Corporate lawyers focus on commercial transactions. They may work in private law firms or within the in-house legal departments of major companies. Because corporate law focuses on transactions, attorneys who practice in this area of law find themselves in fewer of the adversarial positions that litigation specialists must take. Instead, corporate lawyers often find themselves working with other intelligent, well-trained attorneys toward a common goal.
What Does a Corporate Lawyer Need to Know?
A keen understanding of statutory law, regulations, and common law built up by case precedent is as essential for a corporate lawyer as for one working in any other area of law. Business attorneys need to have a working knowledge and exceptional research skills in areas of law including:
- Contracts,
- Tax law,
- Accounting,
- Securities law,
- Bankruptcy,
- Intellectual property law, including licensing,
- Zoning laws,
- Any other laws or regulations that apply to the company’s specific area of business. These may include food law, healthcare regulation, or many other areas of law.
What Work Does a Corporate Lawyer Do?
In the process of negotiating business contracts, a corporate attorney must ensure that a transaction follows every applicable local, state, and federal law, as well as reflecting the key requirements, goals, and outcomes of the company participating in the transaction. Their job requires insight into the client’s needs, flexibility, and a willingness to cooperate with other attorneys and to serve the best interests of the companies for which they work.
During the negotiation process, contracts and other relevant documents may be written, rewritten, and revised many times. Because this work is time-consuming, corporate attorneys often work long hours. Stamina and commitment can become as important as knowledge and negotiation skills.
Corporate lawyers tend to work cooperatively, and there is rarely a large difference in power or equity between the parties to the contract. As a result, the job is typically team-oriented, with everyone focused on finding a common ground for the parties to the contract that results in a profitable deal for everyone involved.
At Assigned Counsel, our experienced recruiters can help you find a corporate law position at a company whose workplace culture and strategic goals suit your skills, abilities, and plans for the future. Contact us today.