Leaders

As the legal landscape evolves, shaped by complex regulations, emerging industries, and technology-driven practices, women leaders are increasingly at the forefront, steering firms with vision and versatility. Amid this growing wave of women-led excellence stands Agnes Baradia, Founder, Primo Legal, whose career embodies determination and strategic evolution.

Her professional journey began as a paralegal at the reputable law firm Thakore Jariwala & Associates. The early exposure she gained inspired her to pursue formal legal education, eventually becoming a partner at the very firm where her career started.

With an unwavering focus on advancing her expertise, she went on to qualify as a Solicitor (India) and a Solicitor for England and Wales (non-practicing). Her leadership and legal acumen led her to serve as a partner at Dua Associates, a respected pan-India law firm.

In the initial years, Agnes was deeply involved in civil litigation, property succession, and intellectual property matters before the Hon’ble Bombay High Court. These formative experiences sharpened her courtroom skills and built a strong foundation in legal analysis. A pivotal shift occurred when she transitioned to non-litigation work, specializing in real estate, media & entertainment, and succession planning.

She eventually established and headed a branch office for her former firm, further solidifying her leadership credentials. These cumulative experiences and her entrepreneurial drive paved the way for Primo Legal, a firm that reflects her values, expertise, and commitment to excellence in legal advisory. Let’s hear from her.

Take us through the formative years of your life. What early influences inspired your interest in the legal field and motivated you to build a career in legal advisory?

From a young age, the intricacies of the law and its ability to influence real outcomes deeply intrigued me. Even before entering law school, I began working as a paralegal-a role that opened my eyes to how subtle nuances can shape the direction of every case. This early exposure strengthened the analytical mindset and sense of justice that had been developing throughout my formative years.

Family conversations about societal issues, along with thought-provoking discussions on legal matters with my father, further fueled my curiosity about how the legal system operates and safeguards individual rights. These early influences collectively shaped my decision to pursue a career in legal advisory. They instilled in me a desire to contribute meaningfully to people’s lives by helping them navigate complex legal landscapes with clarity and confidence.

Introduce us to Primo Legal. What is the core vision behind the firm, and what primary roles and responsibilities do you shoulder as its Founder?

Primo Legal was established with a clear vision to deliver precise, transparent, and client-focused legal advisory services rooted in integrity. As the Founder, I am responsible for shaping the firm’s strategic direction, guiding our growth, and maintaining strong client relationships.

I also oversee the quality and consistency of all legal services we provide. Additionally, my role includes mentoring the team and ensuring we stay aligned with evolving legal trends so our clients receive informed, forward-looking counsel.

What is your approach to ensuring effective and ethical legal practices at Primo Legal? What strategies do you apply to facilitate positive outcomes for all your clients?

At Primo Legal, I place strong emphasis on upholding ethical standards and maintaining complete compliance with legal requirements. My approach includes conducting detailed, personalized assessments of each matter, proactively identifying risks, and encouraging open, transparent communication so clients can make well-informed decisions.

There have been instances where I have advised clients not to move forward with a transaction at the outset, even when it affected our revenue, because their best interest always comes first. Interestingly, many counterparties have later approached us as clients after observing our professionalism and diligence in a matter. I also extend advisory support to several charitable trusts on a pro-bono basis as a small contribution to society.

Looking back at your professional journey, what key milestones or achievements are you most proud of? What is your success mantra that drives your work and leadership philosophy?

Some of the milestones I cherish include successfully resolving high-value property deals worth INR 1000 crore, mediating succession disputes to ensure amicable distribution of family businesses, and building a loyal client base that values our bespoke legal advice. At Primo Legal, we have guided projects from land acquisition to RERA compliance, closed redevelopment agreements, and represented artists, producers, and production houses in media and entertainment matters.

My success mantra is rooted in integrity, resilience, and a client-first mindset, which guides both my leadership and the firm’s growth.

How do you see the future of legal advisory evolving globally? What emerging trends do you believe will significantly impact the sector?

I see legal advisory evolving rapidly with the integration of AI, digital platforms, and technology-enabled services, alongside increasing regulatory scrutiny and demand for cross-border expertise. While AI supports research and case management, it cannot replace the hands-on experience and strategic judgment of an attorney.

Specialized advisory in emerging sectors will become increasingly pivotal. Staying agile and embracing innovation is essential for firms to thrive. At Primo Legal, we are actively guiding clients on compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023 and DPDP Rules 2025, reflecting the growing importance of data regulation in today’s AI-driven world.

Agnes Baradia, Founder, Primo Legal

Agnes Baradia is the Founder of Primo Legal, with extensive experience in civil litigation, property succession, and intellectual property matters. A Solicitor (India) and Solicitor (England & Wales, non-practicing), she specializes in real estate, media & entertainment, and succession planning, guiding clients with integrity, strategic insight, and client-focused legal solutions.