Private Equity Associate Attorney

Private Equity Associate Attorney
Location: New York, NY
Compensation: $235,000–$390,000

Direct Counsel is seeking a Private Equity Associate Attorney to join the New York office of a leading Am Law firm. This opportunity is ideal for an attorney with 3–7 years of private equity and M&A experience who is looking to work on sophisticated transactions representing private equity sponsors, strategic buyers, and sellers in a dynamic, fast-paced practice.

The ideal candidate has significant experience leading complex M&A or private equity transactions and thrives in a collaborative environment with substantial client interaction and responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Represent private equity sponsors, strategic buyers, and sellers in sophisticated mergers, acquisitions, and other strategic transactions.
• Draft, review, and negotiate purchase agreements, merger agreements, investment documents, ancillary transaction documents, and related corporate agreements.
• Manage transactions from inception through closing, including coordinating due diligence, negotiating key terms, and overseeing transaction timelines.
• Conduct legal research and analysis to support transaction strategy and execution.
• Collaborate with attorneys across multiple practice areas to deliver practical, business-focused legal solutions.
• Participate in client meetings, negotiations, and other significant transaction-related activities.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships while providing responsive, high-quality legal counsel.
• Mentor junior attorneys and contribute to the firm's collaborative and professional development initiatives.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school with strong academic credentials.
• 3–7 years of private equity and/or M&A experience at a leading law firm, preferably an Am Law 100 firm.
• Significant experience representing private equity sponsors and strategic buyers or sellers in complex transactions.
• Strong drafting, negotiation, analytical, and project management skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple sophisticated transactions in a fast-paced environment while exercising sound business judgment.
• Active admission to the New York Bar.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary of $235,000–$390,000, depending on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) retirement benefits.
• Hybrid work environment with regular in-office collaboration and flexibility for remote work.
• Outstanding opportunities for mentorship, professional development, client engagement, and long-term career growth within a nationally recognized private equity practice.