Credits: 2.0 ethics & professionalism credit hours
Description: Over the past several decades, corporate law departments have become increasingly proactive in shaping the way legal services are delivered by outside counsel. From mandatory electronic billing and task-based timekeeping to diversity expectations, cross-firm collaboration, and the push for alternative legal service providers, the demands placed on outside attorneys continue to evolve. Perhaps the most elusive challenge remains the pursuit of the “alternative fee arrangement” – a term still open to interpretation, yet central to many client relationships.
These shifting dynamics are driven by the growing pressure on in-house counsel to meet internal budgets while showing the value they – and their external legal teams – deliver to the business. As legal departments become more integrated with business operations, the question becomes what does the future hold for the relationship between in-house and outside attorneys?
This popular class explores the changing expectations between corporate counsel and their external counterparts, and how both can navigate these challenges ethically and effectively. Key areas of discussion include the following:
- Defining and demonstrating the value of legal services from both in-house and outside perspectives
- Navigating tensions between controlling costs and fulfilling professional obligations to the client
- Understanding and applying ethical considerations when developing and implementing alternative fee arrangements
- Collaborating across firms, departments, and providers to meet evolving client needs
- Practical strategies for aligning legal services with corporate goals while staying within the bounds of the rules of professional conduct
This class offers essential insights for both in-house and outside counsel looking to strengthen relationships, deliver meaningful value, and adapt to the modern legal marketplace. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore where the in-house/outside counsel relationship is heading – and how to help shape its future.
Faculty: Margaret M. Cassidy, Cassidy Law PLLC; Saul J. Singer, D.C. Bar Legal Ethics Counsel; and Brian Zuercher, Flex by Fenwick
Fees: $89 D.C. Bar Communities Members, $99 D.C. Bar Members, $109 Government and Nonprofit Attorneys, and $129 Others
The D.C. Bar CLE Program now offers discounted group registration rates! For more information, contact the CLE Office at CLE@dcbar.org or 202-626-3488.
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