Legal Executive Arbitration & Section 138 NI Act Specialist

Reports To:

Head Legal / General Counsel / Senior Legal Manager

Job Summary:

The Legal Executive (Arbitration & 138 NI Act Specialist) will manage and support all legal proceedings related to arbitration and cheque dishonour (Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881). The role involves drafting legal documents, coordinating with external counsels, attending hearings, maintaining case records, and ensuring compliance with statutory and contractual obligations.

Key Responsibilities:

Arbitration Case Management

Handle all aspects of arbitration proceedingsinitiation, pleadings, evidence, and awards.

Draft, review, and file arbitration notices, statements of claim, counter-statements, and rejoinders.

Coordinate with arbitral institutions and arbitrators (ICA, SIAC, ICC, DIAC, etc.).

Monitor arbitration timelines, procedural orders, and ensure compliance with the Arbitration & Conciliation Act, 1996.

Assist in enforcement or challenge of arbitral awards in courts.

Section 138 NI Act Case Management

Draft and issue statutory demand notices under Section 138 of the NI Act.

Liaise with clients, banks, and advocates for cheque dishonour cases.

Prepare complaints, affidavits, and supporting documents for filing before Magistrate Courts.

Track all NI Act casesfiling, evidence, and hearing dates.

Coordinate with external counsels and ensure timely follow-up for case progress and closure.

3. Legal Drafting & Documentation

Draft legal notices, replies, settlement agreements, and memorandums of understanding (MoUs).

Prepare case summaries, witness statements, and case briefs for counsel.

Review contracts and identify dispute resolution and payment-related clauses.

Legal Research & Advisory

Conduct legal research on arbitration law, NI Act, and related judicial precedents.

Provide inputs on dispute resolution strategies and recovery mechanisms.

Keep abreast of amendments, case laws, and regulatory updates impacting arbitration and cheque dishonour proceedings.

Coordination & Reporting

Liaise with external law firms, counsels, and internal departments (finance, operations, compliance).

Maintain a database of ongoing and closed cases.

Prepare periodic MIS reports on arbitration and NI Act matters for management review.

Support negotiation and settlement discussions with counterparties.

Qualifications & Experience:

Education:

Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Law (LL.B. / LL.M.)

Additional certification in Arbitration or ADR (preferred)

Experience:

3–8 years of experience handling arbitration and Section 138 NI Act cases.

Exposure to both corporate recovery and dispute resolution processes preferred.

Key Skills:

In-depth knowledge of the Arbitration & Conciliation Act, 1996 and Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881

Strong legal drafting and analytical skills

Good understanding of procedural law (Civil & Criminal)

Excellent communication and coordination abilities

Proficiency in MS Office and legal case management tools

Strong follow-up and documentation skills

Ability to manage multiple cases and meet tight deadlines

Work Environment:

Office-based role with frequent court and arbitration hearing visits.

Collaboration with external advocates, arbitrators, and institutional bodies.