What are the responsibilities and job description for the Real Estate Associate – Chicago position at Direct Counsel?
Direct Counsel is representing an Am Law 100 firm seeking a Real Estate Associate to join its Commercial Real Estate Practice in Chicago. This position offers the opportunity to work directly with clients across multiple industries and engage in sophisticated, large-scale real estate transactions on a national level.
This role is ideal for an attorney seeking meaningful client contact, substantial transactional responsibility, and hands-on training from seasoned real estate partners recognized nationally for their work in the field.
Key Responsibilities
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Handle complex commercial real estate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, financings, joint ventures, and developments.
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Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of transactional documents related to real estate and corporate structuring.
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Work directly with clients to strategically manage transactions from initial due diligence through closing.
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Collaborate with partners and senior associates to deliver high-quality legal work under tight deadlines.
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Develop both technical legal and business relationship skills through active mentorship and direct client exposure.
Qualifications
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3–5 years of experience in commercial real estate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, debt and equity financings, and development.
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Strong academic credentials and exceptional writing, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
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Ability to handle multiple matters and deliver results in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
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Prior large law firm experience preferred.
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Admission to the Illinois Bar preferred.
Why This Role
This position offers:
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The chance to work directly with national clients on high-value transactions.
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Substantial mentorship and training from leading real estate partners and senior associates.
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A clear growth path toward becoming a first-chair real estate attorney.
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A collaborative, business-focused environment that rewards initiative and client service excellence.
Location: Chicago, IL
Experience Level: 3–5 years
Practice Area: Real Estate (Commercial Transactions)
