Could you share an example of a time when you came up with an innovation that improved the way your legal team works and did not come at a huge cost?  

One project that I am very fond of is our induction programme, which is intended to facilitate the integration of new team members in both the legal and other departments. The core activity of our group revolves around lease agreements, and this programme was initially intended to introduce our new colleagues from the leasing department – both junior and senior – to the legal aspects of lease agreements. It also provides insights into the connections between contractual clauses, inflection points, advice related to the negotiation phase, and know-how aimed at tackling related challenges. This is further supplemented by a quick course in drafting legal documents and clauses. 

The programme has evolved and gained traction with other departments involved in lease agreement negotiations. It is now also supported by video materials that can be accessed on a 24-hour basis by all interested colleagues in both the leasing and legal departments.
 
What are some of the key developments that have affected your business over the last year?  

In many negotiations, we have felt the pressure of geopolitical and economic unrest on the local market. Especially after the start of the Ukraine war and the rumours circulating in mass media concerning potential future economic crises. As a result, we have observed an increase in proposals, discussions, and negotiations related to exit and hardship clauses from our partners.

How do you think the in-house legal role will evolve in the coming years?   

My expectation is that, over time, the in-house legal role shall become increasingly specialised and elite-oriented, considering the fact that the usage of legal technology products is gaining traction, and many simple, repetitive tasks shall, in due course, be taken over by technology. If the trends in automation and AI usage continue to grow, I expect in-house legal teams to become more flexible and focused on attracting expertise and talents.

Do you use any “legal technology” products and, if so, what areas of your work do you find it most useful for?  

Our group extensively utilises legal technology products, not only for tracking legislation but also for billing and contract drafting. I think that contract drafting technology may prove to be a game-changer. It will allow legal teams to relieve themselves of repetitive and less creative tasks. Moreover, it has the potential to allow companies to operate with smaller, streamlined, and more specialised legal teams, especially in areas of activity where there is minimal to no need for negotiations on the content of the respective legal documents.