A business attorney handles legal issues that arise between two or more business entities. Job duties of a business attorney include legal research, preparing documents for court filings, arguing a case in front of a jury or judge, and negotiating settlements on behalf of clients.
Work as a business attorney happens mostly in an office setting and is both fast-paced and exciting. The following steps are necessary to begin working as a business attorney.
Obtain An Undergraduate Degree
Most law schools require a bachelors degree before a student can apply for admission. There is no particular undergraduate degree that improves the chances of admission to law school. Many students who plan to enter law school after earning a bachelors degree choose to major in English or literature due to a belief the reading involved with these majors is good preparation for the studying they will do after registration for the LSAT. However, a student aspiring to focus on business as a lawyer might consider an undergraduate degree in business administration.
Pass The LSAT
The Law School Admissions Test is a multiple choice exam that measures a law school candidate’s ability to comprehend what they read, think critically, and reason analytically. Preparation is vital to a successful score on the exam and you should begin studying as soon as you complete the registration for the LSAT.
Finish Law School
Four-years of full-time study is generally required to obtain a law degree. The first year of study concentrates on basic legal subjects like torts, contracts, and constitutional law. The following two years place a heavy emphasis on elective courses, internships, and real-world experience.
Sit For The Bar Exam
The United States Bureau of labor restrictions reports that each state in America requires a license for an attorney to practice law within their jurisdiction. The first step in the licensing procedure in most states is to take and pass the bar exam. The bar exam is a little different from state to state but you can expect some combination of essay and multiple choice questions.
Work Experience
Most new lawyers look to various size law firms for employment after passing the bar exam. But mid-sized businesses and corporations also hire lawyers to provide them with legal advice when they needed. This working arrangement is often referred to as becoming an ‘in-house attorney.’ Some businesses will only hire lawyers with experience in this capacity but if you are lucky enough to land this type of job early in your career it is a great way to gain practical attorney experience in the business world.
Consider A LLM
A master of law degree is available at many law schools for Business and Corporate Law. The courses are available to practicing lawyers and include subjects like the regulation of securities, finance and accounting for attorneys, and secure transactions. This advanced training in business-related topics may make your resume more appealing to prospective employers. Achieving these credentials may also attract the attention of private clients if you decide to practice on your own.
A career as a business attorney can be both challenging and rewarding. The process of becoming a business lawyer is a long one that will take much effort. The six steps above are necessary to place yourself on this exciting career path.
And I’d like to add: Be committed to marketing and business development. The list in the post is only a ticket to admission to the practice, but it does not guarantee success. If you are not committed to marketing, networking, business development, your success as a lawyer will be limited.