Team size: 10

Are there any particular challenges for which in-house counsel should be preparing in 2026?

This year presents particular challenges given its electoral nature, with presidential, parliamentary, regional and municipal elections taking place. The uncertainty surrounding these processes requires a strengthened approach to enterprise risk management and compliance, as well as proactive preparation of legal teams to anticipate a range of potential scenarios. Careful planning will be key to addressing unforeseen developments from a position of greater resilience and strength.

As AI becomes increasingly integrated into legal teams, how can general counsel ensure the successful incorporation of these tools without compromising the human element?

As AI becomes increasingly embedded in legal teams, general counsel must frame its use as a means of augmenting human capability rather than replacing legal judgment. By improving efficiency in areas such as research and document review, AI enables lawyers to focus on higher – value, strategic matters, while clear governance and training ensure that technology remains a decision – support tool, with accountability – and the human element of experience, ethics and insight – firmly retained within the legal function.