Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorney

Associate Attorney – Mergers & Acquisitions (Chicago, IL; Los Angeles, CA)

Direct Counsel is seeking an Associate Attorney to join a leading national law firm in its Chicago or Los Angeles office. This is an excellent opportunity for a transactional attorney with private company M&A and private equity experience who wants to work in a collaborative, client-focused environment with meaningful responsibility early in their career.

About the Practice

The firm’s Mergers & Acquisitions team works with a diverse set of clients, including private companies and private equity/sponsor clients, on acquisitions, dispositions, growth equity transactions, and other complex corporate deals. The practice offers significant exposure to all stages of a transaction, from initial deal structuring to drafting definitive agreements, and emphasizes professional development, client service, and collaborative teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Lead or support private company M&A transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, and growth equity deals

• Advise private equity and sponsor clients on deal structuring and execution

• Negotiate term sheets and draft (or mark up) purchase or merger agreements

• Manage multiple transactions simultaneously, balancing deadlines and priorities

• Provide high-quality, efficient legal services independently and as part of a team

• Participate in client-facing activities and business development as appropriate

The firm offers a hybrid work model, with three days in-office and two days remote, fostering collaboration while providing flexibility.

Qualifications

• JD or equivalent degree from an ABA-accredited law school

• Admission to, or eligibility for admission to, the Illinois or California Bar

• 3–6 years of transactional/M&A experience, with a focus on private company deals and private equity clients

• Experience managing multiple matters simultaneously and handling the early stages of transactions

• Strong academic credentials

• Excellent written and oral communication skills

• Professionalism and ability to collaborate effectively in team-oriented environments

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary: $260,000 – $340,000 (commensurate with experience)

• Bonus eligible

• Comprehensive benefits package

• Professional development support, including training, mentoring, and performance feedback