Corporate Lawyer Salary

Corporate lawyers are responsible for all aspects of corporate law practice. This includes all legal processes related to the formation, operation, and governance of a corporation or corporation-like entity such as a limited liability company (LLC), partnership, or alliance. The corporate lawyer may be responsible for helping establish a new corporation, which requires filing articles of incorporation and adhering to all relevant federal, state, and local regulations. Once a corporation has been established, corporate lawyers give advice on its business transactions with other entities and provide advice about regulations, licensing of new technologies, and managomg all legal disputes regarding operations. Corporate lawyers are also responsible for providing advice and planning related to corporate mergers, acquisitions, and other large-scale strategic deals.

Corporate lawyers typically work in an office environment during regular business hours, although there is a high likelihood of overtime due to the demanding and fast-paced corporate atmosphere, especially when major deals, acquisitions, or restructurings occur. Corporate lawyers work closely with other members of the legal team, such as trademark and patent lawyers, to ensure the legality of all aspects of corporate operations. They meet with regulatory agencies to negotiate and ensure compliance with laws and other regulations. They also advise upper management on corporate strategy and regulatory issues. Some travel is required to meet with regulators, as well as observe and advise at satellite corporate offices and sites.

Corporate lawyers must have a juris doctor degree and membership in a state bar (typically the state in which the corporation operates). Experience of up to 10 years is required, as this may be a high-level position within the corporation that has extensive responsibilities. (Copyright 2017 PayScale.com)

Corporate Lawyer Tasks

• Represent clients in court or before government agencies, present and summarize cases to judges and juries
• Analyze and interpret laws, rulings and regulations with probable case outcomes for individuals and businesses
• Gather evidence to formulate defense or to initiate legal actions; evaluate findings and develop strategies and arguments for presentation of cases
• Advise clients in business transactions, claim liablility, advisability of prosecuting or defending lawsuits or legal rights and obligations
• Select jurors, argue motions, meet with judges and question witnesses during the course of a trial

For Corporate Lawyers, working in the bustling city of Washington has its advantages, including an above-average pay rate. Corporate Lawyers will also find cushy salaries in San Francisco (+43 percent) and New York (+24 percent). Place of residence plays a huge part in a Corporate Lawyer's salary, with Atlanta Corporate Lawyers earning salaries that are 39 percent less than the national average. Below-median salaries also turn up in Philadelphia and Miami (38 percent lower and 31 percent lower, respectively).