By Susan Gluss

Activist lawyers, not in-house counsel, are typically seen as change agents who advocate for human rights laws, environmental protections, and fair wages. But the role of general counsel is undergoing a seismic shift, as consumers urge companies to drive positive change, not just reap profits.

“Corporate lawyers have to consider what is right, not just what is legal,” said Amelia Miazad, the founding director of UC Berkeley Law School’s Business in Society Institute. “Companies now have to think about environmental, social, and governance issues, and that falls squarely within the role of the general counsel.”

For Nestlé, it started with a shocking accusation that one of its fish suppliers in Thailand trafficked in forced labor. Instead of quitting the market, Nestlé voluntarily worked to end the illegal practice.

“The company partnered with the NGO that was investigating the supply chain in Thailand. They published the NGO’s report on forced labor, and then worked with the Thai government to make sure it knew how to enforce local laws. It’s an example of how lawyers are weighing not only legal risk, but also reputational risk,” Miazad said.

Read the full story on the UC Berkeley Law website, published 12/19/17.