Welcome to Brief Encounters: Law School & Beyond, a podcast by Project LLM. The series explores journeys of Indian professionals who have pursued legal education abroad. The goal is to bring out stories, experiences, and practical advice to inspire and guide others considering an overseas legal education.
Today our guest is Mr. Mayank Sahni. Mr. Sahni is a dual-qualified lawyer in both England and Wales and India, and a recent LL.M. graduate specializing in International Trade and Commercial Law from Durham University. With over two years of professional experience in India, Mr. Sahni has worked on high-profile corporate law matters, including mergers and acquisitions, while maintaining a keen interest in corporate law.
His unique combination of academic achievements and diverse professional experience offers a distinct perspective on navigating legal practice across jurisdictions. We are excited to hear his thoughts on adapting to international legal systems, working across different legal landscapes, and his advice for aspiring lawyers aiming to expand their horizons.
Coming from a family with a background in chartered accountancy, was there ever a moment of doubt between following a career in finance or law? How did you eventually make the definitive choice to pursue law?
Thank you for inviting me. To give you some background, I come from a family with a CA background—my dad being a CA who worked incredibly hard to achieve success. My family wasn’t financially well-off during my dad’s early years, and his goal was to build a successful career to provide for his parents, enjoy a better life himself, and give his children opportunities he never had. Naturally, seeing his success, most of my cousins, including myself and my sister, looked up to him and wanted to follow in his footsteps.
When I graduated in 2013, I initially decided to pursue the CA route. However, it became evident early on that accounting wasn’t for me—I didn’t even fully grasp the basics, like the golden rule of debit and credit. Despite my efforts, I struggled. I gave the CA exam twice, scoring 84 out of 200 both times. This was disappointing, considering how much I studied—10 to 12 hours a day. The monotony of it all and the realization that this path wasn’t enjoyable for me made me reconsider my career choice.
At that point, I decided to explore law. My dad had a small firm, and while I couldn’t support him as a CA, I thought I could build on his legacy by branching out into law. This way, I could work with his clients and expand the firm’s capabilities. Law seemed like the logical next step.
The university I joined—then called ITM Institute of Technology and Management, now NorthCap University—was relatively new. Many established universities had closed their admissions, so ITM was my only option. My plan was to join for a year, perform well, and potentially transfer to a more prestigious university. But once I started, I realized that success is not solely about the institution you attend—it’s about the effort you put in. In my first semester, I scored an 8.6 GPA and ranked among the top ten students. That gave me confidence, and I decided to continue there rather than transfer.
My approach to law school was less about intense passion for the subject and more about making the best of the opportunity. I wasn’t someone who studied a lot—I listened in class, took notes, and focused on understanding rather than rote memorization. Law isn’t about memorizing sections; it’s about understanding and applying concepts. I believe that approach helped me excel.
Looking back, I don’t regret failing the CA exam. In fact, I’m grateful for it because it led me to law. I see many CA aspirants struggling because it’s such a demanding field. Law, on the other hand, provided me with a fulfilling career and allowed me to develop skills like arguing, which I truly enjoy. Moot courts, debates, and one-on-one arguments were my forte.
The key lesson I’ve learned is the importance of having a backup plan. Life doesn’t always go as planned, and luck isn’t always in your favor. While I didn’t have a backup plan at the time, I was fortunate to have a supportive family who helped guide me. Not everyone has that privilege, so I believe it’s crucial to prepare for contingencies. Even if your primary plan seems foolproof, having alternatives ensures you’re ready for the unexpected. Life is about seizing opportunities and making the best of them. That’s how my journey to law began—and I wouldn’t change a thing.
You did your bachelors from Northcap University, can you tell us how the experience was?
My journey at NorthCap University was quite unique and memorable. Back then, it was known as ITM Institute of Technology and Management, and the law program was relatively new. When I joined, only one or two batches had graduated, so it was still in its initial stages. Initially, I considered transferring to another university after my first year, thinking it would open up better opportunities. However, I soon realized that success doesn’t necessarily depend on the institution alone—it’s about your own efforts and approach.
The university had excellent lecturers, many of whom were guest faculty brought in from other universities, including international institutions. This was a significant factor in my decision to stay, as I felt I was receiving a quality education. The law school experience taught me that you don’t have to attend the most prestigious university to become a good lawyer. What matters is having access to good faculty, engaging courses, and putting in the effort yourself.
