Interviewing for a Knowledge or Risk Role? What to Expect in 2026

​Whether you're a seasoned professional looking for your next move or transitioning into a new area, interviewing for a knowledge or risk & compliance role in a law firm in 2026 looks a little different than it did just a few years ago.

The landscape is shifting, shaped by regulatory changes, evolving law firm expectations, the influence of technology (especially AI), and growing awareness of cultural and strategic fit.

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Here’s what candidates should expect in this year’s hiring conversations and how to prepare.

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1. Deeper Focus on Strategic Value

Gone are the days when risk and knowledge roles were seen purely as support functions. Interviews now place greater emphasis on your strategic mindset and ability to add firm-wide value.

Expect questions like:

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• “How have you aligned knowledge or risk initiatives with firm strategy?”

• “Can you give an example of how your work directly supported business development, client service, or operational efficiency?”

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Tip:Prepare examples that show your role not just as reactive but as enabling the wider success of the firm.

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2. Communication and Stakeholder Management Are Under the Microscope

Whether you’re advising partners on a regulatory risk or implementing a new knowledge system, your ability to influence, persuade, and communicate effectively across the firm is critical.

Expect scenarios or behavioural questions such as:

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• “Describe a time you had to influence senior stakeholders on a decision they initially resisted.”

• “How do you navigate conversations where risk and commerciality seem at odds?”

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Tip:Law firms want collaborators, not just subject matter experts. Think about how you frame your input and build trust.

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3. Awareness of Technology, Especially AI, Is Increasingly Important

Even if you’re not expected to be a tech expert, law firms want to see curiosity and a willingness to engage with legal tech.

Expect questions like:

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• “How have you used tech to enhance knowledge sharing or risk monitoring?”

• “What’s your view on how AI might impact your area in the next few years?”

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Tip:Be ready to talk about tools like contract analysis platforms, document automation, or knowledge databases, even if your experience is observational or at early stages.

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4. Culture Fit and Culture Contribution Matter

Hiring managers want to know that you’ll work well within their culture, but increasingly, they also want people who will positively influence it.

Expect culture-based questions such as:

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• “What kind of working culture helps you thrive?”

• “How do you contribute to a positive team dynamic?”

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Tip:Think about examples where you’ve contributed to inclusivity, supported junior team members, or helped shape team ways of working.

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5. Problem-Solving Scenarios Are Commonplace

Especially in risk and compliance interviews, candidates are often presented with hypothetical situations to assess judgment, regulation knowledge, and commercial awareness.

Expect questions like:

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• “What would you do if a partner insisted on onboarding a high-risk client?”

• “How would you handle a conflict matter that needs immediate escalation?”

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Tip:Stay calm, think methodically, and explain your reasoning, firms aren’t always looking for a perfect answer, but rather how you approach ambiguity.

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6. For Knowledge Roles: Expect Questions About Knowledge Strategy

As knowledge functions become more central, PSLs and Knowledge Lawyers are being asked to show how they think strategically about knowledge, not just manage precedents.

Expect questions such as:

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• “How do you ensure knowledge is used consistently across international offices?”

• “How have you contributed to innovation in the way knowledge is shared or captured?”

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Tip:Talk about projects, tech rollouts, training sessions, or process improvements, anything that shows you’re future-facing and user-focused.

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Final Thoughts

In 2026, technical expertise is just the starting point. Successful candidates for risk, compliance, and knowledge roles will demonstrate:

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• Strong communication and influencing skills

• Awareness of how their work supports the wider firm

• Curiosity around tech and AI

• A mindset of continuous improvement

• The ability to navigate sensitive issues with both tact and clarity

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At Pembury Legal, we support candidates through the entire recruitment process, from identifying the right opportunity to preparing for interviews with insight into what each firm is really looking for.

Looking to take the next step in your risk or knowledge career? Let’s talk about what’s out there and how to position yourself for success.

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