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18 August 2026
The Power of Purpose: Leadership, Impact, and Social Change
Organised by:
The General Counsels' Association of India extends its gratitude to Baker McKenzie for an exceptionally insightful session regarding the value of pro bono work.
Baker McKenzie operates one of the most extensive global pro bono programs among international law firms, engaging teams in social justice initiatives worldwide. These initiatives encompass impact litigation, policy advocacy, and the development of legal resources for non-governmental organizations and public policy institutions. Baker McKenzie engaged in discussions with General Counsels from some of India's largest organizations to explore these opportunities.
Angela Vigil and Mini Menon vandePol from Baker McKenzie addressed the group on critical topics such as children's rights, criminal justice, human trafficking, child welfare, homeless advocacy, and LGBTQ+ rights, highlighting the merits associated with pro bono work in India.
We anticipate further collaboration to foster social upliftment and societal change.
Testimonials:
Prof Dr Risham Garg at GCAI Rethink - Redefine - Re-evolve The Legal Profession in India
Ajay Thomas at GCAI Rethink - Redefine - Re-evolve The Legal Profession in India
Daksh Ahluwalia at GCAI Rethink - Redefine - Re-evolve The Legal Profession in India

Thank you so much Dr. Lalit Bhasin, President of the Society of Indian Law Firms (SILF), for showing full support to GCAI at our recent event on The General Counsel - Strategiser, Enabler & Protector.
He emphasized that General Counsels' are the backbone of the legal profession, and they should have all the rights which practising lawyers have.
Addressing all the in-house counsels present, Mr. Bhasin said, “You are the ones who know the intricacies of the business and bring out the best in external lawyers so that clients receive the best quality advice. There is no amendment of the Advocates Act required. This issue falls directly under the jurisdiction of the Bar Council, and you must ask for full rights.”
Sponsors:
Linklaters

Linklaters, one of the world’s leading law firms, delivers transformational solutions for top corporates, banks, and financial sponsors. With a legacy spanning nearly 200 years, Linklaters has consistently guided businesses through historical, economic, and commercial transformations. Operating from 31 offices across 21 countries, their expertise and global reach empower clients to achieve their corporate goals. Committed to building enduring relationships, Linklaters delivers groundbreaking solutions with a focus on client success.
Dentons Link Legal

Established in 1999, Dentons Link Legal is a dynamic firm known for providing focused and business-driven advice. Dentons has presence in over 80+ countries and over 180+ offices worldwide. Dentons have extensive experience of advising clients on complex matters across various sectors. With a team of partners and associate lawyers handpicked from the best institutions and organisations across the country, the Firm provides cutting edge advice by blending its legal proficiency with deep commercial insight.
Skadden

Skadden was founded in 1948 in New York, USA is today a global firm, and advises corporations and financial institutions on business transactions across the world, leveraging its extensive regional and global resources. With a strategic network of offices, Skadden seamlessly handles complex cross-border transactions, litigation, and investigations, delivering premier legal services to its clients.
Aikyam Law Offices

Aikyam Law Offices, led by Daksh Ahluwalia, stands at the forefront of legal innovation, offering bespoke solutions in corporate, commercial, and dispute resolution practices. With this partnership we aim to gain their insights, from their expertise and explore legal practices that will help shape the future of India’s legal landscape.
Baker McKenzie

Baker McKenzie is a global leader in providing innovative legal solutions that drive businesses forward. Together, we aim to understand their perspective on India and learn about global legal services that will shape the future of India’s legal landscape.
A&O Shearman

A&O Shearman a globally recognised leader in the legal arena, was formed in 2024 via the merger of two historic firms, Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling. With nearly 4,000 lawyers globally, A&O Shearman are equally fluent in English law, U.S. law and the laws of the world’s most dynamic markets.
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