Academically, we were exposed to a wide range of subjects like company law, constitutional law, environmental law, CPC, and even niche areas like SEBI regulations. In our third or fourth year, we had the opportunity to choose specialized areas of focus. For me, company law was one of the most challenging subjects—it required memorizing provisions and sections extensively, and our exams could test us on anything within the syllabus. That experience was grueling but rewarding, as it pushed me to learn and understand the law deeply.
One of the highlights of my journey was writing a dissertation. Looking back, I would advise students to choose a topic aligned with their future career aspirations. My dissertation at NorthCap was on environmental law, focusing on farmers’ issues, and at Durham, I continued with a related topic on renewable energy in India. While my academic foundation in environmental law was solid, I realized that pursuing a career in this field wasn’t feasible for me in India due to the country’s developmental challenges in promoting renewable energy.
The experience at NorthCap prepared me for the global stage. Even though the laws and systems in different countries vary, the foundational skill of reading and understanding the law remains universal. This skill helped me transition into the UK legal market, despite the differences in the legal systems. Starting as a paralegal in a new country is common, regardless of prior experience, because it’s about building expertise in the local legal framework.
Overall, my time at NorthCap was invaluable. It provided me with the opportunity to explore various areas of law, learn from some of the best lecturers, and build a foundation that has supported my career growth. It reaffirmed my belief that success in law school is less about the name of the institution and more about how you make the most of the opportunities available to you.
After completing your bachelor’s in law, what motivated you to specialize in International Trade and Commercial Law for your LL.M.?
Honestly, nothing specific motivated me to pursue International Trade and Commercial Law. At that time, I was more focused on the idea of going abroad, experiencing independence, and starting a new chapter of life—something many Indian students dream of. The freedom and opportunity to live away from home and carve out my own path were big driving factors.
When I was applying to different universities, I wasn’t entirely set on a particular degree. I applied to programs in Canada, the UK, and the Netherlands, each with its own unique offerings. However, the UK stood out for me. Canada seemed like an extension of India with a large Indian population, and the Netherlands required learning Dutch, which I wasn’t keen on. The UK, on the other hand, offered a great balance—it felt like the right place to settle, and I could manage with English.
Out of the universities I applied to, I received offers from Manchester, Durham, and possibly King’s College London. Manchester offered a program in corporate development, while Durham offered International Trade and Commercial Law. When I was writing my Statement of Purpose, I remember mentioning my desire to work for the WTO, which aligned well with the Durham program. I liked the idea of working for a government organization where I could enjoy stability and benefits, even if the pay wasn’t extraordinary.
Ultimately, I chose Durham’s program. While my plans have shifted since then, I have no regrets about the decision. It was the option I had, and it turned out to be a valuable experience. Having a backup plan always helps, and I’ve learned to adapt and make the best of the opportunities that come my way.
Durham University is one of the few places where students might actually live in a castle! Did you ever get the chance to study or stay in the famous Durham Castle? And how does living or studying in such a historic setting feel?
Alright, let me clarify a common misconception that breaks a lot of hearts. Durham University operates like Oxford or Cambridge, where it has multiple colleges—17 or 18 within the university. Each college represents a community, similar to a hostel, where you can choose to stay and represent that college.
The famous Durham Castle, also known as University College, is one of these colleges. However, postgraduate students, unfortunately, do not get to stay in the castle. Only some undergraduates have the privilege of living there. For postgraduates like me, accommodation is typically in separate studio apartments or other university housing.
That said, the castle is absolutely beautiful and historically significant. Fun fact: parts of the first Harry Potter movie were filmed there—the courtyard served as Hogwarts’ courtyard, which makes it a big attraction for visitors. Many people, including students from other colleges, visit just to take photos in the castle’s courtyard.
Now, about the castle rooms—they may sound dreamy, but they are quite basic. The rooms are small, often shared, and not as grand as one might imagine. They are also located a bit further away from central facilities, which can be inconvenient, especially considering the hilly terrain of Durham. I lived about a 10-12 minute walk from the castle, and while the walk was scenic, it could feel challenging at times.
Durham itself is a unique experience. The entire city feels like a university town, with most people you meet being students. Each college has its own bar and organizes various social and extracurricular activities, making it a lively community. But I’d advise students to carefully choose accommodation based on proximity to their department. For instance, the law school was a 20-30 minute walk from where I stayed, which could be tiring if you had early morning classes.
Despite the logistical challenges, Durham’s beauty is unmatched. Walking through the city feels like stepping back in time, with views of the castle, the stunning Durham Cathedral, and picturesque streets. It’s truly one of the most beautiful cities I’ve ever lived in, and the experience of being part of such a historic and vibrant university community is unforgettable.
