What is the most important and misunderstood relationship in the legal profession? Which relationship in the legal profession causes more ill will than any other relationship? The answer is the relationship between in-house and outside counsel. In-house counsel (including attorneys at corporations, nonprofits and governmental entities) serve as the gatekeepers between their clients and their outside counsel colleagues. A harmonious and productive partnership can often be the difference between success and failure. For young attorneys, both in-house and outside counsel, it can present a very difficult challenge, but understanding how to navigate and build this relationship is an essential career skill that can lead to successful careers, both in-house and outside. For the relationship between in-house and outside counsel to flourish, it must be a partnership in every sense of the word. But how?

Set Expectations

• Define roles. The partnership can fail at the start or gradually fall apart because in-house counsel and outside counsel do not understand or agree on each other’s roles. In-house counsel must determine their own level of involvement and whether outside counsel’s role will be advisory in nature or more proactive. Once defined, clearly communicate these roles to both sides and recognize that these roles should remain consistent throughout the relationship. If changes become necessary, discuss that necessity with the other side and come to an agreement on how to move forward.

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