In-House Counsel

Corporate Legal Landscape Evolves Amid AI Guidance, Compliance Challenges, and Regulatory Shifts

Pieter Gunst03 mins

In the past week, several significant developments have emerged in the corporate legal landscape, impacting in-house counsel and corporate governance. LexisNexis has introduced Practical Guidance AI & Technology, a new task-based practice area designed to assist legal professionals in navigating the complexities of artificial intelligence and technology law. This platform aims to provide comprehensive guidance…

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R.J. Reynolds Resists Altria’s Push for In-Person Testimony in Tobacco Royalty Dispute

Pieter Gunst03 mins

In the ongoing legal battle involving significant entities in the tobacco industry, R.J. Reynolds Vapor Co. is resisting efforts by Altria Group Inc., the parent company of Philip Morris, to compel one of its in-house attorneys to testify in person. This dispute stems from a contentious royalty disagreement between the companies. R.J. Reynolds asserts that…

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Steven Block Joins Scopelitis, Enhancing Firm’s Expertise in Transportation Law

Pieter Gunst03 mins

In a notable move within the legal industry, Steven Block, currently serving as General Counsel for Transportation Services Co., will be joining the well-known law firm Scopelitis, Garvin, Light, Hanson & Feary. This transition marks a significant career shift for Block, who has amassed considerable experience in the transportation sector, providing valuable insight into regulatory…

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Corporate Legal Departments Prioritize Tech Expertise and Business Integration in 2026

Pieter Gunst02 mins

In March 2026, several notable in-house legal appointments underscored the evolving priorities within corporate legal departments. These hires reflect a strategic emphasis on integrating legal expertise with business operations, particularly in sectors facing complex regulatory landscapes. One significant trend is the increasing demand for legal professionals adept in technology and innovation. A recent survey highlighted…

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AI Innovations Reshape Legal Outsourcing: Meta’s Forward-Thinking Approach

Pieter Gunst03 mins

In recent developments within the legal technology landscape, Jen Fryhling, associate general counsel at Meta Platforms, articulates a fundamental shift in the outsourcing paradigm driven by advancements in artificial intelligence. As Meta Platforms was recognized with the Legalweek Leaders in Tech Law Award for Best Custom Legal Technology Development (In-House), Fryhling highlighted a transformative vision…

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Latham & Watkins Acknowledged for Excellence in Business Development by In-House Counsel

Pieter Gunst03 mins

Latham & Watkins has been recognized by in-house counsel as a leading firm in business development, highlighting its strategic approach to client engagement and growth. This recognition is significant in an environment where legal service providers constantly compete for attention and market share among corporate legal departments. The firm’s success in being named a top…

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AI-Powered Legal Tech Firm Harvey Achieves $11 Billion Valuation, Signaling Industry Shift

Pieter Gunst04 mins

Legal technology firm Harvey has made significant waves in the industry by securing funding that places the startup’s valuation at an impressive $11 billion. This development signals a growing interest and confidence in artificial intelligence applications within the legal sector. Harvey, known for its cutting-edge AI solutions for law firms, continues to attract attention from…

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Innovative Strategies for In-House Counsel to Navigate Rising Legal Costs

Pieter Gunst03 mins

As legal costs continue to rise, in-house counsel are increasingly tasked with finding innovative strategies to manage these expenses while maximizing their value to the business. A more strategic approach involves leveraging data, technology, and collaborative practices. Utilizing data analytics has become a cornerstone for legal teams aiming to control spending. By analyzing historical legal…

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Fifth Circuit Court Weighs Confidentiality of Apple-Blackberry Patent Agreements in Xiaomi Dispute

Pieter Gunst04 mins

The legal landscape surrounding patent licensing agreements is once again under scrutiny, as the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals deliberates over the potential release of sensitive agreements between tech giants Apple Inc. and Blackberry Corp. to Xiaomi, a Chinese rival involved in international litigation. The court’s panel, during a session on Thursday, probed into why…

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AI and Private Equity: Transforming the Legal Industry Amid Challenges and Opportunities

Pieter Gunst04 mins

At the recent Legalweek conference, disruption and reinvention emerged as prominent topics of discussion, reflecting how artificial intelligence (AI) and private equity investment are reshaping the legal landscape. The focus on these phenomena underscores a significant shift in how law firms are adapting to new technological and economic realities. Legalweek’s programming highlighted the transformative influence…

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Veteran Health Litigator Strengthens Holland & Knight’s Jacksonville Practice After Florida Blue Tenure

Pieter Gunst02 mins

In a significant move within the legal industry, a seasoned health litigator has rejoined Holland & Knight LLP in Jacksonville, Florida, after a decade-long tenure as in-house counsel for Florida Blue, a subsidiary of GuideWell Mutual Holding Corp. This return marks a strategic enhancement to the firm’s health care litigation capabilities, as reported by Law360….

