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One of the oldest law firms in the country, since the 1960s. Experts in corporate advisory, transactions, and litigation.
Founded in 2000 by Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed, whose work goes back as early as 1960 after he returned to Dhaka and began practising law at the East Pakistan High Court shortly after becoming a barrister in 1958, the firm has grown into one of Bangladesh's most established and respected legal practices. For decades, we have advised leading banks, listed companies, multinational corporations, insurers, foreign missions and other prominent institutions on matters of strategic importance.
Our practice combines deep knowledge of Bangladesh's legal and regulatory landscape with a clear understanding of our clients' commercial objectives. From complex cross-border transactions and regulatory matters to constitutional and commercial litigation before the Supreme Court of Bangladesh, we provide practical, commercially focused legal advice tailored to each client's needs.
We bring the resources and breadth of a full-service firm while maintaining the accessibility, responsiveness and personal attention of a partner-led practice.
We pair deep local regulatory knowledge with practical commercial advice. Select a practice area to read how we work.
Our expert team provides advice to maritime clients on admiralty law, a highly specialised area of law. Whether it involves vessel transactions, marine insurance, or resolving maritime disputes, our admiralty lawyers bring a wealth of experience to the table. We have successfully represented shipowners, insurers, logistics service providers, and maritime businesses, offering strategic solutions that ensure compliance with national and international maritime laws and regulations.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
We advise on and conduct domestic and international commercial arbitration, including institutional and ad hoc proceedings, under the Arbitration Act 2001.
We draft and advise on dispute resolution clauses, and act as counsel in arbitral proceedings across construction, energy, supply, shareholder and insurance disputes, advising on tribunal constitution and interim measures.
We act in applications for recognition and enforcement of domestic and foreign awards, and in proceedings to set aside awards before the competent courts in Bangladesh.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
In the dynamic aviation industry, our firm provides legal counsel to airlines, aircraft operators, manufacturers, general sale agents, and other aviation-related businesses. Our aviation law practice spans regulatory compliance, aircraft finance, leasing, licensing, regulatory compliance, and dispute resolution. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges within the aviation sector, our legal experts offer strategic solutions to navigate complex regulatory frameworks and ensure smooth operations in the rapidly evolving aviation landscape. We have provided extensive legal advice and assistance for the corporatisation of the national carrier and frequently advise on aircraft purchase and leasing.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
Our banking and finance practice comes with decades of experience and expertise, tailored to meet the diverse needs of banks, financial institutions, corporations, and individuals navigating the intricate world of finance. Our seasoned team of professionals combines legal acumen with a deep understanding of the financial landscape to deliver strategic and comprehensive solutions in the ever-evolving field of banking and finance.
Our firm specialises in facilitating project financing, offering a spectrum of services to financial institutions, micro-credit finance and development-oriented organisations and corporate clients. From structuring complex financing arrangements to negotiating and drafting loan agreements, our experts ensure that our clients navigate the financial landscape with confidence. We advise local and foreign lenders on various private and public sector financing related to reference rate switch from LIBOR to RFR and amendments to facility agreements. We have a proven track record in advising on syndicated loans, project finance, asset finance, and other intricate financial transactions, providing guidance that aligns with our clients’ business objectives.
Our firm assists financial institutions in navigating the intricate web of banking and financial regulations, ensuring compliance with ever-evolving regulatory frameworks. Our team stays abreast of changes in banking laws, financial regulations, and compliance standards, offering proactive solutions that mitigate legal risks and promote adherence to industry best practices. We advise clients on both corporate and litigation matters, including issues related to supervision by the central bank, government sanctions and regulations,and international payment system. Our corporate services include drafting and reviewing payment instruments (such as documentary credits, performance bonds, bills of exchange and other negotiable instruments) as well as security documents (including security sharing, charges, mortgages and guarantees) and foreign exchange transactions (including repurchase agreement and ISDA documents). We serve as legal advisors to most multinational banks and several local banks in Bangladesh. We also routinely conduct legal audits of corporate lending and security documents for banks and financial institutions.
