The evolution of the lawyer’s lawyer

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper gives a personal perspective on the growth of in-house legal teams within law firms. It suggests why these departments have emerged as a response to greater legal and regulatory challenges, changes in the profession and a quest for professionalism and cost effectiveness. The paper examines the work of a substantial team and the parallels and differences between a role in that organisation and other forms of legal practice. Finally, it considers the future for these in-house teams in the light of regulatory and organisational factors and the possible implications of technological innovation on staffing and work.