BCG Attorney Search Comprehensive Attorney Practice Area Guide | BCGSearch.com

BCG Attorney Search Comprehensive Attorney Practice Area Guide

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Summary: Learn more about some of the biggest legal practice areas in these mini guides.

1. Alcohol Beverage Law Attorney

 

What Do Alcohol Beverage Law Attorneys Do?

There are a lot of opportunities with this topic to explore the laws and regulations around alcohol beverages, providing guidance for wineries, breweries, distilleries, and other members of the alcohol beverage industry, as well as negotiating and drafting warehouse, storage, and vendor agreements. Attorneys in this practice area also provide guidance on issues such as taxation, trademark and licensing, environmental compliance, and trade practices.

Many attorneys in this practice area have government backgrounds so they are used to working in areas like that where there's similar legislation. One major benefit of this practice area is the need to be flexible and adaptable since laws and regulations are always changing.


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2. Antitrust and Competition Attorney

 

What Does an Antitrust and Competition Attorney Do?

A lawyer that practices in this area is involved in matters such as antitrust law. Antitrust law regulates businesses at home and abroad to promote competition and competitive market practices. The laws are based on the Clayton Act and the Sherman Act. They also work with matters such as monopolies, conglomerations, merger controls, pricing limitations, marketplace competition, price-fixing, unfair competition, and unfair restraint.

These lawyers provide legal advice on topics that concern antitrust laws like cartels and dawn raids among other things. They are also involved in antitrust litigation that occurs between two or more business corporations. They often serve as representatives for the government. One of their duties is to investigate and examine alleged violations within their industry. These attorneys may also oversee a client's merger plans, acquisitions, and other transactions where antitrust issues might arise (such as price gouging).

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3. Bankruptcy Attorney

 

What Does a Bankruptcy Attorney Do?

The practice of bankruptcy law involves developing a plan that allows a debtor to resolve debts through the division of assets among creditors, different bankruptcy proceedings available and litigated in the United States Bankruptcy Courts, and representing clients that are in bankruptcy.

The practice area focuses on what happens when individuals or companies experience financial difficulties and go bankrupt. There are different bankruptcy proceedings available to debtors, including reorganization and dissolution. Bankruptcy cases are litigated in the United States Bankruptcy Courts, and cases are filed under Chapters 7, 11, 12, and 13. This practice can involve counseling clients that are considering going bankrupt, as well as representing clients that are in bankruptcy.

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4. Construction Attorney

 

What Does a Construction Attorney Do?

Construction law deals with a wide range of legal issues related to the building of commercial and residential buildings. The law involves contracts between many parties such as architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, and the government. The construction lawyer may also hold degrees in architecture or engineering in addition to a law degree. Some litigation-related work is done by them, but they are much more on the counseling side than litigators.

Construction law varies greatly across the country. It depends upon local laws and customs, which vary widely from state to state. In some places, there are no actual statutes, only common law rules that have been developed over time. Other states may rely more on legislative enactments such as building codes or statutes giving special powers to various government agencies involved.

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5. Corporate Attorney (General)

 

What Does a Corporate Attorney Do?

The major practice area of corporate law includes entity formation and corporate governance. Corporate work includes the creation of different kinds of entities, such as corporations, limited liability companies, and partnerships.

Corporate generalists typically deal with multiple different types of corporate-related work. On the West Coast (particularly Silicon Valley), corporate attorneys tend to work more with private companies; they counsel technology companies, do venture work, securities, and IPOs.

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6. Data Privacy Attorney

 

What Does a Data Privacy Attorney Do?

Data privacy lawyers focus on complex and evolving laws and regulations that govern everything that happens in connection with data transmitted and stored on computers. They specialize in issues such as consumer protection, privacy, and e-discovery.

They help you understand the risks associated with doing business electronically so that you can make decisions without worry or confusion. With the stakes even higher when it comes to safeguarding sensitive customer information yet more valuable than ever before - which is why we have Data Privacy Lawyers.

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7. Employment Attorney

 

What Does an Employment Attorney Do?

Employment law is the study of legal issues that arise in the employer/employee relationship. This plays a key role in ensuring the rights of both employees and employers are protected. These issues include labor disputes, sexual harassment cases, discrimination claims, and litigation-related matters as well as counseling. Most large firms deal with most of their work litigation-related matters because these generate the highest bills.

Employment Laws lawyers refer more clients as they offer continuity services that give individuals peace of mind by ensuring everything is up-to-date and correct before submitting any plans out into the wider legal world.