Our banking and finance practice extends to capital markets, where we advise clients on initial public offerings, debt issuances, and compliance with securities regulations. We work closely with issuers, underwriters, and regulatory bodies, providing strategic counsel that facilitates successful capital market transactions. Our goal is to empower clients to access capital markets efficiently while ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
With a distinguished track record, our firm has been offering legal counsel to payment service providers, encompassing a spectrum of crucial areas within the evolving landscape of financial technology. We regularly advise payment technology firms, online money transfer platforms, digital payment innovators, and mobile payment service providers, bringing a wealth of expertise to address the intricate challenges inherent in the payments industry. Our firm is at the forefront of providing strategic advice to ensure compliance with evolving regulations and offer proactive solutions to address legal requirements and industry standards. We understand the nuances of cross-border transactions and collaborate with payment service providers to navigate the legal complexities associated with international payments.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
Our firm has a robust corporate and commercial litigation team to advise clients navigating complex legal disputes in the subordinate courts and the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. With a deep understanding of the intricate interplay between business transactions and legal challenges, our seasoned litigators bring forth a wealth of experience to ensure robust representation in courtrooms and alternative dispute resolution forums.
Our corporate and commercial litigation practice excels in handling disputes arising from contractual agreements. Whether involving breach of contract, interpretation issues, or enforcement challenges, our team employs strategic and meticulous approaches to safeguard our clients’ contractual rights. We navigate the intricacies of contract law, leveraging our expertise to deliver favourable outcomes in disputes of varying complexity.
Conflicts among shareholders or partners can arise in the corporate landscape, posing significant threats to business operations. Our litigators specialise in resolving shareholder and partnership disputes, addressing issues such as breaches of fiduciary duty, disagreements over management decisions, and disputes concerning the valuation of shares. We strive to protect our clients’ interests while promoting resolutions that maintain business continuity.
Disputes related to corporate governance are amongst the core focus of our litigation practice. We represent clients in matters involving alleged corporate misconduct, directorial liability, and challenges to corporate decision-making. Our commitment is to uphold the principles of transparency, fairness, and accountability, ensuring that corporate governance disputes are resolved with integrity and in alignment with legal standards.
Our litigators are well-versed in handling employment and labour disputes with a corporate perspective. From wrongful termination claims to disputes over employment contracts and non-compete agreements, we offer strategic representation to both employers and employees. Our goal is to navigate these disputes efficiently, protecting our clients’ interests.
Our firm takes a proactive stance in representing clients facing litigation challenges related to antitrust and competition law. We navigate the complexities of antitrust disputes, including allegations of anti-competitive practices, price-fixing, and unfair competition. Our litigators bring a nuanced understanding of competition law to the courtroom, ensuring robust defence or pursuit of legal remedies. We have advised and/or represented several social media, video-streaming, fintech, gaming, ride-hailing, food-delivery and logistic service providers on competition matters.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
Our firm’s constitutional law is amongst the most robust and revered in Bangladesh. Our seasoned litigators stand as a vanguard, dedicated to upholding the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution of Bangladesh. With a team of adept constitutional lawyers, we navigate the intricacies of constitutional interpretation, litigation, and advisory services, ensuring the protection of constitutional rights and the promotion of constitutional governance.
Our constitutional law practice excels in representing clients in matters of constitutional litigation. We are at the forefront of advocating for the protection of fundamental rights, challenging unconstitutional legislation and administrative decisions, and providing strategic counsel on matters related to constitutional interpretation. We are also at the forefront of public interest litigation, with the firm taking on cases that have broader implications for society, challenging systemic issues that infringe upon constitutional rights.
Complexities of constitutional issues require foresight and legal acumen. Our advisory services encompass providing guidance to individuals, businesses, and governmental bodies on constitutional matters. From compliance assessments to strategic planning, our constitutional lawyers offer comprehensive advice tailored to the unique constitutional landscape, ensuring our clients make informed decisions within the bounds of constitutional legality.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
In the dynamic landscape of corporate and commercial law, the law firm stands as a beacon of expertise, providing comprehensive legal solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. With a team of seasoned professionals, we navigate the intricacies of corporate governance, transactions and commercial ventures, enabling clients to operate in a complex business environment.
