In this Q&A with The Texas Lawbook, Kathleen Benner discusses the traits she seeks in outside counsel, what outside counsel need to know when working with her and more.
Texas Lawbook: What do you look for in outside counsel?
Kathleen Benner: Responsiveness. We are incredibly lucky in the DFW metroplex to have so many talented attorneys and well-respected firms. Once you’ve identified the talented attorney and the respected firm, responsiveness is the difference maker. At this juncture in my career, when I need outside counsel, I genuinely need an answer. I am looking for a partner to help me solve a problem. When that partner is responsive. It shows dedication and respect to the client.
Lawbook: What should outside counsel know about working with you?
Benner: I value responsiveness, preparation and solutions-oriented advice.
Lawbook: Pet peeves with outside counsel?
Benner: Someone who does not prepare for a meeting.
Lawbook: Are you involved in any pro bono or public service matters?
Benner: I am deeply interested in access to care issues. I am pursuing a doctor of public health and executive leadership to help prepare me as we develop scalable system solutions for the rapidly growing pediatric population in Texas, which is expected to double by 2050.
Lawbook: What question should I be asking?
Benner: A question worth asking is whether I experienced a meaningful difference in how law is practiced, and how lawyers relate to one another, in different regions, particularly between Illinois and Texas. No offense to my colleagues in Illinois. However, having practiced in both, I’ve observed that Texas has a palpable sense of earnestness and commitment to community, culture, ethics and the law. There is collegiality here, a shared understanding that we are part of something larger than our individual roles or institutions.
In my experience, lawyers in Texas tend to approach their work with a strong sense of responsibility, not just to clients, but to the broader community. There is a genuine camaraderie and a belief that we can have a positive impact through our work. That spirit has resonated deeply with me and has reinforced my commitment to practicing law in a way that is principled, collaborative and mission driven.
Click here to read the Lawbook profile of Kathleen Benner.