Commercial Real Estate Lawyer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of business, the role of commercial real estate lawyers has never been more critical.

As the business landscape evolves, so does the need for legal experts who can effectively navigate, expand, and safeguard our commercial real estate ventures.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a commercial real estate lawyer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager identifying the ideal candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the world of commercial real estate law,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable commercial real estate lawyer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Commercial Real Estate Lawyer Duties and Responsibilities

Commercial Real Estate Lawyers focus on legal issues related to commercial properties and transactions.

They often represent businesses in matters involving commercial real estate, including purchases, sales, leasing, and litigation.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Advising clients on all aspects of commercial real estate transactions
• Reviewing, drafting, and negotiating commercial real estate agreements, including purchase and sale contracts, lease agreements, and financing documents
• Conducting due diligence reviews to verify property details and ensure compliance with transaction terms
• Representing clients in real estate litigation, such as disputes over leases, property rights, or transaction terms
• Interpreting and applying real estate laws, rulings, and regulations
• Coordinating with other attorneys, real estate agents, and other involved parties to ensure smooth transactions
• Researching and analyzing complex legal issues related to commercial real estate
• Communicating effectively with clients to provide legal advice and understand their needs

 

Commercial Real Estate Lawyer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Commercial Real Estate Lawyer to join our legal team.

The ideal candidate will have a solid background in commercial real estate law, including experience in transactions, leases, property management, and real estate finance.

As a Commercial Real Estate Lawyer, you will be expected to provide legal advice to clients, conduct legal research, prepare legal documents, and represent clients in court and in commercial real estate transactions.

The successful candidate will possess excellent negotiation and communication skills, have a strong attention to detail, and a commitment to providing outstanding service to our clients.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice related to commercial real estate transactions
• Prepare and review legal documents, including leases, purchase agreements, and contracts
• Conduct legal research and analysis
• Represent clients in court and in negotiations
• Stay updated on changes in commercial real estate laws and regulations
• Develop strategies to resolve complex legal issues
• Maintain and foster relationships with clients
• Work with a team of lawyers and paralegals

 

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school
• Current license to practice law
• Proven experience as a Commercial Real Estate Lawyer
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
• Strong understanding of commercial real estate law and procedures
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Commercial Real Estate Lawyer
• Work Environment: This role requires working in an office environment. Some travel may be required for court appearances and client meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Senior Attorney or Legal Department Head.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $200,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Commercial Real Estate Lawyer Do?

Commercial Real Estate Lawyers typically work for law firms, private corporations or government agencies.

They can also work as self-employed individuals or consultants.

These lawyers specialize in matters relating to property, from transactions to handling disputes between parties.

They are involved in the drafting, reviewing, and negotiation of contracts related to various commercial real estate deals including buying, selling, leasing and developing real estate properties.

Commercial Real Estate Lawyers also conduct due diligence to ensure that the property is not subject to any legal encumbrances before any transaction.

They also check for compliance with local and national building and zoning laws.

In case of disputes, these lawyers represent their clients in court or in front of government agencies.

They might litigate on issues relating to breach of contract, zoning compliance, construction defects, or landlord-tenant disputes.

Moreover, they often provide legal advice to their clients on matters such as tax obligations, property management, and environmental regulations.

They may also help in structuring the ownership of real estate properties for tax efficiency and risk management.

These lawyers collaborate with other professionals like brokers, appraisers, inspectors, and architects, thus playing a pivotal role in the successful conclusion of a real estate transaction or the resolution of a real estate dispute.

 

Commercial Real Estate Lawyer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient commercial real estate lawyer should possess skills and qualifications that align with the demands of the role, including:

• Legal knowledge and expertise in commercial real estate law to provide comprehensive legal advice and solutions to clients
• Strong analytical skills to interpret complex legal documents, understand property laws and regulations, and evaluate legal implications
• Excellent negotiation skills for dealing with contracts, leases, property purchases and legal disputes
• Attention to detail in reviewing legal documents, drafting contracts and identifying potential legal risks
• Interpersonal and communication skills to maintain a strong relationship with clients, understand their needs and represent them effectively in legal matters
• Organizational skills to manage multiple cases, prioritize tasks and meet tight deadlines
• Research skills for staying updated with changing laws and regulations in commercial real estate
• Ethical judgement and professionalism in maintaining client confidentiality and managing legal proceedings
• Problem-solving skills to address and resolve legal issues effectively and efficiently
• A law degree and a valid license to practice law in the respective jurisdiction

 

Commercial Real Estate Lawyer Experience Requirements

Commercial Real Estate Lawyers must first obtain a bachelor’s degree, followed by three years of law school to earn a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.

During law school, they should focus on courses related to real estate, business, and contract law, and ideally complete a legal internship in a real estate law firm to gain practical experience.