Our firm has the leading transaction lawyers and consultants in Bangladesh, with unparalleled resources and experience in handling complex mergers and acquisitions. We guide our clients through the entire process, from due diligence to negotiation and documentation, facilitating strategic business combinations. With a focus on maximising value and minimising risks, we have been instrumental in successfully closing transactions across various industries.
Our firm has decades of experience and expertise in crafting contracts that safeguard our clients’ interests. From drafting and reviewing contracts to negotiating favourable terms, we tailor our approach to meet the unique requirements of each transaction. From dealing with suppliers, distributors or partners to the sale of business assets and companies and drawing up complex transaction documents, our commitment is to ensure that contractual relationships serve as strong foundations for business success.
With keen understanding regulatory frameworks and legal nuances, our team of expert associates excels in guiding clients through the entire process of incorporating companies. We offer expert advice on selecting the most suitable corporate structure, drafting necessary documents, and liaising with regulatory authorities. Whether establishing a startup or expanding existing operations, our approach is tailored to facilitate a smooth and legally sound incorporation process, laying the groundwork for business success.
Expanding business operations often involves the strategic decision to open branch or liaison offices. Our corporate and commercial experts have considerable experience and expertise in facilitating this expansion, providing comprehensive support in establishing branch and liaison offices of foreign companies in Bangladesh. From obtaining necessary approvals to drafting the requisite documentation, we streamline the process of opening branch and liaison offices in Bangladesh, ensuring that our clients meet legal obligations and seamlessly integrate their extended presence into the regulatory framework. Our team has a successful track record of closing branch and liaison offices, whilst ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Our recent engagement includes registration and de-registration of several local offices.
Our firm's corporatisation practice stands as a cornerstone for clients seeking strategic guidance in restructuring and transforming their business entities. We specialise in guiding organisations through the process of corporatisation, a dynamic initiative that involves transforming businesses - from sole proprietorships and partnerships to statutory bodies - into corporate entities aligning with their strategic objectives. Our firm assists clients in establishing governance mechanisms that align with industry best practices and regulatory standards and providing strategic advice on restructuring ownership patterns, issuing shares, and optimising capital structures. We have served as part of an international advisory consortium for corporatisation of the national carrier, as well as corporatised a power plant and electricity distribution company. Activities included onsite and offsite due diligence reviews, review of tender documents and financing documents, and review and drafting of relevant implementing legislation.
Our corporate and commercial practice encompasses a dedicated wing committed to providing impeccable corporate secretarial services to companies in Bangladesh. We understand the critical role that corporate governance plays in the success of businesses, and our seasoned professionals ensure that clients adhere to the highest standards. From maintaining statutory registers to facilitating board and shareholder meetings, our corporate secretarial services offer a comprehensive solution to ensure legal compliance and effective governance. We act as the backbone, ensuring that the administrative aspects of corporate affairs are seamlessly managed, allowing our clients to focus on strategic decision-making and business growth.
Our law firm is dedicated to guiding corporations through the intricate landscape of compliance, recognising that a proactive and well-informed approach is crucial in today’s dynamic business environment. Our robust compliance training programmes encompass complex terrain of anti-bribery and corruption and anti-money laundering regulations, and workplace compliance, which includes topics such as diversity and inclusion, equal employment opportunities, fair labour practices, and sexual harassment. We provide comprehensive guidance on identifying, preventing, and addressing potential risks through tailored training modules that cover regulatory frameworks, risk assessments, and effective compliance strategies, ensuring that employees understand the legal ramifications and uphold the highest ethical standards.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
We advise on the Personal Data Protection Act 2026 and the wider framework governing information, cyber security and emerging technology in Bangladesh, acting for banks, operators, platform businesses and employers.
