Dispute Settlement Counsel

Archive for May, 2009

“We seek out lawyers that are practical in their approach, efficient in their time and billing and are trustworthy.”

“Nothing highlights a cost like an unexpected surprise.”

“At the end of the day, choosing and working with outside lawyers is all about relationships and trust.”

These were some of the insights offered by a panel of in-house counsel from several area corporations shared some of their insights on what they look for in hiring outside counsel. The panel was part of a Breakfast Series hosted by Massachusetts Lawyers’ Weekly held in Boston at the Omni Parker House yesterday (May 8 2009). Corporate counsel were invited to share their thoughts on marketing legal services, fees and what ultimately gets lawyers hired, or replaced.

In response to the economic downturn, but also indicative of a shifting ground, in-house counsel were clearly signaling that lawyers need to be more responsive to the changing landscape of the business community. These business voices also reflected a desire, in most situations, for lawyers to approach disputes as problem solvers. They also signaled that the old models and practices of runaway billable hours and inefficient dispute resolution are quickly becoming outdated. They noted that their companies seek out the value proposition lawyers can offer.    Read the rest of this entry »