M&A / PE Associate

Job Overview:
A leading law firm is seeking a skilled associate attorney with 4 to 7 years of experience to join its Corporate M&A and Private Equity group in the Bay Area. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in handling complex M&A and private equity transactions, with demonstrated experience representing strategic buyers, private equity sponsors, and portfolio companies in sophisticated deal structures.

Location:

• Palo Alto, CA

Duties:

• Represent private equity firms and strategic buyers in mergers, acquisitions, and other complex corporate transactions

• Lead or support all stages of deal execution, including due diligence, negotiation, documentation, and closing

• Draft and review key transaction documents including purchase agreements, disclosure schedules, and ancillary agreements

• Advise on structuring considerations and regulatory issues related to corporate transactions

• Work closely with tax, finance, and regulatory teams on cross-disciplinary deal matters

• Provide ongoing legal guidance to portfolio companies post-closing

Requirements:

• 4 to 7 years of experience in M&A and private equity transactional work

• Experience in a corporate practice at a nationally or internationally recognized law firm

• Familiarity with deal process management and client communications

• Experience handling cross-border transactions is a plus

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited U.S. law school

• Strong academic credentials required

Certifications:

• Admission to the bar in at least one U.S. jurisdiction (California preferred)

Skills:

• Advanced drafting and negotiation skills

• Strong understanding of deal mechanics and transaction structures

• Excellent project management and organizational capabilities

• Strong client relationship and communication skills

• Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams under tight timelines

Benefits:

• Competitive base salary aligned with experience and responsibilities

• Comprehensive benefits including health coverage, retirement plans, and professional development resources

The Northern California law office opened nine years ago. Fifteen very skilled attorneys comprise their law office. There are two core practice disciplines. Areas of concentration are intellectual property and private equity. Both practices areas have received top honors from well-known legal periodicals.