Transactional Associate Attorney

Position Summary: We are seeking an experienced Senior Transactional Attorney to join our growing Transactional Practice Group on a full-time, on-site basis at our downtown Chicago office. The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of experience handling corporate, commercial, and real estate transactions and will be comfortable serving as lead counsel on matters from term sheet through closing. This role offers significant client contact, the opportunity to mentor and supervise associates and staff, and a direct role in shaping the continued growth of the practice group.

Key Responsibilities: Serve as lead counsel on mergers and acquisitions, business formations, restructurings, and corporate governance matters. Draft, review, and negotiate purchase agreements, operating agreements, shareholder agreements, financing documents, commercial leases, and other commercial contracts, often with limited supervision. Lead commercial real estate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, financing, and development projects. Direct due diligence and oversee preparation of disclosure schedules, transaction summaries, and closing documents. Advise business owners and executives on entity selection, governance, risk management, and day-to-day operations. Manage client relationships and serve as the primary point of contact on assigned matters. Supervise, train, and review the work of associates and paralegals. Coordinate with lenders, brokers, accountants, title companies, and other outside professionals to move transactions to closing.

Qualifications: Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school. Licensed to practice law in Illinois and in good standing. Minimum of 10 years of transactional legal experience. Demonstrated ability to independently lead and close complex corporate, commercial, and real estate transactions. Exceptional legal writing, analytical, and contract drafting skills. Strong judgment, attention to detail, and organizational abilities. Experience supervising and mentoring junior attorneys. Strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to outstanding client service.

Preferred Experience: Mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance, and commercial lending transactions. Representing developers, lenders, investors, or closely held businesses. Commercial real estate acquisitions, leasing, financing, and development. Familiarity with succession and ownership transition planning for business owners. An existing client base or demonstrated business development experience.

Compensation & Benefits: We offer a competitive salary starting at $190,000 (commensurate with experience), along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, a 401(k) with firm contributions, and CLE support.