How to Make a Career in Commercial Law?

Commercial law is the area of law that deals with the rules businesses must follow when buying, selling, trading, or signing contracts. It ensures that companies operate legally and smoothly in the marketplace. This blog is designed for students who want to pursue a career in commercial law and want to know how to make a career in commercial law. The blog explains what commercial law includes, what subjects to study, the skills you need to succeed, and how to gain real-world experience through internships and opportunities at top law firms.

What is Commercial Law?

Commercial law is a branch of law that deals with the sale and distribution of goods, business transactions, and services. It covers areas such as company formation, mergers and acquisitions, contracts, intellectual property, and workplace regulations. If you are wondering what commercial law is used for, understand that it helps ensure businesses follow legal rules while operating.

Explore Some Study Abroad Universities Offering Law Courses

The University of Law

Top Business Schools in Canada

The University of Buckingham

Northumbria University

Branches of Commercial Law

Commercial law includes many important branches that guide how businesses operate within legal boundaries. Each branch of commercial law focuses on a particular area of business activity. Here are the major branches of commercial law:

1. Contract Law

Contract law is a key part of commercial law that focuses on legally binding agreements in business, such as hiring employees, buying or selling goods, and forming partnerships. These contracts outline the rights and responsibilities of each party involved. 

For a contract to be valid, it must follow certain legal rules, like consent and consideration. When one party fails to meet the terms, the other can seek legal remedies. Contract lawyers help ensure agreements are clear, enforceable, and protect the interests of the business.

2. Property Law

Property law is a branch of commercial law that governs the legal aspects of owning, using, and transferring property in a business context. It applies to transactions that involve immovable assets like land, offices, or factories, as well as movable goods under bailment.  The property law ensures that the sale, lease, or rental of property is handled legally and fairly. It also helps resolve disputes over ownership and usage rights. 

3. Business Tax Law

Business tax law is a branch of commercial law that deals with how businesses are taxed by the government. It applies to all companies, from small firms to global corporations, and includes taxes such as income tax, GST, excise duties, and property tax. These taxes influence how businesses plan, invest, and operate. A business tax lawyer helps companies understand their tax obligations, manage filings, and reduce the risk of penalties. 

4. Corporate Law

Corporate law is a key branch of commercial law that focuses on how companies are formed, managed, and dissolved. It covers legal aspects such as appointing directors, issuing shares, structuring capital, and handling mergers or acquisitions. This law also addresses insider trading, dividend distribution, and corporate governance. Corporate lawyers help businesses follow legal rules, manage disputes, and operate responsibly. For example, during a company merger, legal guidance ensures a smooth transition while protecting the rights of stakeholders and complying with regulations.

5. Antitrust Law

Antitrust law, also known as competition law, ensures that businesses operate fairly and ethically in the market. It avoids practices like price fixing, market manipulation, and monopolies that harm competition and consumers. This branch of commercial law promotes equal opportunities for all businesses, whether small or large. Antitrust lawyers help companies follow fair trade rules and avoid legal risks.

6. Uniform Commercial Code (UCC)

The Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) is a set of standard laws that guide commercial transactions across regions, especially in countries like the United States. It ensures fairness and consistency in business practices such as the sale of goods, use of negotiable instruments, bank dealings, and secured loans. The UCC protects the rights of both buyers and sellers by clearly outlining their responsibilities. For example, when a business secures a loan using inventory as collateral, the UCC governs the terms of that transaction.

7. Intellectual Property (IP) Law

Intellectual Property (IP) Law is a branch of commercial law that protects the unique creations of businesses, such as inventions, brand names, logos, designs, and software. It gives legal ownership to creators, helping them prevent others from copying or using their work without permission. IP rights are essential for securing a company’s identity and competitive edge in the market.

8. Competition (Antitrust) Law

Competition law, also known as antitrust law, ensures fair market practices by preventing businesses from engaging in unfair or anti-competitive activities. It stops practices like price fixing, market division, and abuse of dominant position that can harm consumers or small businesses. This branch of commercial law promotes healthy competition, protects consumer choice, and encourages innovation.

Also Read: Best Online Business Law Degrees to Apply

Specialised Practice Areas in Commercial Law

Specialised practice areas in commercial law cover fields such as banking and finance law, insolvency and bankruptcy law, technology, media, telecommunications technology, media, telecommunications (TMT) / cyber law and likewise. These commercial laws help prevent fraud, protect consumer rights, and support fair business practices across industries.