We help clients map data flows, identify lawful bases for processing, and prepare privacy notices, consent mechanisms, retention schedules, data processing agreements and cross-border transfer arrangements, together with breach response and notification procedures.
We advise on the adoption and deployment of artificial intelligence systems, including internal usage policies, vendor and model licensing terms, confidentiality and privilege considerations, and the governance frameworks boards are expected to put in place.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
Our firm offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to address the dynamic needs of both employers and employees. With a deep commitment to promoting fair and equitable workplaces, we provide strategic guidance on a myriad of employment matters, ensuring legal compliance, dispute resolution, and fostering positive employer-employee relationships.
Crafting clear and robust employment contracts is fundamental to establishing harmonious employer-employee relationships. Our legal experts collaborate with clients to draft and review employment contracts, addressing key elements such as terms of employment, compensation structures, and confidentiality agreements. Additionally, we assist in developing comprehensive employment policies that align with statutory requirements and industry best practices, setting the foundation for a productive work environment.
We recognize that navigating the complexities of employee benefits and welfare is essential for attracting and retaining top talent. Our firm assists clients in structuring competitive and compliant benefit packages, encompassing health insurance, retirement plans, profit-sharing structures, and other perks. We provide strategic advice on compliance with statutory requirements, helping clients create a workplace culture that prioritises employee well-being.
Our firm places a strong emphasis on ensuring human resources compliance to mitigate legal risks for employers. We provide guidance on adherence to labour laws, anti-discrimination regulations, and workplace safety standards. Our lawyers serve in the workplace sexual harassment committees of several local and multinational companies. We also conduct thorough investigations in cases of workplace disputes or allegations, ensuring fair and impartial proceedings that align with legal protocols.
In the event of employment disputes, our firm stands as a steadfast advocate, representing both employers and employees in negotiations, mediations, and litigation. Whether addressing wrongful termination claims, harassment allegations, or contractual disputes, our legal team employs a tailored approach to secure swift and equitable resolutions. We prioritise amicable settlements when possible but stand ready to vigorously defend our clients' interests in legal proceedings.
Our firm specialises in providing comprehensive legal counsel on the employment of foreign workers, guiding clients through the nuanced processes involved in obtaining regulatory permissions from key agencies such as the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority and other relevant authorities. Our legal team assists clients in drafting and reviewing the necessary legal documentation required for employing foreign workers. This includes employment contracts, work permits, and other agreements essential for establishing a clear legal framework. We guide clients through the application process, ensuring that all required documentation is meticulously prepared and submitted for seamless regulatory clearance, and take a proactive approach in liaising with the regulatory agency, facilitating the necessary approvals swiftly and efficiently. We also assist our clients in ensuring full compliance with the regulatory requirements governing the employment of foreign workers, including adherence to immigration laws, work permit regulations, and other statutory obligations.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
Our firm is at the forefront of delivering legal expertise in the field of health and non-health insurance, providing counsel to insurers, reinsurers, and policyholders. We are retained by several insurers, including Fortune 500 companies. We navigate the intricate landscape of insurance regulations, policy drafting, and claims resolution. Our experienced insurance lawyers work closely with clients to develop risk management strategies, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and offering innovative solutions in response to the evolving needs of the insurance industry.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
Our firm has over three decades of experience and expertise in offering comprehensive legal solutions to individuals, developers, investors, and businesses on property law. We navigate the intricacies of real estate transactions, property development, leasing, and land-use matters with precision and dedication. Our seasoned team of property lawyers provides strategic counsel to clients, ensuring compliance with evolving property regulations and maximising opportunities in the dynamic real estate market. We have closed several transactions involving sale and transfer of substantial real estate representing energy companies, specialised non-bank financial institutions, banks, diplomatic missions and charitable foundations.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
Continuing a tradition central to the firm's identity since its founding, we act in matters of public concern before the High Court Division, frequently on a pro bono basis.
