What does a Banking and Finance Lawyer do?

Banking and finance law is one of the most commercially significant areas of legal practice. It underpins the movement of capital across markets, supports corporate growth, and enables major infrastructure projects to get off the ground. But what does a Banking and Finance Lawyer actually do day to day — and what makes this role so central to the financial ecosystem?

Navigating complex financial transactions

At its heart, banking and finance law is about helping clients borrow and lend money in a legally sound and commercially viable way. That might sound straightforward, but the reality is anything but. Transactions are often high-value, multi-jurisdictional, and time-sensitive — and the legal frameworks surrounding them are constantly evolving.

Banking and Finance Lawyers are responsible for structuring, negotiating, and documenting these deals. This includes drafting loan agreements, preparing security documents, and advising on regulatory compliance. They’re also expected to anticipate risks, protect their client’s interests, and ensure that the transaction runs smoothly from start to finish.

Who do Banking and Finance Lawyers work with?

The client base is broad and varied. On any given day, a Banking and Finance Lawyer might be advising:

• Investment banks on syndicated lending arrangements
• Private equity firms on acquisition finance
• Corporates seeking funding for expansion
• Government bodies on infrastructure finance
• Borrowers and sponsors navigating complex capital structures

Depending on the transaction, Lawyers may act for the lender, the borrower, or sometimes both — particularly in deals involving multiple stakeholders. This means strong communication and negotiation skills are essential, as is the ability to manage competing interests.

Types of banking and finance work

Banking and finance law isn’t a single discipline — it’s a collection of sub-specialisms, each with its own nuances. Some of the most common areas include:

• Acquisition finance: Supporting M&A deals through structured lending. Lawyers in this space work closely with corporate teams to ensure funding is in place for the transaction
• Project finance: Advising on long-term funding for infrastructure, energy, and transport projects. These deals often involve complex risk-sharing arrangements and multiple jurisdictions
• Real estate finance: Helping clients secure loans against property assets. This can range from commercial developments to residential portfolios
• Trade finance: Facilitating international trade through instruments like letters of credit and guarantees
• Asset finance: Structuring finance for high-value assets such as aircraft, ships, or machinery
• Structured finance: Creating bespoke financial products, often involving securitisation or derivatives

Each area demands a deep understanding of both legal principles and the commercial realities driving the deal.

Private practice vs in-house: what’s the difference?

One of the key career decisions for Banking and Finance Lawyers is whether to remain in private practice or move in-house. Both paths offer distinct advantages — and the right choice often depends on your long-term goals and working style.

Working in a law firm, Lawyers typically advise a range of clients on financial transactions. It is fast-paced and varied, with exposure to high-value deals and complex legal structures. You’ll often be part of a larger team, collaborating across departments and jurisdictions. There’s a strong emphasis on technical expertise, client service, and business development, especially as you progress toward partnership.

By contrast, in-house roles place you within a single organisation, such as a bank, investment firm or PE-backed business. Here, you’re closer to the commercial decision-making process and often act as a strategic advisor to the business. The work may be less varied, but you’ll gain deeper insight into the company’s operations and long-term goals. In-house Lawyers in financial services tend to have more predictable hours, though the intensity can vary depending on the organisation and sector.

Many Lawyers choose to move in-house from private practice after gaining several years of experience, particularly if they’re looking for more direct involvement in business strategy or a better work-life balance.

Career progression and opportunities

Most Banking and Finance Lawyers begin their careers through a training contract, gaining exposure to finance work during their seats. From there, they may choose to specialise in a particular area or maintain a broad practice.

Typical career paths include:

• Associate → Senior Associate → Legal Director → Partner
• Moving in-house to a bank, investment firm or corporate
• Transitioning into regulatory, compliance or risk roles

For those starting out, crafting a strong Associate CV is essential — especially when applying for roles in top-tier firms or competitive finance teams. Similarly, securing a job as an NQ in banking and finance can set the tone for a long and rewarding career, offering early exposure to high-value transactions and client-facing work.

Given the international nature of finance, many Lawyers also explore opportunities in global financial centres such as New York, Hong Kong, Singapore and Dubai.

See also: How to become a Finance and Banking Lawyer

Challenges and rewards

Banking and finance law can be intense. The hours are long, the stakes are high, and the work is often fast-paced. But for many, the rewards outweigh the challenges. You’ll be involved in high-profile transactions, work closely with senior stakeholders, and gain insight into how major financial decisions are made.

It’s a career that offers intellectual stimulation, commercial exposure, and the chance to make a tangible impact on the global economy.