When a Small Legal Department Should Retain a Litigation Matter In-House

Abstract

There will come a time, if you are in-house, when an issue will cross your desk that you just can’t help but want to take to trial yourself. Maybe the value of the case is such that outside counsel fees, if paid, will make the case unsettleable. It might not be “bet the company” litigation requiring an in-depth knowledge of one area of law, and you are on the fence on whether to recommend to the board to let you handle it. It isn't always a great idea, but occasionally, it can pay off. This article will explore the difficulties in keeping cases in-house, and the upsides to managing a case without external counsel. No outside firm knows your organization like you do. Internal employees are more easily accessible to the in-house counsel as well. There are efficiencies to be had by working within the organization.

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