why should lawyer understand corporate finance

by Mrs. Tiffany Rau 8 min read

Lawyers who understand basic accounting and financial subjects have a far greater understanding of business and commercial endeavours. Law and finance training go hand-in-hand; they complement each other, giving you greater insight and knowledge, improving your business acumen, and ensuring your success in business matters. Asif Afzal

Lawyers with good financial acumen gain client satisfaction by handling corporate legal issues with the company's best interest in mind. To do this they must understand how legalities affect a company's financial position within their industry.

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Why is it important for corporate law attorneys to understand technology?

 · It is the job of a corporate lawyer to tell his clients the difference between equity and debt financing, weigh the pros and cons of both methods and advise his client accordingly which one will be the most suitable for the company. Hence, basic knowledge of corporate finance is a necessity for lawyers. Read Also – Some Latest Updates About ...

What is it like being a corporate lawyer?

Lawyers who understand basic accounting and financial subjects have a far greater understanding of business and commercial endeavours. Law and finance training go hand-in-hand; they complement each other, giving you greater insight and knowledge, improving your business acumen, and ensuring your success in business matters.

What do you want to know about corporate finance?

Curriculum Corporate Finance - What you need to know to be a successful lawyer The aim of this course is to provide law school students with a strong foundation in corporate finance so that they can be better lawyers. The course will explore the following themes: securities markets, investments, and valuation.

Is a career in corporate finance right for You?

There are several reasons how corporate lawyers can help your business. Below, we have mentioned some of the genuine reasons. 1. Protect Against Lawsuits Businesses are prone to lawsuits. There can be anyone who can file a lawsuit against you for whatever reason. Having corporate lawyers can help you prevent lawsuits.

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Why is it important to understand corporate finance?

Fully understanding how to read the company's stock performance will allow key individuals to see problems before they develop and act to prevent them. This will also help individuals throughout the company make better investment decisions.

Why do lawyers go into finance?

In my experience, most lawyers who want to move into finance cite the following reasons: “I can make more money!” “The work is more interesting or more exciting.” “I can influence companies and deals rather than just reviewing the paperwork.”

How does finance relate to law?

Finance Laws relate to any statutes, policies, regulations, or other forms of rules governing financial transactions in which one party raises money through borrowing, stock sales, bonds, or other means of investment.

Why are corporate lawyers important?

Because a corporate lawyer can help you structure and plan your business for success, even if you end up going with a business structure other than a corporation. It's always a good idea to have a lawyer on board to craft your business' managing documents, review contracts, and help you make other strategy decisions.

What is corporate finance law?

Corporate finance law consists of the legal rules that structure the financing of a business or start-up, i.e. how a company can obtain funds to finance its operations. Corporate finance law is related to other areas of law such as general contract law, property law, corporate law and securities law.

Is finance a good major for law school?

Average LSAT score: 155.23 A finance degree can be an excellent foundation for a career in corporate law. While you won't go into as deep of a dive into economics, you'll learn about corporate finances work.

What is banking and finance in law?

Banking and finance is a term of managing the money by investing it in either banks or other financial institutions. Basically, Finance is generally referred to as management of the money Whereas banking is defined as the stabilization of financial systems.

How do I switch from finance to law?

So what are some concrete steps to move from finance to law? Get a juris doctor degree (JD). Practice reading legal texts to familiarize yourself with the logic and idea structure. Discuss with attorneys in your current job to better understand how they think.

What a corporate lawyer should know?

What does a corporate lawyer do?Assisting with the legal framework for restructuring or selling companies.Negotiating contracts and agreements.Listing companies on the stock markets.Providing general legal council.Selling shares and assets.Handling employment law issues.Collaborating on strategic legal decisions.

What is the highest paid lawyer?

Highest paid lawyers: salary by practice areaTax attorney (tax law): $122,000.Corporate lawyer: $115,000.Employment lawyer: $87,000.Real Estate attorney: $86,000.Divorce attorney: $84,000.Immigration attorney: $84,000.Estate attorney: $83,000.Public Defender: $63,000.More items...•

How do corporate lawyers contribute to society?

Attorneys who practice law with ethics and integrity should contribute to the well being of society by promoting justice through fair procedures. Lawyers are advocates and advisors for our society. They work to represent individuals and corporations in civil trials, and to promote justice in criminal trials.

What should a lawyer know about corporate finance?

2) A lawyer in a corporate field should be aware of all the techniques on how finance can be created and earn profits with a lawful object to fulfil the purpose of the business commenced. 3) Funding a business could require good credit and solid financials which would give collateral support for a longer run.

What is the role of a lawyer in a corporation?