We have brought proceedings concerning press freedom, institutional accountability, the protection of vulnerable groups, environmental harm, and the enforcement of statutory duties by public authorities.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
Our firm has been involved in infrastructure projects and is a leading authority in providing comprehensive legal counsel on public-private partnerships (PPPs), fostering collaborations that drive economic development. We have an excellent understanding of the local policy, regulations and laws in this area, including assisting in drafting of the legislations and regulations as well as the model bidding documents and contracts and reviewing the legal and contractual frameworks for PPPs in Bangladesh. We also possess expertise and knowledge in rendering legal advice and assistance in various PPP projects as part of our transaction advisory services. With a deep understanding of the intricate dynamics between public entities and private enterprises, our dedicated team navigates the complexities of PPPs to deliver strategic, legally sound solutions as well as local law advisory support.
A cornerstone of our PPP practice lies in developing, structuring and negotiating project documents that align the interests of public and private stakeholders. We work closely with government and non-government clients to develop bespoke agreements that reflect the unique requirements of each project, ensuring clarity on responsibilities, risk allocation, and revenue-sharing mechanisms. Our focus is on establishing a robust regulatory and contractual framework that lays the foundation for successful and sustainable partnerships.
Our expertise extends to advising on project finance and funding structures, essential components of PPP success. We collaborate with clients to explore financing options, structuring transactions that attract investment and optimise financial outcomes. From securing government grants to facilitating private investment, our firm employs a strategic approach to project financing, ensuring the financial viability of PPP initiatives.
Adherence to regulatory frameworks is paramount, and our firm excels in guiding clients through the intricacies of regulatory compliance, providing proactive advice to mitigate legal risks. We offer advice to our clients to navigate environmental regulations, procurement laws, and project-specific legislation, minimising potential disputes and delays.
In the event of disputes, our firm stands as a steadfast ally, offering dispute resolution mechanisms tailored to the unique challenges of PPPs. We emphasise the importance of well-drafted contracts that incorporate safeguards to address potential conflicts. Our goal is to protect the interests of all parties involved, fostering an environment of collaboration and dispute resolution that preserves the integrity of the partnership. We have successfully represented and defended government and non-government clients in non-judicial dispute resolutions.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
Taxation and customs litigations are technical domains, and our law firm boasts a dynamic practice that combines profound legal expertise with strategic acumen. With a team of seasoned tax litigators, we navigate the complexities of tax laws and customs regulations, providing clients with steadfast representation in litigation matters, both in subordinate courts and tribunals and the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. Our litigators are adept at presenting compelling cases, backed by thorough legal research and analysis.
Our firm excels in representing clients in disputes related to income tax matters. Whether challenging tax assessments, addressing issues of tax evasion, or seeking relief from tax penalties, our tax litigators bring forth a wealth of experience in advocating for our clients’ interests. We specialise in navigating the nuances of income tax law to secure favourable resolutions for our diverse clientele.
Disputes in customs and excise matters demands a nuanced understanding of trade regulations and tariff laws. Our litigators specialise in representing clients facing challenges in customs and excise litigation, providing strategic counsel to address issues such as classification disputes, valuation controversies, and customs duty challenges. We aim to secure optimal outcomes for our clients in the ever-evolving landscape of international trade.
The evolving landscape of value-added tax regulations often gives rise to disputes, and our firm stands as a steadfast advocate in these matters. We handle value-added tax disputes comprehensively, from challenging assessments to addressing issues of input tax credit and compliance matters. Our goal is to ensure that our clients navigate such tax disputes with clarity and confidence, minimising financial impact and legal risks.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
With a dedicated team of professionals attuned to the dynamic nature of the industry, our firm offers legal counsel to a range of clients in the telecommunication and technology sector. We have a robust telecommunication and technology practice with over nearly three decades of experience in serving clients. We are also at the forefront of providing legal counsel, strategic guidance, and policy advisory services to technology companies across a myriad of dynamic practice areas. As trusted advisors to innovators and disruptors in the technology sector, we bring a wealth of expertise to address the multifaceted challenges inherent in this rapidly evolving industry.