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8. Energy and Oil & Gas Attorney

 

What Does an Energy and Oil & Gas Attorney Do?

An energy and oil & gas attorney provides advice on regulatory law and policy as it pertains to energy use. Energy and Oil and Gas Attorneys represent the little (yet loud) voices of oil and gas in legislation, regulations as it pertains to energy use, production, transportation, refining, etc. Sometimes they provide advice in the area of commodities trading activities that relate to contracts for oil and gas.

The attorneys can provide legal advice on regulatory law that relates to regional coalitions for power purchase agreements or articulate a plan of action if any issue is created by some sort of problem. Some may also handle commodity trading activities related to various matters such as contracts between two parties (e.g., your company).

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9. Environmental and Land Use Attorney

 

What Does an Environmental and Land Use Attorney Do?

The Federal, State, and Local Laws & Regulations practice area deals with things relating to the Earth's natural and land resources. Matters like pollution, wildlife habitats, and other environmental-related issues are dealt with in this practice area.

Environmental And Land Use Lawyers provide legal advice on those who use the land or take care of animals in different ways. The laws they work under include the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, National Environmental Quality Act, Endangered Species Act, Marine Mammal Act, Migratory Bird Act. Public Interest Groups can also hire lawyers from this field to help represent their interests when it comes to environmental issues. Large companies who are looking for legal advice can also hire these lawyers to represent them and make sure they are abiding by our environmental laws.

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10. ERISA/Executive Compensation Attorney

 

What Does an ERISA/Executive Compensation Attorney Do?

The Employment Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) is a United States federal law that establishes guidelines for employee benefits, such as pensions, profit-sharing plans, and health insurance. ERISA also covers laws relating to the rights of participants in pension and welfare benefit plans. It deals with how pensions and benefits are handled for employees in private-sector companies including health care coverage, retirement packages, and more. It is also about making sure costs for these are as reasonable as possible to help both businesses and their employees manage finances better. ERISA is enforced by the Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA).

The ERISA attorney has three primary goals: provide strategic counsel to business owners; design an appropriate plan with security of insurance coverage; implement compliance with regulations that apply to such plans which may mean restraining cost expenditures by negotiating rates of reimbursement through providers, reducing risk exposure over time and many other things.

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11. ERISA Litigation Attorney

 

What Does an ERISA Litigator Do?

An ERISA litigator is a lawyer who specializes in lawsuits relating to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, which guarantees an individual's right to receive retirement benefits. An experienced attorney can help make sure that your rights are both protected and enforced, as well as give you vital information about when you might be eligible for compensation. Insurance tycoons often know very little about managing pensions other than managing profits; they often rely on lawyers if legal problems arise such as pensioners losing their earnings due to company closures or downgrades (especially controversial during periods of recession).

An ERISA litigator typically deals with cases involving ERISA law in the courts and the agencies. The trials usually do not have any factual disputes and are based on a written record. There is very little discovery or depositions.

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12. Family Law Attorney

 

What Does a Family Law Attorney Do?

A family law attorney is a legal representative with expertise in handling matters that have to do with families and the various combinations of marriages, divorces, guardianships, adoptions, or other scenarios. A family lawyer can also be called an "in rem" lawyer because they are representing specific claims that are being made against the whole family as opposed to individual members.

This practice area category focuses on civil matters relating to issues that occur with the family unit. Attorneys also assist in dealing with the financial and tax consequences resulting from their clients' divorces. Most of the work is found at very small firms and boutiques. A few large law firms maintain a practice to service their wealthy clients, but this is rarer and rarer. Family law is highly emotional and requires attorneys to be willing to tolerate highly charged emotions that characterize family matters. Most of the clients are individuals and not companies.

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13. Finance - Banking Attorney

 

What Does a Finance - Banking Attorney Do?

Banking law is a practice area that deals with the legal aspects of bank lending activity. Attorneys who work in this area provide advice on banking laws and regulations and assist their clients with the negotiation and drafting of various contracts such as syndicated credit agreements, security agreements, collateral agreements, inter-creditor agreements, and guaranties.

Banking lawyers also provide expertise in connection with senior debt transactions, subordinated debt transactions, acquisition financings, mezzanine financings, multi-currency financings. The practice also includes services related to regulatory compliance such as registration for establishing a new office or branch and foreign exchange listing applications.

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14. Finance - Project Finance Attorney

 

What Does a Finance - Project Finance Attorney Do?

