What's Happening?
Legal departments across various organizations are being advised to prioritize operational maturity over speed as they prepare for 2026. The increasing workload and complexity faced by legal teams, including
responsibilities in AI governance, data privacy, and enterprise risk management, have outpaced the development of their operational infrastructure. This has led to inefficiencies and readiness gaps. Legal leaders are encouraged to establish clear processes and improve financial clarity to better manage outside counsel spending and internal resources. The emphasis is on building a strong operational foundation to support the adoption of new technologies and meet business demands effectively.
Why It's Important?
The focus on operational maturity is crucial for legal departments to handle the growing expectations and complexities of their roles. By improving clarity and structure, legal teams can enhance their efficiency and effectiveness, leading to better decision-making and resource management. This shift is particularly important as legal departments increasingly rely on technology, such as AI and workflow tools, which require a solid operational foundation to deliver value. The move towards operational maturity can result in significant cost savings, improved collaboration with other business units, and a stronger position to lead organizational change.
What's Next?
Legal departments are expected to continue investing in operational improvements, such as refining intake processes, aligning templates, and establishing clear approval paths. These efforts will enable them to leverage technology more effectively and respond to business needs with greater agility. As organizations prepare for 2026, legal leaders will likely focus on building a robust infrastructure that supports innovation and strategic growth. This may involve adopting new technologies, enhancing data management practices, and fostering cross-functional collaboration to ensure legal departments can meet future challenges with confidence.
