Gregory Kline

Credit: Nuthawut/AdobeStock Until recently, the structure of corporate legal departments had little effect on competitive outcomes. While teams differed in size, budgets, and use of outside counsel, their operating models were largely similar and seldom decisive. This is now changing. For general counsel, how legal work is organized is becoming a strategic consideration. The reason is not simply that artificial intelligence improves efficiency.

Get full access to this article View all available purchase options and get full access to this article. Supplemental Material File (hyp-2025-26435-s02.docx) Tables S1–S2 References 1. Hundemer GL, Kline GA, Leung AA. How common is primary aldosteronism? Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens. 2021;30:353–360. doi: 10.1097/MNH.0000000000000702 2. Käyser SC, Dekkers T, Groenewoud HJ, Van Der Wilt GJ, Carel Bakx J, Van Der Wel MC, Hermus AR, Lenders JW, Deinum J.

The dominant narrative surrounding in-house legal departments emphasizes risk control. Legal is expected to prevent disputes, ensure regulatory compliance, and protect the enterprise from downside exposure. In boardrooms and budget discussions, legal value is often articulated in negative terms: losses avoided, fines reduced, or claims successfully defended. This narrative, while accurate, is incomplete.