An interview with Maria Cristina Michelini, Legal Counsel at The Palace Company Europe S.R.L in Italy.
What has been the most defining moment of your career as an in-house lawyer so far?
The most defining moment was realising that legal advice in fast-changing sectors like technology and data privacy is no longer about saying “no” but about enabling innovation responsibly. That mindset shift – from compliance to partnership – has shaped how I approach every project since.
In what ways do you see the role of the GC changing over the next 5–10 years?
In my opinion, the GC will increasingly act as a business partner of companies, no more as a mere consultant and advisor. The GC shall be an architect of the overall success of a business, guiding organisations through the ethical, regulatory, legal and reputational challenges of emerging technologies. Specifically, AI governance, digital ethics, and data-driven decision-making will become central to the GC’s role.
How do you balance the pressures of your role with personal well-being and resilience?
I have learned that balance is built on purpose and boundaries. The pivotal skill for legal professionals (and especially for in-house lawyers) is the ability to prioritise – both in legal reasoning and in personal energy – and make sure to invest time in activities that recharge creativity, focus and clarity.
