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

‘Ce qui se conçoit bien s’énonce clairement, et les mots pour le dire arrivent aisément’

This phrase from the Nicolas Boileau, a French poet and writer of the XVII century has never been so actual and true.

Nowadays, legal topics and activities have become increasingly intricate and complex. No one can say that they have a full understanding and comprehensive overview, even less in terms of in-depth knowledge.

The biggest challenge for an in-house lawyer is to not only keep the pace with the constant legal and regulatory environment evolution, but also make sure that those who are supposed to take the decision are sufficiently informed and aware of the risks and all potential legal impacts and issues.

The challenge is then to be able to explain and describe in a somehow basic or easily understandable way any proceedings and legal topics that are highly complex. To be successful, you must be able to draft a summary — a coherent story that does not only makes sense, but also focuses on the main relevant points. Starting from scratch or, at best, from a pile of information, you must be able to identify and understand the facts together with the legal framework. Then, you must make sure that you summarise it in a comprehensive but still short description. In other words: Be concise, be precise. Nevertheless, this is only half of the job. Being concise and precise does not mean you will convince your top management of the rightfulness of your analysis. Choosing your words, expression and vocabulary is essential. The style is as important as the content. You do not need to be a poet, but your argument must be strong and crystal clear.

Be concise, be precise, be convincing.