Page 90 - NYAA GAHA 30th Anniversary "Service Beyond Gold"

Mahesh Rai

Equity Director

Dispute Resolution and Deputy Head
Construction & Engineering
Drew & Napier LLC
NYAA Gold Award Holder (2004 Cohort)

Mahesh Rai is a distinguished lawyer and arbitrator under the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme, represented
recognised internationally for his exceptional migrant workers through HOME (Humanitarian
advocacy, strategic insight, and dedication to justice. Organisation for Migration Economics), and served as
His work across complex disputes in construction, counsel for victims before the United Nations Khmer
technology, energy, and international arbitration Rouge Tribunal. His work has been highlighted by
has established him as one of Singapore’s leading the Financial Times Innovative Lawyers Asia-Pacific
legal minds, embodying the GAHA ethos of ‘Service Awards, where he was commended for advancing
Beyond Gold.’ legal protections for vulnerable groups.

As Equity Director of Drew & Napier LLC and Deputy Mahesh is also deeply invested in developing the
Head of the Construction & Engineering Practice, next generation of lawyers. He serves as an advocacy
Mahesh has acted as counsel in high-profile trainer for the Singapore Bar Examinations, mentors
disputes involving fintech, blockchain, shipping, young lawyers through professional associations,
telecommunications, and major infrastructure and regularly speaks at international arbitration
projects. He has represented multinational conferences.
corporations, governments, and investors in
arbitration cases before SIAC, ICC, PCA, and Through his outstanding legal career, pro bono
UNCITRAL, with claims often exceeding hundreds of service, and mentorship, Mahesh Rai continues to
millions of dollars. uphold justice while inspiring others to use their
skills to uplift society.
His reputation as a “first-rate litigator” and “master
strategist” has earned him consistent recognition
in Chambers Asia-Pacific, Chambers Global, The
Legal 500, Benchmark Litigation, and Asian Legal
Business. In 2021, he was honoured with the Joseph
Grimberg Outstanding Young Advocate Award by
the Singapore Academy of Law for his professional
excellence, ethical standards, and service to the
community.

Beyond his professional practice, Mahesh has
contributed significantly to access to justice. He has
defended over 50 indigent accused persons pro bono

88 30 Years of Service and Leadership