Looking forward, what technological advancements do you feel will impact the role of in-house legal teams in the future the most?

For a long time, in-house legal teams have been resistant about the introduction of technology, however the effects of the pandemic forced many in-house lawyers to reconsider their position and think about more extensive automation of certain legal activities, towards effectiveness. Therefore, more in-house legal teams have decided to automate legal work related to major corporate activities. The challenge is to decide which technologies to embrace, to drive real business outcomes.

For a successful implementation, in-house teams must identify specific issues that can be solved via automation, to save time in an effective way. While routine tasks are being automated, in-house legal teams can do the most important tasks needed by the organisation. Document management technology, for example, makes this possible by allowing anyone within the company and with no legal background to create a complete contract that is consistent with the organisation’s specifications. It takes the burden away from overloaded in-house legal teams, facilitates contract generation and streamline the production of regularly used contracts.

What would you say are the unique qualities required to be successful as an in-house lawyer in your industry?

To be a successful in-house counsel, you need to have a real understanding of the mechanics of the business itself, what the company does and how it reaches its objectives, so the advice provided by the in-house lawyer are aligned with the company’s objectives. The in-house lawyer must take time to gain this knowledge, to give comprehensive advice that considers both legal and business implications.

Successful in-house lawyers need to provide practical and actionable advice beyond pure legal theories, to add value to the business conversation. In-house lawyers need to identify and mitigate risk and give business-oriented advice, with practical courses of action. Therefore, a deep understanding of the company’s strategy is crucial to think ahead, assess the legal implications on the business’ plans and allow alignment of legal objectives with business objectives.

In addition, one of the most fundamental rules that an in-house lawyer needs to have, is a pro-active attitude and the ability to prioritise key issues in collaboration with internal clients. Lastly, a successful in-house lawyer needs to learn, at an early stage, how to be good communicator, avoiding abstract legal concepts and providing advice easy to understand. By giving advice that is focused on finding practical solutions, in-house lawyers can really help their internal clients achieving their goals.