There are scads of articles that discuss the changing role of the general counsel and the heightened expectations of today’s law department. To deliver on those expectations, many general counsel have implemented a variety of processes and programs designed to measure the value and effectiveness of the department. There is no question that the value delivered by the law department is inextricably linked to the department’s relationship with and management of its outside counsel. As a result, general counsel are even more focused on the various elements of that relationship and showing how a shared commitment to building a long-term strategic relationship benefits the corporation, general counsel, and outside counsel alike.
From the perspectives of both a general counsel and an outside attorney, the “year-end” discussion can be a key part of building that relationship.