Our team of experts are experienced in navigating the intricate regulatory frameworks governing the telecommunications sector. We excel in providing strategic advice on licensing and regulatory compliance, ensuring that clients operate within the bounds of national and international regulations. From network and spectrum licensing and compliance with privacy and data protection laws to regulatory and financial audits, we offer tailored solutions that enable clients to harness opportunities while mitigating regulatory risks. We count most mobile network operators and several large telecommunication service providers in Bangladesh, and their corporate shareholders, as our valued clients.
Our expertise extends to advising on telecommunications infrastructure development and transactions. We advise and represent the largest tower sharing companies in Bangladesh. We guide our clients through the legal intricacies of network deployment, tower sharing agreements, service level agreements, and telecommunications service agreements. Whether negotiating with regulatory authorities or structuring commercial transactions, our team is committed to facilitating seamless operations in the telecommunications sector.
Our seasoned team specialises in providing strategic advice on content creation, distribution, and moderation. We count several user-generated content and curated content service providers, mostly Fortune 500 companies, as our valuable clients. We assist them in understanding and adhering to content-related regulations and advising them on government-issued takedown requests and court orders for content removal, ensuring compliance while fostering an environment that aligns with their creative and business objectives and fundamental rights to freedom of expression.
Our firm provides tailored legal support for technology companies during product launches in the market. From intellectual property considerations and user engagement to regulatory compliance, we guide clients through the intricacies of bringing innovative products to market, including not only legal advice but also policy and political dynamics, fostering a seamless launch process that maximises legal protection and market impact.
Our team is well-versed in providing strategic advice on data protection and privacy matters. We collaborate with government and non-government stakeholders to implement robust privacy protections and foster a culture of responsible data handling. We also offer training to corporate clients on responsible and ethical data handling practices. Notably, our firm has been instrumental in navigating policymaking in the proposed data protection legislation.
As the technology landscape becomes increasingly competitive, our firm assists clients in navigating competition laws to ensure fair market practices. We provide strategic guidance on antitrust issues, mergers and acquisitions, and competition compliance, empowering technology and non-technology companies to thrive in a competitive environment while adhering to legal standards. We have advised and/or represented several social media, video-streaming, fintech, gaming, ride-hailing, food-delivery and logistic service providers on competition matters.
Facilitating seamless financial transactions is a cornerstone of technology services. Our firm specialises in advising on payment gateways and settlement processes, ensuring compliance with financial regulations and industry standards. We collaborate with companies and regulators to navigate the legal complexities of financial transactions, fostering secure and efficient payment systems. We count most major payment card, payment technology and mobile financial service providers as our valued clients.
Artificial Intelligence is transformative, and our firm is dedicated to guiding technology companies through the legal implications of its implementation. From intellectual property protection to ethical considerations and regulation, we provide comprehensive advice on artificial intelligence related legal matters, fostering responsible and legally sound innovations. We have been advising social media, online portals, computer-assisted legal research portals, gaming companies in launching new products in the market powered by artificial intelligence. We are also consulted by the government on the future of automation and artificial intelligence regulation.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
Our firm takes pride in being a distinguished advisor to high-net-worth individuals, families, and institutional clients on wealth management. Our wealth management practice is driven by a commitment to delivering personalised and strategic solutions that align with the financial objectives and aspirations of our clients. Our approach involves comprehensive financial planning, encompassing estate planning, tax optimization, asset protection, risk management, and succession planning. We collaborate closely with clients to craft bespoke wealth management structures and strategies that provide a roadmap for long-term financial success and legacy preservation. Our seasoned team also offers expert guidance on investment portfolios tailored to the unique risk tolerance, financial goals, and preferences of our clients. Additionally, we work closely with clients seeking to make a positive impact through philanthropy to align their goals with their overall wealth management strategy, maximising the positive effects of their financial resources on society.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
Our white collar crime practice advises companies, boards, financial institutions and senior individuals facing allegations of financial crime, regulatory breach and corporate misconduct in Bangladesh, combining the firm's corporate depth with its standing before the Supreme Court.