To summarize, while staying in the castle might not be an option for most, the charm of Durham itself more than makes up for it. Just be prepared to walk a lot—and believe me, with such breathtaking scenery, you won’t mind it!
Could you walk us through your LL.M. application process? How did you prepare, and what challenges did you face while applying? Did you seek external help from a consultant or seniors?
Honestly, I didn’t know much about the application process when I started. This was my first time applying to universities abroad, and I had no idea how to go about it. So, I decided to hire an external consultant, Chopra’s, to assist me. They guided me through most of the process, handling the bulk of the work. My role was primarily limited to filling in certain details and making payments whenever required.
For Durham specifically, as I recall, the process began with visiting their official website, enrolling, and filling out the application form. You need to select the course you’re applying for, and the requirements depend on the course. For instance, Durham places a significant emphasis on English proficiency, particularly writing skills. Applicants are required to score at least a 7 in writing on the IELTS, with no other component below 6.5. Even if your overall score is high, say an 8, but your writing score is below 7, you wouldn’t meet their requirements.
This can be a challenge, especially for students from non-urban areas where English fluency may not be as strong. For example, while many people from NCR or other metropolitan areas may find this easier, students from more remote regions, such as where my college was located in Haryana, might struggle.
Another challenge I faced was related to the grading system. Since my university, NorthCap, had recently changed its name from ITM, it wasn’t listed on the pre-prepared dropdown menu on Durham’s application portal. I had to manually input the name and provide my CGPA, which Durham then converted into their grading system. This is an issue that students from lesser-known or unrecognized universities might encounter. On the other hand, if you’re from a more recognized institution like NLU, the grading system conversion is typically straightforward because they already have pre-set criteria for such universities.
This conversion can make a significant difference. For example, if your CGPA converts to something like a 7.1 on their scale, you might meet the requirements. But if it converts lower, say to a 6.9, you could miss out on admission.
I also noticed a general lack of awareness among applicants about the distinction between universities and colleges in the UK. Universities offer proper degree programs, whereas colleges often provide diploma courses. It’s essential for applicants to aim for universities offering comprehensive programs.
Lastly, grades play a crucial role. I had a friend who had a 5.9 CGPA from NorthCap University, and they struggled to secure admission to any good university. In such cases, I’d advise students to reconsider going abroad, as it could result in a lot of expenses with minimal returns.
To summarize, while the process can be complex, being a good student and meeting the specific requirements of the university, such as the CGPA and IELTS benchmarks, is crucial. It’s also important to do your research and be aware of the differences between institutions to ensure you’re making the right decision.
Many students struggle with crafting a Statement of Purpose (SoP). How did you approach writing your SoP, and what elements do you believe helped your application stand out?
These days, drafting an SoP has become more accessible with tools like ChatGPT. However, universities are well aware of such tools, and they can easily detect if your SoP lacks originality or is overly generic. It’s crucial to draft your SoP in a way that genuinely reflects your personality and aspirations, rather than relying solely on artificial intelligence or templates.
When writing an SoP, you need to express who you are and why you’re choosing a particular course and university. Start by explaining your background—where you come from and what motivates you to pursue this field of study. Mention any accomplishments, your academic journey, and, if relevant, details about your dissertation or major projects. It’s also important to highlight why you’re applying to that specific university and how its program aligns with your goals. For example, when I wrote my SoP for Durham, I made sure to include its high ranking as one of the top law schools in the UK at the time, which added credibility to my choice.
The key is to treat the SoP like an interview in written form. Universities don’t have the time or resources to interview every applicant, so your SoP is your chance to make a strong first impression. Think about what the admissions team would want to see. They are looking for someone with clear goals, relevant achievements, and a strong alignment with the program.
Be honest but strategic. While it’s okay to present your strengths in the best possible light, don’t fabricate details that can’t be supported. Include your grades, your reasons for choosing the program, and your future aspirations. For instance, you should have a clear goal in mind—admissions teams prefer applicants who have a direction over those who are still figuring things out. It shows that you’ve thought through your decision and are serious about pursuing the program.
Finally, remember that the SoP is your opportunity to stand out. Write with purpose, provide insights into your motivations, and show how you’re a good fit for the program. If the university doesn’t conduct interviews, the SoP might be the sole factor that decides your admission, so take the time to make it impactful and authentic.
Please tell us more about the opportunities and experiences on offer at Durham University?
