Entry-Level Real Estate Associate Attorney

A law firm in Chicago, Illinois, is seeking an Entry-Level Real Estate Associate Attorney to join their growing team. This position offers an excellent opportunity for a recent law graduate or an attorney with limited experience to develop a career in real estate law. The candidate will work on a variety of real estate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, financing, and development projects. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a passion for real estate law.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Transaction Support:
  • Assist in the preparation and negotiation of real estate transaction documents, including purchase and sale agreements, lease agreements, loan documents, and closing documents.
  • Conduct due diligence reviews for real estate transactions, including title, survey, and zoning analyses.
  • Assist in coordinating and managing closings for real estate acquisitions, sales, and financing transactions.
  • Conduct legal research related to real estate law, zoning regulations, and other applicable laws.
• Client Interaction:
  • Work closely with clients to understand their real estate needs and objectives.
  • Communicate regularly with clients, providing updates on the progress of real estate transactions and responding to client inquiries.
  • Participate in client meetings and conference calls to discuss transaction strategies and deal structures.
• Document Review and Drafting:
  • Draft and review legal documents related to real estate transactions, such as deeds, leases, easements, and development agreements.
  • Assist with preparing amendments and modifications to real estate contracts and agreements.
  • Ensure the accuracy and completeness of transaction documents, complying with local, state, and federal laws.
• Collaboration:
  • Collaborate with senior attorneys, paralegals, and support staff to ensure seamless handling of real estate matters.
  • Participate in team meetings to discuss ongoing transactions and provide updates on work progress.
  • Engage in legal research and provide summaries to senior attorneys for case strategy development.
• Legal Research:
  • Conduct research on relevant real estate laws and regulations.
  • Prepare legal memoranda and briefs on specific issues related to real estate transactions.
  • Stay informed about changes in local, state, and federal real estate regulations that may impact client transactions.

Requirements

• Experience:
  • Entry-level position; prior internship or clerkship experience in real estate law is a plus but not required.
• Education:
  • Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensing:
  • Active Bar admission in Illinois or eligibility to become licensed in Illinois.
• Skills and Knowledge:
  • Strong interest in real estate law, including transactional work and legal research.
  • Excellent legal writing, drafting, and research skills.
  • Ability to review and analyze title, survey, and other real estate-related documents.
  • Basic understanding of real estate transaction structures and common legal issues.
  • Proficiency in legal research tools, such as Westlaw or LexisNexis.

Skills

• Attention to Detail: Ability to ensure accuracy in legal documents and transaction details.
• Communication: Strong oral and written communication skills to effectively interact with clients, colleagues, and third parties.
• Analytical Thinking: Capable of identifying potential legal issues in real estate transactions and proposing solutions.
• Time Management: Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to think critically and develop creative solutions to transaction-related challenges.
• Teamwork: Willingness to collaborate with colleagues and work as part of a team.
• Client Relations: Ability to maintain a professional and responsive attitude when dealing with clients and third parties.

Job Location

• Chicago, Illinois

Benefits

The firm offers a competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities and mentorship from senior attorneys.
• Performance-based bonuses.