Corporate law has become one of the most sought-after career choices for CLAT UG aspirants in recent years. Unlike litigation, corporate law deals with businesses, companies, and financial transactions. A corporate lawyer plays a crucial role in ensuring that businesses operate within the boundaries of the law while maximizing growth opportunities.

For students preparing for CLAT UG 2025–2026, understanding the role, skills, salary, and career path of a corporate lawyer can help decide if this is the right career after law school.



What Does a Corporate Lawyer Do?

A corporate lawyer specializes in the legal aspects of business operations. Their responsibilities include:

• Drafting and reviewing contracts, agreements, and policies
• Handling mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures
• Advising on taxation, compliance, and corporate governance
• Protecting company assets through intellectual property rights
• Ensuring compliance with national and international trade laws
• Representing companies in negotiations and dispute resolutions

In short, they act as legal advisors and strategists who protect a company from risks while enabling growth.

Essential Skills of a Corporate Lawyer

To succeed in corporate law, students need to develop specific skills during and after law school:

• Analytical ability – Interpreting complex laws and regulations
• Negotiation skills – Handling high-stake business deals
• Attention to detail – Drafting error-free contracts
• Commercial awareness – Understanding business markets and finance
• Communication skills – Explaining legal terms in simple language
• Research ability – Staying updated with changing laws and policies

These skills are cultivated at top NLUs through moot courts, internships, and corporate law projects.

Salary of a Corporate Lawyer in India

Corporate law is among the highest-paying law careers. Salary packages depend on factors like the law school, firm size, and specialization.

• Fresh Graduates from NLUs: ₹12–18 LPA at Tier-1 firms
• Mid-Level Corporate Lawyers: ₹20–30 LPA with experience
• Senior Corporate Lawyers/Partners: ₹50 LPA and above

Apart from law firms, corporate lawyers working with MNCs, consulting firms, and banks also receive lucrative salaries, often with global exposure.

Career Path of a Corporate Lawyer

A typical career journey looks like this:

1. Law School Admission – Clearing CLAT UG 2025 and entering a top NLU.
2. Internships – Gaining hands-on experience at law firms and companies.
3. Associate Position – Starting as a junior associate in a corporate law firm.
4. Senior Associate / Counsel – Handling bigger clients and projects.
5. Partner / In-House Counsel – Becoming a law firm partner or joining as a senior advisor in a corporate house.

This progression ensures long-term growth and recognition.

Corporate law is not just a profession — it’s a gateway to high-profile careers in business, finance, and global trade. For students preparing for CLAT UG 2025–2026, becoming a corporate lawyer offers respect, financial stability, and opportunities across industries.

👉 If you dream of working in top law firms or multinational companies, start your CLAT preparation today and set your sights on a career in corporate law.