Maaike

AI is Transforming the Role of the Corporate Lawyer – Start Now!

Written by Maaike Roet – CEO & Founder House

AI is Transforming the Role of the Corporate Lawyer – Start Now!

AI has become commonplace in many sectors. In legal practice, however, its broader adoption is still lagging behind. Yet one thing is clear: AI will fundamentally change the work of (corporate) lawyers. Those who start working with AI now, build a relevant competitive advantage.

Will Lawyers Be Replaced by AI? No, (Not Yet)

Legal work is undergoing a fundamental shift – whether we like it or not. The use of AI does not (yet) mean that lawyers will be replaced. It does mean that tasks which are time-consuming and offer limited strategic value can be performed faster and more efficiently.

This demands a repositioning from lawyers: from executors to responsible advisors who bring context, clarity, and direction.

Not everyone is willing to join this shift in legal work and the role of the lawyer. Some argue that there will always be sufficient high-quality legal work left. Others believe AI is just a tool, and interpretation will always require human expertise.

Reality paints a different picture. And developments are moving fast. I believe it comes down to this: lawyers won’t be replaced by AI, but by lawyers who know how to work with AI.

Legal and Technology Go Hand in Hand

Lawyers who are already experimenting with AI are integrating technology into their work. This prepares them for a legal practice that better matches what clients, colleagues and organisations will expect — in the very near future: speed and strategic value. AI supports the early stages of legal reasoning.

AI’s ability to turn knowledge into actionable, reliable and fast advice gives the lawyer an edge. Think of a legal AI agent as an intern with a Master’s degree in every area of law. The lawyer’s value then shifts to the validated check at the end of the process.

For lawyers, this means: learning to work with technology that accelerates the legal process — without compromising on quality or care. And in my view, the biggest challenge is not the technology itself, but the lawyer’s behaviour. By nature, lawyers are trained to be thorough and risk-averse — but this mindset clashes with what is now required.

Looking Ahead Means Starting to Experiment

What will AI really require from us as lawyers? Not faster typing — but sharper thinking. Doing only the strategic legal work. Asking better questions, making our reasoning explicit, and daring to decide where technology is useful and where human judgment is essential.

The core remains: earning trust. That means using traceable sources, explaining how advice is formed, and taking ownership of the outcome. Especially when technology is part of the process. The corporate lawyer of tomorrow combines legal expertise with technology — and starts experimenting today.

Overwhelmed?

Yes, definitely. I still feel that way often myself. The good news? Right now, you don’t need to do much more than get started.

Facing a roadblock? I’d be happy to think along with you. At House, we call this Legal for tomorrow.

This blog was created in collaboration with AI — a great example of how human and technology can strengthen one another.

by Maaike

The 5 Specialisations of House: where our Senior Legal Counsels excel

The 5 Specialisations of House: where our Senior Legal Counsels excel

Organisations today face increasingly complex legal challenges. From international contracts to data protection, from mergers to ESG regulation. The demand for specialised legal expertise continues to grow. Yet many companies prefer not to maintain a full in-house legal team. That’s where House comes in: we provide experienced Senior Legal Counsels who offer the exact expertise organisations need, exactly when they need it.

House is a forward-thinking legal services provider that strengthens organisations with Senior Legal Counsels. Our counsels are experienced, immediately deployable, and combine legal expertise with practical business insight. This is how we help companies navigate complex legal matters.

At House, we’ve seen that the work of our Senior Legal Counsels primarily revolves around five areas of expertise. These reflect where organisations face the greatest legal challenges today — and where our legal counsels make the biggest impact with their knowledge and experience.

1. Commercial Contracting (37%)

Contracts form the foundation of every business relationship. Yet they are becoming increasingly complex due to globalisation, tighter regulation, and the digitalisation of trade platforms.

For organisations, this means contracts must be both legally sound and practically applicable. Our Senior Legal Counsels strike that balance. They speak the language of business and law. The result: contracts that manage risk without slowing down dealmaking.

2. IT / IP / Privacy (24%)

Technology and data are at the core of almost every company. The arrival of the AI Act, stricter GDPR enforcement, and growing cyber risks make legal support in this area essential.

Our Senior Legal Counsels offer in-depth expertise in IT contracts, privacy legislation and intellectual property protection. More importantly, they understand the innovative power of technology. They help organisations stay in control of data and reputation — without holding back innovation.

3. Corporate & M&A (16%)

Mergers, acquisitions and investments are key moments in a company’s lifecycle. A great deal is at stake: preserving value, managing risk, and moving fast.

Our Senior Legal Counsels bring extensive experience in managing transactions. From due diligence to closing, they ensure deals don’t stall over legal details. In high-pressure processes, they add both clarity and speed.

