beyond the courtroom, from making parathas before work to teaching women to value their expertise.
A throwback to a work trip to Mumbai last September. I chose to appear physically in the Bombay High Court instead of virtually because the experience of a physical hearing is always enriching. The trip was a whirlwind of court appearances, meetings, and a quick visit to Siddhivinayak for blessings.
Celebrating the birthday of my senior, Mr. Aman Lekhi. It is a privilege to learn from and work with such a kind, humble, and brilliant legal mind.
Many people ask about the Lady Justice statue in my office. It was designed as an ode to justice after the Nirbhaya case and was gifted to me. It stands as a daily reminder of what I believe in: rights, awareness, and demystifying the legal system for those who fear it.
The magnificent architecture of the Allahabad High Court's Lucknow bench. Work trips to Lucknow are always special, allowing me to connect with my roots while managing cases through a mix of physical and virtual hearings.
A Saturday spent in court for cross-examinations with my colleague. The work of a trial lawyer often extends beyond the typical work week, requiring dedication and thorough preparation.
A pleasant meeting with Mr. Vikrant Yadav, Secretary of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA). It's always good to connect with fellow members of the bar and discuss developments that improve our working environment, like the new information screens outside courtrooms.
Another photo from our meeting at the Supreme Court with the SCBA Secretary. Building relationships within the legal community is an important part of the profession.
A candid moment on the phone in a busy market. It's a reminder to choose yourself, over and over again. So often we live in a way that pleases others, but finding peace means letting go of inauthenticity and being true to your own self.
This spot overlooking the gardens is one of my favorite places in the Supreme Court. It offers a moment of quietude amidst the cacophony, a place to clear my head or do a quick preparation before a case. Finding these pockets of stillness is essential in our profession.
About A Lawyer's Life
Being a lawyer is 90 percent waiting and preparation, and only 10 percent arguments. You see the polished result during a hearing, but the real work happens in the hours spent reading judgments at law bookstores, organizing case files, and finding brief moments of stillness in the middle of a chaotic court day.
The Reality of Litigation
Many people think legal practice is just about shouting in a courtroom. The reality is far quieter and often more tedious. It involves spending hours on document review, researching precedents, and managing the logistical side of filing. When you see me in these photos, you are seeing the 'behind-the-scenes' of that process, whether it is a Saturday spent on cross-examinations or a trip to a bookstore to build my personal library.
Where I Practice
I divide my time between my offices and court appearances across different cities. My work takes me frequently to the Supreme Court and District Courts in Delhi, the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court, and the Mumbai Metropolitan area. I believe in appearing physically whenever possible because the experience of a physical hearing is enriching and often critical for complex matters. For clients who are outstation or NRIs, I balance this with virtual hearings to keep cases moving without requiring unnecessary travel.
My Approach to Your Case
I do not believe in legal drama or selling false hope. Whether I am handling a contested divorce, an anticipatory bail application, or a property dispute, my strategy is simple: I focus on the facts and the law. My goal is to guide you through the system, not to make it more tangled. I mentor new lawyers to follow this same principle—no shortcuts, just honest advice and the courage to knock louder until the truth is heard.
If you are feeling lost in the maze of the legal system, or if you are an NRI looking for someone to handle a matter in India without the stress of constant travel, I am here to help.
Prachi Pratap
I did not start with a law degree in hand; I started with a fight for my daughter’s citizenship and a genuine love for the truth. My practice isn't about fancy jargon but about giving you the straight talk you need when the system feels like a maze.
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