Mid-Level Corporate Finance Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel is seeking a Corporate Finance Associate to join a leading Am Law 100 law firm in its Chicago office. This opportunity is ideal for a mid-level associate looking to build a sophisticated finance practice while working closely with experienced attorneys on a broad range of lending and commercial finance transactions.

The firm's nationally recognized finance platform offers associates meaningful responsibility, direct client exposure, and exceptional opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

About the Role

The Corporate Finance Group advises financial institutions, lenders, borrowers, sponsors, and other market participants on a wide variety of financing transactions across industries and asset classes.

Associates in this practice will work on matters involving:

• Asset-based lending transactions

• Cash flow financing arrangements

• Real estate-secured lending transactions

• Acquisition and leveraged financings

• Commercial credit facilities

• Loan documentation and negotiation

• Due diligence and transaction management

• Loan amendments, restructurings, and related financing matters

Attorneys will have the opportunity to represent both lenders and borrowers while gaining exposure to sophisticated financing structures and complex transactional matters.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials.

• Approximately 3–6 years of legal experience.

• Experience representing lenders and/or borrowers in commercial finance transactions preferred.

• Background in asset-based lending, cash flow lending, real estate finance, or other commercial lending transactions is highly desirable.

• Candidates with strong general transactional experience but limited finance-specific experience are encouraged to apply.

• Excellent drafting, negotiation, analytical, and organizational skills.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

• Active membership in the Illinois Bar or eligibility to obtain admission promptly.

Why Consider This Opportunity

This firm offers attorneys the opportunity to join a highly respected finance practice while benefiting from a collaborative culture and a national platform.

Attorneys in this group enjoy:

• Significant responsibility and client-facing opportunities.

• Sophisticated lender- and borrower-side transactional work.

• Direct mentorship from experienced finance practitioners.

• A collegial and team-oriented environment.

• Strong professional development and training resources.

• Clear opportunities for long-term advancement and career growth.

Compensation & Benefits

Expected annual base salary ranges from $260,000 – $390,000, depending on experience, qualifications, and market factors.

The firm also offers a comprehensive benefits package, professional development resources, and competitive bonus opportunities.

Location

This position is based in Chicago, Illinois. Candidates should reside in or be willing to relocate to the Chicago area prior to joining the firm.

This is an excellent opportunity for a corporate finance associate seeking sophisticated lending and finance work, meaningful client engagement, and long-term career development within a premier national law firm.