After law school, they must pass the state bar examination to get licensed.

The first few years of working as a commercial real estate lawyer typically involve handling transactional work under the supervision of more experienced lawyers.

This includes drafting and reviewing contracts, conducting due diligence, and assisting with closings.

After about 3 to 5 years of practical experience, lawyers often transition to handling more complex transactions independently, like negotiating major commercial real estate deals, advising clients on real estate development projects, or representing clients in real estate disputes.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have sufficient expertise to take on senior roles in a law firm, supervise junior lawyers, or even open their own practice.

Continuing education and staying abreast of changes in real estate law are also crucial for advancing in this field.

 

Commercial Real Estate Lawyer Education and Training Requirements

To become a commercial real estate lawyer, the first requirement is to earn a bachelor’s degree.

The subject of the bachelor’s degree is not rigidly defined, but students often choose subjects like economics, finance, political science, history or business, which can provide a good foundation for the next steps.

Following the completion of a bachelor’s degree, prospective commercial real estate lawyers must earn a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association.

Law school typically takes three years to complete.

A law school curriculum will include courses in constitutional law, contracts, property law, civil procedure, and legal writing.

Specialization in commercial real estate law may be pursued through elective courses during the second and third years of law school.

These courses may include real estate transactions, real estate finance, land use, real estate development and commercial leases.

After earning a JD degree, aspiring commercial real estate lawyers must pass the bar examination in the state where they plan to practice.

In addition to the bar exam, some states require the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE), which tests knowledge of the ethical standards of the legal profession.

To enhance their career opportunities and professional development, commercial real estate lawyers often seek certification from the state bar association in real estate law.

Although the requirements for certification vary by state, they typically include passing an examination, demonstrating experience in real estate law, and acquiring continuing legal education credits.

Continuing legal education (CLE) is also important for commercial real estate lawyers.

CLE courses keep lawyers updated on the latest laws, regulations and trends affecting the real estate industry.

Most states require lawyers to complete a certain number of CLE hours each year to maintain their license to practice law.

Some commercial real estate lawyers may also choose to pursue a Master of Laws (LLM) in Real Estate to deepen their expertise in the field.

This is not a requirement but can enhance a lawyer’s knowledge and marketability.

 

Commercial Real Estate Lawyer Salary Expectations

A Commercial Real Estate Lawyer earns an average salary of $141,000 (USD) per year.

However, actual earnings may vary based on the individual’s level of experience, specializations, the size and prestige of the employing law firm, and the geographical location.

 

Commercial Real Estate Lawyer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Commercial Real Estate Lawyer need?

Commercial Real Estate Lawyers should have excellent negotiation and communication skills, with a keen attention to detail.

They need to have a deep understanding of real estate law, contracts, property rights and land use laws.

It’s essential that they have strong research skills, and are able to analyze large volumes of information and present it in a clear and concise manner.

 

Do Commercial Real Estate Lawyers need a degree?

Yes, Commercial Real Estate Lawyers need to have a law degree (JD) from an accredited law school.

They also need to pass the state bar exam to be licensed to practice law in their state.

Some may also choose to earn a Master of Laws (LLM) in real estate law for a more specialized knowledge base.

 

What should you look for in a Commercial Real Estate Lawyer resume?

Look for a law degree from an accredited school and a valid state license to practice law.

It’s beneficial if they have experience in handling commercial real estate transactions, negotiating leases, or resolving landlord-tenant disputes.

Any additional certifications in real estate law would also be an asset.

It’s also important to look at their track record in handling cases and their communication and negotiation skills.

 

What qualities make a good Commercial Real Estate Lawyer?

A good Commercial Real Estate Lawyer is detail-oriented, analytical, and has a deep understanding of property laws and regulations.

They should be able to handle stress and work under tight deadlines.

Excellent negotiation and communication skills are essential, as well as integrity and discretion.

They need to be able to provide sound advice to clients and represent their interests effectively.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Commercial Real Estate Lawyer?

Hiring a Commercial Real Estate Lawyer can be challenging due to the specific skill set and knowledge required for this role.

It’s important to find someone who not only has the necessary qualifications and experience, but also has a good understanding of the local real estate market.

Offering competitive compensation, opportunities for professional development and a positive work environment can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of what it truly means to be a commercial real estate lawyer.

And guess what?

It’s not just about litigation and contracts.

It’s about shaping the corporate landscape, one real estate deal at a time.

With our indispensable commercial real estate lawyer job description template and realistic examples, you’re all set to make your next career move.

But why halt your progress here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for crafting pinpoint accurate job listings or polishing your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every real estate transaction is a part of a larger corporate narrative.

Let’s sculpt that landscape. Together.

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