When I think about the opportunities and experiences at Durham University, especially in the law department, I have mixed feelings. I’ll start by saying this might sound like a dig at Durham, but that’s not my intention. A lot of the issues we faced were due to the Covid era, which impacted both students and the university in terms of resources and the availability of lecturers.
For example, in my International Trade and Commercial Law program, I discovered that there wasn’t a designated core subject for the degree. Unlike programs like Corporate Law, which required Company Law as a core module, my program allowed us to choose from a list of 10–12 modules. While flexibility can be a good thing, many of the advertised modules were unavailable when we arrived. We were informed about this on the very first day during our course introduction, and it was a disappointment. For instance, we could even choose modules like music, which seemed unrelated to a law degree.
The issue wasn’t just limited to the modules. Some of the topics for final projects were the same for both undergraduate and master’s students. For example, a friend in the final year of her undergraduate program had the exact same topic for her project as we did in our master’s competition law module. That made me question the distinction between the undergraduate and postgraduate experience.
That being said, the courses that were available were well-structured and well-taught. I wouldn’t say the education itself was lacking. It’s just that the expectations set by the university’s advertisements didn’t always align with reality. While I want to believe these issues were mostly Covid-related, I would still advise prospective students to confirm the availability of their preferred courses with the university before applying.
Another challenge was the logistics. In the UK, transport is expensive, and many lecturers who might have been based in cities like London couldn’t easily commute to Durham. A round trip could take three hours and cost upwards of £120 during peak times, which likely discouraged some lecturers unless the university covered the expenses.
Despite these drawbacks, Durham did offer a broad range of modules, and the university did its best under challenging circumstances. For future students, I would strongly recommend checking and confirming which modules will actually be available for their program. This proactive approach will help set the right expectations and ensure a smoother academic experience.
In conclusion, while there were frustrations—some due to the pandemic and others systemic—my overall learning experience at Durham was positive. The modules I picked were engaging, and the lecturers were competent. However, like in any university, you’ll find areas for improvement and challenges that require patience and adaptability. It’s a part of the student experience, whether in the UK or elsewhere.
What key differences did you observe in the work culture and expectations between India and the UK?
To start with, my experience working in the UK was not extensive, but it revealed some harsh realities. One major difference is that regardless of your prior experience, when you start in the UK, you’re often treated as a fresher. This typically means beginning your career as a paralegal, which in India is often undervalued. However, in the UK, paralegals play a significant role, laying the groundwork for solicitors. Still, the competition is intense, and breaking into the job market as an international student is very challenging.
After completing my studies, I spent three years trying to secure a stable job, moving from Durham to Newcastle and then to London. I applied for countless jobs—sometimes 100 in just a few days—but only received a handful of calls. The competition is steep, as UK citizens and international students who completed their undergraduate degrees in the UK have a clear advantage. Additionally, those with more experience and a longer history in the UK are often prioritized.
One of the biggest hurdles for international students is securing sponsorship. After completing your studies, you receive a two-year work visa, during which you must gain experience and prove your value to potential employers. To be eligible for sponsorship, your employer must agree to pay a minimum salary of £38,700, which can be difficult to achieve, especially in entry-level roles. If you can’t secure sponsorship, you are forced to return to your home country.
Work-life balance in the UK isn’t as ideal as many imagine. I worked in East London and had to commute to South London daily, which took me around two hours each way. This included taking two trains and a 15-20 minute walk. It meant waking up at 6:50 a.m. to get to work by 9:00 a.m., and if I missed a train, it could delay me by 30 minutes. Often, I had to stay late at the office, especially if the boss hadn’t left, and by the time I got home, I’d barely have time to cook and sleep before starting the cycle again.
Another challenge is adjusting to life in the UK. Unlike in India, where many people have family support, maids, and home-cooked meals, you have to manage everything on your own in the UK—cooking, shopping for groceries, and other household tasks. While the UK offers better pay, the cost of living is high, especially in cities like London. Commuting costs, rent, and food expenses add up quickly, making it crucial to budget carefully.
In terms of work culture, the expectations are similar to India—long hours and dedication are often required. However, life outside of work is more demanding in the UK because of the need to manage everything independently. This leaves little time for personal relaxation or enjoyment.
Ultimately, deciding whether it’s worth it depends on individual priorities. If you’re prepared for the challenges, such as intense competition, high living costs, and the demanding lifestyle, the UK can offer excellent career opportunities. However, for some, the work-life balance and support systems available in India might be more appealing.
In a few of your Linkedin posts you have mentioned terms like FLK, RFL and SQE 1 and 2, could you for the benefit of our listeners give an insight into what these terms mean and what is the process in qualifying in England and Wales?
