Our History

Six Decades. One Standard

While history can naturally grow richer, its underlying foundation remains unchanged: a commitment to thoughtful legal work, principled judgment and standards that endure.

Our standing within the legal profession has been built over six decades. The values and defining qualities set by our founding partners continue to shape the firm, strengthened through each generation of leadership.

The firm was founded at a time when I was still young, shaped by my father, Velupillai Murugesu’s quiet conviction that the practice of law could be undertaken with greater clarity, purpose, and care within a framework he chose to define. It was a measured decision, grounded in discipline and a deep respect for the profession; an approach that has remained with us and one we carried forward when we became part of the firm.

My husband, Kandiah Neelakandan, was central to shaping the firm as it stands today. He shared that same sense of—

purpose, while bringing his own insight, energy and strength of character to the practice. His influence was felt in the standards he upheld, the firm’s growing international outlook, and the foundations he helped lay for its continuity.

Today, N&N is led across two generations; one anchored in experience, the other responsive to change. Together, we continue to build on what has been established, guided by a shared responsibility to those who place their trust in us and a steady commitment to the firm’s future.

Sashidevi Neelakandan

Precedent Partner

Our Legacy

Our Firm was built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and legal excellence. Established by Velupillai Murugesu and strategically expanded on by Kandiah Neelakandan, our practice has grown from a shared vision of justice into a firm that is recognised globally.

Velupillai Murugesu

Founding Partner

Precedent Partner (1962 - 2010)

Kandiah Neelakandan

Partner (1972-2010)

Precedent Partner (2010 - 2018)

Legacy and Strategic Leadership

Ms. Sivananthavalli Thurairaja joined as Partner, leading the firm’s Intellectual Property practice. Mrs. Sashidevi Neelakandan’s appointment strengthened leadership, while Mr. Nithi Murugesu’s role highlighted the founding family’s commitment.

The Neelakandan Effect

A Lasting Legacy of Leadership Within the Firm and the Profession

Built on the foundations laid by Velupillai Murugesu, N&N cultivated a culture defined by diligence, exacting standards, and an abiding commitment to its clientele and the legal profession.

Kandiah Neelakandan's entry marked a pivotal moment in the firm's history. A young lawyer of clear discipline, he rose on merit to lead the firm through a period of exponential growth, guiding its evolution into a practice capable of handling complex commercial matters while establishing a multi-sector corporate and private client base. Like Velupillai Murugesu, he valued the people behind the matters and built longstanding relationships with clients and counsel, earning their trust through honesty and determination.

Beyond practice development, he fostered a strong sense of community within the firm and the wider profession. His leadership was characterised by a sustained commitment to nurturing young lawyers, advancing pro bono work, and supporting initiatives aimed at securing justice for the most vulnerable. Through mentorship and example, he set enduring standards, shaping generations of lawyers and embedding a culture of service, excellence, and continuity that remains integral to the firm today.

One Evolving Standard

Across Three Generations of Legal Professionals

Over the decades, the firm has had the privilege of advising a diverse and expanding client base, guided by a commitment to both process and outcome in the best interests of those we serve. Our experience has been built methodically over time, shaped by tested approaches and a conviction that enduring relationships, across generations and across borders, are as important as the matters themselves.

Across successive generations of leadership, the firm has maintained a consistent standard of practice independent of any one individual and grounded in a distinct institutional identity. Each generation has strengthened its resilience in the face of changing legal and commercial landscapes. While the scale and complexity of our work have evolved, the firm continues to be guided by a single, enduring standard; one that adapts without compromise.