why be in house counsel interview attorney

The attorney-conducted in-house interview usually focus on your legal skills, much like for any law firm job. People from the business side, however, want to know what you can do to grow the company. Show them you’ve thought about their business goals, their legal problems, and how you’d approach a solution.

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What should I expect in an in-house counsel interview?

Apr 29, 2021 · An in-house counsel, sometimes called a general counsel or corporate counsel, is usually more involved in the business elements of an organization than a law firm counsel position. An in-house counsel interview may focus primarily on legal skills, but it's important to share your awareness of the overall goals of the organization as well during the interview.

What is an in-house interview like at a law firm?

Read our list of the best legal counsel interview questions, curated by our work with general counsel to help you find the best legal talent.

What is the difference between in-house counsel&law firm counsel?

Jan 27, 2014 · The attorney-conducted in-house interview usually focus on your legal skills, much like for any law firm job. People from the business side, however, want to know what you can do to grow the company. Show them you’ve thought about their business goals, their legal problems, and how you’d approach a solution.

What makes a good in-house lawyer?

Jul 18, 2021 · An in-house legal counsel’s responsibilities include safeguarding the company’s interests by ensuring that they steer clear of all legal troubles. In addition, they oversee the legal framework for major structural changes in the company, such as when a company is going public. In-House Counsel Interview Questions

Why do you want to work in house counsel?

What are some common reasons why lawyers want to leave firm life behind to go in-house? E.P. Dine: The most common motivations are an interest in being closer to the business side; the desire for a more manageable lifestyle with greater predictability; and the limited opportunities for partnership at law firms.

How do I ace the House counsel interview?

Top interview questions for in-house counsel according to GCsTell me about your current position and how have your responsibilities evolved since joining the company/firm? ... Where do you bring the business the greatest value? ... Tell me about a time when you have had to say “no” to the business and what was the outcome?More items...

What do you wear to an in house counsel interview?

Corporate In House Interviews: Wear a Suit Even if the dress code around the office is business casual, you're an attorney applying for an attorney job and will likely be interviewed by another attorney or high ranking member of the company, and therefore you need to wear the attorney's uniform: a suit or pant-suit.Sep 29, 2017

Why do you want to be a lawyer interview?

So what is the best answer to the question “Why do I want to become a lawyer?” or “Why did I become a lawyer?” Because: I possess and convey knowledge of the ability to communicate and negotiate effectively with others. ... Becoming a lawyer means learning how to negotiate with and manage people.

Why do people have house interviews?

The Focus of the In-House Interview Show them you've thought about their business goals, their legal problems, and how you'd approach a solution. Executives want to hear how you can help them keep legal costs down. In the business world, solving legal problems quickly and cheaply is paramount.Jan 27, 2014

What should I expect at a house interview?

In-house interviewers—especially in the tech industry—may ask behavioral interview questions. Those questions generally take the form of: “Tell me about a time when…” and ask for specific examples of problem solving, leadership, success, or failure.Sep 14, 2021

How do you nail a legal interview?

If you are interviewing virtually, all of these tips apply.Do your research. Lawyers are known for being good researchers. ... Be presentable and dress your best. ... Come prepared to ask questions. ... Be personable and show enthusiasm. ... Be genuine. ... Promptly send a thank-you note.Oct 28, 2020

Can lawyers have long nails?

Wearing strong perfumes, too much makeup, revealing bra straps or tattoos, and long nails should be avoided. For men, having professional looking tie clips and pins may be suitable for their attire. Wearing a professional watch would be acceptable.

What questions should I ask in a legal interview?

21 Questions to Ask During a Legal Job InterviewHow did you become interested in X practice area/subject matter?Did you focus on X while you attended law school? ... Why did you choose this firm/organization over others?What do you like most about this firm/practice group/organization?More items...•Mar 12, 2018

Why are you interested in this position?

After researching why you want to work with a company, you should be able to translate that desire in a way that benefits the company. - Be an asset: “I'm interested in the position because I believe my skills could help with the expansion your company is undergoing, and I want to be a part of that growth.”Jun 24, 2021

What motivates you to become a lawyer?

Their top motivations for becoming lawyers being:Sense of personal achievement.Meaningful and satisfying work.Good opportunities for career development.May 3, 2019

How do you introduce yourself in an attorney interview?

