Legal Team Outlook

The role of legal teams as key players in managing organisational cyber risk is clear, with 76% of respondents reporting that legal functions are central to incident response.

Notably, there are two key areas where the importance of the legal-cyber nexus are best highlighted – the increase in legal-focussed cyber incident response plans (CIRP) and simulation participation. These figures clearly illustrate legal expertise is valued and, in many organisations, viewed as critical to cyber security risk management, incident response, regulatory compliance and reputation management.

Jones reflected that one of the key strengths of a general counsel during a cyber crisis is the ability to manage tension and stressful situations analytically and objectively, enhancing clarity and assurance for boards. "They are good at taking the heat out of situations and focussing on the matter at hand," he said.