Type of Commercial Law	What the Law Covers	What the Law Aims to Do (Purpose)	How a Commercial Lawyer Helps
Banking and Finance Law	Banking and Finance Law lending, borrowing, financial products, and banking rules.	Keeps financial markets fair, stable, and safe for everyone.	A banking and finance lawyer helps draft finance deals, advises on RBI rules, and handles banking disputes.
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Law	Insolvency and Bankruptcy Law covers the financial troubles of a company, restructuring, and liquidation.	Makes it easier to close or fix failing businesses fairly and quickly.	Commercial lawyer advises on IBC, files cases, and helps in creating resolution plans.
Technology, Media, Telecommunications (TMT) / Cyber Law	TMT or Cyber Law online privacy, data security, e-commerce, telecom, and digital content.	Protects digital rights and keeps the online space safe and fair.	TMT lawyer drafts IT contracts, ensures data law compliance, and handles cybercrime cases.
Real Estate and Infrastructure Law	Real estate and infrastructure involve buying/selling property, leasing, and big project contracts.	Ensures clear ownership and smooth real estate and project development.	A commercial lawyer does legal checks, drafts property documents, and manages land disputes.
Labour and Employment Law	Labour and employment law covers rights of employees, workplace rules, and hiring or firing practices.	Promotes fair treatment and safety at work for all.	A labour and employment lawyer helps with contracts, labour law compliance, and workplace disputes.
International Trade Law	International trade law manages rules for cross-border trade, customs, and global agreements.	Encourages fair and smooth trade between countries.	A commercial lawyer helps with trade laws, handles customs issues, and fights unfair trade charges.
Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) Compliance	ESG on sustainability, ethics, and corporate governance.	Encourages companies to act responsibly toward society and the planet.	An ESG lawyer builds ESG plans, checks risk, and ensures rules are followed.
Dispute Resolution (Arbitration, Mediation, Litigation)	Dispute Resolution or Arbitration, Mediation, Litigation covers legal ways to solve business conflicts in or out of court.	Helps settle issues quickly without long trials.	A dispute resolution commercial lawyer represents in court or arbitration and helps with peaceful settlements.
Franchise Law	Franchise law governs how franchisors and franchisees work together.	Ensures fair franchise terms and protects brand use.	A commercial lawyer dealing with franchise law drafts agreements, checks IP rights, and solves franchise conflicts.
Consumer Protection Law	Consumer protection law protects buyers from fake ads, faulty goods, or bad service.	Gives buyers rights and fast help if things go wrong.	Consumer protection lawyer helps follow consumer laws, responds to complaints, and defends in forums.

Commercial Law vs Corporate: Understand the Differences 

When choosing a legal career, knowing the difference between commercial law vs corporate law helps you focus better. Both deal with business, but one handles transactions while the other focuses on how companies are structured and managed.

Feature	Commercial Law	Corporate Law
Definition	Commercial Law focuses on business activities such as making contracts, selling goods, and resolving trade-related disputes.	Corporate Law focuses on the legal creation, structure, management, and governance of companies.
Applicability of the Law	Commercial Law applies to all types of business entities, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, and companies.	Corporate Law applies specifically to registered companies and corporate entities with separate legal identity.
Relevant Legislation (India)	Commercial Law involves the Indian Contract Act, Sale of Goods Act, Consumer Protection Act, and the Competition Act.	Corporate Law involves the Companies Act, SEBI Act, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, and FEMA.
Syllabus for Law Students	The syllabus under Commercial Law includes contracts, consumer protection, e-commerce regulations, arbitration, and intellectual property rights.	The syllabus under Corporate Law includes company incorporation, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), shareholder rights, board governance, and securities regulation.
Job Roles	Career opportunities in Commercial Law include roles such as commercial lawyer, legal advisor, compliance officer, IP consultant, and arbitration associate.	Career opportunities in Corporate Law include roles such as corporate lawyer, legal manager, M&A associate, company secretary, and regulatory affairs manager.
Work Environments	Professionals in Commercial Law are typically employed in law firms, startups, e-commerce companies, arbitration centres, and business consultancies.	Professionals in Corporate Law are typically employed in corporate law firms, in-house legal teams of large companies, Big Four consultancies, and investment firms.
Average Salary in India	The average salary for entry-level positions in Commercial Law ranges from ₹4–6 LPA and can increase to ₹10–15 LPA with experience.	The average salary for entry-level positions in Corporate Law ranges from ₹6–10 LPA and can exceed ₹20 LPA in senior roles.
Career Scope	Commercial Law offers growth in sectors such as retail, technology, media, consumer goods, and intellectual property services.	Corporate Law offers growth in areas such as finance, corporate governance, investment structuring, and global business operations.