4. Corporate Governance (12%)

Good governance is no longer just about compliance. Stakeholders demand transparency, sustainability and social responsibility. New regulations such as the CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) are adding further complexity.

Our Senior Legal Counsels help organisations elevate their governance. They protect frameworks and support leadership in making responsible decisions — turning governance into a driver of value creation.

5. Employment Law (9%)

The employment relationship is evolving rapidly. Think hybrid work, reorganisations, and the growing need for fair and clear agreements. As a result, many organisations seek support in employment law.

Our Senior Legal Counsels combine legal expertise with an understanding of organisational needs. They deliver workable arrangements and contracts — and also contribute to broader HR strategies. The result: a healthy balance between employer and employee.

Five specialisations, one legal partner

The percentages show how broadly our Senior Legal Counsels are deployed — but also how often companies turn to House for highly specialised expertise. Whatever the need, our approach remains the same: pragmatic, expert, and ready to go.

With five core specialisations (and more) under one roof, House is the legal partner for companies that seek both flexibility and quality in their legal support.

Curious what a Senior Legal Counsel from House can do for your organisation? Get in touch with Niels – he’ll be happy to tell you more: niels@house-legal.nl

by Maaike

Legal Checkup: certainty, clarity and legal peace of mind for your business

Legal Checkup: certainty, clarity and legal peace of mind for your business
Let House make your business legally futureproof

Are you sure your contracts, terms & conditions and policies comply with the latest legislation? Do you know how AI might affect your legal position? Is your company (still) meeting all privacy requirements?

Regulatory changes, social developments and technological innovation are accelerating. Legal risks often go unnoticed and can lead to unexpected and costly surprises.

House’s Legal Checkup quickly maps out your legal status — and ensures any issues are resolved.

Legal Checkup: your company’s legal health inspection

The Legal Checkup is a tailored service where an experienced in-house counsel visits your company to review your key legal processes and documents. From employment contracts to privacy statements and general terms: everything is examined.

Goal: provide a clear picture of your current legal position, identify risks early and offer concrete solutions.

Why choose the Legal Checkup?

• Always up to date – ensure full compliance with current laws and regulations

• Risk awareness – understand where attention is needed and take targeted action

• Cost-effective – prevention is more affordable than litigation

• Peace of mind – focus on your core business with confidence

How does the Legal Checkup work?

1. Online intake
A short introduction call with one of our legal counsels, based on a structured checklist, to identify relevant documents and processes.

2. On-site review
Our legal counsel visits your company to assess all relevant legal processes and documentation. There is room for questions and direct clarification.

3. Clear reporting
You receive a concise report outlining the findings. What is compliant, and what requires attention.

4. Practical follow-up advice
Based on the report, we advise on appropriate next steps. This may include updating contracts, adjusting terms or drafting new policies. We also explain how House can assist in executing these steps.

Pricing

The Legal Checkup is offered for a one-time fixed fee of EUR 975,- (excl. VAT).
If you wish to proceed with implementation by House, we will provide a separate quote for the follow-up work.

For which companies?

The Legal Checkup is suitable for companies of all sizes and sectors — from SMEs and scale-ups to large enterprises. Legal readiness is essential for every business.

Invest in certainty. Invest in a Legal Checkup.

With the Legal Checkup, you’ll no longer need to worry about legal blind spots. Gain insight into your company’s current legal state and take proactive action. Our legal counsels are independent, highly experienced and practical. No jargon — just clear, actionable advice.

Curious how your business is doing?
Contact niels@house-legal.nl for a free online intake with one of our legal counsels. Together we’ll ensure your legal foundation is strong — today and tomorrow.

Choose the Legal Checkup. Because certainty starts with insight.
Legal for tomorrow.

Want to know more? Reach out: info@house-legal.nl

by Maaike

Legal Design: What If Legal Departments Are Falling Behind?

Written by Yannick Bakker – Legal Designer & Legal Counsel

Legal Design: What If Legal Departments Are Falling Behind?

A Fresh Perspective, a Closed Door

You walk through an office where everything revolves around energy and brand experience. Marketing is experimenting with new campaigns, sales is celebrating fresh leads, and HR is promoting an inclusive company culture. And then you reach the legal department. No neon signs, no creative brainstorms—more a place where documents stack up like a never-cleared archive.

It’s understandable that legal departments work differently than marketing or sales. But in a world where businesses fine-tune their communication down to the last detail, it’s striking when contracts and terms remain static and outdated. Why does ‘Legal’ in 2025 still sometimes feel like a closed room, while the rest of the company works in open spaces?

“It’s Fine the Way It Is,” Right?

In-house counsel are well aware that legal communication could be more accessible. The principles of Legal Design—clear language, visual hierarchy, user-friendly formatting—are not new. Yet practice often lags behind. “It’s fine the way it is,” is a common response.

