Corporate Counsel Seek Value from Outside Counsel

In-house and Outside Counsel to discuss providing value to mutual corporate clients

Houston, Texas (PRWEB) May 14, 2009 -- The Houston Chapter of the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) will sponsor a series of discussions between in-house attorneys and outside firms about delivering value in legal services to their mutual corporate clients.

"Value means achieving desired results that clients want while connecting the cost of legal services to their value," said Kelli Powell, President of the Houston Chapter ACC, "As attorneys, we recognize that the question of value is broad and can encompass many topics upon which discussion can be had."

Value means achieving desired results that clients want while connecting the cost of legal services to their value

As attorneys, we recognize that the question of value is broad and can encompass many topics upon which discussion can be had.

We strongly believe that such discussions will improve the relationship between in-house counsel and outside counsel and allow us to better focus on service and efficiency in delivering legal services. Only by working together can we deliver better value to our shared clients.

Such discussions are crucial first steps for lawyers who would like to explore practical solutions to help improve collaboration and to drive value that improves service to their mutual client

Under the leadership of the ACC global headquarters, on May 20, 21, and 22, the Houston Chapter will hold breakout session discussions among in-house counsel, outside counsel who support corporate legal clients, and other members of the legal community. Discussions will take the form of personal conversations between in-house counsel, outside counsel, and school administrators, in small groups or in round-tables, during which value-related topics, issues, concerns, and potential solutions will be explored in depth.

The May 20th, 21st, and 22nd sessions will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 PM in class rooms at South Texas College of Law (please check at the reception desk for class room number). The following is a list of the break-out sessions:

May 20: Performance Measurement of Outside Counsel - Jeff Dodd, Andrews Kurth
May 20: Legal Education to Improve Value - David East, South Texas College of Law
May 20: Using Technology to Drive Value - Lynn McGuire, CTO, Andrews Kurth
May 21: Managing the Relationship - James Lank, Tesco Corporation
May 21: Staffing of Legal Services Projects - Tom Adolph, Jackson Walker
May 22: Efficiency in Providing Legal Services - John Luman, Bracewell & Giuliani
May 22: Legal Costs and Billing Arrangements - Jeff Carr, FMC Technologies
May 22: Increasing Value in Delivery of Services - Michele Hedges, Chem Oil Products

"Such discussions are crucial first steps for lawyers who would like to explore practical solutions to help improve collaboration and to drive value that improves service to their mutual client," said Susan Hackett, Senior Vice President and General Counsel of the Association of Corporate Counsel.

The Houston Chapter's efforts will culminate in a Value Challenge Event to be held on May 28, 2009 at which several panelists will consolidate the discussions had and present the solutions identified and next steps for the future. This Value Challenge Event will be from 3:00 to 5:00 PM at South Texas College of Law's Garret-Towne Auditorium. The Houston legal community is invited to attend the panel discussion as well as a reception, which will follow.

To participate in the break-out session discussions or attend the Value Challenge Event and reception, please contact Irene Kosturakis via email at irene_kosturakis(at)bmc.com or by phone at 713-918-2689.

ABOUT THE ACC HOUSTON CHAPTER

The Houston Chapter of the Association of Corporate Counsel has over 900 in-house counsel members of Houston-area corporate legal departments. It provides continuing legal education, social and networking events, and pro bono service opportunities to its members. In 2006, the Houston Chapter was awarded Chapter of the Year from National ACC. For more information, contact Kathleen(at)amchouston.com.

ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION OF CORPORATE COUNSEL

The Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) is the world's largest organization serving the professional and business interests of attorneys who practice in the legal departments of corporations, associations and other private-sector organizations around the globe.

ACC promotes the common interests of its members, contributes to their continuing education, helps them succeed in their careers and provides a voice on issues of national and international importance.

With over 23,000 members employed by more than 10,000 organizations in 80 countries, ACC connects its members to each other, and to the people and resources necessary for their personal and professional growth.

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association of corporate counsel value challenge legal services outside counsel and in-house counsel

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