What is the Role of a Commercial Lawyer?

Commercial lawyers help businesses handle their legal work so they can run smoothly and avoid legal trouble. Their role covers everything from giving legal advice to solving disputes and drafting agreements. Here is what commercial lawyers do:

• Offer guidance on legal issues related to contracts, business setup, intellectual property, and rules businesses must follow.

• Help in deciding the right business structure, such as a partnership or private company, and prepare important documents like partnership or shareholder agreements.

• Write, review, and negotiate contracts such as sales, service, or lease agreements, to make sure terms are clear, fair, and protect the business.

• Assist when there is a legal dispute, whether it is with another business or within the company, and work toward a solution through discussion, mediation, or court if needed.

• Make sure the business follows all legal rules, including updates in the law, and help revise policies or processes when required.

• Support during company mergers or purchases by checking legal details, conducting due diligence, and preparing or reviewing related agreements.

• Handle employment matters by preparing job contracts and helping with legal issues between the business and its employees.

How to Become a Commercial Lawyer?

A commercial lawyer provides legal advice to companies on contracts, business laws, and commercial transactions. To pursue this career, students can opt for integrated law courses such as B.A. LL.B. or B.B.A. LL.B., and appear for entrance exams like CLAT, AILET, or LSAT–India. Gaining internship experience is essential for building practical legal skills. For those seeking to develop specialised knowledge in a shorter duration, a Diploma in Business Law in India is a valuable option, especially for learning the legal aspects of corporate operations.

To explore this path further, let’s look at the key areas: Courses to Become a Commercial Lawyer, Law Entrance Exams in India, and Internship and Networking Opportunities in Commercial Law.

Courses to Become a Commercial Lawyer

To become a commercial lawyer, students must pursue law-focused academic qualifications that cover both legal and business principles. The journey generally begins with an integrated undergraduate degree followed by an optional postgraduate specialisation. Different course options exist, each offering different levels of expertise in commercial law. Refer to the table below to explore the key courses to become a commercial lawyer.

Type of Program	Description & Focus of Commercial Law (Indian Context)	Specialisations or Benefits for Commercial Law	Entrance Exams & Duration
Undergraduate Integrated Law Degrees (After 10+2)	Undergraduate integrated law degrees offer direct admission into the field of law after completing Class 12. The programs combine a law degree with another undergraduate stream to build a strong base in legal and commercial principles.	Integrated law degrees help students gain early knowledge of corporate law, business contracts, and legal regulations that govern business operations.	CLAT, AILET, LSAT—India, SLAT, MH CET Law, CUET (for some universities); 5 Years
B.A. LL.B.	B.A. LL.B. combines legal education with subjects from humanities like political science, economics, and sociology, helping students see the larger social impact of business laws.	B.A. LL.B. supports specialisation in policy-making, social justice laws in business, and commercial regulations influenced by social structures.	CLAT, AILET, LSAT—India, SLAT, MH CET Law, CUET (for some universities); 5 Years
B.B.A. LL.B.	B.B.A. LL.B. focuses on combining business management and legal knowledge, giving students insight into corporate decision-making and business structure.	B.B.A. LL.B. prepares students for careers in mergers and acquisitions, corporate compliance, and legal advisory roles for businesses.	CLAT, AILET, LSAT—India, SLAT, MH CET Law, CUET (for some universities); 5 Years
B.Com. LL.B.	B.Com. LL.B. blends core subjects like accounting, taxation, business economics, and company law with legal studies, giving a commerce-focused legal education.	B.Com. LL.B. is ideal for students who want to work in tax law, corporate finance, financial fraud investigations, and regulatory legal matters.	CLAT, AILET, LSAT—India, SLAT, MH CET Law, CUET (for some universities); 5 Years
B.Sc. LL.B. / B.Tech. LL.B.	B.Sc. LL.B. or B.Tech. LL.B. programs integrate scientific or technical education with legal training, allowing students to handle technology-based legal issues.	B.Sc. LL.B. and B.Tech. LL.B. are best suited for those planning careers in intellectual property law, cybersecurity law, and patent law for scientific inventions.	CLAT, AILET, LSAT—India, SLAT, MH CET Law, CUET (for some universities); 5 Years
3-Year LL.B. (After Graduation)	The 3-year LL.B. course is designed for graduates from any discipline who want to enter the legal profession with a focus on business and commercial law.	The 3-year LL.B. offers an opportunity to transition from fields like business, engineering, or commerce into specialised roles such as commercial litigation or corporate law advisory.	DU LLB, MH CET Law (3-Year), LSAT—India, university-specific exams; 3 Years
Postgraduate Law Degrees (LL.M.)	LL.M. degrees offer specialised legal education for law graduates, focusing on advanced knowledge, research, and practical exposure in a particular area of law.	LL.M. in fields such as corporate law, banking and finance law, international trade law, or intellectual property law prepares students for senior legal roles in firms, MNCs, or academia.	CLAT LL.M., AILET LL.M., CUET PG Law, LSAT—India, university-specific; 1–2 Years
Diploma & Certificate Courses	Diploma and certificate programs are short-term courses focused on practical legal training in commercial topics. These courses are available online and can be completed alongside a degree or job.	Diploma and certificate programs help learners build job-ready skills in contract drafting, legal compliance, business law basics, and corporate governance practices.	Usually direct admission; Few weeks to 1 year (varies)

