Alcohol and Distribution Associate Attorney

A law firm is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Alcohol and Distribution Associate Attorney to join their team in Chicago, IL. The ideal candidate will possess a robust background in alcohol beverage law, along with commercial corporate and M&A experience. This position requires exceptional organizational abilities, attention to detail, and strong communication skills. The candidate should be a proactive self-starter capable of managing multiple priorities and providing practical, risk-based legal advice.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide legal expertise on alcohol beverage laws, including compliance, licensing, and regulatory matters.
• Advise clients on federal, state, and local regulations affecting the alcohol industry.
• Handle commercial corporate transactions, including mergers and acquisitions (M&A) related to alcohol and distribution.
• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts for alcohol distribution and sales.
• Represent clients before regulatory agencies and in administrative proceedings.
• Conduct thorough legal research and provide strategic analysis on various regulatory issues.
• Oversee and manage legal projects, ensuring timely progress and successful completion.
• Collaborate with colleagues and clients to deliver high-quality legal services.
• Stay current with industry trends and changes in relevant laws and regulations.
• Offer practical advice and risk management strategies based on comprehensive analysis.

Requirements:

• 3-5 years of experience in alcohol beverage law, either in-house or at a peer firm.
• Admitted to practice law in the state of Illinois.
• Proven ability to independently manage legal matters or significant segments of complex projects.
• Strong commercial corporate background, including experience with mergers and acquisitions (M&A).
• Excellent organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to effectively prioritize workload and manage competing demands.
• Demonstrated good judgment and ability to work well under pressure.
• Capability to frame legal advice and analysis based on practical risk assessment.

Education and Certifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in Illinois.

Preferred Experience:

• Additional regulatory experience in areas such as FDA or food law.
• Experience in both in-house legal departments and law firm environments.

Skills:

• Advanced legal research and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in drafting and negotiating complex legal documents.
• Strong strategic thinking and risk management capabilities.
• Excellent interpersonal and client communication skills.
• High degree of professionalism and ethical standards.

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