In the latest issue of InsideCounsel, Michael Baroni, the general counsel of BSH Home Appliances, quotes 11 passages from the Bible that he suggests should inspire small law departments, because lawyers in small departments “typically don’t get the moral guidance and inspiration that a large legal department can provide.”
Well, I will pass on comments about the greater rectitude of large departments.
Somewhat fearful to go where angels tread, I hope it is not sacrilege to draw from five of the biblical passages some wisdom about how to manage a law department.
“Avoid foolish questions … contentions and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain” (Titus 3:9). What better motto for a knowledge management system?
“Ye shall have one manner of law, as well as for the stranger, as for one of your own country” (Leviticus 24:22) could be chapter and verse for a law department creating standard forms and documents.
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“Let judgment be executed speedily upon him” (Ezra 7:26) gives in-house counsel some guidance as to why they should promptly respond to clients and quickly correct wrongdoing.
“Judge not, that ye be not judged, for with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged” (Matthew 7:1-2) speaks wisely about tolerance of various cognitive styles and diverse backgrounds.
“Every man shall be put to death for his own sin” (Deuteronomy 24:16) may guide general counsel during the time of evaluations.