And yes, on the surface, it is fine. Contracts get signed, terms are accepted, and there’s no immediate crisis. But the real question is: how well is it actually working? How many clients sign without understanding the content? How many colleagues disengage from internal legal documents because they’re too inaccessible? If you don’t measure it, you won’t know.

Time to Test: A/B for Legal

Marketing and communications leave little to chance. They test everything: which title converts better? Which layout holds attention? Legal teams, on the other hand, often rely on assumptions.

Now imagine applying the same logic to contracts: two versions, one traditional, one designed using Legal Design principles. Then measure:

• Which version is read and understood more quickly?

• Which version results in fewer questions?

• Which version inspires more trust?

The results might reveal that legal documents are not just about being legally correct—they’re also about being effective.

A Missed Opportunity for Trust

Legal communication is often the first formal interaction with a company. You can invest heavily in a seamless brand experience, but if the first contractual step feels like a bureaucratic hurdle, there’s a disconnect.

Clear legal communication is an opportunity to build trust. Clients feel respected, employees understand what to do more quickly, and the legal team is seen as a proactive partner rather than a bottleneck. Aligned with House’s Legal for tomorrow vision, legal communication can be more than a necessary evil. It can be a powerful tool to strengthen relationships.

Opening the Door

In-house counsel don’t need to become designers or marketers. But the days of Legal standing apart from the business are over. It’s not about changing the legal content, but about how we present it. Small steps—A/B testing, user-friendly layouts, less jargon—can make a world of difference.

A legal department that reinvents itself gains influence. Not by shouting louder about the importance of legal content, but by showing that it works. And it starts with a simple question: are we willing to measure if it could be better?

Conclusion

Legal Design helps legal departments stay relevant and effective in a world that values clarity and trust. It doesn’t require a revolution—just a willingness to test, adapt, and collaborate with the rest of the business.

In 2025, legal communication shouldn’t be an obstacle. It should be a strategic advantage: clear, powerful, and accessible. The door is open. Will you step through?

Want to learn more? Contact us: info@house-legal.nl

by Maaike

The Benefits of an On-Demand In-House Counsel

Written by Maaike Roet – CEO & Founder of House

The Benefits of an On-Demand In-House Counsel

What do you do when you’re running a business and face a legal question?
Is this contract aligned with our services? How should we handle an employment dispute? What are the legal implications of a potential acquisition?

You might think of calling a lawyer or hiring a full-time in-house counsel. But there’s a third, often overlooked option: an on-demand in-house counsel. In this blog, I explain why this flexible model makes sense – and why more businesses are starting to rely on it.

Flexibility and Efficiency for Modern Businesses

The way companies access legal support is changing. Traditional legal departments and long-standing partnerships with law firms are no longer the default. Instead, more organisations are turning to on-demand legal services – gaining access to experienced legal expertise exactly when they need it, without long-term contracts or high fixed costs.

What Is On-Demand Legal Support?

On-demand legal support allows companies to bring in an external in-house counsel as needed – whether through flexible subscriptions or hourly billing. This could mean one-off advice on a contract or temporary legal support during a project or transaction.

At House, these services are delivered by senior in-house counsels with years of experience at large companies. They understand the fast-paced commercial environment and offer practical, actionable advice – no long memos, just clear guidance that helps business leaders make sound decisions.

Who Benefits Most from On-Demand Legal Support?

This model is especially valuable for organisations that need legal expertise but don’t require a full-time in-house counsel – or want to avoid the high costs of traditional law firms. It’s ideal for:

• Startups and scale-ups looking to build a solid legal foundation without setting up a full legal team.

• SMEs that need periodic legal advice on commercial contracts, employment matters, or privacy policies.

• Large organisations seeking temporary legal capacity for specific projects or peak workloads.

The Key Benefits

• Flexibility – Access legal support when you need it, without long-term commitments.

• Cost-efficiency – Pay only for what you use. Avoid the cost of full-time hires or premium law firm rates.

• Specialist expertise – Our in-house counsels combine legal knowledge with a deep understanding of business. They quickly assess legal and commercial risks to deliver the right advice.

• Practical and fast – No academic reports. Just workable, business-focused solutions that you can implement immediately.

The Future of Legal Services

The shift towards on-demand legal services is part of a broader move towards more flexible and digital legal solutions. Networks and platforms of experienced legal professionals make it easier than ever to access the right expertise, fast.

For businesses, this means more control over legal costs – without sacrificing speed or quality. On-demand legal support is not only an efficient solution for today; it’s a model that’s set to become increasingly important in the future.

Legal for tomorrow.

