Becoming Business lawyer

A business lawyer applies their legal expertise to serve the interests of the company they work for. From legal monitoring to drafting contracts to formalizing ongoing projects, and even managing law firms in case of involvement in legal proceedings, the lawyer plays a crucial strategic role within the company. Business lawyers also provide legal advice to clients, ensuring that the corporation they represent stays within the boundaries of the law while pursuing its business objectives. Whether it’s structuring a limited liability company (LLC) or guiding a firm through complex legal matters, the business lawyer's role is indispensable.

Unlike a lawyer who handles multiple clients over different cases, a business lawyer works solely for their company. Therefore, they can choose a position in a company operating in a field they are particularly passionate about, as all sectors require legal expertise. Whether you are in Los Angeles, California, or elsewhere in the world, the need for specialized legal services is constant. In fact, lawyers in Los Angeles are frequently called upon to represent businesses in various legal matters, from corporate litigation to intellectual property disputes. You can practice as a business lawyer anywhere in the world, provided you have a thorough understanding of the legal system in the country where you work.

The daily tasks of a business lawyer vary significantly depending on the size of the organization and the department they work in. In a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME), they might be entrusted with diverse tasks, including commercial operations, whereas in a large corporation, they are more likely to handle specific duties such as drafting legal documents or conducting legal research at the beginning of their career. The type of company—whether a limited liability partnership (LLP), a corporation, or a small business—can also influence the scope of work.

Business lawyers often find themselves providing legal services in various domains, such as corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, tax law, and even estate planning. For instance, lawyers serving Los Angeles corporations may also assist with real estate transactions, a common need in southern California. The profession demands a deep understanding of the practice of law in business contexts, including the nuances of employment law, contract law, and business formation.

The required skills for a business lawyer depend on their position. Generally, the profession demands proficiency in the following areas:

• Mastery of legislative provisions specific to their field of activity: this includes understanding the legal issues surrounding business formation, contract negotiation, and corporate law. For instance, a lawyer in Los Angeles might need to be well-versed in California's specific business laws and regulations.
• Understanding the specifics of the judicial system in the country they practice: whether you're practicing law in the United States, such as in Los Angeles, California, or in another country, familiarity with the local legal system is essential.
• Ability to work independently, being organized and meticulous: this is crucial when managing complex legal matters, whether it's drafting a contract or advising on a business litigation case.
• Implementation of risk assessment tools: business lawyers must anticipate potential legal issues and mitigate risks for their clients or employers.
• Ability to communicate information accurately, measuredly, and precisely to the management team and operational staff: clear communication is key, whether you're discussing a legal agreement, a tax planning strategy, or the potential impact of litigation on the business.

A business law attorney must also possess strong interpersonal skills, as they often work closely with various stakeholders, including corporate managers, other attorneys, and external clients. They must be adept at negotiating agreements, understanding the client's needs, and providing tailored legal solutions.

To qualify for the position of a business lawyer, you must have at least a Master 1 degree. A Master 2 degree from a prestigious university or school will open doors to large corporations and allow quicker access to positions of responsibility. For instance, a degree from a renowned institution like the University of California can significantly boost your career prospects, especially if you plan to work in a competitive market like Los Angeles.

If you plan to work abroad or in a large corporation, choose a program focused on international law. Some schools, like emlyon business school in France, offer excellent programs such as the Specialized Program "Juriste Manager International" (taught only in French), which can be pursued on a work-study basis. This program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate complex international legal landscapes, providing a solid foundation for a successful career in business law.

In addition to academic qualifications, passing the bar exam is a critical step to becoming a practicing attorney. Once admitted to the bar, you can begin your career as a business lawyer, either in a law firm, as in-house counsel, or as part of a corporate legal team. The legal profession demands continuous learning, so staying updated on the latest legal developments and trends is crucial for long-term success.

The salary of a business lawyer depends on the company's reputation and the level of demands placed on them by their superiors. On average, the salary progresses as follows:

• Junior: 48,000 euros per year;
• Experienced: 59,000 euros per year;
• Senior: 75,500 euros per year.

However, these figures can vary widely depending on the location and the size of the company. For example, a business law lawyer in Beverly Hills or another affluent area in Los Angeles might earn significantly more, especially if they have a strong track record and are rated highly by peers and clients alike. Law firms in competitive markets often offer higher salaries to attract top talent, especially those with experience in corporate law, real estate, or intellectual property.

With experience, a business lawyer will gain more autonomy and responsibilities, potentially managing the legal department or becoming a legal director. In large corporations, experienced lawyers may also have the opportunity to serve as general counsel, overseeing all legal matters for the company. This role involves not only providing legal advice but also strategic planning and risk management, making it a key leadership position within the organization.

As you progress in your career, you may also consider specializing in a specific area of business law, such as employment law, intellectual property, or commercial litigation. Specializing can lead to more lucrative opportunities and the chance to work on high-profile cases or projects. Additionally, many business lawyers eventually transition into academia, teaching law at universities or business schools, or they may take on roles in professional associations, such as a bar association, where they can influence the future of the legal profession.

In summary, the business lawyer is crucial in preserving the company's legal interests. They can choose to specialize in currently thriving areas such as new technologies, cryptocurrency, or artificial intelligence. Business lawyers must be adaptable, constantly updating their knowledge and skills to keep pace with the ever-evolving legal and business landscapes. Whether you're working on a high-stakes litigation case, negotiating a complex contract, or advising on a corporate merger, the role of a business lawyer is both challenging and rewarding.

The legal issues that business lawyers face are as varied as the businesses they serve. From civil law matters to criminal investigations, the scope of work is broad and requires a deep understanding of the law and its applications in the business world. Lawyers serving in Los Angeles, for example, often deal with a wide range of legal issues, from commercial disputes to real estate transactions, reflecting the diverse needs of businesses in the region.

By selecting emlyon business school's Specialized master's in business law, ranked 3rd in Eduniversal's 2023 ranking of the best Masters, MS, and MBAs in Business Law and Management, you commit to an outstanding education that is highly valued by top-tier recruiters. This Specialized Master benefits from an exclusive partnership with the Cercle Montesquieu, an association of over 400 legal directors representing major sectors. Regularly ranked among the best French and European schools, emlyon continues to form international partnerships and expand its network, benefiting graduates for life.

The program at emlyon business school is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal issues that businesses face, from corporate law to estate planning. This program is taught in French only and can be followed via a work-study schedule (apprentissage).

Graduates of the program are well-prepared to handle the complexities of the legal profession, whether they choose to work in-house at a law firm, or as independent consultants. The program also emphasizes the development of practical skills, such as contract negotiation, risk management, and litigation strategy, ensuring that students are ready to step into the legal profession with confidence.

Whether you aspire to become a business lawyer in Los Angeles or anywhere else, the education and training you receive at emlyon business school will provide you with the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed in this demanding field. The program's strong focus on international law, combined with its extensive network of alumni and industry connections, makes it an ideal choice for those looking to make a mark in the world of business law.