LawOF: Introduce yourself. Answer: My name is Utkarsh Goel and I am currently pursuing LLB-3 Year Program. LawOF: What made you chose LLB? Utkarsh Goel: Since my school days, I had always been interested in law.Jul 24, 2016

What should I expect at a house interview?

In-house interviewers—especially in the tech industry—may ask behavioral interview questions. Those questions generally take the form of: “Tell me about a time when…” and ask for specific examples of problem solving, leadership, success, or failure.Sep 14, 2021

How do I prepare for an attorney interview?

If you are interviewing virtually, all of these tips apply.Do your research. Lawyers are known for being good researchers. ... Be presentable and dress your best. ... Come prepared to ask questions. ... Be personable and show enthusiasm. ... Be genuine. ... Promptly send a thank-you note.Oct 28, 2020

How do you prepare for a house interview?

Research the company thoroughly. Research and familiarize yourself with the company with whom you're interviewing. ... Find out whether the company utilizes “behavioral” interview questions. ... Familiarize Yourself with the Interviewers. ... Come up with questions of your own.

How do you answer the in house counsel interview questions?

The answer should describe how the candidate has provided solutions (legal and business related), reduced cost, increased efficiencies, etc. Tell me about a time when you have had to say “no” to the business and what was the outcome? The reality is only the GC should say “no” to the business.

Why do people have house interviews?

The Focus of the In-House Interview Show them you've thought about their business goals, their legal problems, and how you'd approach a solution. Executives want to hear how you can help them keep legal costs down. In the business world, solving legal problems quickly and cheaply is paramount.Jan 27, 2014

What are the top 5 questions to ask an interviewer?

Asking questions of the interviewer shows that you're interested in them as a person—and that's a great way to build rapport.How long have you been with the company?Has your role changed since you've been here?What did you do before this?Why did you come to this company?What's your favorite part about working here?

What questions will I be asked in an attorney interview?

PersonalTell me about yourself.How would your friends describe you?How would you describe yourself as a person?Why this particular geographic area?What is the latest non-legal book you've read?What are your outside interests and hobbies?Who is your hero/heroine?Why did you choose law?More items...

Why do you want to be a lawyer interview?

So what is the best answer to the question “Why do I want to become a lawyer?” or “Why did I become a lawyer?” Because: I possess and convey knowledge of the ability to communicate and negotiate effectively with others. ... Becoming a lawyer means learning how to negotiate with and manage people.

How do you interview outside counsel?

During your interview you should ask the lawyer who are his best clients and why. The answer should reveal how he views clients—as a partnership or as strictly a revenue stream, as someone who wants his clients to succeed or simply enhance his bottom line.Dec 10, 2009

What should be the answer for interview questions?

27 Most Common Job Interview Questions and Answers"Tell me a little about yourself." ... "What are your biggest weaknesses?" ... "What are your biggest strengths?" ... "Where do you see yourself in five years?" ... "Out of all the candidates, why should we hire you?" ... "How did you learn about the opening?" ... "Why do you want this job?"More items...•Jun 20, 2016

What are common behavioral interview questions?

What's a Behavioral Interview Question?Give us an example of a goal you failed to meet, and how you handled the situation.Tell us about a time when you solved a problem at your job that wasn't part of your job description.Tell us of a time when you took a risky decision and it didn't pay off.Sep 2, 2021

What to ask an attorney for an in-house interview?

The attorney-conducted in-house interview usually focus on your legal skills, much like for any law firm job . People from the business side, however, want to know what you can do to grow the company. Show them you’ve thought about their business goals, their legal problems, and how you’d approach a solution.

What is an in-house interview?

For in-house interviews, however, expect to interview with people at various levels of the corporate hierarchy and from different departments. Your initial interview may be an in-person or phone screening with a member of the human resources department. Next, someone from the legal department vets you for skills and fit.

What is the opportunity to work for one client rather than many?

Better ways to answer that question include: The opportunity to work for one client, rather than many; A chance to develop a thorough understanding of their business in order to create strategies and solutions that make long-term sense for the company, not just for a particular matter;

Why do lawyers have overhead?

As an in-house lawyer, you’re part of overhead because you’re not engaged in producing the product or service the company sells in the marketplace. Therefore, to justify your position in the company, you must minimize costs and bring value to the bottom line.

