Comparison
Quick answer
Corporate lawyers (transactional lawyers) handle business formation, contracts, M&A, fundraising, and commercial agreements — they structure deals to keep clients out of court. Litigation lawyers (litigators) represent clients in disputes that have already arisen — filing and defending lawsuits, conducting discovery, and arguing in court. Most legal matters require one or the other, not both.
Corporate lawyers and litigators are distinct specialties with very different skill sets. A great transactional lawyer is not necessarily a great litigator — they may have never seen a courtroom. When a dispute arises that requires litigation, do not use your transactional counsel unless they have active litigation practice. Conversely, litigators are not the right choice for structuring your funding round or drafting your acquisition agreement.
Hourly rate
$150–$500/hr
Wide range reflects specialization — IP and corporate law command higher rates than general advisory
Per session
$200–$750
Typical for a 60–90 minute contract review, legal strategy, or compliance consultation
Project rate
$500–$5,000+
Flat-fee engagements for entity formation, contract drafting, or trademark filings