Who? Sonia Ahmad, director, Banks Kelly, London.
Why is she in the news? The firm successfully represented, in the High Court, a group of trustees in a dispute against another group of trustees over control of the UK arm of the Yogi Divine Society. The dispute arose on the death of the founder, Hariprasad Swamiji, in 2021.
Thoughts on the case: ‘The judgment represents a significant win for my clients in relation to the charity Yogi Divine Society, UK. It was unfortunate, however, that resolving this dispute, which concerned the governance of the charity, required many years of litigation and a three-week trial in the High Court.
‘I was honoured to represent the claimants, including Premswaroop Swamiji, who was appointed president of YDS India by the founder, Hariprasad Swamiji. We obtained declaratory relief reinstating Premswaroop Swamiji in the leadership role of YDS UK, a position from which the defendant trustees had sought to remove him by amending the constitution of the charity.
‘Mr Simon Gleeson (sitting as a deputy High Court judge) found that the defendant trustees acted in breach of duties owed to the charity. The ruling emphasises the importance of fiduciary duties owed by charity trustees. While the trustees were all volunteers in this case, the judge noted that the defendant trustees had taken matters into their own hands and overstepped the requirements of good faith and transparency that apply to trustees generally, and trustees of charities in particular.
‘The ruling also highlights the court’s supervisory jurisdiction over charities and the remedies available where fiduciary duties have been breached.’
The law firm for the defendant trustees was approached for comment.
Dealing with the media: ‘I had to apply for the largest courtroom in the Rolls Building due to the trial being overfilled with devotees and attendees. The case involved a global charity, and media attention was expected. We handled the case with sensitivity.’
Why become a lawyer? ‘I became a lawyer because my parents said so! I am sure my husband can testify to my knack for arguing my case. I remain a lawyer for the reward of supporting clients and the privilege of being a part of landmark cases.’
Career high: ‘A personal career high was becoming a director at Banks Kelly. I am fortunate to work alongside the best co-directors. Beyond that, at the risk of sounding clichéd, every win feels like the best one yet.’
Career low: ‘I was deeply saddened when a client passed away months before his trial. Our clients become a big part of our lives, just as we become a part of theirs.’
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