Curious to see how House’s on-demand legal services can support your business?
Reach out to Niels Braamse for an introductory call at +31 (0)20 520 6838 or via niels@house-legal.nl.

by Maaike

The company secretary: The indispensable link in a successful business

Written by Christien Kalteren – Corporate Secretary

An invisible force with a major impact

Imagine a board meeting where crucial decisions need to be made. The agenda is overloaded, essential documents are missing, and responsibilities are unclear. The result? Wasted time, miscommunication, and frustration. This scenario could have been easily prevented with the right support. This is where the company secretary comes in: the invisible yet indispensable force behind an effective and well-functioning board.

The traditional role of the company secretary

Traditionally, the company secretary is seen as the key figure in organizing meetings and decision-making processes. Often a legal expert, the company secretary supports corporate accountability and acts as a first-line legal advisor. This classical role is essential, but in many organizations, the function extends far beyond this. The company secretary often takes on additional responsibilities, actively contributing to effective and efficient governance.

The spider in the web: Connecting and structuring

Managing an organization is complex. The Supervisory Board oversees and advises, while shareholders expect transparency and clear reporting. Additionally, stakeholders such as employees, customers, suppliers, and regulators (such as the AFM or DNB) play a crucial role.

The company secretary ensures alignment between all these parties. By acting as a bridge between the executive board, supervisory board, and shareholders and by sharing relevant information clearly and in a timely manner—governance is no longer seen as a mere administrative obligation. Instead, it becomes a powerful tool to strengthen the organization.

Strategic thinking and advising

While many assume that a company secretary’s role is limited to preparing and recording meetings, the function often extends far beyond that. In many organizations, the company secretary actively contributes to strategic discussions, advises executives and supervisory board members, asks critical questions, and helps identify risks. This strategic input ensures well-informed decisions and helps prevent potential pitfalls.

A trusted advisor and sparring partner

Beyond being an organizer and advisor, the company secretary also serves as a trusted confidant and sparring partner. In this role, they provide executives and supervisory board members with a sounding board and handle sensitive information discreetly. Their independent position close to the board enables them to contribute objectively and constructively to decision-making.

The added value of a company secretary

What happens when a company operates without a company secretary? Often, decision-making slows down, information becomes fragmented, and governance is perceived as an administrative burden rather than a strategic asset.

The added value of a company secretary strongly depends on the scope given to fulfill the role. Not every company secretary will perform all the tasks mentioned in equal measure. However, it is clear that this function—regardless of its specific form—plays a crucial role in effective governance, oversight, and decision-making.

Want to learn more?

Curious about how a company secretary can enhance your company’s effectiveness? House is happy to provide this support and help elevate governance within your organization. Contact House at info@house-legal.nl.

by Maaike

What step can you take as a leader of a legal team in 2025?

Written by Anouk Schaap – Leadership Mentor

Leadership is about inspiration—about truly getting to know yourself so you can help others develop their talents. As the year draws to a close, this is the perfect time to reflect on your role as a leader. What thoughts, often unconscious, guide your decisions? And what beliefs do you hold about leadership that might not be accurate? By pausing to consider these questions, you can create an action plan to make 2025 a year of growth and flourishing for both you and your team.

Who are you as a leader?

Leadership starts with knowing who you are. Not to dominate others, but to inspire them. To show them their unique talents and how to use them. As a leader, it’s your job to discover yourself so you can help others reach their full potential. It’s a journey that’s not just about knowledge but also about self-awareness and growth. It’s less about what you do and more about who you become.

You were born a leader, but it’s up to you to truly become one.

How do you think?

Your thoughts shape everything—every word you speak, every choice you make. That’s why it’s crucial to understand your own thinking. What (unconscious) thoughts are driving your leadership?

For example, imagine there’s division during a team meeting. You try to guide the discussion, but no consensus is reached.

Ask yourself: What was going through my mind when we couldn’t reach a consensus? How did my thoughts influence that situation? Often, fears or old beliefs play a background role.

Taking time to reflect after such situations can be invaluable. Before moving on, spend half an hour examining your thoughts. Let these insights strengthen your leadership.

“We are what we think, and we become what we continue to think.” — Myles Munroe

The final months of the year are ideal for looking back on your leadership. Ask yourself:

• What false beliefs have I accepted about my leadership?
• How have my parents or siblings influenced my view of leadership?
• What steps can I take to grow further as a leader in the coming year?

Growth in self-awareness is key for leaders who want to develop and make an impact.

Make 2025 your year of growth

Since 2023, House has been offering General Counsel Mentoring—a unique opportunity to grow in leadership alongside providing legal services. Under the guidance of House partner Anouk Schaap, CEO of Rock Solid Leadership, you’ll receive unconditional support and professional advice.

Are you ready to work on your leadership and grow both personally and professionally? Our General Counsel Mentoring—which includes an intake session and five inspiring Legal Walks—currently has two spots available for 2025. Is one of them yours? If you’d like, you can also schedule a free online introduction with Anouk to learn more.

Get in touch with us at: info@house-legal.nl.

by Maaike