Chaka Patterson: How Outside Counsel Can Win (and Keep) In‑House Clients

When in-house counsel are “hair on fire” busy and severely resource constrained, why should they choose you as outside counsel? In this episode, you’ll hear a former GC and big‑law partner break down exactly how to become the trusted, go‑to lawyer that general counsel actually want to hire and introduce to their peers. In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Chaka Patterson discuss: Adaptability and rainmaking in a changing legal market The real day-to-day life of in-house counsel What GCs value most in outside counsel relationships Using investment banker and consultant strategies for BD Deepening and expanding relationships inside client organizations Key Takeaways: Long-term success in private practice is less about raw legal talent and more about adaptability, relationship depth, and how well you understand your clients’ business realities. In-house counsel are often overwhelmed and resource-constrained, so outside lawyers who proactively leverage their firm’s tools, people,...