Mr. Joy Thattil Ittoop completed his schooling in Cochin and graduated in Law from the Government Law College, Ernakulam. He enrolled as an Advocate with the Bar Council of Kerala in 1996.
He began his legal career as a junior advocate with M/s. Nagendran & Nagendran, where he gained extensive experience in handling a broad spectrum of legal matters, including taxation, civil, constitutional, criminal, and service law. After five years of practice, he established his independent law office under the name M/s. Joy Thattil & Co., which later merged with M/s. Callidus in 2006. Under his leadership, the firm rapidly evolved into a full-service legal practice with a strong team of experienced lawyers and consultants.
As part of its strategic expansion, the firm established offices in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Dubai, and Malaysia, enabling it to serve clients across India and internationally, with a particular focus on the maritime and shipping sectors.
Driven by his passion for maritime law, Mr. Thattil pursued higher studies in International Maritime Law at the University of Southampton, United Kingdom. As a maritime lawyer, he has represented a diverse range of clients, including ship owners, shipping companies, insurers, charterers, and individuals, in complex maritime disputes before courts and tribunals across India and overseas.
Mr. Thattil has travelled extensively across the world, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, presenting papers and delivering lectures on various aspects of International Maritime Law at professional forums and academic institutions.
In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Thattil has made significant contributions to public service and community welfare. As the Past President of the Rotary Club of Cochin West, he has led and participated in numerous humanitarian and community development initiatives.
He is also a Guest Faculty at several premier professional institutions in India and abroad, delivering lectures on various branches of law.
He was also appointed as a Notary Public by the Government of India in 2007.
Recognising his legal acumen and professional integrity, the Government of Kerala, in consultation with the High Court of Kerala, appointed him as the Special Public Prosecutor for the landmark Thekkady Boat Tragedy Case.
His extensive experience and contributions to the global maritime industry further led to his election as the Secretary General of the Dubai Shipping Agents Association, where he successfully completed his tenure while strengthening international cooperation within the shipping community.
Today, Mr Joy Thattil Ittoop is widely recognised as one of the leading maritime lawyers from India, with over three decades of legal experience spanning litigation, international maritime law, commercial disputes, advisory services, and legal education. His commitment to professional excellence, ethical practice, and public service continues to earn him the trust and respect of clients, colleagues, and the legal fraternity across India and internationally.