Can you meet the general counsel?

You may or may not meet the General Counsel during the process, depending upon the size and structure of the legal department and the company itself. You’ll probably interview with executives or members of other business departments with which you’ll interface if hired.

What is the purpose of an in-house counsel interview?

During in-house counsel interviews, often the hiring authority, human resource professionals, paralegals, and legal assistants are part of the interview process and contribute to the culture fit determination. During the interview, be aware of your interviewer’s communication style, and seek to find ways to connect through communication.

How to start an interview for a company?

Treat your entry into the company as the beginning of the interview. Your interactions with the receptionist and your stance walking in at the front entrance are the company’s first impressions. Eye contact, standing and sitting up straight, walking with purpose and confidence, and appearing calm are key things to remember. Take a deep breath outside of the door before entering – this will help you appear calm and collected. It is also important to note that cell phones should not be in sight even if you use your cell phone for keeping time.

What is mirroring in an interview?

The concept of “mirroring” is a method of creating a subtle connection. “Mirroring” is noting body language and conforming to the person’s body language. 2. Know the Position.

Is it possible that the corporation is considering two different levels and ranges?

It is possible that the corporation is considering two different levels and ranges – if you are more experienced but at the top of the range, your risk is that the more junior but cheaper candidate develops the trust and rapport that can overcome their shortfalls in experience. And vice versa.

Is it rare to have every skill listed on the legal job description?

For in-house counsel positions, it is rare that an attorney candidate has every skill listed on the legal job description. It is the trust and confidence that you foster during the interview process that overcomes this challenge.

Should cell phones be in sight?

It is also important to note that cell phones should not be in sight even if you use your cell phone for keeping time. Be aware that corporations are looking for a culture fit above and beyond relevant legal skills, so the ability to connect to all employees of the corporation is critical.

Do lawyers sell themselves?

Lawyers are not innately salespeople, but those lawyers who have learned to sell themselves are the ones who will thrive in an in-house counsel role. During the interview, your job is to assess whether the position is exciting to you. You will likely have three or so points that make the position attractive to you.

What is an in house attorney?

In-house attorneys are expected to translate the legal expertise, either their own or that of the private practice attorney, and make recommendations for solutions that make sense for the company. According to Bozek, this is one of the most rewarding parts of an in-house position.

Why do clients talk to attorneys?

The client and attorney talk only sporadically, and only when the client believes it has a crisis that is deserving of a consultation with an attorney. Because the company wants to manage its outside expenses, there are specific protocols for who the private attorney deals with at the company.

What is the difference between a private practice and an in-house attorney?

One important difference between in-house and private practice attorneys is who they work for. Private practice attorneys work for a variety of clients. This exposes them to multiple variations on particular legal issues based on client industries and goals and gives private practice attorneys a richness of experience and expertise in specific areas of law. They are contacted by the client when the client has a concern in the particular area of expertise. The client and attorney talk only sporadically, and only when the client believes it has a crisis that is deserving of a consultation with an attorney. Because the company wants to manage its outside expenses, there are specific protocols for who the private attorney deals with at the company. You are likely to work with an in-house attorney, manager, or other person designated by the company to deal with the matter. Questions about the matter will be directed through your contact. He or she will facilitate any further information gathering for you. As a result, when contacted, private practice attorneys must be responsive to the questions asked, empathetic, and efficient in handling the matter to ensure return business.

How to get an in house position?

If you are practicing, make sure you are engaged in the kinds of practice that will fit what general counsels are looking for in new hires. Consider the following tips.

How to prepare a resume for an in-house position?

Cover letter and resume suggestions. When preparing a resume for submission to an in-house position, first review the job description for the position. Corporations generally have detailed descriptions of what they expect the hire will be doing. Make sure your resume reflects that job description.

What is the difference between in-house and private practice?

Another important difference between in-house and private practice is in the nature of the engagement. In private practice, attorneys are called in on an as-needed basis. They address the issue requested and then leave. The in-house lawyer, on the other hand, is involved for the long term.

How to prepare for an interview?

Review the job description as you prepare for the interview. Take some time to think about what the job requires and your life experiences. Be prepared to provide examples of things you have done that match the skills and abilities necessary for the job. Spend some time learning about the business of the company. During the interview, it is important that you demonstrate you know something about what they do and that you are curious about learning more.