The role of the general counsel (GC) has shifted dramatically over the past two decades. Once seen primarily as a legal advisor, the GC today is expected to be a strategic partner who understands not only the law but also the wider business environment. The legal department, traditionally viewed as a cost centre, is now an integral driver of growth, risk management, and corporate strategy.
From Legal Advisor to Strategic Partner
General counsels are no longer confined to providing opinions on contracts or litigation risks. Boards and CEOs increasingly look to them for guidance on broader issues—corporate governance, regulatory trends, mergers and acquisitions, and even reputational matters. This makes the GC both a legal guardian and a business strategist.
The shift reflects a recognition that legal decisions aren’t made in isolation. They affect revenue, brand value, and shareholder confidence. As such, the GC’s voice carries more weight in executive discussions than ever before.
Navigating Complex Regulatory Environments
One reason for this expanded role is the explosion of regulations across industries. From data privacy to environmental standards, businesses must comply with rules that span multiple jurisdictions.
General counsels now need a deep understanding of these frameworks, but also the foresight to anticipate how future regulations could impact the business. Instead of reacting to problems, they are expected to shape proactive strategies that balance compliance with growth ambitions.
Risk Management as a Core Function
Risk is no longer viewed as a purely legal matter. Financial risks, cybersecurity threats, and supply chain vulnerabilities all have legal dimensions that fall within the GC’s purview.
This has elevated the legal department into a central role in enterprise risk management. Working alongside finance, operations, and IT, general counsels help create frameworks that identify risks early and respond quickly when issues arise.
Leading on ESG and Reputation
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations have made reputation management a board-level concern. General counsels are often tasked with ensuring ESG policies align with both regulatory requirements and stakeholder expectations.
Whether it’s drafting sustainability disclosures or ensuring ethical sourcing in supply chains, the GC plays a pivotal role in shaping the company’s public image. In doing so, they bridge the gap between compliance and values-driven leadership.
Empowering the Legal Department with Technology
To perform these expanded responsibilities, general counsels need efficient teams. Legal departments can no longer rely solely on manual processes to manage workloads. Many are turning to tools like a matter management solution to centralise case information, improve visibility, and streamline workflows.
By freeing lawyers from repetitive administrative tasks, these systems allow departments to focus more on strategic contributions. Technology is not replacing legal expertise—it’s amplifying it.
Collaboration Beyond the Legal Function
The modern GC collaborates across departments in ways that were rare in the past. They work with HR on employment matters, with marketing on advertising compliance, and with product teams on intellectual property protection.
This cross-functional influence reinforces the perception of the GC as a true business leader, someone whose expertise shapes decisions at every level of the organisation.
Talent and Leadership Within Legal Teams
The expanding role of the GC also has implications for talent within the legal department. Teams must be equipped not just with legal expertise, but also with business acumen, data literacy, and communication skills.
Forward-looking GCs prioritise professional development, ensuring their teams are capable of contributing to the business conversation rather than simply executing legal tasks. This approach builds credibility and strengthens the department’s role as a strategic asset.
Conclusion: The GC as a Growth Driver
The general counsel’s role has evolved from back-office legal advisor to front-line business leader. Today’s GCs are expected to guide corporate strategy, manage risk, and protect brand reputation—all while maintaining the company’s legal health.
This transformation highlights the growing recognition that legal insight is inseparable from business success. By embracing new responsibilities, leveraging technology, and fostering collaboration, general counsels and their teams are proving that the legal department is no longer a cost centre—it’s a cornerstone of sustainable growth.
William Gall is a seasoned attorney specializing in civil litigation and family law. With a legal career spanning over two decades, William has built a reputation for his meticulous attention to detail and his unwavering commitment to justice. In addition to practicing law, he is a prolific writer, contributing regularly to various legal blogs where he shares his insights on current legal trends, case law, and best practices. His articles are well-regarded in the legal community for their thorough research and practical advice, making complex legal concepts accessible to both legal professionals and the general public.