Senior Associate / Partner Corporate & Real Estate Transactions

A distinguished boutique law firm based in Chicago, IL, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Associate or Partner to join their esteemed corporate and real estate practice. The ideal candidate will bring a minimum of seven years of experience in corporate law and real estate transactions. This is a unique opportunity to take on a leadership role, working closely with clients on high-profile transactions while mentoring junior associates. A strategic, business-minded attorney with the ability to manage client relationships and drive new business is sought for this key role. A background in litigation is a plus, but not essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Corporate Transactions: Provide legal guidance on a broad range of corporate matters, including mergers and acquisitions (M&A), joint ventures, business structuring, private equity deals, and corporate governance. Draft and negotiate complex agreements, including asset purchase agreements, corporate documents, and professional service contracts.
• Real Estate Transactions: Advise clients on all aspects of real estate law, from acquisitions, sales, and leasing, to development projects and financings. Draft, review, and negotiate purchase and sale contracts, lease agreements, and other related legal documents.
• Due Diligence and Risk Management: Lead due diligence processes for both corporate and real estate transactions, identifying risks and providing strategies for mitigation.
• Transaction Leadership: Oversee and manage the transactional process, ensuring precision and timeliness throughout all phases, from negotiation to final agreement.
• Client Relations: Act as the main point of contact for clients, building and maintaining strong relationships through consistent, high-level legal advice and effective problem-solving.
• Team Leadership: Supervise and mentor junior associates and support staff, fostering professional development and ensuring high standards of work across the team.
• Collaboration: Work with other practice groups to offer comprehensive legal solutions to clients, contributing to the firm’s cross-departmental efforts.
• Regulatory Awareness: Stay informed on changes in laws and regulations that impact corporate and real estate matters, ensuring compliance and providing proactive advice to clients.
• Business Development: Take an active role in business development efforts, including client presentations, writing proposals, attending networking events, and identifying opportunities to expand the firm’s client base.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) from a recognized law school.
• Active license to practice law in Illinois.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in corporate and real estate law, with a proven record of handling complex corporate transactions and real estate matters.
• Experience in M&A, joint ventures, private equity, and corporate finance transactions.
• Deep knowledge of real estate development, leasing, acquisitions, and financing.
• Litigation experience is a bonus, though not required.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Strong business acumen and ability to think strategically for clients and the firm.
• Demonstrated ability to generate new business and maintain long-term client relationships.
• Proven leadership skills, with the ability to mentor junior associates and oversee complex projects.
• Highly organized, with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to prioritize in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement savings options, and other perks.

This law firm provides legal representation to clients and primarily focuses its practice on matters related to real estate. Its key practice areas include civil rights and constitutional law, eminent domain and condemnation, labor and employment law, real estate transaction and finance, and zoning and land use. It is one of the oldest minority-owned and operated law firms in the United States. Its office is located in Chicago, Illinois.