Season 5, Episode 5: Law Firms & Legal Ops - Collaborative Partnership or Frenemies? (with Tom Stephenson)

Dive into the intricate world of legal operations on the latest episode of "Notes to My Legal Self," where we explore the dynamic relationship between law firms and legal operations. Are they collaborative partners or just frenemies? This burning question sets the stage for a compelling conversation with Tom Stephenson, Director of Legal Operations at Credit Karma.

Tom brings a wealth of experience from his transition through various legal roles, from paralegal to his current leadership position. He shares his journey, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of legal operations at the intersection of law firms, legal technology, and corporate in-house departments. As we peel back the layers of this partnership, Tom discusses the crucial role of legal ops in scaling legal services effectively and innovatively, transforming how legal departments operate and impact their broader organizations.

Listeners will walk away with valuable insights into the future of legal operations. Learn how integrating technology and strategic partnerships can drive efficiency and innovation in legal processes. Discover the opportunities that arise from fostering strong relationships between in-house teams and external law firms and how these collaborations can transform legal operations from cost centers to value creators.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Understanding the Evolution of Legal Operations: Gain insights into how legal operations have transformed from traditional roles to pivotal strategic positions within corporate and law firm ecosystems.
2. Strategic Partnerships and Collaboration: Learn the significance of building strong, mutually beneficial relationships between in-house legal teams and law firms, and how these partnerships enhance operational efficiency and innovation.
3. Role of Technology in Legal Ops: Explore the impact of technology on legal operations, including how it can be leveraged to streamline processes, improve decision-making, and drive business outcomes.
4. Adapting to Change: Understand the agile nature of legal operations and how professionals can adapt to and lead change within their organizations, ensuring alignment with business goals and enhancing the value of the legal function.

This episode is about understanding the nuances of legal ops and embracing the role of technology and strategic thinking in shaping the future of legal departments. Join us for an educational journey through the landscape of legal operations, packed with actionable advice and thought-provoking discussions that will enrich your understanding and inspire innovation in your legal practices.