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The Role of an Outside General Counsel

Benjamin Walsh

Updated: Jan 7

In today's complex business environment, small to mid-sized enterprises (SMEs) often face a myriad of legal challenges. From compliance issues to contract negotiations, the need for expert legal advice is paramount. This is where an outside general counsel (OGC) can be invaluable.


What is an Outside General Counsel?

An outside general counsel is a legal expert who provides comprehensive legal services to businesses on an as-needed basis. Unlike in-house counsel, OGCs are not full-time employees but are retained to handle various legal matters as they arise. This flexible arrangement allows businesses to access top-tier legal expertise without the overhead costs associated with a full-time legal department.


Key Responsibilities of an Outside General Counsel

Here are some of the primary responsibilities and benefits of having an OGC:

1. Regulatory Compliance

  • Ensuring Adherence: OGCs help businesses understand and comply with relevant laws and regulations.

  • Risk Management: They identify potential legal risks and implement strategies to mitigate them.

2. Contract Drafting and Negotiation

  • Drafting Agreements: OGCs draft, review, and negotiate contracts to ensure they are legally sound and favorable to the business.

  • Negotiation Support: They provide expert advice during negotiations to secure the best possible terms.

3. Corporate Governance

  • Policy Development: OGCs assist in creating policies and procedures that promote ethical behavior and legal compliance.

  • Board Support: They offer guidance to boards of directors on governance issues and fiduciary responsibilities.

4. Employment Law

  • Employee Relations: OGCs advise on employment contracts, workplace policies, and dispute resolution.

  • Compliance: They ensure the business adheres to labor laws and employment regulations.

5. Intellectual Property Protection

  • IP Strategy: OGCs help businesses protect their intellectual property through patents, trademarks, and copyrights.

  • Enforcement: They take action against IP infringement to safeguard the company’s assets.

6. Litigation Management

  • Dispute Resolution: OGCs manage litigation and alternative dispute resolution processes.

  • Legal Representation: They coordinate with external law firms to represent the business in court when necessary.

Benefits of an Outside General Counsel for SMEs

Cost-Effective Legal Expertise

Having an OGC allows businesses to access high-quality legal advice without the expense of a full-time in-house counsel. This is particularly beneficial for SMEs that may not have the budget for a permanent legal team.

Flexibility and Scalability

OGCs provide services on an as-needed basis, offering flexibility that aligns with the dynamic nature of growing businesses. Their involvement can easily scale with the company’s needs.

Comprehensive Legal Support

With expertise in various areas of law, OGCs provide holistic legal support. This ensures that all aspects of a business’s legal needs are covered, from compliance to litigation.

Quick Access to Specialized Knowledge

OGCs often have extensive networks within the legal community, allowing them to quickly bring in specialized knowledge or additional resources when needed.


Testimonials

“Our outside general counsel has been a game-changer. They’ve saved us time and money while ensuring we’re always on the right side of the law.” – Jane Doe, CEO of Tech Innovators

“The flexibility of having an OGC has allowed us to grow without worrying about legal hurdles. It’s like having a legal safety net.” – John Smith, Founder of StartUp Success


If you’re a small to mid-sized business seeking cost-effective, expert legal support, consider engaging an outside general counsel. Gain peace of mind and focus on what you do best—growing your business.


Ready to get started? Contact us today to learn more about how our services can benefit your business.

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By understanding and leveraging the role of an outside general counsel, SMEs can navigate the complexities of the legal landscape more effectively, ensuring a solid foundation for growth and success.

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