A Conversation with Simran Sharma, Legal Researcher
As part of our Women in Law series, we continue our conversations with the women contributing to our legal practice. In this feature, we speak with Simran Sharma, Legal Researcher in the firm’s Corporate and Commercial practice.
Could you briefly describe your current role and area of practice at the firm?
I work as a corporate and commercial lawyer in the firm’s Dubai office, under the designation of Legal Researcher. My role involves drafting and reviewing complex cross-border agreements, negotiating transactions, and supporting the team on a wide range of corporate and commercial matters.
More recently, I have been focusing on technology clients, particularly in the area of data privacy. Our team has also been involved in major negotiations for projects with government-related entities, which have a broader commercial impact.
What inspired you to pursue a career in law?
Being a second-generation lawyer, I grew up in an environment closely connected to the legal profession. My father has been a strong influence and a constant source of inspiration.
While dispute resolution was the traditional path in my family, I chose to focus on the transactional side of practice. That decision shaped my career, and I take pride in having taken a different direction and building my own path in commercial law.
Can you share a key moment or experience that shaped your professional journey?
Moving to Dubai from India was a defining moment in my career. It was a completely new environment and required me to adapt quickly.
Early on, I worked in a one-person legal team for a large organisation, where I was trusted with decisions on significant transactions. That experience strengthened my commercial understanding and helped me build confidence in handling responsibility independently.
I have also benefited greatly from the support and trust of mentors and colleagues throughout my journey.
What do you enjoy most about working in your area of practice?
I enjoy the discipline and attention to detail that this area of practice requires. It is a field where accountability and precision matter, and I find it rewarding to see a transaction progress from initial discussions through to completion.
Have you faced any particular challenges during your career, and how did you overcome them?
Relocating to a new jurisdiction and adapting to a different legal system was one of the main challenges I faced.
What helped me was maintaining a mindset of being open to learning and making the most of every opportunity. Taking initiative and remaining adaptable allowed me to navigate those challenges and build confidence in a new environment.
What skills or qualities do you believe are most important for success in the legal profession today?
The profession is evolving rapidly, particularly with the influence of technology. Being comfortable with these changes is increasingly important.
At the same time, strong commercial understanding, attention to detail, resilience and accountability remain essential. Clear communication, both written and verbal, is also critical in ensuring that advice is understood and applied effectively.
What advice would you give to women considering a career in law?
I would encourage women to pursue this career with confidence. While challenges exist, they are part of what makes the profession rewarding.
It is also important to support one another and build strong professional networks. That sense of connection can make a meaningful difference throughout your career.
How do you maintain balance between professional responsibilities and personal life?
Law is a demanding profession, and for me, balance has not always been about dividing time equally.
I see my work as something I genuinely enjoy, and over time, I have developed a rhythm that allows me to manage responsibilities in a way that feels natural rather than conflicting.
What does being part of a diverse legal team mean to you?
Diversity brings different perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. Having worked across jurisdictions and in different team structures, I have seen how varied experiences can lead to more thoughtful and effective outcomes for clients.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your journey in the legal profession?
One of the most important lessons I have learned is not to be afraid of stepping outside your comfort zone. Many of the challenges I have faced have led to meaningful growth and new opportunities.
Simran, thank you for speaking with us and sharing your experience. It has been a pleasure.
Thank you. I am pleased to be part of this series and to contribute to the wider legal community.
To speak with Simran Sharma or discuss any of the topics mentioned in this article, you can reach her at k.simran@alsuwaidi.ae.