A Project Finance Attorney is responsible for reviewing and providing legal advice, opinions, or professional services to an organization regarding any project finance matter. Typical tasks include issuing opinions on the legality of project financing arrangements involving complex commercial transactions such as government-supported projects, bridge loans, and loan guarantees.

A project finance attorney interacts with a wide range of parties involved in the construction, financing, and operation of these international projects. The broad scope of work performed by the attorney often includes advising clients on legal issues that arise in connection with the project. Additionally, attorneys in this area interface with builders, contractors, investors, lenders, and other parties involved in the project.

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15. Finance Attorney

 

What Does a Finance Attorney Do?

This practice area focuses on the legal aspects of finance. Finance law is a broad category that involves any lending or financing activity. Finance attorneys help clients with questions and issues that arise from their investments. This may include gift tax issues or taxation inquiries involving sale agreements for business purposes. The lawyer may perform estate planning tasks such as providing guidance on selecting beneficiaries and heirs; preparing affidavits to stake claims for estates; drafting wills; working with banks to establish trusts and dealing with inheritances or subsisting power of attorney obligations created in wills.

They are responsible for representing either lenders such as banks or other financial institutions, or borrowers such as companies, in the negotiation and drafting of loan agreements and related documents. Finance lawyers often specialize in a particular type of finance law, such as Banking Law, Project Finance, or Private Equity. They may be called upon to represent the bank in litigation matters relating to secured credit agreements.

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16. Food & Drug Administration Attorney

 

What Does a Food & Drug Administration Attorney Do?

The FDA was created in 1906 by the Food and Drug Agreement. Their main objective is to provide a system that would help ensure the safety of food and drugs in the market. They regulate as well as monitor compliance of companies that are subject to FDA regulation such as companies in the food and beverage, drug, dietary supplement industries.

The food and drug practice area encompass legal work specific to food and drug safety. It is heavily centered in Washington, DC. These attorneys counsel companies that are subject to FDA regulation, such as companies in the food or beverage industry. A large part of an FDA attorney's work involves navigating difficult legal processes like public health emergencies for consumers while enforcing laws that protect consumers from dangerous products.

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17. Government and Government Relations Attorney

 

What Does a Government and Government Relations Attorney Do?

A Government and Government Relations Attorney specializes in public policy advocacy, communications, stakeholder relations, legislative analysis, or administration. They understand the inner workings of government: how decisions are made internally by public agencies and officials as well as by Congress. They often work for nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), companies, associations, or unions that want a voice within the government to help make sure they meet their objectives successfully. A G&GR attorney needs to be detail-oriented due to the level of information needed for success in this position.

The practice area that is designated for government attorneys who are interested in representing federal and state governments and their agencies, provides advice on a host of issues pertaining to lobbying work, legislative law, budgets, and fiscal matters. These attorneys also provide regulatory compliance and political law representation as well.

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18. Government Contracts Attorney

 

What Does a Government Contracts Attorney Do?

A Government Contracts Attorney is a company that deals with the intricacies of contracting with the federal government. The law involves any company that needs to comply with all the statutes, rules, regulations, and procedures to do business with the government. Working with Government Contracts Attorneys can make it easier for your company to understand the law and how to fully comply.

A government contracts attorney drafts contracts that are awarded by various governmental agencies. A government contracts attorney is also responsible for negotiating the language of the contracts and helping draft performance agreements, which are documents that outline the expectations and obligations that an organization and its contractors must adhere to in order to carry out the work required by a contract.

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19. Health Care Attorney

 

What Does a Health Care Attorney Do?

A Health Care attorney assists clients utilizing the provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and their rights to health coverage under Title I or III of the ACA. In a sense, they are in charge of ensuring that an individual's rights are not violated during various insurance transactions. Ultimately, lawyers ensure that institutions provide full disclosure on policy limitations when they apply for various levels of coverage. Health care lawyers have their own areas of expertise. For instance, some of them focus on helping hospitals buy and sell each other, while others work with making sure doctors are in compliance with health care laws and regulations. In addition to that, there are those who help construct brand new facilities by assisting private developers as well as public entities.

This interdisciplinary practice area category focuses on the various entities and legal issues implicated by the world of health care, such as hospitals, doctors, long-term care facilities, medical device manufacturers, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and medical transportation companies. The practice can be transactional (general corporate), litigation, and regulatory-oriented. The corporate practice tends to be high margin while hospital representation is less so.

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20. Immigration Attorney

 

What Does an Immigration Attorney Do?

