The Job Description of a Real Estate Attorney
Attorneys, also referred to as lawyers, are an integral part of the American legal system. Since purchasing and selling real estate can be a stressful and complex undertaking, it is common for buyers and sellers to consult real estate attorneys for guidance and legal advice. The primary job of real estate attorneys is to accurately interpret real estate laws and advise clients on a variety of personal and business issues related to property ownership, management and investment.
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Function
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Real estate attorneys advise clients who are purchasing, selling, renting or inheriting real estate property. For example, a real estate attorney may research property titles and zoning laws for an investor who is interested in building a commercial building on a piece of land. In addition, these lawyers provide their clients with information regarding their legal rights and obligations and help set up wills and family trusts. Real estate attorneys also help buyers and sellers draw up real estate contracts and understand the terms and conditions involved in closing real estate sales. Other duties of a real estate attorney include acting as an estate trustee, performing notary functions, and disbursing funds for real estate transactions.
Education
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Following graduation from an undergraduate program, students seeking a career in real estate law must complete three years of law school. During their undergraduate years, students can prepare for law school by taking courses in philosophy, political science, history, English, public speaking and mathematics. After graduating from law school, lawyers must pass and be admitted to their state's bar.
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Skills
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While practicing law, real estate attorneys must be highly analytical, creative and logical. Strong client relation skills are important, since these professionals are entrusted with confidential information about their clients' personal and financial history. Internet research skills are helpful, as well as the ability to think quickly and strategically. Real estate attorneys should have excellent writing, oral and interpersonal communication skills, as they deal with different roles in the legal system and present cases in courtrooms.
Salary
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According to a November 2009 Salary.com report, the median salary for real estate attorneys in the United States was $115,409 per year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that the median annual salary for lawyers was $129,020, as of May 2009.
Potential
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Jobs for attorneys will grow at a rate of 13 percent between 2008 and 2018, according to the BLS. Employment for attorneys will be driven by population growth and increased business transactions. As more companies sell products and services, the level of legal conflicts, bankruptcy rates, civil disputes and issues surrounding antitrust laws are also expected to rise. Although competition for jobs among law school students is intense, candidates with above average academic records from prestigious universities and specialization in tax, admiralty or patent law will have the best job prospects.
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