ESOP Associate Attorney

A law firm seeks an experienced ESOP Associate Attorney to join its Tax & Benefits practice group in Spokane, WA. This role involves providing a range of legal services to design, implement, and regulate Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) for various clients. The attorney will advise on plan structures, tax implications, ERISA considerations, and transaction structuring, working in a collaborative, client-focused environment that offers opportunities for professional growth and public service involvement.

Duties

• Design and customize ESOP plans according to client needs.
• Develop and implement leveraged ESOP strategies for clients, advising on potential advantages and challenges.
• Counsel clients on the tax and ERISA implications associated with various ESOP transactions.
• Structure business transactions involving ESOPs to ensure compliance and effectiveness.
• Perform comprehensive tax planning related to ESOP design and execution.

Requirements

• Experience: 3-5 years of relevant experience in ESOP or employee benefits law.
• Academic Credentials: Strong academic background, with proven analytical and writing skills.
• Client Focus: Dedication to excellent client service and effective communication.
• Teamwork: Enthusiastic about working with and contributing to a diverse team.
• Independence: Ability to handle significant responsibilities and manage tasks independently.

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

Certifications

• Active license to practice law.

Skills

• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail, particularly in tax and ERISA law.
• Effective communicator capable of explaining complex concepts to clients.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Organizational skills for managing multiple complex cases.
• Adaptability and capability to handle multiple responsibilities efficiently.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions.
• Commuter assistance.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Parental leave.
• Billable credit hours for diversity, equity, inclusion, and pro bono work.
• Annual performance-based bonuses.

This is a powerful Pacific Northwest firm and offers associates working here the opportunity to participate in some of the more significant litigation and corporate work in the Pacific Northwest. This firm is well known for its strong real estate and land use practice, and many of the firm's attorneys who practice in these disciplines are considered recognized leaders in the fields. They also have an exceptional bankruptcy practice. This firm also has a diverse client base including large publicly traded corporations as well as closely held businesses and individuals. This firm is considered to have a good management and its management structure is fairly well integrated throughout the firm's offices.