The Role of the General Counsel

Many of today's lawyers look to the role of the corporate general counsel as a dynamic career at the intersection of law and business. This course will explore how in-house lawyers add value as a strategic advisor on business strategy and execution, risk management, ethical challenges and overall corporate governance. We will investigate how corporate general counsel interact with the CEO, the executive leadership team, the board of directors, regulators, policy makers and law enforcers. We will learn how in-house counsel build, develop, retain and lead diverse and global teams of professionals across many disciplines. We will hear from experienced and diverse in-house lawyers as well as business leaders. This class will also explore areas of the law that are integral to in-house practice through the lens of a global corporation -- including transactions, corporate governance, ethics and compliance, securities and SEC reporting, internal investigations, and litigation -- from the perspective of the attorney whose job is simultaneously both lawyer and client. Students will gain important practical insights into how a global general counsel leads their team and their corporation. Elements used in grading: Attendance, Class Participation, Written Assignments, Final Paper.