We conduct and advise on internal investigations, and represent clients in enquiries and proceedings initiated by the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit, the National Board of Revenue, Bangladesh Bank and other regulators, including responding to information requests, freezing orders and summons.
We act in matters involving alleged fraud, forgery, criminal breach of trust, money laundering under the Money Laundering Prevention Act 2012, offences under the Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2004 and the Penal Code, and we pursue and defend proceedings concerning the tracing, attachment and recovery of assets.
We advise on anti-bribery and anti-corruption frameworks, anti-money laundering and know-your-customer compliance, whistleblowing procedures and director liability, helping clients reduce exposure before an issue arises.
For more information, mail us at info@siaalaw.com
Amongst the most robust and revered practices in Bangladesh, a team that combines profound legal expertise with genuine strategic acumen.
Chambers Asia-Pacific
Barrister-at-Law, Lincoln's Inn (1958) · Senior Advocate · Attorney General of Bangladesh
Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed read economics at the University of Dhaka, taking his bachelor's and master's degrees in 1953 and 1954, and obtained a second master's in economics from the London School of Economics in 1958. He was called to the Bar by the Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn in 1958 and returned home in 1960 to commence practice at the then East Pakistan High Court, where he began as an associate in the chambers of Barrister ATM Mustafa.
Over a career spanning more than four decades he was enrolled as an Advocate of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh and conferred the designation of Senior Advocate, becoming one of the most authoritative constitutional litigators of his generation. He appeared as amicus curiae in numerous constitutional references and argued cases that remain landmark precedents. He was a formidable defender of press freedom, securing the annulment of government bans on the weekly Jai Jai Din in 1990 and again in 1996, the weekly Robbar in 1990, the weekly Khoborer Kagoj and the daily Manab Zamin. He combined practice with scholarship, teaching law at the University of Dhaka as a part-time faculty member from 1961 to 1968 and serving the University as its senior legal adviser from 1972 to 1991. He was twice elected President of the Supreme Court Bar Association, in 1978-79 and again in 1989-90.
Mr. Ahmed was appointed Additional Attorney General in 1972, in the first years of the Republic, and the third Attorney General of Bangladesh in 1976. In 1978 he served as Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the United Nations. He was subsequently recruited to the International Election Observer Group and monitored national elections in Sri Lanka, Nepal and the Maldives.
Following the restoration of democratic government in 1991, he was instrumental in effecting the transition from a presidential to a parliamentary system and stood among the principal architects of Bangladesh's non-party caretaker government system, the formula for which he devised together with Dr. Kamal Hossain. He twice served as an Adviser, a position of cabinet rank, in the non-party caretaker governments: in 1996, holding the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs together with the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives; and in 2001, holding the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs together with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism. During the 2001 caretaker government he worked at length on a legal framework for the separation of the judiciary from the executive in fulfilment of the constitutional mandate.
His institutional commitments were extensive. He served the Bangladesh Institute of Law and International Affairs as alternate chairman from 1985 to 1991 and as chairman from 1992 until his death, was a founder member of the Board of Trustees of the Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust, and sat on the Board of Trustees of the Centre for Policy Dialogue. He was a life member of the Bangla Academy, the Asiatic Society of Bangladesh and the Bangladesh Itihas Parishad.
Mr. Ahmed's death on 12 July 2003 marked the end of an era in the legal and public life of Bangladesh. The Barrister Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed Memorial Foundation was established at the Asiatic Society of Bangladesh in July 2004 and his memoirs, The Ishtiaq Papers, remain in print. Since Mr. Ahmed’s passing, the law firm has been steered by Nihad Kabir, Syed Afzal Hasan Uddin, and Md. Asaduzzaman. Each, having benefited from a longstanding association with Mr. Ahmed, is unwavering in their commitment to uphold the standards of excellence and integrity set by this eminent legal figure.
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