“The optimal candidate should have core skills and competencies to perform the legal function, and often also has experience in both realms,” writes Kathleen Mon of Whistler Partners.
When hiring in-house counsel, is it essential that the candidate already has in-house experience, or are you potentially missing out on the best hire with that filter? The short answer is nuanced. Often, the best candidates are those who have a few solid years of big law training out of law school, followed by in-house experience under high-quality legal and business leadership.
Big law firms are renowned for their rigorous training programs, which instill values of client service, attention to detail, airtight drafting, and an unrelenting work ethic in their associates. These qualities, when balanced with good judgment, become essential for great in-house counsel.
