In the demanding world of corporate law, the emphasis for in-house counsel is increasingly placed on fostering effective relationships, according to three high-profile general counsels. A detailed discussion on ensuring legal teams have a more significant impact outside the confines of the legal department can be found here.
In-house counsels are finding that effective networking, communication, and adaptability are all vital aspects of being able to work fluidly across multiple departments. By curating strong relationships with peers in other business segments of the corporation, in-house counsel can create a more cohesive unit that contributes more effectively to overall business strategy.
This shift is not only about securing a more active role for legal professionals within an organization but also about making full use of their unique skill sets. The holistic understanding of the business, its operations and potential risks that an in-house counsel can provide, is seen as an untapped resource in many corporations. By working on relationships, an in-house counsel can be woven into the day-to-day discussions and operations of the business, ensuring legal considerations are part of strategy sessions from inception.
In short, fostering relations beyond the legal department reveals a strategic approach to meeting business objectives that many believe is the future of in-house counsel roles. This approach is seen as a method to keep legal insights relevant and impactful, allowing for more synchronized business decisions where legal implications are considered right at the start, rather than as an afterthought.