This practice area category covers national regulation of immigration and migration and includes citizenship and business immigration issues as well as the processes through which people may secure travel, work, or student visas. Most of the work is done for individuals (even when they are sponsored by companies). Most of the work involves drafting documents, going to immigration court, and counseling clients. The law firms that do this work tend to be small because the work is consumer-facing and it is difficult for law firms.

An immigration attorney is a lawyer who specializes in immigration and nationality law. They represent people before the federal immigration agencies, including the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, United States Customs and Border Protection, and United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Part of an attorney's job includes helping people become lawful permanent residents or citizens of the United States.

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21. Insurance Coverage Attorney

 

What Does an Insurance Coverage Attorney Do?

An insurance coverage attorney is a legal professional who advises on matters involving general insurance, gap coverage, surety bonds, and access insurance. They often become involved in questions of insurance coverage in cases arising from medical malpractice, construction defects, premises liability, fires, floods, and earthquakes. Most of the work is driven by contracts and questions of coverage.

An insurance coverage attorney safeguards client investment by negotiating the claim with insurance companies for coverage. Insurance coverage attorneys are needed to protect individuals and businesses from arbitrary denial of claims and significant financial losses when an insurance carrier denies a claim or offers only a fraction of the amount requested.

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22. Insurance Defense Attorney

 

What Does an Insurance Defense Attorney Do?

Insurance defense attorneys, work with insurance companies when consumers have a dispute that involves the amount of money that an insurance company must pay under a policy.

An insurance defense lawyer would review the case and see whether they could file a suit to recover from the financial provider. This type of legal activity is optional; therefore, attorneys charge up-front fees (cash or check only).

Why Do Insurance Defense Attorneys Enjoy Their Jobs?

People who enjoy this work like the fact that there is a lot of work to go around. Further, attorneys who do this work develop expertise and have the ability to move between firms. There is both high-end and low-end insurance defense work, and jobs on the low end (representing insurance companies in auto accidents, for example) typically do not require attorneys to have great qualifications.

As an insurance lawyer, you can be compensated for the work that you do on behalf of a client. This could include writing legal briefs and arguing them in front of a jury. You do not have to go into court cases, but you are more likely to get the best opportunities if you are actually practicing what you love. The pay is great if you win cases and helps with those days where clients are not paying up or things just are not going your way.

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23. Intellectual Property Litigation Attorney

 

What Does an Intellectual Property Litigation Attorney Do?

An intellectual property litigation attorney negotiates and litigates copyright, trademark, patent, and trade secret matters on behalf of clients before district courts and federal courts.  They work with clients to recover damages when there has been a violation of intellectual property rights and they also work with clients to develop appropriate measures to prevent infringement. An intellectual property litigation attorney is not confined to working in an office but is often required to attend court proceedings, client meetings, and hearings. They need to be knowledgeable about the statutes that apply so as to advise their clients on the best way to proceed.

The role of an intellectual property litigator is to represent parties in a lawsuit involving patents, copyrights, or trademarks. The cases can be litigated in federal court under patent law. Trademark and trade secret cases are litigated under state law, while judges hold Markman (claim construction) hearings for patent infringement cases which can define the scope of litigation fairly early on. Attorneys research and evaluate not only legal issues but also factual issues such as competing technologies and products in the market. This work can be very high stakes and influence the survival and success of companies. Because the work of an intellectual property attorney is so important to companies, many top firms want their attorneys to have advanced science degrees.
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24. Intellectual Property Patent Attorney

 

What Does an Intellectual Property Patent Attorney Do?

There are many individuals that go to law school in order to obtain their degree. In order to be a patent attorney, you must take the Patent Bar Examination. You need at least a 4-year bachelor’s degree in science or engineering to take the exam. This field is also known as "patent prosecution." This refers to the process of acquiring exclusive rights for an invention in the form of a patent with the USPTO office.

The patent prosecutor assists inventors with this process. They evaluate whether there will be any oppositions when filing for a patent; they examine an application against prior patents, defend it against oppositions, and oppose applications on behalf of others. An intellectual property patent attorney is a kind of specialized lawyer that works mainly on patents. They help to draft, file and prosecute patent applications in the United States Patent and Trademark Office. They also advise clients about patentability, infringement, validity, and damages.

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25. Intellectual Property Patent—Hard Sciences Attorney

 

What Does an Intellectual Property Patent—Hard Sciences Attorney Do?

