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!
First in the series is Mohammad Manauar, legal counsel (group) at Petromin, an automotive services company in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Mohammad Manauar, legal counsel (group) at Petromin, KSA:
“The GC’s job now is more diversified and complex than it ever was. For GCs, this is a challenging situation because they cannot be expected to be experts in all areas, particularly in the case of specialised matters or ever-changing regulatory environments.
Law firms now play a crucial role in providing specialised counsel to GCs who require it quicker and more focused. When choosing law firms, GCs give priority to experience and a proven track record of success, who can quickly and expertly give legal advice and who have a wealth of industry expertise and experience and who have business-minded thinking.
The most crucial quality that GC is looking for in outside counsel is practicality. GC is looking for guidance that shows you understand the context in which your answer fits within the parameters of his business and that is practical and appropriate in real-world scenarios. This advice should be realistic and provided on time. Try to come up with a brief and direct way to connect.
GCs further want firms which are proactive, flexible, and pragmatic about costs. The firm who understands the difference between ‘rate’ and ‘cost’ will do great with GCs. Fixed fees or ‘capped’ fees, for example, are fantastic since they give assurance about total cost. GC prefer to work with firms that are more creative, cost-effective, and present a positive image. GC will search elsewhere for legal services if they begin to have doubts about the costs.
If you want to be my lawyer for the long-term, learn how my business works and building relationships is essential to your success. Maintaining contact with previous co-workers, clients, and alumni from law school and undergraduate institutions is important since you never know from where your next reference or piece of business will come from. Delight me with your work and I will refer your name everywhere. Law firms may also ask for feedback on how they might improve. If you have any significant queries, we will answer them honestly.”
Are you a GC or legal counsel with a view to share? Drop the editor a line.