1) To assure the legality of the transaction done by such corporations. 2) Advice the corporations on its legal rights and duties. 3) The responsibilities of such corporations should also be remanded to the corporations. Corporation means the corporate officers involved in such field.

What is the most important aspect of company law?

The most important aspect is an intermit understanding of company law, this includes but is not limited to the New Company’s Act, the Competition Action, the Consumer Protection Act. The broad, knowledge of business entities, these types of lawyers have excellent drafting skills and can include and delete clauses in contracts for maximum value to the client.

What is a deposit in the Companies Act?

The definition of “deposit” as provided under the Companies Act 2013 and the Rules explicitly indicate that loans obtained by a company shall also be considered to be a deposit. Previously it did not require private companies to elaborate requirements to accept deposits in compliance with the companies.

What is a loan made or security or guarantee provided to any of the directors or any company or guarantee?

The loans made or security or guarantee provided to any of the directors or any company or guarantee is given to any company in which a director is interested in is to be restricted by a lawyer and prevent them from doing so.

What is debt finance?

When one runs short of finance, debt financing can be an option where the money is borrowed from any commercial finance companies or financial institutions.

What is the limit on inter-corporate loans?

The inter-corporate loans shall be limits and give guarantees or securities on behalf of the company shall be restricted to: 1) 60% of ‘ it’s paid up share capital. 2) 100% of its free reserves and securities premium account Whichever is more.

Why is it important to have a finance lawyer?

Keeping a finance lawyer is handy for when you experience problems because they are already versed with your company and could prepare better in answering summons or notices.

What is finance lawyer?

a Finance Lawyer. Lawyers are some of the most important people you should employ in any organization. They lay out the policies and guidelines in accordance with the mandate of the law and government. Without their expertise, you could run into problems concerning the implementation of the guidelines you create for your company.

Why is protecting your assets important?

When an issue arises, your property could be eyed by people who could claim rights from accidents, debt, and even dissatisfaction from your products and services. Your assets could be endangered to liquidation to compensate for these claims and you could lose your wealth over ugly and lengthy legal battles.

Why do you need an asset protection strategy?

This is to protect your assets from creditors so they get to access your most protected and important ones. There are legal ways to protect some of your assets from lawsuits, creditor claims, and even bankruptcy. You would need to tailor an asset protection strategy with your finance lawyer to allow him to analyze your financial status ...

Can you put your company at a disadvantage?

You could also put your company at a disadvantage if you don’t know your power as an employer. This is especially true in the finance sector as there are a lot of things you have to consider when it comes to paying your dues, taxes, and other financial declarations.

Can a finance lawyer help you?

It’s not only in finance that your lawyer can help you with but with general business and corporate law. Your finance lawyer can help you with any aspect of your business, but they are also versed in helping secure a more financially advantageous status. With their help, you wouldn’t have to run into problems and experience any losses due to ...

Why do lawyers need financial training?

Financial training gives lawyers extra credibility when dealing with clients and businesses. Every significant legal matter has a financial impact upon clients so anticipating, understanding, calculating and reporting these will help you to help your clients.

Why is financial knowledge important?

Financial knowledge enables you to detect any suspicious activity, document questionable practises and assist with financial management. Whether you work in a large commercial firm, a small local practice, or as in-house counsel, it is important that you have an appreciation of the financial aspects linked to your firm, clients, and business. ...

What does it mean to have aptitude for financial dealings?

An aptitude for understanding financial dealings means you can provide an improved service, structure positive and relevant information for clients, assist colleagues with any financial problems they encounter within cases, and prepare informed, educated documents and statements.

What is financial training?

Financial training is a transferable skill that can assist you in family law, commercial litigation or crime and virtually all other legal fields. Lawyers who understand basic accounting and financial subjects have a far greater understanding of business and commercial endeavours.

Business Owners and The Legal System

While running a business, owners can face several legal difficulties- for instance, lawsuits against the company or legal paperwork issues. This is why owners of both small and large scale businesses hore corporate lawyers before establishing new ventures. Working with a business lawyer is necessary for your business efficiency and compliance.

Why Should Businesses Hire Corporate Lawyers?

There are several reasons how corporate lawyers can help your business. Below, we have mentioned some of the genuine reasons.

Conclusion

While you might not need corporate lawyers in your journey to run a business; however, having a business lawyer can certainly help you prevent future business-related legal problems.

What is corporate finance?

Corporate finance is one of the most important part of the finance domain as to whether the organization is big or small they raise and deploy capital in order to survive and grow. There are various roles that corporate finance plays, which are very interesting and challenging, one of the main roles is that of being a financial adviser.

What are the three fundamental principles of corporate finance?

