How to Build Career in Legal Freelancing? A Conversation with Chhavi Arora

Chhavi Arora, Founder of Juris At Work, is an international corporate and contract law attorney who has worked with clients across seven countries and drafted 500+ contracts. A second-generation lawyer, she carved her niche in contract drafting and IP law through persistence and skill-building.

In this interview, Chhavi shares her journey from law school to building a global practice, along with practical advice on networking, freelancing, client management, and essential skills every law student must develop early.

What inspired you to choose law as a career, and how did you discover your interest in contract drafting and IP law?

Being a second-generation lawyer, I grew up watching my father practice in the Delhi High Court with great sincerity. His dedication inspired me to take up law. During law school, I found myself drawn towards contract drafting and IP because they combine technical precision with creativity. To strengthen this interest, I enrolled in certificate courses, and since then, these subjects have been at the center of my career.

Can you share your journey from law school to working with clients across multiple countries?

I completed my undergraduate degree in Political Science from Lady Shri Ram College, followed by law school, where I graduated at the top of my class. After a master’s degree and two years of litigation, I gained hands-on experience with contracts and IP disputes. 

To sharpen my skills, I pursued certifications in contracts and IP law, which eventually led me to international freelancing. A turning point came when I received an opportunity from a US-based law firm. Soon after, I founded my own practice and law firm, Juris At Work with a remote legal team catering to clients globally.  Over the past 1.5 years, we’ve worked with clients in the USA, UK, Canada, Singapore, Dubai, Australia, and more.

What were the biggest challenges you faced as a fresh graduate?

The biggest challenge was identifying and building my niche. As a second-generation lawyer, expectations were high, and initially I chose litigation to gain broad exposure. But with time and experience, I realized that international contract drafting was where I truly excelled and enjoyed working the most.

Looking back, is there one mistake from your early career that law students should avoid?

Yes, networking. I didn’t focus on networking or LinkedIn while in law school, and I only started later. Looking back, I believe students should actively network from the beginning, as it helps in gaining visibility, building relationships, and opening doors to opportunities.

How did you get your first international client, and what did you learn?

My first international client came through a freelance website. I was paid $40 for a patent research paper. While I delivered good work, I realized that communication is as important as quality. Clients want to feel updated and engaged, not just receive the final product. That experience taught me to balance both.

How important are legal writing and research skills in building a successful career?

They are fundamental. Whether in litigation, corporate practice, or international work, strong writing and research are what set a lawyer apart. These skills help in presenting arguments clearly, drafting effective contracts, and analyzing issues deeply. In fact, many international clients specifically hire lawyers for research and writing assignments, which shows how valuable these skills really are.

Can students start building a portfolio while still in law school?

Absolutely, and they should. Students can start by writing research papers, taking up freelance assignments in contracts, or even assisting startups with drafting. Today, there are also opportunities in personal branding, SEO, and legal content writing. Building a portfolio early not only sharpens skills but also creates credibility for future clients or employers.

How do you suggest law graduates approach networking with potential clients or law firms, especially internationally?

Networking should be intentional. Graduates should build a strong LinkedIn profile, share insights on legal topics, and actively engage in discussions. For international exposure, freelancing platforms and global legal communities are a great starting point. Even small assignments can help build credibility and create lasting client relationships.

What’s one client experience that taught you a lesson you still use today?

I once worked with a client in New York who taught me the importance of valuing my work. He made me realize that legal services, especially international contract drafting, involve high stakes. Since then, I always ensure advance payments and set clear terms. It’s a reminder that as lawyers, we must never undermine our own value.

How do you manage “urgent” last-minute client requests while still maintaining quality?

Urgency is common in international practice, especially across time zones. The key is setting clear expectations and prioritizing deadlines. For urgent matters, I try to streamline and focus on immediate concerns. I also make sure to schedule a follow-up for detailed comments with clients. 

The most important quality which comes in handy in these situations is to stay calm and focused because the Client is mostly panicking as he needs the work to be done urgently.  This way, the client’s need is met without compromising on legal quality.

How is drafting a contract for an international client different from drafting one for an Indian client?

International contracts, especially in jurisdictions like the US, are more complex and require detailed research on state-specific laws. International clients are usually very direct about their needs and respectful of timelines. Indian contracts, on the other hand, are simpler but Indian clients often demand multiple revisions and are more difficult to satisfy. The approach differs not just in law, but also in client expectations and payment structures.

What would you tell a final-year law student who feels unsure about their career path?

Take time to explore different fields. Don’t rush into one practice area because others are doing so. Once you find your interest, be consistent. Consistency is what builds expertise and credibility. And remember, it’s okay to start small. Every step adds to your growth.

What’s one skill or habit you wish you had developed earlier in your career?

I wish I had started freelancing during law school and focused more on networking. Freelancing builds independence and client management skills, while networking creates visibility and opportunities. Both are game changers for a young lawyer. 

If you could give your law-school self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Stay consistent and never lose hope. Build strong fundamentals, focus on skill development, and don’t shy away from starting early. Be persistent and ethical in your approach. Success in law is a marathon, not a sprint. Take your time, you will reach there.