LexNovaLegal Associates
Arbitration Lawyer in Chennai
Domestic and international commercial arbitration under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996.
We act in arbitrations arising from commercial contracts — construction and supply disputes, shareholder and joint venture disagreements, distribution terminations and cross-border contracts. The work covers the whole arc: invoking the clause, constituting the tribunal, interim protection, the hearing itself, and enforcing or resisting the award.
We also advise before a dispute exists, because a poorly drafted arbitration clause causes more delay than the dispute it was meant to resolve. Our office is at No. 1 Karaneeswarar Koil Street, Saidapet, Chennai 600015, and we act for clients across Tamil Nadu and, on Indian-law matters, for clients based outside India.
What this covers
Domestic and international commercial arbitration under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996.
Clause drafting
Seat, venue, governing law, number of arbitrators, institution and language.
Commencing arbitration
Notice of invocation and applications under section 11 for appointment of an arbitrator.
Interim measures
Section 9 applications before court and section 17 applications before the tribunal.
Representation
Pleadings, documentary and expert evidence, cross-examination and final arguments.
Challenge and enforcement
Section 34 challenges, section 36 enforcement and enforcement of foreign awards.
Mediation and settlement
Structured settlement discussions during or before arbitration.
Who we act for
- Parties to contracts containing an arbitration clause
- Construction, infrastructure and supply-chain participants
- Shareholders and joint venture partners
- Foreign parties in disputes with Indian counterparties
- Award holders seeking enforcement in India
How the engagement runs
Every matter is scoped and priced in writing before work begins.
1. Clause and forum review
Confirm what the clause requires, the seat, and whether the claim falls within it.
2. Invocation
Notice invoking arbitration and, if needed, a section 11 application to constitute the tribunal.
3. Interim protection
Section 9 or 17 applications to secure the claim amount or preserve the position.
4. Hearing
Statement of claim or defence, evidence, cross-examination and arguments.
5. Award and enforcement
Award, and thereafter enforcement or a challenge within the statutory period.
What to bring to the first consultation
Not every item is needed on day one — bring what you have, and we will tell you what else to obtain.
- The contract containing the arbitration clause
- Correspondence recording the dispute and any notices already issued
- Invoices, accounts and project records supporting the claim
- Any prior award, order or pending court proceeding between the parties
- Authorisation to act on behalf of the entity
Frequently asked questions
- How long do I have to challenge an arbitral award?
- An application to set aside an award under section 34 must ordinarily be filed within three months of receipt of the award, with a limited further period of thirty days on sufficient cause. The timeline is strict, so a challenge decision should be taken immediately on receipt.
- Can I get urgent relief before the tribunal is constituted?
- Yes. Section 9 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 allows a party to apply to court for interim measures before or during arbitration, and in certain circumstances after the award.
- Is a foreign arbitral award enforceable in India?
- Awards from New York Convention countries notified by India are enforceable, subject to the limited grounds of refusal in Part II of the Act.
- Is arbitration cheaper than going to court?
- Not always. It is usually faster and confidential, but tribunal and institutional fees are borne by the parties. We give a realistic cost comparison for the specific dispute.
Related pages: Arbitration & mediation · Commercial litigation lawyer in Chennai · Dispute resolution · Contract drafting & review
Discuss your matter with LexNova Legal Associates
Speak with a lawyer in Saidapet, Chennai. Consultations are available in person, by telephone, by video call or on WhatsApp, Monday to Saturday, 9.30 am to 6.30 pm IST.