An intellectual property patent hard sciences attorney is an individual who defends clients in United States courts of law for the infringement or violation of patents on inventions and advises other inventors about their rights with regards to ownership, assignment, license agreements, and other legal aspects relating to patents. They are required by federal regulation under Title 35 of the US Code (commonly known as The Patent Act)

This practice area category covers patent prosecution jobs that are focused on the hard sciences, which are electrical engineering, computer science, computer engineering, physics, and astrophysics.
 

Why Do Intellectual Property Patent—Hard Sciences Attorneys Enjoy Their Jobs?

 
Patent lawyers enjoy their jobs because it furthers their knowledge and helps them to learn about science and technology by interacting with scientists and inventors on a daily basis.

Most of their time is spent researching new developments in science, negotiating contracts, drafting agreements, attending court trials, or handling everyday business transactions. The job often requires them to travel to meet clients all over the country because it is difficult to find another lawyer nearby.

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26. Intellectual Property Patent—Life Sciences Attorney

 

What Does an Intellectual Property Patent—Life Sciences Attorney Do?

The intellectual property (IP) patent attorney for life sciences is responsible for assessing and evaluating intellectual properties that are related to life sciences. This practice area category covers patent prosecution jobs that are focused on the life sciences, which are biology, biochemistry, chemistry, organic chemistry, genetics, neuroscience, medicine, and chemical engineering.
 

Why Do Intellectual Property Patent—Life Sciences Attorneys Enjoy Their Jobs?

Many attorneys who are intellectual property patent attorneys for life sciences enjoy their work because it is not a lot of interactions with people. The work is also very detail-oriented and requires the ability to study and understand new technologies.

Attorneys become proficient in this practice area when they have the ability to take jobs in other states and law firms and move laterally. There are relatively long deadlines in this practice area, which makes the hours more predictable.

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27. Intellectual Property Trademark/Copyright Attorney

 

What Does an Intellectual Property Trademark/Copyright Attorney Do?

An intellectual property attorney for trademark or copyright work with the federal laws that protect copyrights and trademarks. They also take legal action to enforce these protections.

Clients can secure copyrights with the US Copyright Office for original creative works such as novels, screenplays, paintings, and other artworks. Clients can also secure trademarks with the US Patent and Trademark Office for their company and product trademarks and logos.

Why Do Intellectual Property Trademark/Copyright Attorneys Enjoy Their Jobs?

Intellectual property attorneys enjoy their work because they get to help companies by protecting their intellectual property. This work involves turning around the projects quickly and is also good for young attorneys who want to get up to speed on the law. A lot of the work done in this area-cease and desist letters and trademark prosecution- does not require a lot of complexity so it is a good area for people starting out.

There are a lot of trademark attorneys out there so they can be marketable when openings come up for positions. The practice area supports other areas in the firm and even the largest law firms may only have one or two attorneys dedicated to this area. One benefit is that there are consistently good in-house opportunities at most points in time.

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28. International Trade Attorney

 

What Does an International Trade Attorney Do?

An international trade attorney is a lawyer that is well-versed in the finer points of commerce and trade. They are usually employed by businesses or governments to make sure that everything about their trade is legal. An international trade attorney can also be employed by consumers for help in purchasing goods from other countries.

This practice area covers international trade law which deals with import-export laws, tax laws, trade laws, and laws that are derived from treaties (or statutes) that apply to trade between countries. Attorneys who do this work tend to be involved in both counseling and litigation. Clients are counseled on the best way to import or export goods. Litigation tends to involve defending clients against allegations that they broke various trade laws. There is also some overlap with intellectual property because American laws are designed to prevent infringing goods from being imported. Almost all of this work is in Washington DC.

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29. Litigation Attorney

 

What Does a Litigation Attorney Do?

A litigation attorney represents a client's legal interests and needs in a court of law. The litigation attorney would draft the pleadings, prepare witnesses, file motions and obtain evidence to show his or her client's position is the more compelling one. They may be employed by an organization or work for themselves as an independent lawyer.

A litigation attorney will litigate in state and federal trial courts. They may work on motions, take and defend depositions, and go to trials. Securities litigation is one type of litigation as well as white-collar crime. Appellate litigation is another type of law that a lawyer might work on, and International Arbitration is still another.

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30. Litigation-Tax Attorney

 

What Does a Litigation-Tax Attorney Do?

A litigation-tax attorney can represent their client before various courts. They usually handle tax cases, but they are also qualified to handle other types of cases. Litigation-tax attorneys have a wide variety of skills that are used to solve litigations.

