In-House Counsel: A Hands-On Perspective

This course offers students an immersive, practical introduction to the unique role of in-house counsel. Unlike traditional law firm practice, in-house legal work requires a combination of legal acumen, business judgment, risk analysis, and cross-functional collaboration.  Students will learn, through lecture, interactive discussion, and in-class activities, how legal issues intersect with business objectives, gain insight on how to communicate with various business units, including the C-Suite, and better understand the breadth of challenges in-house lawyers face in advising corporate clients.  Substantive topics covered will include contract negotiation, consumer protection, privacy/data security/AI, and labor & employment. The course will also briefly touch on ethical nuances such as determining who the actual client is, maintaining attorney-client privilege, and preserving attorney work-product.  NOTE: While this course is open to all students, it is recommended for 3Ls. Recommended (but not required) courses: any of the experiential contract drafting courses.