How do you feel the pandemic has changed the world of work for in-house counsel and the function of the general counsel?

Very drastically. Even if remote systems have been implemented in an effort to keep ‘business as usual’, I consider that for lawyers, contact with people is essential. Opinions are more easily exchanged; negotiation processes are better handled – the mood of a meeting could be more easily assessed in person. Pandemic has made the interaction between the different stakeholders, such as the governmental authorities, related parties, and internal areas of the company rather complex; especially when dealing with sensitive matters.

What are some of the key developments – legal, geopolitical or otherwise – that have affected your business over the past year?

In the case of Peru, unfortunately, our country (and the region as a whole) is currently experiencing a stage of recoil as of the date a new government has been established. The sense of dismay is general in the legal community. New legislation is intended to be introduced, which is meant to destroy all the economic stability Peru has faced since the 90s. The rule of lawyers is key as gatekeepers of the legality, focusing on any regulation that may affect our business. An essential part of our daily job is to review the projects of new rules the government would like to issue and design legal strategies and file any necessary actions against those regulations.

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

As a legal manager, one of the most challenging tasks is keeping track of processes, especially when the company faces many of them. In such respect, systems that assist in-house legal teams in keeping track of lawsuits and procedures for obtaining licenses or permits carried by external lawyers will continue to be necessary. These systems will probably continue developing to provide more services to in-house lawyers. In addition, the application of technology that modifies the traditional practice of law for both professionals and their clients, making marketing the service or its provision more efficient and closer, is essential. For example, projects may be developed in software or online services that reduce or eliminate the need to consult with an attorney for simple matters, and software or online services that speed up the tasks of lawyers, reducing the workforce and number of hours needed.