Have you ever questioned whether you’re ready to take full ownership of legal leadership in a company? That’s the defining challenge of solo general counsel leadership—being the only legal voice at the table while making business-critical decisions.
Kristen Porter, the solo general counsel at GHSP, stepped into this high-stakes role with hesitation but ultimately found her voice, her confidence, and a fulfilling leadership path. Her journey offers insight and inspiration to in-house legal professionals seeking to lead and grow without the safety net of a large team.
Watch the full conversation with Kristen Porter here:
The Path Toward Solo General Counsel Leadership
Kristen didn’t always see herself in legal leadership. Like many in-house counsel, her career path was shaped by change and opportunity. She began in real estate law, then pivoted during the 2005 downturn to corporate legal work at a large electronics company. Over the next 14 years, she became a well-rounded generalist, managing everything from contracts to compliance. While she wasn’t aiming for solo general counsel leadership, her experience prepared her for exactly that.
A lunch with a former colleague sparked the shift. He encouraged her to consider leading a legal department entirely on her own. Though unsure and facing imposter syndrome, Kristen eventually realized she had everything she needed to lead—she just needed to believe it. Embracing the challenge of solo general counsel leadership, she accepted the role at GHSP, a move that changed the trajectory of her career.
The Growth That Comes With Leading Alone
Taking on solo general counsel leadership meant stepping out of her comfort zone. Kristen had to trust her expertise, present herself with confidence, and demonstrate immediate value to executive leadership. Without a legal team for backup, she became the go-to expert across the company, managing risk, negotiating deals, and influencing business decisions at the highest level.
While the role came with pressure, it also brought deep fulfillment. Kristen found purpose in being the trusted advisor, in owning her role as a strategic legal leader. Her presence became essential not just for legal matters, but for driving business outcomes. That’s the unique power of solo general counsel leadership—it forces clarity, autonomy, and real influence.
Leading Without Isolation
Being the only lawyer doesn’t mean being alone. Kristen emphasizes the importance of building external networks—mentors, peer GCs, and legal communities that understand the unique challenges of solo legal leadership. These connections help combat the isolation that can come with the role and offer both guidance and perspective.
Her advice to others stepping into solo general counsel leadership is simple: believe in yourself. The skills you’ve built are enough. The doubt is normal. And the opportunity to make a meaningful impact is real. Her story is proof that leadership isn’t about having the perfect résumé—it’s about showing up with clarity, courage, and the willingness to lead.
Watch the full conversation here: Notes to My (Legal) Self: Season 3, Episode 9 (ft.Kristen Porter)
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