
Cross-border disputes often require legal teams in multiple jurisdictions to work together quickly and effectively. For firms that participate in international legal networks, these relationships can make it much easier to connect clients with trusted counsel who already know how to collaborate.
A recent matter involving Ahlawat & Associates in India and Epstein Becker Green in the United States demonstrates how these connections can help clients navigate complex international litigation.
When a long-standing client of ILN member firm Ahlawat & Associates found itself facing a lawsuit in the United States, the company quickly realized it needed trusted legal guidance on both sides of the globe.
Through the relationships built within the International Lawyers Network (ILN), Ahlawat & Associates was able to quickly connect the client with experienced U.S. counsel.
The lawsuit alleged breach of confidentiality, non-compete, and non-solicitation obligations, with damages claimed at approximately USD $5 million. Drawing on relationships developed through ILN meetings and collaborations, Ahlawat & Associates recommended Epstein Becker Green (EBG). Having previously connected with EBG attorneys George and David through the network, the firm was confident in their experience handling complex litigation matters in the United States.
To support the client through this process, Ahlawat & Associates and EBG worked closely together, coordinating across time zones and geographic distances. Uday Ahlawat, Managing Partner of Ahlawat & Associates, noted that the collaboration between the firms was key to navigating the process.
Because the discovery process in the United States is quite different from what clients in India are used to, there were many questions and concerns along the way. EBG was extremely helpful in explaining the process and working with us to manage the scope of documentation being requested. Despite the geographic distance and time differences, the coordination between our teams worked very smoothly.
Through their collaborative approach, the firms were ultimately able to reach a settlement before the court for a significantly lower amount than originally sought in the lawsuit. The client particularly appreciated EBG’s strategic guidance in pursuing settlement, which helped avoid the substantial legal costs and ongoing document production that extended litigation would have required.
This matter highlights how ILN member firms leverage their international relationships and expertise to guide clients through complex cross-border disputes, ensuring both strategic legal support and efficient coordination across jurisdictions.