FAQ: Insights from the 2026 Outlook
Q: How is the role of the general counsel changing in modern enterprises?
A: The GC role is expanding from legal oversight into broader enterprise leadership. In our survey, 75 percent of legal leaders are regularly asked to advise on non‑legal business issues—reflecting deeper involvement in decision‑making across the organization.
Q: Why is AI the top operational priority for legal departments?
A: AI is emerging as a foundational capability for modern legal operations. The report finds that understanding and implementing AI is the #1 operational priority over the next three years—supporting improvements in workflow efficiency, data visibility, and governance.
Q: What do legal leaders expect from external partners as technology adoption increases?
A: Legal leaders are raising expectations for transparency and technology‑enabled delivery. The report finds 82 percent now expect external providers to clearly explain how AI is used in their work—while two‑thirds expect a greater focus on technology‑enabled services.
Q: What differentiates high-performing legal functions?
A: High‑performing leaders build operating models that embed legal insight earlier and more consistently into business decisions—supported by modern workflows, stronger data visibility, and fit‑for‑purpose technology.