As a corporate lawyer with focus on M&A and ECM, I’ve sometimes envied my former colleague, who is a banking lawyer. His work seemed less hectic, with fewer hours on legal due diligence and more time for casual conversations in the office.

However, when the opportunity arose to venture into banking law, I declined. It just didn’t seem like the right fit for me.

I also envy my peer who focuses primarily on advisory work. The hours are more predictable and the fees seem better compared to corporate transactions, if you consider the hours spent. But for me, the real satisfaction comes from being hands-on in the deals – the strategic thinking, the meticulous drafting of agreements and the thrill of seeing a transaction come to life.

For me, the ideal practice is a combination of both regulatory advisory and corporate transactional work. It keeps me engaged on the latest legal developments while also applying the law in real-world transactions. From navigating shareholders’ rights when drafting shareholders’ agreements for M&A transactions to advising on corporate governance issues relating to directors’ remuneration, I find fulfilment in assisting clients to complete their transactions and advising them throughout the process.

The message of this post?

The grass may always seem greener on the other side. However, understanding what drives you and aligns with your interests and skills will bring more satisfaction in the long run than chasing the illusion of something better elsewhere.

Feel free to connect if you are interested in discussing how I can assist with M&A, ECM and regulatory matters.

#malaysiancorporatelawyer

This post was first posted on LinkedIn on 16 January 2025.