Situation
In an effort to use its outside counsel more effectively and efficiently, our client ConAgra Foods created an innovative process called the ConAgra Foods Legal Network (CFLN). This collaborative model is intended to reward the outside law firms that provide ConAgra with high-quality, cost-effective legal services by giving them a greater percentage of the Fortune 500 company’s legal work. Husch Blackwell was invited to participate in the process and subsequently was awarded work in several areas, including national representation in all corporate real estate facilities, human resources-related counseling and litigation, and trademarks.
Result
Because of our collaboration, Husch Blackwell has been able to serve ConAgra more effectively as we continue to learn about our client. This knowledge has greatly improved our ability to provide ConAgra with proactive counseling. One key component of the CFLN model is annual fixed-fee pricing for the legal work in each subject area. The fixed fee has benefited ConAgra by reducing the administrative expense of negotiating, reviewing and processing bills.