Innovation Counsel

Job Overview

A prestigious law firm is seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking Innovation Counsel to join its Practice Innovation team. This role is instrumental in driving legal technology adoption and innovation initiatives across various practice groups. The position will work closely with legal and operational leadership to design, implement, and enhance tools, processes, and resources that differentiate the firm in the delivery of legal services.

Location

• Palo Alto

Duties

• Provide attorney-level input on legal technology initiatives affecting practice groups

• Develop and maintain playbooks outlining best practices for innovation technologies

• Create and present executive briefings, status reports, and presentations

• Participate in project prioritization discussions and promote innovation initiatives

• Collaborate with various internal teams to define success metrics and timelines

• Analyze workflows and recommend strategies for improved efficiency through technology

• Lead pilots, proofs of concept, and deployments of legal tech tools

• Partner with change management teams on communication and adoption strategies

• Maintain and scale practice group-specific resources with automation where possible

• Undertake additional innovation-related responsibilities as needed

Requirements

• 4+ years of relevant experience (e.g., legal practice, legal tech adoption)

• Active bar membership in good standing or registered in-house counsel status where required

• Willingness to travel as needed

• Availability to work extended and/or weekend hours, if necessary

• Experience collaborating on cross-functional initiatives involving legal, tech, and operations

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent international legal degree

Certifications

• Active membership in relevant state bar(s), including assigned office jurisdiction if applicable

Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal document management systems (e.g., iManage)

• Experience with law firm operations, financial systems, and workflow optimization

• Strong presentation and storytelling abilities using data and metrics

• Familiarity with core legal technology platforms (e.g., Elite 3E, Intapp, Litera, Thomson Reuters, Lexis)

• Knowledge of generative AI solutions in the legal field

• Understanding of alternative legal service models and data utilization

• Ability to navigate a matrixed organization and collaborate with varied stakeholders

• Strategic thinker with attention to detail and big-picture awareness

Benefits

• Elective benefits including:

• • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • Health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts

  • Pre-tax commuter benefits

  • Life, AD&D, long-term care, and short-term medical coverage

  • Backup care for dependents and parental support benefits

• Firm-paid benefits:

  • Life, AD&D, LTD

  • 4 weeks vacation, 2 weeks sick leave, 10 paid holidays

  • Generous parental leave and fertility benefits

• Comprehensive benefit orientation for all new hires

Creative lawyering in a laid back environment is big draw for associates at this Amlaw firm. This California-based firm is highly regarded as one of the most innovative firms in the market. The firm is best known for its technology work and life sciences clients, and is generally recognized as the top legal provider for emerging companies. The California culture of the firm fosters a collaborative and social workplace, while the sophisticated training and meaningful attorney mentorship help develop associates into world class lawyers.