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David Haga’s Shift from Netflix to Mediation Highlights Evolving Legal Tactics in Entertainment Industry

Pieter Gunst03 mins

The legal landscape of the entertainment industry is evolving, and a key player recently turned the page on a new chapter. Former Netflix Litigation Head, David Haga, has embarked on a role as a neutral, drawing from his extensive experience in managing complex litigation for the streaming giant. His transition adds a seasoned perspective to…

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AI Integration in Legal Departments: Transforming Operations and Enhancing Decision-Making

Pieter Gunst04 mins

As technology continues to accelerate the pace of change within the legal sector, many corporate legal departments are establishing robust tech roadmaps to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into their operations. The growing adoption of AI tools is reshaping the landscape, promising increased efficiencies and streamlined processes for in-house teams. An increasing number of legal departments…

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DOJ Lawyer Resigns Over AI-Generated Brief, Raising Ethical Questions in Legal Practice

Pieter Gunst03 mins

In a recent development that has sent ripples through the legal community, a Department of Justice (DOJ) lawyer resigned following the controversy over submitting a brief infused with content generated by artificial intelligence. This resignation occurred just before a scheduled judicial reprimand, marking a significant point in the continued discourse over AI’s role in legal…

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Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP Unveils Flexible Outside General Counsel Services for Modern Legal Demands

Pieter Gunst03 mins

Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP has announced the formation of a new team dedicated to offering outside general counsel services. This initiative is designed to cater to businesses that require strategic legal guidance without the commitment of a full-time in-house legal team. The firm’s move reflects a growing trend where legal departments prioritize flexibility and…

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Wilson Sonsini Enhances Legal Expertise with Pioneering Residency Program for Technology Sector Veterans

Pieter Gunst03 mins

In a notable shift within the legal and technology sectors, former General Counsel of Ex-Tensor Auto, a pioneering company in autonomous vehicle technology, has become part of Wilson Sonsini’s innovative residency program. This program is aimed at providing seasoned legal professionals with an opportunity to refine their expertise in high-impact sectors such as technology and…

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Corporate Legal Teams Reinforce Crisis Management Amid Middle East Tensions

Pieter Gunst04 mins

The recent escalation in the Middle East has sent ripples through corporate legal departments, driving many in-house legal teams to reassess their crisis management strategies. As geopolitical tensions rise, legal professionals are grappling with a variety of complex issues, from sanctions compliance to employee safety. Multinational corporations with operations in the region are at the…

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John McKee Rejoins McNees Wallace & Nurick, Reflecting Strategic Shifts in Legal Careers

Pieter Gunst03 mins

Intellectual property attorney John McKee has rejoined the law firm McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC, after a notable tenure as an in-house counsel. His return marks a significant move in the legal sector, highlighting the dynamic shifts between private practice and corporate roles that often characterize legal careers. McKee’s experience as an in-house counsel at…

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In-House Legal Teams Urged to Proactively Address AI Compliance Ahead of Regulatory Wave

Pieter Gunst03 mins

The increasing reliance on artificial intelligence in corporate environments is prompting in-house legal teams to adopt a more proactive approach. As AI technology becomes integral to business operations, legal experts highlight the urgency for in-house counsel to reassess their strategies before regulators impose external guidelines. This shift anticipates potential regulatory frameworks emerging from concerns over…

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Susan Hackett Recognized by Pro Bono Institute for Advancing Corporate Legal Service

Pieter Gunst03 mins

The Pro Bono Institute recently bestowed a significant honor upon a distinguished legal professional, recognizing the contributions of longtime Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) General Counsel, Susan Hackett. This accolade highlights her commitment to pro bono work within the corporate legal sphere. The acknowledgment underscores the growing integration of public service and corporate responsibility, reflecting…

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Redefining Legal Value: Navigating the Shift from Billable Hours to Strategic Partnerships in a Global Digital Era

Pieter Gunst03 mins

In the evolving landscape of legal services, traditional metrics such as billable hours for law firms and strong business alliances for in-house counsel are becoming insufficient yardsticks. As technology reshapes workflows, globalization adds layers of complexity, and clients increasingly prioritize clarity alongside expertise, these conventional indicators no longer encapsulate the comprehensive value modern organizations seek…

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Enhancing Legal Firm Growth Through Strategic Synergy Between Business Development and Marketing

Pieter Gunst04 mins

The intersection between business development and marketing has become crucial for legal professionals aiming to enhance client engagement and drive growth. Collaboration between these two functions not only streamlines processes but also amplifies the reach and impact of initiatives. Recent insights highlight that such teamwork can significantly bolster a law firm’s brand presence, making it…

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Exploring New Horizons: Legal Professionals Forge Paths Beyond Traditional Partnership

Pieter Gunst04 mins

For many attorneys, the aspiration to become a partner in a law firm represents the pinnacle of their career trajectory. However, not everyone follows the traditional path, and being told that one is “off partner path” doesn’t necessarily spell the end of professional growth or success. This realization is exemplified by several legal professionals who,…

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Securities Settlements Reach Historic Highs in 2025 Amid Reduced Dealmaking Activity

Pieter Gunst03 mins

The year 2025 marked a significant milestone in the realm of securities settlements, characterized by unprecedented median settlement amounts, even as the overall pace of dealmaking witnessed a decline. A comprehensive analysis by Cornerstone Research highlights this notable trend, presenting a complex picture of the securities litigation landscape. Despite the overall reduction in the number…

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