Let’s understand the three most fundamental principles in corporate finance which are- the investment, financing, and dividend principles.

How to determine optimal financing mix?

In order to determine the optimal mix, we need to study conditions where the optimal financing mix minimizes the acceptable hurdle rate. We also need to analyze the effects on firm value due to the change in capital structure. After we have defined the optimal financing mix, next we need to consider would be whether it would be a long term or a short term financing. We then include other considerations such as taxes and land up with strong decisions on the structure of financing.

What is working capital management?

Working capital management involves the relationship between a firm’s short-term assets and its short-term li abilities. The goal of working capital management is to ensure that a firm is able to continue its operations and that it has adequate ability to satisfy both maturing short-term debt and upcoming operational expenses. The management of working capital encompasses managing inventories, accounts receivable and payable, and cash.

What is the cost of capital?

The weighted average cost of capital (WACC) is defined as the weighted average cost of the component costs of debt, preferred stock, and common stock or equity. It is also referred to as the marginal cost of capital (MCC) which is the cost of obtaining another dollar of new capital.

Why is capital important?

Capital is an essential factor of production and has a cost. The suppliers of capital require a return on their money. A firm must evidently ensure that stockholders or those that have lent the firm money, such as banks, receive the return that they seek. The cost of capital is significant for a firm to calculate, as this is the rate of return that must be used when evaluating capital projects. The return from the project must be superior than the cost of the project in order for it to be acceptable.

Can a business be funded with equity?

Most often businesses are funded with either debt or equity or both. In the investment decision that we earlier discussed once we have finalized the mix of equity and debt and its effects for the minimum acceptable hurdle rate, the next step would be to determine if the mix is the right one in the financing principle section.

Why is it important to have a finance background?

For example, if you’re hoping to land a managerial position, having an understanding of finance can demonstrate key competencies to employers. Managers with finance skills are able to better understand their team’s impact on the overall company and make well-informed business decisions.

Why do companies need cash flow?

Your company needs cash flow to do things like pay everyone’s salary, distribute dividends, and reinvest in product innovation. Even if you don’t manage a budget yourself, finance is at the core of business decision-making.

How to get financial know-how?

To brush up on your financial terminology and get familiar with some basic concepts, you can start by exploring finance- and business-related articles, websites, and newsletters.

Is finance intimidating?

If you find finance intimidating, you’re not alone. When many people think of finance, they envision Wall Street high-rises, fancy suits, and frantic stock tickers. But it doesn’t need to be intimidating. In fact, anyone can—and should—have a basic understanding of finance. Here are five reasons why finance is essential knowledge ...

Is finance a good resume?

Especially if you’re entering the workforce as a young professional without extensive experience , showing you have business knowledge before you’re even in the field can make you a more attractive candidate. This is particularly relevant in non-finance fields, where financial education is less common but no less fundamental to running a successful business.

Does finance involve formulas?

You’ll Become a Stronger Problem Solver. Yes, finance involves formulas, Excel spreadsheets, and ratios. But it also involves analyzing these numbers and turning them into actionable business insights. For example, consider the concept of value and its role in business decisions.

Why do lawyers choose corporate law?

Some legal professionals choose the corporate law path specifically because they want to improve their work-life balance, which can be hard to do in a traditional law firm environment.

Why is it important to have a corporate law attorney?

Across the legal profession, advanced technical skills are needed. Data privacy and data security are top concerns for corporate legal departments. This is because most businesses rely heavily on technology not only for everyday operations but also to build their brands, interact with customers, innovate and more. It is therefore essential for corporate law attorneys to understand the many ways technology supports the business, and the potential risks that devices, systems, applications and new ways of working, such as cloud computing, may pose.

Why are corporate legal departments growing?

Many corporate legal departments are growing their teams because they need to watch the bottom line in a post-recession environment where businesses remain highly cost-conscious.

Why do companies need lawyers?

They need specialists to help them support higher demand for business-related legal services, including commercial litigation, contract management and patent filing. These specialists get ample opportunities to deepen their expertise, which can make them even more marketable for future roles in law or business.

Is a corporate lawyer a 9 to 5 job?

So, although a corporate law career may provide more flexibility to manage both business and personal obligations compared to a law firm position, it is unlikely to be a 9-to-5 job.

How to get into corporate finance?

There are many ways to get into corporate finance and many different career paths, the most common are highlighted below: 1 Training within the audit team of an accountancy firm and studying for the ACA/ACCA, typically qualifying after three years. Having established strong foundations, the move into corporate finance is much more natural. Typical moves usually include other accountancy firms, advisory firms, and investment banks. 2 Joining the corporate finance team of an accountancy firm as a trainee and studying for the ACA/ACCA, typically qualifying after three years. 3 Joining an advisory firm or investment bank straight from university as an analyst, with the option of studying for one of the qualifications if needed.

