The role of general and senior legal counsel is, arguably, more challenging than ever before, with the advancement of technology, issues around cybersecurity, ESG considerations, and rising geopolitical tensions just some of the matters front of mind for in-house lawyers at large companies.
In this series, we gather the views of prominent in-house lawyers who shed light on what they want outside counsel to know to better assist them. From pain points during the panel review process to ways law firms can help their company save time and money such as effective project management—they don’t hold back!
In the third and final instalment of the in-house series, Ali Haidar, senior corporate counsel and head of corporate, external, and legal affairs at Microsoft UAE, shares the five expectations he holds for strong external counsel.
Ali Haidar, head of corporate, external & legal affairs at Microsoft UAE, Dubai:
Over the course of my in-house career, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a multitude of external counsel legal partners across jurisdictions and practice areas.
These partnerships are critical for achieving legal success, and through these experiences I’ve established several key expectations that I hold for strong external counsel:
1. Deep industry insight
A robust understanding of our business environment is essential. External counsel should immerse themselves in our industry, grasp our challenges, and align their legal advice with our strategic goals. Their insights should be tailored to our specific context.
2. Competence and responsiveness
Competence is non-negotiable. We expect timely responses and well-researched and written legal opinions. When we seek advice, we need concise, actionable recommendations. Responsiveness demonstrates commitment to our legal needs.
3. True partnership
Beyond transactional interactions, we seek genuine collaboration. External counsel should comprehend our unique requirements, communicate effectively, and actively contribute to our legal strategy. We value proactive problem-solving.
4. Clear communication
Clarity in communication is paramount. Engagement letters set expectations, but ongoing dialogue matters more. Regular check-ins, phone calls, and detailed and timely invoicing foster a productive partnership. No cryptic messages—just straightforward legal guidance.
5. Adaptability
Legal solutions are not one-size-fits-all. External counsel should adapt to our preferred communication style and channels. Flexibility ensures seamless collaboration, whether it’s a memo, a presentation, or a quick chat.
In summary, exceptional external counsel are like trusted compasses—reliable guides who help us navigate complex legal waters.