Tax lawyers, also known as litigators, provide advice and advocacy on all types of tax law. Tax litigation involves complicated and intricate tax issues at the federal, state, and local levels. The scope of work for these attorneys includes income tax disputes, employment tax disputes, gift tax disputes, and estate tax disputes.

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31. Municipal Law Attorney

 

What Does a Municipal Law Attorney Do?

A Municipal Law Attorney is a lawyer who works with the state and municipal governments. A Municipal Law Attorney drafts and negotiates contracts, municipal ordinances, and other legal agreements. A Municipal Law Attorney also advises clients on how to comply with the law and ensure that their arguments will be processed correctly in court.

Municipal law is a practice area that can be quite diverse and may include ordinances, bylaws, charters, police powers, public records acts, and freedom of information act requests. Municipal lawyers provide guidance on these issues. They may also deal with contracts, bonds, real estate, and general corporate work. The work may also involve litigation when a dispute arises.

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32. Patent Agent/Technical Specialist Attorney

 

What Does a Patent Agent/Technical Specialist Attorney Do?

A patent agent/technical specialist attorney is a person who works as an expert witness and provides advice or guidance to help clients attain patents in the United States.

A patent agent/technical specialist attorney is a professional who assists their clients in obtaining patents for their inventions. They are not lawyers, but both patent agents and technical specialists have specialized technical knowledge in hard sciences or life sciences. Patent agents have been admitted to the patent bar/USPTO.

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33. Patent Agent/Technical Specialist Hard Sciences Attorney

 

What Does a Patent Agent/Technical Specialist Hard Sciences Attorney Do?

The Patent Agent/Technical Specialist hard sciences attorney is responsible for leading and managing the patenting process in various fields. This individual is tasked with analyzing, documenting, and presenting technical information to others. Additionally, this expert is responsible for discussing patents with clients and dealing with the prosecution of cases before the United States Patent Office. Finally, such an attorney must be able to prepare and negotiate licenses as well as counsel on infringement.

The Patent Bar is a professional organization for attorneys who have experience in the field of intellectual property law. Patent Agents must be admitted to the Patent Bar, whereas technical specialists do not need to be admitted. Most patent agents and technical specialists have advanced degrees. They attend law school, and many obtain a post-graduate degree in a related field such as engineering, chemistry, or natural sciences.

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34. Patent Agent/Technical Specialist Life Sciences Attorney

 

What Does a Patent Agent/Technical Specialist Life Sciences Attorney Do?

A patent agent/technical specialist attorney for life sciences usually deals with patents and intellectual property law, such as the acquisition of copyright protection for inventions or creations. This individual also negotiates licenses and patents in order to provide protection against infringement.

Patent agents and technical specialists are experts in the life sciences field who are able to specialize in such fields as biology, chemistry, chemical engineering, biotech, and biotechnology. Technical specialists do not need to be admitted to the patent bar and have advanced degrees. While Patent agents are required to be admitted to the Patent Bar.

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35. Real Estate Attorney

 

What Does a Real Estate Attorney Do?

A real estate attorney generally deals with matters pertaining to the legal aspects of a transaction such as mortgages and property contracts. A real estate attorney may also cover other forms of business including development projects, construction projects, and acquisitions.

Real estate law is a practice area that covers everything related to housing and development. It includes commercial projects, residential projects, real estate financing, sales, and rentals. The government is also involved in this practice because it helps clients with the local and state approval process for their development projects. Financing lawyers help borrowers and lenders. Transaction attorneys deal with negotiating and documenting transactions like leasing property, purchasing property, or applying easements.

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36. Tax Attorney

 

What Does a Tax Attorney Do?

A tax attorney is any practice that handles the U.S. federal and state tax laws for clients. One of the main roles of a tax attorney is to ensure that all taxes are paid correctly on all levels - from filing and paying taxes to resolving disputes with the IRS. They will also work to find ways to minimize their client's tax burden as much as possible.

This practice area category focuses on the law as it relates to matters of taxation, including corporate tax matters, income tax, and taxes on capital gains. This work is divided up into federal and state/local taxes. State tax attorneys deal with litigation-related issues (people looking for refunds or appealing an assessment). Federal attorneys deal with tax controversy (audit and litigation support) and transactional issues (cross-border transactions, M&A support, work for mutual funds, and so forth). Tax work in major law firms requires that an attorney gets an LL.M. to get extra exposure to various tax law issues.

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37. Technology Transactions Attorney

 

What Does a Technology Transactions Attorney Do?