What is the best career for a finance major?

If you enjoy working with numbers and you have strong analytical skills, then corporate finance could be the career for you. Those who are good problem-solvers and have a strong attention to detail do well in the area.

Is corporate finance a business?

As corporate finance is so integral to business and covers such a range of duties, the opportunities really are endless. Many people choose to qualify and then remain as an advisor within an accountancy firm, or make the move to professional services companies, investment banks, brokerage firms, independent advisory firms or within a corporation.

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Corporate Finance

Role of Lawyers in Corporate Finance

  • Corporate finance lawyers advise companies on all aspects of the buying and selling of whole businesses or business assets. It requires guidance on how to comply with company law procedures, the raising of funds and, in the case of international transactions, compliance with foreign laws. It is possible to work on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) wit...
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The Role of Lawyers in The Corporate

  • 1) To assure the legality of the transaction done by such corporations. 2) Advice the corporations on its legal rights and duties. 3) The responsibilities of such corporations should also be remanded to the corporations. Corporation means the corporate officers involved in such field. To do the above-mentioned tasks one should possess, intense knowledge of the laws such as contr…
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Restriction on Investment

  • A corporate lawyer must restrict from investing more than two-fold in the case of shares, debentures and other securities. The companies which are outside India can be exempted from such restriction, and the laws of that country shall be applied. A subsidiary company having subsidiary investment for meeting the requirements under any law.
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Restriction on Loans to Directors and Other Persons

  • The loans made or security or guarantee provided to any of the directors or any company or guarantee is given to any company in which a director is interested in is to be restricted by a lawyer and prevent them from doing so. This provision from Companies Act, 2013 was first applied to public companies, but now it has been extended to the private companies also. Corpo…
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Loans and Borrowings of The Company

  • The inter-corporate loans shall be limits and give guarantees or securities on behalf of the company shall be restricted to: 1) 60% of ‘ it’s paid up share capital 2) 100% of its free reserves and securities premium account Whichever is more. By passing a special resolution in a general meeting, such restrictions can be overcome, or changes could be made to such limited conditio…
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Changes Made in Such Loans and Borrowings Recently

  • 1) The restriction was there in case of public companies but has now been extended to private companies. 2) Loans to companies are restricted and are extended to individuals and non-corporate entities. 3) Where a loan is guaranteed that security for such loan has been provided, in a case acquisition made by a holding company, where the passing of a particular resolution is n…
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Deposits

  • A public company can accept deposits from its members and other persons, while private companies can accept deposits only from its members. The definition of “deposit” as provided under the Companies Act 2013 and the Rules explicitly indicate that loans obtained by a company shall also be considered to be a deposit. Previously it did not require private companies to elabo…
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Debt Financing and Equity Financing

  • 1) Starting a business would cost much and needs a sound financial support. Finance is like a pillar of the business. Such loans shall be borrowed or can but invested from savings. When one runs short of finance, debt financing can be an option where the money is borrowed from any commercial finance companies or financial institutions. 2) A lawyer in a corporate field should b…
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Protecting Your Assets

  • Protecting your assets is imperative for any owner. When an issue arises, your property could be eyed by people who could claim rights from accidents, debt, and even dissatisfaction from your products and services. Your assets could be endangered to liquidation to compensate for these claims and you could lose your wealth over ugly and lengthy legal battles. To protect your asset, …
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Merging and Acquisitions

  • If you are eyeing expansion of your company by gaining revenues through merging or acquiring another company then you need to have a finance lawyer. You wouldn’t be able to successfully acquire or merge with a property or another company without the knowledge, expertise, and guidance of your finance lawyer. They would be able to help you with the legality of the transacti…
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Projections and Investments

  • Your finance lawyer would be able to give you powerful insights when it comes to projections of making possible investments. They can help you analyze the next best move when it comes to the potential acquiring of new assets. They can provide the guidelines to make the right decision and step to invest in shares and securities. You have to take not...
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Making Loans and Borrowing Money

  • Sometimes, a company would need to seek financial aid in the form of loans and borrowing of money. When you have no one to advise you on the most optimal way of doing this, you could run into problems as you can be indebted to more than you are supposed to. You have to go through terms of paying back, interests, and other technicalities. The most important thing is to not mak…
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Cost and Benefits

  • Your finance lawyer could work hand in hand with the Human Resource department in terms of coming up with the appropriate cost and benefits which includes monthly wages, benefits, and other financial entitlements. Since these aspects require a good reading of the law, they would need guidance in order not to run into problems because of unpaid or underpaid employees. Yo…
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