How to Become a Corporate Attorney

It takes much study to become a corporate attorney.

Corporate attorneys work for law firms or are part of the legal staff of a corporation. These professionals focus on helping businesses comply with the requirements of corporate law. They also assist with the defense against lawsuits. However, before becoming a corporate attorney, you must complete several years of education and pass your state bar examination.

Instructions

1. Complete a bachelor's program. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people interested in corporate law must first complete a bachelor's degree, which takes four-years of full-time study. There isn't a specific "prelaw" major, however, courses in government, philosophy, history, economics and public speaking are highly recommended. Often times, universities will have a pre-law adviser who can help you select your coursework.

2. Take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). As of 2008, all law schools that are approved by the American Bar Association require the LSAT exam for admission. Register to take the LSAT test online (see Resources) with the Law School Admissions Council. Inexpensive study guide materials can also be obtained from the LSAC. As of 2010, the cost to take the LSAT was $132.

3. Submit law school applications. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2008 there were 200 accredited law schools in the United States. When submitting law school applications, you will need to provide certified undergraduate transcripts and your LSAT scores. If you need help finding law schools, contact the American Bar Association (see References) for programs in your area.

4. Choose to specialize in corporate law. Law school takes three years of full-time study to complete. During the first year, students will study general law, such as contracts, property law, civil procedure and other courses. However, after the general courses are completed, you may choose to specialize in corporate law. During this time you'll receive the specialized knowledge needed to practice corporate law pending graduation.

5. Pass the state bar exam. All law school graduates must pass a state bar test, which examines their knowledge of law. Your state may also require applicants to pass an exam that focuses on ethics and law. Contact the American Bar Association to get contact information for your state's examination office. After passing the exam, you will become a certified attorney and can practice corporate law in your state.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply for internships in corporate law offices during your undergraduate study. This will give you exposure to this area of law and make your law school application stronger.

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, competition to get into law school is very difficult.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Lawyers
• Law School Admissions Council: Register to take the LSAT
• American Bar Association: Find Law Schools