A technology transaction attorney is a legal specialist who is well-versed in technology transactions law. This type of attorney deals with a lot of different types of work: mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance matters, intellectual property law, and other complex areas that come up in modern business. These attorneys are typically skilled at negotiating contracts, drafting agreements, and resolving disputes that arise from disagreements over the terms of a contract

Technology transactions attorneys are focused on the law as it relates to software licensing, software transfer, and outsourcing. They assist companies in accessing the different kinds of technologies that are being continually created so they can become more efficient and profitable. The technology transactions area of law combines aspects of both commercial law and intellectual property law and involves reviewing, revising, and drafting agreements in connection with licensing, outsourcing, and strategic partnerships and joint ventures. Most of this work tends to be centered in areas where there is a lot of technical work such as Silicon Valley.

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38. Telecommunications Attorney

 

What Does a Telecommunications Attorney Do?

A telecommunications attorney is an individual that specializes in the laws and regulation of all forms of telecommunications. A telecommunications attorney could be accredited with both USA and international law. The work of a telecommunications attorney includes representation in legislative efforts that affect communication services. Telecommunications attorneys are also required for the protection of companies’ licensing rights under US, as well as international, intellectual property, and business law.

This practice area category focuses on laws and regulations that relate to electronic communications and broadcasting media. Telecommunications attorneys must be familiar with federal laws regarding telecommunications, as well as the rules and regulations promulgated by the Federal Communications Commission. Telecommunications law is an evolving area of law, and telecommunications attorneys are called upon to provide advice for a host of issues such as wireless communications, video conferencing, and satellite and cable television services.

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39. Trusts and Estates Attorney

 

What Does a Trusts and Estates Attorney Do?

A trust and estates attorney, also sometimes referred to as a property lawyer, is an attorney who handles, among other things, the affairs of people who have died. This includes making sure that any debts are paid off and that the estate goes to the people within the will of the person who passed away.

A trusts and estates attorney is someone who specializes in the laws, trusts, and estates as they relate to an individual or heir. They deal with aspects of family law, taxation, business law, and probate law, as well as questions of community property and joint ownership. A trusts and estates attorney spends their time drafting estate plans for clients, counseling them on their individual situation, administering estates both in court and out of court.

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40. White Collar Crime Attorney

 

What Does a White Collar Crime Attorney Do?

A white-collar crime attorney is an experienced and qualified criminal defense lawyer who has been educated about the different types of crimes that are considered to be "white collar" offenses.

This practice area focuses on the defense of people accused of nonviolent crimes that are a result of financial gain. These crimes are typically motivated by commercial and financial activities, including fraud, corruption, bribery, and economic espionage. This area also includes other types of nonviolent crimes like antitrust violations, securities violations, tax evasion, counterfeiting, money laundering, and embezzlement.

Why Do White Collar Crime Attorneys Enjoy Their Jobs?

The white-collar crime attorneys I interviewed seem to enjoy the complexity of their jobs. There is a lot of motion work, court appearances, and trials. There is also close client contact with white-collar crime clients. It seems to be more drama-filled than other practice groups, which also contributes to their enjoyment.

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41. Workers’ Compensation Attorney

 

What Does a Workers' Compensation Attorney Do?

Workers' Compensation Attorneys will typically be hired by an employer or by an individual who has obtained a settlement from that employer. They represent their client's interests and ensure that they get the money they deserve for any injuries, no matter how small or severe, they sustain because of their employment.

A worker's compensation attorney provides services to help people get paid medical benefits and wage replacement in cases where people have been hurt at work. They also represent insurance companies against such claims if they do not wish to pay.

Why Do Workers' Compensation Attorneys Enjoy Their Jobs?

The work of a workers' compensation lawyer can be rewarding in many ways. One is that they are able to help people get compensated for injuries. Other attorneys enjoy the satisfaction of settling cases and enjoy high-volume practices.

The work is similar to general litigation but there is more contact with individuals which some attorneys like. It is recession-proof, providing stability to the attorneys who do this type of work. Some attorneys enjoy working with people and helping them when they have been injured.

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About Harrison Barnes

Harrison Barnes is a prominent figure in the legal placement industry, known for his expertise in attorney placements and his extensive knowledge of the legal profession.

With over 25 years of experience, he has established himself as a leading voice in the field and has helped thousands of lawyers and law students find their ideal career paths.

