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M&A / Private Equity Attorney Associate / Special Counsel

Direct Counsel
Washington, DC Full Time
POSTED ON 10/9/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 12/8/2026
Direct Counsel is seeking an experienced M&A / Private Equity Attorney Associate or Special Counsel to join a sophisticated corporate transactional practice in New York or Washington, D.C. This opportunity is ideal for an attorney with experience in mergers and acquisitions, private equity transactions, and secondaries.

Location

New York, NY | Washington, D.C.

Key Responsibilities

  • Handle complex M&A and private equity transactions.

  • Advise on secondary transactions involving private equity investments.

  • Draft, review, and negotiate purchase agreements and related transactional documents.

  • Assist with due diligence, transaction structuring, and closings.

  • Collaborate with attorneys on sophisticated corporate and private equity matters.

Qualifications

  • 4–8 years of M&A and private equity experience for associate candidates.

  • Experience with private equity secondaries.

  • Strong transactional drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.

  • Licensed to practice law or eligible for admission in the applicable jurisdiction.

  • More senior attorneys may be considered for Special Counsel.

Compensation

Associate Base Salary: $310,000–$435,000, depending on experience and seniority.

Special Counsel compensation will be determined based on experience and qualifications.

Why This Opportunity

Join a sophisticated M&A and private equity practice handling complex transactions, including secondaries, with opportunities for meaningful responsibility and long-term professional growth.

Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier legal employers and fostering inclusive hiring practices.

Salary : $310,000 - $435,000

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