Real Estate Associate Chicago
Job Description
Direct Counsel is representing an Am Law 100 firm seeking a Real Estate Associate to join its Commercial Real Estate Practice in Chicago. This position offers the opportunity to work directly with clients across multiple industries and engage in sophisticated, large-scale real estate transactions on a national level.
This role is ideal for an attorney seeking meaningful client contact, substantial transactional responsibility, and hands-on training from seasoned real estate partners recognized nationally for their work in the field.
Key Responsibilities
Handle complex commercial real estate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, financings, joint ventures, and developments.
Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of transactional documents related to real estate and corporate structuring.
Work directly with clients to strategically manage transactions from initial due diligence through closing.
Collaborate with partners and senior associates to deliver high-quality legal work under tight deadlines.
Develop both technical legal and business relationship skills through active mentorship and direct client exposure.
Qualifications
3–5 years of experience in commercial real estate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, debt and equity financings, and development.
Strong academic credentials and exceptional writing, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to handle multiple matters and deliver results in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
Prior large law firm experience preferred.
Admission to the Illinois Bar preferred.
Why This Role
This position offers:
The chance to work directly with national clients on high-value transactions.
Substantial mentorship and training from leading real estate partners and senior associates.
A clear growth path toward becoming a first-chair real estate attorney.
A collaborative, business-focused environment that rewards initiative and client service excellence.
Location: Chicago, IL
Experience Level: 3–5 years
Practice Area: Real Estate (Commercial Transactions)
