Debt Finance Associate Attorney

Job Overview:

A law firm in Chicago, IL, seeks a highly motivated Debt Finance Associate Attorney with 2-6 years of relevant experience. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience structuring, documenting, and negotiating various financing transactions, focusing strongly on borrower and lender representations. Experience in leveraged finance, particularly in mergers and acquisitions, is preferred. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex transactions within a collaborative and dynamic team.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Structure, document, and negotiate secured and unsecured financing transactions for borrowers and lenders.
• Handle senior, mezzanine, and subordinated debt transactions, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
• Lead and support acquisition financings, including conducting due diligence and drafting related documents.
• Manage loan workouts and restructurings, including debtor-in-possession financings.
• Collaborate with clients to understand their business objectives and provide strategic legal advice.
• Conduct legal research and stay updated on developments in debt finance, leveraged finance, and related areas.
• Prepare and review term sheets, loan agreements, security agreements, and other related documentation.
• Advise clients on the legal implications of proposed transactions and negotiate terms that align with their interests.
• Work closely with other attorneys, paralegals, and support staff to ensure efficient and effective delivery of legal services.
• Participate in client meetings, negotiations, and closings, representing the firm’s interests professionally and competently.
• Maintain organized and detailed records of all transactions, ensuring proper documentation and compliance with firm policies.

Requirements:

• 2-6 years of experience in debt finance, with a strong background in structuring, documenting, and negotiating financing transactions.
• Proven experience handling secured and unsecured financing transactions for borrowers and lenders.
• Familiarity with senior, mezzanine, and subordinated debt transactions, acquisition financings, loan workouts, restructurings, and debtor-in-possession financings.
• Leveraged finance experience is strongly preferred, particularly in mergers and acquisitions.
• Strong understanding of relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards governing debt finance and related transactions.
• Excellent analytical, drafting, and negotiation skills, with attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple transactions simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, and other stakeholders.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Education and Certifications:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the Illinois Bar (or eligibility to obtain admission promptly) is required.

Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of debt finance, leveraged finance, and related legal areas.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize complex legal and financial information.
• Proficiency in legal drafting and negotiation, focusing on accuracy and clarity.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex legal concepts clearly.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• High level of professionalism, integrity, and commitment to client service.
• Proficient in legal research tools and software, as well as Microsoft Office Suite.

The Illinois law office is the biggest workplace of the firm. The time-honored law practice opened for business at this location one-hundred and three years ago. To date, there are six-hundred and fifty seasoned attorneys staffed at this location. There are eight areas of practice. Disciplines consist of litigation, corporate, real estate, intellectual property, restructuring, tax, employee benefits and tax-estates. The Midwest office received a LEED Silver Certification for their green interior design.