Law Entrance Exams in India (Undergraduate Level)

Law entrance exams in India at the undergraduate level are the first step toward a career as a commercial lawyer. These exams help students gain admission into top law universities, where they can build a strong foundation in business, corporate, and commercial law

Exam Name	What the Exam Is For	Who Conducts It
CLAT (Common Law Admission Test)	For admission to 24 National Law Universities (NLUs) across India.	Consortium of NLUs
AILET (All India Law Entrance Test)	For admission to NLU Delhi.	NLU Delhi
LSAT—India (Law School Admission Test)	For admission to many private law colleges including Jindal Global Law School.	LSAC Global
SLAT (Symbiosis Law Admission Test)	For admission to Symbiosis Law Schools in India.	Symbiosis International University
MH CET Law	For law colleges in Maharashtra.	Government of Maharashtra
DU LLB Entrance Exam	For 3-year LL.B. course at Delhi University.	National Testing Agency (NTA)

Besides the law entrance exams, you are required to take up one of the English-language proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL or PTE.

Tips to Make the Most of a Commercial Law Internship

• Be proactive by taking the initiative to ask for assignments and showing a genuine interest in contributing to ongoing projects.
• Ask questions when needed, but make sure to research the issue first.
• Pay close attention to detail in legal research and drafting, as accuracy is critical in a law firm environment.
• Build relationships with associates, mentors, and partners by being approachable, respectful, and engaged during your time in the office.
• Seek feedback regularly to understand your strengths and improve in areas where you are lacking. 
• Maintain professionalism at all times by being punctual, dressing appropriately, and communicating clearly and respectfully.

Internships and Networking Opportunities in Commercial Law

Internships and networking opportunities in commercial law help students gain hands-on experience at top firms like Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, Khaitan & Co., and corporate legal teams at companies like TCS or HDFC Bank. These opportunities build practical skills, industry knowledge, and professional contacts that are essential for launching a successful legal career.

Type of Workplace	Examples	What the Organisation Offers	Application Process
Top-Tier Law Firms (Tier 1 & Tier 2)	Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co., AZB & Partners, Khaitan & Co., Trilegal, J. Sagar Associates (JSA), L&L Partners, IndusLaw, Nishith Desai Associates, S&R Associates, Phoenix Legal	Exposure to high-value commercial transactions, complex legal work, and structured training under senior lawyers.	Apply 6–12 months in advance through the firm’s official internship portals. Some firms also consider references and previous internship experience.
Boutique Law Firms (Specialized)	Firms focusing on areas like Intellectual Property, Competition Law, Tech Law, or Insolvency	In-depth exposure to niche legal fields, direct mentorship, and more hands-on involvement in real client work.	Research specific firms online, explore legal directories, and connect through professional networks or alumni referrals.
In-House Legal Departments	Reliance, Tata Group, Infosys, TCS, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Unilever, Adani Group	Opportunity to work closely with internal legal and compliance teams, focusing on contracts, company law, and risk management.	Monitor company career pages, apply via job portals (LinkedIn, Naukri.com), or through campus placement drives.
Government Bodies & Regulatory Authorities	Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Competition Commission of India (CCI), Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Law Commission of India	Understanding of public policy, commercial regulations, and enforcement mechanisms. Ideal for law and policy enthusiasts.	Look for official notifications on government websites. Follow deadlines, eligibility, and formats specified in circulars.
Online Legal Platforms & Marketplaces	LawBhoomi, Legally India, Legal School, Internshala, Lawctopus	Access to remote and in-person internships with law firms, NGOs, and corporate houses across India.	Register on the platform, apply with a CV and statement of purpose. Many listings are open year-round.

