Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan (LKS) is a leading full-service law firm with over three decades of experience. It operates across 14 major cities and employs more than 500 professionals, including lawyers, economists, and technical experts. Known for its expertise in corporate and commercial law, taxation, dispute resolution, and intellectual property, the firm serves a diverse clientele, ranging from small businesses and startups to large Indian corporations and multinational companies. It has built a reputation for its in-depth knowledge across both traditional and emerging industries. The teams have worked with sectors like pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and automobiles, as well as modern fields such as e-commerce, renewable energy, and big data.
For IP, the firm remains in the top tier. It is famed for its contentious patent know-how, where the subject matter requires deep and detailed knowledge. The firm is a market leader in plant genomics and plant variety protection. The IP group has demonstrated expertise in handling complex patent litigation and advisory matters, particularly in cases involving pharmaceuticals and technological innovations. The firm’s robust and historical tax practice is particularly well-regarded for its work in taxation, including GST, customs, and direct tax matters. Its insights into tax reforms and compliance are frequently sought after, and the firm has developed practical tools like a GST Toolkit to assist businesses with implementation and compliance. The firm’s international trade and WTO practice has also positioned it as a preferred advisor for businesses navigating global trade regulations and disputes.
Recently, LKS has been recognized for its commentary on critical legal developments, including changes in GST rate structures and procedural timelines under tax laws. It has also provided detailed analysis of rulings in areas such as process patent infringement and dual proceedings by state and central authorities under the CGST Act.
The firm’s ability to blend technical expertise with practical application is a defining feature. For example, it has been actively involved in advising on the taxation of derivatives, intermediary services, and the implications of artificial intelligence on investment trends in healthcare. The team’s ability to connect legal frameworks with industry-specific challenges makes them trusted partners for businesses facing complex regulatory environments.
Key firm contacts are IP practice head Malathi Lakshmikumaran, who is a specialist in the biotechnology, chemistry and pharmaceuticals sectors. Managing partner V Lakshmikumaran is a go-to name for tax matters. Notable clients in the arbitration arena occupy the steel, power, consumer goods, hospitality and tourism, and infrastructure sectors.
Work highlights
Represented a global pharmaceuticals gian in an appeal before the Income-tax Appellate Tribunal regarding the granting of deductions under Section 80-IB of the Income-tax Act, successfully arguing against the tax department's stance on profit-making units.
Represented a major tower telecoms player before the Supreme Court in a landmark ruling on the eligibility for CENVAT credit of excise duty paid on towers and shelters, providing significant relief to the telecommunications sector.
Work highlights
Represented Novozymes in an appeal against the rejection of a patent application for enzyme stabilization technology, leading to a favourable ruling from the Madras High Court.
Successfully navigated a legal challenge for its domestic food company client regarding the Indian Patent Office’s order, ensuring the patent application for a key product was maintained.
Collaborated with a research institution to draft and file multiple patent applications, successfully prosecuting six patents across major jurisdictions, including the US and Europe.
Work highlights
Acted for Pacific Avenue Capital Partners in the acquisition of substantially all the assets of Kidde-Fenwal.
Represented Regal Rexnord in the India leg of a global transaction involving the acquisition of its industrial electric motors and generators business by WEG.
Advised IndiQus Technologies on the legal and regulatory aspects of its acquisition by Yotta Data Services.
Work highlights
Successfully opposed a transfer petition filed by the Competition Commission of India, safeguarding its client’s rights during the inquiry into Amazon's conduct in smartphone sales..
Advised its client on an ongoing investigation into alleged anti-competitive vertical agreements by Amazon, representing the largest seller of mobile phones on the Amazon India platform.
Represented a logistics supplier in an alleged cartel investigation in the express courier industry, providing counsel during the inquiry stage before the Competition Commission of India.
