The biannual review is the first since the company merged corporate and regulatory affairs with legal and security into one global team. Mr Abelman described the new function as ‘quicker and more efficient’.
Right for the job
In the review, Mr Abelman is expected to examine specialism, price and an innovative method of billing and working with BAT’s 350-strong team of in-house lawyers. The company employs a number of global and UK firms based on each specific mandate, rather than operating a formal panel. Mr Abelman told The Lawyer: ‘We look at the nature of the work, the history and experience of the firm and ask which firm is the best for each piece of work and what we will be charged relative to the issues.’
Judicial review
BAT is currently involved in a judicial review in the UK against the Government’s plain packaging rules for tobacco products. The company is being represented by Herbert Smith Freehills, with the challenge being heard in December. Source: The Lawyer
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