These organizations began exchanging experiences and best practices on legal matters with particular reference to international business and European laws affecting the activities of their respective companies.

[2] By 1990, ECLA's membership had grown significantly and included the organizations of company lawyers in Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Finland, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Scotland, England and Wales.

“We will bring Europe’s company lawyers closer together, offer a vital and unprecedented platform for networking and best practice sharing within the legal community”,[4] said Jonathan Marsh, President of ECLA.

Marcus M. Schmitt, General Manager of ECLA added: "With the new offices, permanent presence in Brussels and a strong team, the association is taking the next step to becoming the strongest pan-European voice, exclusively dedicated to the profession of company lawyers across the continent.

"[5] ECLA aims to develop the legal professional privilege throughout European national jurisdictions, classifying the communication between a company and its in-house lawyers, and the advice sought and provided, as confidential.