Sure. When you register as an advocate in India and plan to practice in the UK, you can apply to be a Registered Foreign Lawyer (RFL). This involves registering with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and obtaining an SRA number, which is significant because it legitimizes your status. Employers in the UK often look for this number as proof that you’re an advocate in your home country.
Regarding the SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination), it’s a pathway to becoming a solicitor in England and Wales. The SQE consists of two parts: SQE 1 and SQE 2. SQE 1 is focused on theoretical knowledge and is divided into two Functional Legal Knowledge (FLK) assessments—FLK 1 and FLK 2. Each of these assessments contains 180 multiple-choice questions, totaling 360 questions across both parts. These exams are challenging, with each session lasting approximately six hours (split into two 2-hour 45-minute blocks with breaks).
The cost of SQE 1 is around £1,800, and SQE 2, which is more practical and involves client interaction simulations, costs approximately £2,200. The practical nature of SQE 2 helps you learn essential skills, such as client interviewing, drafting, and advising.
The preparation for these exams is demanding. Coaching from providers like BARBRI, which offers comprehensive study materials, can cost an additional £2,000. If you fail, you get a second attempt without extra charges for the course material, but beyond that, you’ll have to pay again. The SQE only allows three attempts within a set timeframe—after that, you are barred from reapplying for a specific period (typically six years).
Passing these exams requires focus, dedication, and careful preparation due to the high costs and rigorous requirements. In comparison, the process in India is less intensive, as exams are often open book and lack the same practical application. The SQE ensures you gain meaningful experience, unlike the theoretical emphasis of many other systems.
Moreover, the passing percentage for SQE changes periodically, so it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest requirements. While it’s challenging, the knowledge and skills you gain through the SQE process are invaluable for a career as a solicitor in England and Wales.
Pursuing an LL.M. abroad can come with significant financial challenges. In your view, do the long-term benefits of obtaining an LL.M. in the UK outweigh these costs? What strategies or approaches can students adopt to overcome financial barriers?
Financial challenges vary depending on your family’s financial situation. If you come from a wealthy or upper-middle-class family, it’s often easier to secure funding for your education through family support. From my experience and what I’ve seen among other Indian students, many rely on their parents, particularly their fathers, to cover expenses such as university fees, accommodation, and transportation.
For those who need to manage expenses independently, there are options. Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) in the UK allows you to work up to 20 hours a week during term time. This can help cover some costs, as you can earn a minimum wage working in supermarkets, clothing stores, or other convenience outlets.
When applying to a UK university, you’ll need to show financial proof to secure your visa. This typically involves demonstrating that you have a certain amount in your bank account. At my time, it was around 30 lakhs INR.
There are two ways to approach this:
Show Savings: Maintain 30 lakhs in your bank account for a specified period (usually 28 days) without moving the funds. This assures the university and visa authorities that you have the means to support yourself in the UK.
Take an Education Loan: If maintaining a large amount in your account isn’t feasible, an education loan is a great alternative. Once you secure a loan, you simply present the loan approval documents to the university and visa authorities, eliminating the need to maintain static funds in your account.
Both approaches are equally valid, and choosing one depends on your financial background. For those from families with ample funds, the first route might be simpler. For others, an education loan is a practical and widely-used solution to overcome financial barriers.
Ultimately, the financial challenges are manageable with proper planning, and the long-term benefits of an LL.M. in the UK—be it in terms of exposure, career opportunities, or global networking—can outweigh these costs significantly.
Is there any final piece of advice you’d like to offer to aspiring lawyers?
I would say, if you’ve listened to my story, you’ll know that I’ve never been the kind of student who raises their hand or speaks up in class, even when I knew the answer. It wasn’t about being shy—it’s just that I didn’t feel the need to prove myself to others. I’ve always been content with knowing the answer myself.
For aspiring lawyers, my advice is to focus on understanding the actual law rather than stressing over memorizing sections or feeling inadequate as a student. Law is much more about grasping the story behind each case or illustration. Think of law as a series of stories—relatable and engaging. For instance, many people are drawn to criminal law because it often feels like unraveling a mystery, piecing together the facts to tell a compelling narrative.
Take this approach: treat law as a collection of stories, immerse yourself in it, and participate in as many moot courts as you can. Moot courts are incredible for building confidence and understanding how to think and argue like a lawyer.
(This transcript is based on the original interview’s audio. It is a refined version and may contain minor errors, omissions, or variations from the verbatim recording. For the guest’s exact inputs and sentiments, please refer to the podcast episode.)
