Mid-level Real Estate (Equity) Associate

Job Overview

A highly regarded law firm is seeking a mid-level associate to join its Real Estate Equity group in Chicago. This position focuses on complex commercial real estate transactions, with an emphasis on equity-side work such as joint ventures, acquisitions, dispositions, and real estate financings. The role is ideal for attorneys with strong experience handling sophisticated real estate matters at a top-tier law firm.

Location

• Chicago, IL

Duties

• Advise clients on structuring and negotiating commercial real estate equity transactions

• Draft and negotiate joint venture agreements, purchase and sale agreements, and financing documentation

• Represent real estate investors and developers in acquisitions and dispositions

• Provide legal guidance on complex deal structures involving equity and debt financing

• Coordinate with opposing counsel, clients, and internal teams to manage transaction closings

• Conduct due diligence and risk analysis related to real estate assets

Requirements

• 4–6 years of experience in real estate equity transactions

• Background working at a top-tier law firm with a focus on real estate joint ventures, acquisitions, and financings

• Demonstrated ability to independently handle complex real estate matters

• Familiarity with private equity real estate structures (preferred)

Education

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

Certifications

• Admission to the bar in Illinois or eligibility for prompt admission

Skills

• Strong legal drafting and negotiation skills

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities

• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple complex transactions concurrently

• Effective communication skills and client service orientation

• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, high-volume environment

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package available to attorneys and staff

• Compensation aligned with candidate experience and internal equity policies

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.