In a legal landscape traditionally dominated by men, a select group of women have carved a niche for themselves in the country’s highest courts, combining courtroom acumen with hefty fees for their services. Indira Jaising remains a trailblazer in the legal fraternity. She was the first woman to serve as India’s Additional Solicitor General and has championed numerous landmark cases, including the Saira Bano case and the Bhopal Gas Tragedy litigation. Known for her commitment to social justice, Jaising occasionally undertakes pro bono work, yet her representation in major cases can command fees as high as Rs 10 lakh. (News18 Hindi)
Zia Modi has earned a reputation as one of the country’s most sought-after corporate lawyers. Her clientele includes industrial giants such as the Reliance and Adani groups. Reports suggest that Modi charges between Rs 20 lakh and Rs 30 lakh for a single appearance, reflecting her unparalleled expertise in corporate law and high-stakes litigation. (News18 Hindi)
Menaka Guruswamy gained national attention during the debate over Section 377, where her incisive arguments in the Supreme Court were widely circulated on social media. Renowned for her strategic approach in landmark cases, Guruswamy reportedly charges up to Rs 10 lakh per high-profile case appearance, reinforcing her standing as one of India’s leading legal minds. (News18 Hindi)
Karuna Nandy, an international lawyer who regularly appears before the Supreme Court, has made a mark with her work on free speech, internet shutdowns in Kashmir, and compensation for victims of the Bhopal gas tragedy. Her courtroom fees range from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, making her among the country’s most expensive advocates. (News18 Hindi)
Rebecca John is arguably India’s most prominent criminal lawyer, known for her meticulous handling of high-profile cases such as the Sreesanth spot-fixing scandal and the Aarushi Talwar murder trial. Her professional fee reportedly starts at Rs 12 lakh per appearance, underscoring her unmatched credibility in criminal law. (News18 Hindi)
Pinky Anand commands premium fees for her expertise in criminal litigation. While her charges for smaller cases range from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 3 lakh, appearances in major cases can attract fees up to Rs 10 lakh. Anand’s portfolio includes landmark matters such as the Jessica Lal murder case and the National Anthem controversy. (News18 Hindi)
Meenakshi Arora, recognised for her mastery in constitutional and human rights law, has represented India in several critical matters, including the Right to Privacy case and the Sabarimala litigation. She reportedly charges between Rs 8 lakh and Rs 12 lakh for a single appearance, reflecting her standing as one of the country’s most accomplished legal professionals. (News18 Hindi)