List of Top 10 Commercial Law Firms to Start Your Career

Top 10 commercial law firms in India offer fresh graduates excellent training, exposure to major business deals, and career growth. These firms handle high-profile cases and provide real-world learning for aspiring commercial lawyers.

Law Firm	Reputation	Key Practice Areas	Why It’s Great for Freshers
Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas (CAM)	One of India’s largest and most prestigious law firms.	Corporate & Commercial, M&A, Private Equity, Banking & Finance, Capital Markets, Disputes, Real Estate.	Structured training programs, high-value deal exposure, and a clear career growth path.
Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co. (SAM & Co.)	Powerhouse firm formed after the Amarchand split.	M&A, Corporate Law, PE, Competition Law, Banking & Finance, Tax, Disputes.	Strong mentorship, varied practice exposure, and top-tier compensation.
AZB & Partners	Prominent name in M&A and corporate law with cross-border strength.	Corporate & Commercial, M&A, Private Equity, Competition Law, Dispute Resolution.	Meritocratic culture and hands-on experience with complex global transactions.
Khaitan & Co.	One of India’s oldest and highly respected full-service firms.	Corporate, M&A, Real Estate, IP, Tax, Disputes, Banking & Finance.	Broad exposure, learning across teams, and professional development.
Trilegal	Young, dynamic, and progressive with a tech-friendly image.	M&A, Venture Capital, Private Equity, TMT, Infrastructure, Energy, Disputes.	Attractive to freshers for startup-friendly work, learning environment, and client interaction.
J. Sagar Associates (JSA)	Reputed for its ethical values and national presence.	Corporate, Energy, Infrastructure, M&A, Banking, Regulatory, Dispute Resolution.	Strong values, inclusive culture, and cross-sector experience.
Luthra and Luthra Law Offices India	Respected full-service firm with strength in finance and projects.	Project Finance, Capital Markets, IP, M&A, Disputes, Corporate.	Opportunity to work on impactful transactions with industry leaders.
S&R Associates	Boutique firm with a focus on premium corporate work.	M&A, Capital Markets, PE, Banking & Finance, Dispute Resolution.	Ideal for focused corporate work, smaller teams, and high pay packages.
IndusLaw	Fast-growing, especially strong in startup and tech legal services.	Technology Law, VC, PE, M&A, IP, Corporate & Disputes.	Great for working with startups, early responsibility, and innovation-driven practice.
Economic Laws Practice (ELP)	Known for niche practices like tax and international trade.	Tax, Competition Law, Trade, IP, Corporate & Disputes.	Perfect for those wanting expertise in high-demand commercial specialisations.

Also Read: Best Computer Courses After 12th Commerce

Important Points to Consider for Freshers in Commercial Law 

Freshers in commercial law should focus on building strong legal basics, improving drafting and research skills, seeking internships early, and staying updated with business laws. Networking and choosing the right specialisation helps in playing an important role in making a career decision in commercial law.

• Think about which area of law interests you the most. Although big commercial law firms offer a wide range of services, it’s helpful to find out which teams match your interests

• Every firm has its own work culture, and finding the right fit is important. Talk to seniors, read reviews online, or connect with alumni to understand what day-to-day life at a firm is really like.

• Internships are one of the most effective ways to get a job offer at top firms. Try to complete multiple internships during law school, especially in your final years, as many firms offer pre-placement offers based on internship performance.

• Academic performance still matters. Good grades, legal research, moot court participation, and writing papers show that you’re serious about law and can handle the demands of the job.

• Build your network early. Attend career events, webinars, and firm sessions to meet people working in these firms. Having the right contacts can help you stay informed and may open up job opportunities.

Pursuing a career in commercial law opens up good opportunities in corporate deals, compliance, and advisory roles. With the right education, skills, and internships, freshers can build a strong future as successful commercial lawyers in India.

FAQs

Related Reads

Best Courses after 12th Commerce without Maths	Best Computer Courses After 12th Commerce
Accounting Management: Meaning, Courses, Salary & Scope	Accountancy Courses after 12th: Popular Courses, Syllabus, Scope
How to Become a Python Developer in India: Salary and Perks	Best Schools for Finance in India

This was all about the ‘How to make a career in commercial law’. For more such informative salary blogs, follow Leverage Edu and the Jobs Abroad page. Also, if you want to explore various job options, stay connected with Leverage Careers.