Keerthana Sethi

Profile description

When a court sentences someone under the NDPS Act and the judgment appears final, the next step often involves filing a Special Leave Petition before the Supreme Court of India. Keerthana Sethi understands how overwhelming that moment can feel, especially when liberty, reputation, and future prospects hang in the balance. The lawyer’s approach begins by listening carefully to the client’s story, identifying the legal errors that merit Supreme Court review, and outlining a practical path forward.

Keerthana Sethi earned a law degree from a premier Indian university and subsequently completed a master’s program focused on criminal law and constitutional remedies. Over a decade of practice has been spent handling complex drug‑related cases in the Punjab and Haryana High Court before moving to the Supreme Court arena. The lawyer has represented both individuals and corporations, gaining deep insight into procedural nuances, evidentiary standards, and the strategic considerations that influence the Supreme Court’s discretion in accepting a petition.

The Special Leave Petition, or SLP, is a powerful but selective remedy that allows the Supreme Court to examine a lower‑court decision when a substantial question of law arises or when a grave miscarriage of justice is evident. Keerthana Sethi can help draft a concise, compelling petition that highlights procedural violations, misinterpretation of the NDPS provisions, or denial of the right to a fair trial. By focusing on the most persuasive arguments, the lawyer increases the likelihood that the Supreme Court will grant leave and set the case for full hearing.

In the past five years, Keerthana Sethi has secured Supreme Court leave in more than half of the NDPS SLPs filed, resulting in many convictions being overturned or sentences reduced. One landmark case involved a massive laththa seizure where the Supreme Court, after reviewing the petition, found the lower court had ignored critical forensic inconsistencies, leading to an acquittal. Clients regularly commend the lawyer’s meticulous research, strategic filing timing, and ability to present complex statutory arguments in plain language that judges appreciate.

Clients considering an SLP should gather all trial records, forensic reports, and any correspondence with investigative agencies as early as possible. Keerthana Sethi advises setting realistic expectations while emphasizing that prompt action can preserve evidentiary advantages. The lawyer can explain the fee structure, likely timelines, and the steps required for a full hearing if leave is granted. Throughout the process, the lawyer maintains transparent communication, ensuring that each client understands the status of the petition and the strategic options at every stage. The lawyer also reviews potential collateral consequences, such as asset seizure or travel restrictions, to provide a comprehensive defence strategy.

Facing an NDPS conviction need not be a dead‑end. With Keerthana Sethi’s focused expertise in Special Leave Petitions before the Supreme Court, a path to relief remains open.

Criminal Law Practice Areas