Senior Associate – Taxation (Indirect Tax)

About the Role Metalegal Advocates is seeking a technically strong, analytical and commercially oriented Senior Associate – Indirect Tax to join its Tax Practice. The role involves litigation and advisory work, particularly in GST, customs and related foreign trade matters. The candidate will be expected to take responsibility for assigned matters and work closely with Partners and Principal Associates on case strategy, drafting and representation. Key Responsibilities: · Independently handle tax litigation and advisory matters, including drafting replies to show cause notices, appeals, petitions and written submissions, preparing matters for hearings and representing clients before tax authorities, tribunals and courts. · The work will cover investigations, adjudication and appellate proceedings involving substantial tax demands and penalties, detention and release of goods and conveyances, input tax credit, classification and other substantive and procedural issues. · The advisory role will encompass advising individuals and businesses on the indirect tax implications of proposed and existing transactions and business operations, including GST implications, customs classification and valuation and questions concerning the interpretation and application of tax laws. · The candidate will be expected to examine factual records, identify legal provisions, develop case strategy in consultation with Partners and Principal Associates and brief senior counsels where required. · Responsibilities will also include staying abreast of legislative, regulatory and judicial developments, analysing the outcomes and their implications for clients and ongoing matters, and maintaining familiarity with the procedures, filing requirements and practices of relevant authorities, courts and tribunals. · Coordinate and assist with the preparation and filing of matters, monitor procedural compliance and deadlines and review and guide fellow colleagues work to ensure accuracy, sound reasoning and timely completion. · Contribute to legal research, client alerts, articles, newsletters, internal knowledge-sharing and thought-leadership initiatives. Client & Matter Management Interact directly with clients to understand requirements, provide timely advice and manage assigned deliverables. Work closely with Partners and Principal Associates on matter strategy, complex technical issues and client engagements. Coordinate with finance, accounts, forensic, business and other professional advisers where required. Manage multiple matters and deadlines while maintaining high standards of accuracy, quality, confidentiality and professional conduct. Requirements MANDATORY QUALIFICATIONS Must have an LL.B. degree from a from a university recognized by the Bar Council of India (BCI). Must be enrolled with the Bar Council of India. Must have approximately 3 to 6 years of relevant post-qualification experience in a law firm, tax practice, Big 4 professional services organisation or established indirect tax advisory/litigation practice. Strong legal research, drafting and analytical capabilities. Ability to independently manage assigned matters with limited supervision. Ability to manage multiple matters, deadlines and client requirements effectively. SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES The successful candidate should demonstrate: Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to interact confidently with clients and senior stakeholders. Ability to supervise, guide and develop junior professionals while maintaining quality and accountability. Proficiency in relevant legal and tax research databases and strong working knowledge of MS Excel. Intellectual curiosity and commitment to staying current with evolving indirect tax laws and regulatory developments. High accountability and commitment to confidentiality and strong commitment to client service, professional excellence and high-quality execution. Benefits Competitive compensation, professional growth opportunities, exposure to senior stakeholders and diverse clients, and a performance-driven career path. The responsibilities described above are illustrative in nature and are intended to indicate the broad scope of the role. They are not exhaustive and may be modified, expanded, or supplemented from time to time based on the Firm's business requirements, client engagements, operational needs, and the Individual's experience, capability, and professional development.