Barnes is a former federal law clerk and associate at Quinn Emanuel and a graduate of the University of Chicago College and the University of Virginia Law School. He was a Rhodes Scholar Finalist at the University of Chicago and a member of the University of Virginia Law Review. Early in his legal career, he enrolled in Stanford Business School but dropped out because he missed legal recruiting too much.

Barnes' approach to the legal industry is rooted in his commitment to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. He believes that the key to success in the legal profession is to be proactive, persistent, and disciplined in one's approach to work and life. He encourages lawyers to take ownership of their careers and to focus on developing their skills and expertise in a way that aligns with their passions and interests.

One of how Barnes provides support to lawyers is through his writing. On his blog, HarrisonBarnes.com, and BCGSearch.com, he regularly shares his insights and advice on a range of topics related to the legal profession. Through his writing, he aims to empower lawyers to control their careers and make informed decisions about their professional development.

One of Barnes's fundamental philosophies in his writing is the importance of networking. He believes that networking is a critical component of career success and that it is essential for lawyers to establish relationships with others in their field. He encourages lawyers to attend events, join organizations, and connect with others in the legal community to build their professional networks.

Another central theme in Barnes' writing is the importance of personal and professional development. He believes that lawyers should continuously strive to improve themselves and develop their skills to succeed in their careers. He encourages lawyers to pursue ongoing education and training actively, read widely, and seek new opportunities for growth and development.

In addition to his work in the legal industry, Barnes is also a fitness and lifestyle enthusiast. He sees fitness and wellness as integral to his personal and professional development and encourages others to adopt a similar mindset. He starts his day at 4:00 am and dedicates several daily hours to running, weightlifting, and pursuing spiritual disciplines.

Finally, Barnes is a strong advocate for community service and giving back. He volunteers for the University of Chicago, where he is the former area chair of Los Angeles for the University of Chicago Admissions Office. He also serves as the President of the Young Presidents Organization's Century City Los Angeles Chapter, where he works to support and connect young business leaders.

In conclusion, Harrison Barnes is a visionary legal industry leader committed to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. Through his work at BCG Attorney Search, writing, and community involvement, he empowers lawyers to take control of their careers, develop their skills continuously, and lead fulfilling and successful lives. His philosophy of being proactive, persistent, and disciplined, combined with his focus on personal and professional development, makes him a valuable resource for anyone looking to succeed in the legal profession.


About BCG Attorney Search

BCG Attorney Search matches attorneys and law firms with unparalleled expertise and drive, while achieving results. Known globally for its success in locating and placing attorneys in law firms of all sizes, BCG Attorney Search has placed thousands of attorneys in law firms in thousands of different law firms around the country. Unlike other legal placement firms, BCG Attorney Search brings massive resources of over 150 employees to its placement efforts locating positions and opportunities its competitors simply cannot. Every legal recruiter at BCG Attorney Search is a former successful attorney who attended a top law school, worked in top law firms and brought massive drive and commitment to their work. BCG Attorney Search legal recruiters take your legal career seriously and understand attorneys. For more information, please visit www.BCGSearch.com.

Harrison Barnes does a weekly free webinar with live Q&A for attorneys and law students each Wednesday at 10:00 am PST. You can attend anonymously and ask questions about your career, this article, or any other legal career-related topics. You can sign up for the weekly webinar here: Register on Zoom

Harrison also does a weekly free webinar with live Q&A for law firms, companies, and others who hire attorneys each Wednesday at 10:00 am PST. You can sign up for the weekly webinar here: Register on Zoom

You can browse a list of past webinars here: Webinar Replays

You can also listen to Harrison Barnes Podcasts here: Attorney Career Advice Podcasts

You can also read Harrison Barnes' articles and books here: Harrison's Perspectives


Harrison Barnes is the legal profession's mentor and may be the only person in your legal career who will tell you why you are not reaching your full potential and what you really need to do to grow as an attorney--regardless of how much it hurts. If you prefer truth to stagnation, growth to comfort, and actionable ideas instead of fluffy concepts, you and Harrison will get along just fine. If, however, you want to stay where you are, talk about your past successes, and feel comfortable, Harrison is not for you.

Truly great mentors are like parents, doctors, therapists, spiritual figures, and others because in order to help you they need to expose you to pain and expose your weaknesses. But suppose you act on the advice and pain created by a mentor. In that case, you will become better: a better attorney, better employees, a better boss, know where you are going, and appreciate where you have been--you will hopefully also become a happier and better person. As you learn from Harrison, he hopes he will become your mentor.

To read more career and life advice articles visit Harrison's personal blog.


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