#Japan #Tokyo #Business Law #Re-grit Partners #Takuya Mito

Enhancing Corporate Legal Functions in Japan

The legal landscape for companies is evolving rapidly. In response to increasing external and internal pressures, businesses must adapt their legal departments to become more strategic and effective. Takuya Mito, the Managing Director of Re-grit Partners, recently authored an article titled "Creating Value Together with Corporate Lawyers Utilizing External Lawyer Management Guidelines," published in the August 2025 issue of the corporate law magazine 'Business Law.' This contribution highlights the necessity for companies in Japan to rethink their relationships with external legal counsel.

Mito stresses that many Japanese firms operate under long-standing trust with their corporate lawyers, which can unintentionally hinder the strategic use of legal resources. Given the evolving demands on legal frameworks within companies, Mito argues for a transformation in how businesses view their legal partners. The concept of 'Japanese-style OCGs'—based on the External Counsel Management Guidelines widely used in Western companies—is proposed as a tailored framework to better suit Japanese corporate culture and operational realities.

The Call for Strategic Re-Engagement with Legal Counsel

In his article, Mito explores the increasing need to leverage external legal counsel beyond their typical role of providing legal advice. He emphasizes that, with appropriate guidelines, these lawyers can become integral partners in a company's management path, playing a significant role in overall business strategy. This shift in perception can lead to enhanced collaboration, resulting in more cohesive strategic partnerships.

To accomplish this, Mito suggests implementing a structured approach to the relationship with external legal advisors that aligns with both legal and commercial objectives. By outlining what an ideal partnership looks like, he provides practical steps for integrating legal counsel more effectively into the business ecosystem.

A Framework for Success

One of the core elements of Mito's framework is leveraging the benefits of guidelines similar to the OCGs while customizing them to fit the unique Japanese business landscape. He outlines methods for refining how legal resources are accessed and utilized, proposing comprehensive strategies that include internal audits of existing legal structures, reassessing external partnerships, and using technology to streamline communication and service delivery.

Mito's insights are aimed not only at legal departments but also at those overseeing compliance and management strategies within firms. For organizations seeking to enhance their legal functions, his proposed methods can serve as a foundation for re-evaluating current practices and ensuring that legal and compliance capacities are equipped to support dynamic business challenges.

A Broader Perspective on Legal Partnerships

Through this article, Mito invites readers to consider the importance of evolving legal partnerships. Acknowledging that legal expertise is critical in navigating risks and regulations, he emphasizes that a stronger relationship with legal advisors can unlock new possibilities for corporate growth.

Mito’s work at Re-grit Partners focuses on supporting enterprises in modernizing their legal and compliance functions, drawing from over a decade of experience in corporate governance and risk management. The company offers consulting services that help clients enhance their legal infrastructures while addressing complex challenges in governance, compliance, and crisis management.

In an era where legal frameworks are becoming increasingly complex, the need to effectively utilize external legal partners cannot be overstated. Mito's guidelines serve as a compelling call-to-action for Japanese enterprises to engage more deeply and strategically with their legal counsel.

For those interested in delving deeper into this topic, Mito's article provides an invaluable resource full of practical advice and considerations for modern corporate law practice in Japan.

For further insights, you can read the detailed article on the official 'Business Law' website: Business Law Official Site.

Conclusion

Mito's comments reflect the urgent need for Japanese corporations to adapt their legal partnerships to meet evolving business landscapes. As organizations continue to face new challenges, the strategic use of legal experts can serve as a significant catalyst for corporate success. Re-grit Partners remains committed to leading this charge by providing thoughtful insights and practical solutions in the field of legal and risk management consulting.