Real Estate Associate Attorney – Chicago

Direct Counsel is seeking Real Estate Associate Attorneys at the junior through senior levels to join a leading AmLaw 100 law firm’s highly regarded Real Estate practice in Chicago. The firm is seeking lateral candidates with varying levels of experience to work on a broad range of sophisticated commercial real estate transactions.

Position Overview

The ideal candidates will have strong academic credentials and meaningful experience in the Real Estate practice of a peer firm. Attorneys will have the opportunity to work on complex transactions involving a wide range of real estate asset classes and collaborate with attorneys across the firm’s global platform.

Responsibilities

• Advise clients on sophisticated commercial real estate transactions.

• Represent clients in real estate joint ventures, acquisitions, dispositions, and Real Estate M&A and private equity transactions.

• Handle real estate financings and related investment transactions.

• Assist with real estate fund formation and investment structures.

• Advise clients on leasing matters and other real estate operational issues.

• Work on transactions involving the purchase, sale, co-investment, construction, financing, development, leasing, management, and operation of real property.

• Handle matters across a broad range of asset classes, including office, multifamily, single-family, industrial, logistics, hospitality, data centers, and retail.

• Collaborate with attorneys across multiple practice areas and offices to deliver sophisticated, business-focused legal advice.

• Develop and maintain strong client relationships while providing high-quality, responsive service.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.

• Admission to the Illinois Bar required.

• Junior-level candidates: approximately 1–3 years of real estate experience.

• Mid-to-senior-level candidates: approximately 4 years of real estate experience.

• Meaningful experience practicing real estate law at a peer law firm.

• Strong academic credentials and demonstrated legal ability.

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

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to work effectively in a sophisticated, fast-paced legal environment.

Compensation

For junior-level candidates, the anticipated starting base salary is $225,000–$235,000 annually.

For mid-to-senior-level candidates, the anticipated starting base salary is $310,000–$455,000 annually.

Actual compensation will be determined based on skills, experience, and other job-related factors. Attorneys may also be eligible for a discretionary year-end bonus.

Work Arrangement & Benefits

The firm offers a hybrid work model, currently consisting of working in the office Monday through Thursday, with opportunities for attorneys to work remotely for specified periods throughout the year.

Lateral attorneys participate in an enhanced mentorship program designed to support the unique needs of attorneys transitioning into the firm. The firm also offers extensive professional development opportunities and a robust pro bono program that allows attorneys to pursue causes aligned with their interests while receiving credit for their pro bono work.