Business lawyers specialize in the legal aspects of issues affecting businesses. This area of law encompasses corporate finance, intellectual property law, mergers and acquisitions, banking securities law and employment law – among others. Due to its complexity, legal issues that a business lawyer encounters may require an in-depth knowledge of applicable legislation in their practice area.
Attorneys for businesses can be invaluable resources in terms of helping their client companies to stay within the bounds of current legal regulations and procedures. Business attorneys typically get involved with business procedures and overall layout of companies, which requires knowledge of current legislation. Furthermore, business attorneys assist clients with various financial matters like incorporation filing paperwork and setting up bank accounts as well as obtaining EIN numbers (think of them like social security numbers for your company) and negotiating contracts.
Business lawyers often handle large sums of money and multiple business entities, so they need excellent research skills and a dedicated team behind them to assist. Furthermore, because this type of lawyer frequently handles legal analysis and advice in their jurisdiction, it’s imperative that they can access up-to-date legal updates.
Finally, it is vital for business lawyers to stand up for their client when necessary. Just as with other types of attorneys, business lawyers may need to defend against accusations of fraud or other legal wrongdoing; but in an effective and professional manner; being familiar with legal protocol is therefore key for this type of attorney.
Businesses often employ business lawyers on staff; this is particularly common at larger firms like retail stores, banks, oil firms, hospitals, medical equipment manufacturers and biotechnology companies. Small businesses usually only need one lawyer on hand but larger enterprises often need several.
Aspiring business lawyers must first complete an undergraduate degree before attending law school. No specific undergraduate major is necessary, though gaining one related to your area of specialization would likely prove beneficial. Once at law school, taking courses designed to develop reading and writing abilities will prove invaluable when beginning practice as business lawyers – they are the cornerstones of research and legal analyses! In order to become licensed lawyers you will also have to pass a bar exam; once done so you’ll be ready to start pursuing your ideal career!
