Akila Khandelwal

Profile description

When an Indian citizen living abroad learns that a criminal conviction has been upheld by a lower court, the impact can extend to travel restrictions, employment hurdles, and personal distress. Akila Khandelwal focuses on the Supreme Court of India’s Special Leave Petition mechanism, offering NRIs a reliable route to seek judicial relief at the highest level.

The Special Leave Petition is the only avenue that permits an appeal to the apex court. Khandelwal has spent over 13 years mastering the nuances of drafting petitions that expose procedural lapses, misinterpretations of statutes, and violations of constitutional safeguards. The lawyer has filed more than 140 SLPs for clients across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and the Middle East, covering charges ranging from financial fraud to cyber‑crimes and serious violent offenses. When the Supreme Court grants leave, it signals a willingness to scrutinize the case in detail, opening the door for reversal or reduction of the judgment.

After leave is secured, Khandelwal proceeds to the full appeal stage. The lawyer prepares comprehensive appeal briefs that incorporate fresh evidence, expert opinions, and comparative case law. By aligning arguments with the Court’s evolving jurisprudence, the lawyer often persuades the bench to set aside unduly harsh sentences. Notable results include the reduction of a twelve‑year sentence for an NRI entrepreneur and the dismissal of a fabricated charge that had triggered an international travel ban.

Khandelwal’s process starts with a thorough audit of the trial transcript, investigation reports, and any earlier appellate documents. The lawyer isolates the strongest points of law and constructs a coherent narrative that resonates with the justices. Throughout the proceedings, a secure client portal provides real‑time updates, draft reviews, and instant authorization capabilities, ensuring that NRIs in different time zones stay fully informed and engaged.

Clients value Khandelwal’s ability to break down complex legal procedures into clear, actionable steps. The lawyer also advises on ancillary issues such as passport suspension, asset attachment, and coordination with foreign embassies. By anticipating the broader ramifications of an Indian criminal judgment on overseas assets and professional licenses, Khandelwal equips clients with strategies to protect their livelihood while the appeal is pending.

To reinforce arguments before multi‑judge benches, the lawyer collaborates with senior advocates in Delhi who bring additional depth and perspective. This collaborative approach guarantees that every statutory, constitutional and factual angle is meticulously examined. For NRIs seeking a decisive, well‑structured challenge at the apex court, Khandelwal delivers a focused, results‑driven service that aims to restore freedom, reputation, and peace of mind.

Following a favorable Supreme Court ruling, Khandelwal assists in executing the judgment, including expunging the criminal record and facilitating the release of frozen assets. The lawyer also works with overseas counsel to synchronize any parallel proceedings, preventing contradictory outcomes. By staying current with the latest Supreme Court pronouncements, Khandelwal continuously refines strategies to reflect emerging legal trends, giving clients confidence that their case benefits from the most up‑to‑date jurisprudence.

The lawyer additionally prepares review petitions for any subsequent challenges and offers guidance on immigration matters that may arise from a cleared conviction, ensuring that the client’s international mobility and professional prospects remain unhindered.

Criminal Law Practice Areas