Madhavi Dutta brings extensive experiences to the Law School as a firm partner in India, where she has built an impressive career in legal areas that span anti-corruption, white-collar crime, compliance, corporate investigations, and employment. Dutta holds a BBA and LLB from Symbiosis Law School in Pune, India, including multiple continuing education diplomas from the school. She is excited to delve into her LLM degree to help her transition into an in-house compliance role in her home country while also paving a road towards academia.

Tell us a bit about your background and professional experiences.

I’m a partner at Kochhar & Co. and part of the firm’s white-collar crime and compliance practice. I advise on compliance-related matters and white-collar crime investigations involving ABAC, fraud, cybercrime, money laundering, and sanctions. My work includes corporate internal investigations and assisting clients in enforcement matters under Indian and other global anti-corruption laws.

What type of law do you practice in India?

My practice focuses on white-collar crime, internal investigations, and corporate compliance. I also work extensively on general employment law—handling staff accountability assessments, workplace policies, code of conduct, and PoSH compliance. In addition, I assist with IT laws, contractual reviews, and data privacy diligence in enforcement-sensitive matters.

What is motivating your decision to get an LLM?

I am looking to transition into an in-house compliance role while also building a pathway into academia. I work closely with US-based companies operating in India, and a deeper understanding of US corporate and regulatory frameworks will significantly enhance my ability to advise on cross-border matters. This LLM will give me both the academic grounding and practical edge needed for this next phase.

Why did you choose the University of Chicago Law School?

I was drawn to the University of Chicago for its strong corporate law faculty, many of whom have practical experience with leading law firms and enforcement agencies. The flexibility of the curriculum allows me to choose from a wide range of courses rather than follow a fixed track, which is important for my evolving interests. Having traveled to Chicago twice, I feel a strong sense of connection with the city and look forward to returning.

What do you hope/plan to do with your LLM after you graduate?

I plan to transition into an in-house role in India, with a focus on compliance, investigations, and white-collar crime. The LLM will strengthen my ability to advise on cross-border matters and collaborate effectively with global legal teams. Over time, I also hope to contribute to legal education, particularly in the areas of corporate governance and white-collar enforcement.

What are you most looking forward to in coming to the Law School, the United States, and/or the city of Chicago?

I’m looking forward to the experience of studying in a different country, meeting people from diverse backgrounds, and learning from professors who bring deep real-world experience to the classroom. Chicago is a city I already love—it has stunning architecture, incredible food, and some of the warmest and most welcoming people I’ve met. I’m looking forward to calling it home for the year.

Any interesting hobbies or interests you’d like to share?

I enjoy photography, painting, reading, and music, and have always been drawn to creative expression in different forms. I love to travel and have explored several countries over the years—it’s my way of learning through experience. I’m also a big foodie and enjoy discovering new cuisines, both when I travel and at home. Lately, I’ve also taken to gardening, which has become a peaceful and rewarding break from my usually fast-paced schedule.

What is a “fun fact” about you? 

Thanks to my army upbringing, I grew up changing cities frequently—and that pattern never really stopped. I’ve now lived across India and travelled through multiple countries, to the point where airports feel almost like a second home. From spontaneous weekend plans to long itineraries, I rarely say no to a trip—and I somehow always find the best local food wherever I go. Unpacking is still my least favorite part.

Anything else you’d like to share?

This LLM isn’t just a career step—it’s something I’ve waited a long time to pursue. I’m excited to learn, unlearn, and grow alongside a diverse group of peers, and to contribute my own experiences along the way. More than anything, I’m looking forward to being a student again—fully present, curious, and open to everything this year brings. After the program, I plan to return to India, where I remain closely connected to both my professional goals and family responsibilities as an only child.