Private Funds Associate Attorney

Job Description

Job Description

Direct Counsel is seeking a Private Funds Associate Attorney to join a highly respected Am Law firm.

Locations: San Francisco, Palo Alto, Denver, or New York

Practice Area: Private Funds / Investment Management

Overview:
This is an exceptional opportunity to join a premier Private Funds practice representing top-tier sponsors and investment managers in the formation and operation of sophisticated investment vehicles. The practice advises clients across a broad range of fund strategies, including private equity, venture capital, credit, impact, and real estate funds, as well as joint ventures and other investment structures.

The firm is widely recognized for its collaborative culture, strong mentorship platform, and commitment to professional development, offering associates meaningful client exposure and substantive responsibility on complex, high-profile matters.

Position Overview:
The ideal candidate will have 6+ years of experience advising sponsors on the formation, structuring, and ongoing operation of private investment funds and related entities. This role offers the opportunity to work closely with leading practitioners and sophisticated clients on innovative and market-shaping transactions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Advise sponsors on the formation and operation of private investment funds
• Draft and negotiate fund formation and organizational documents
• Structure and advise on private equity, venture capital, credit, impact, and real estate funds
• Counsel clients regarding limited partnerships, limited liability companies, and joint ventures
• Support ongoing fund governance, regulatory, and operational matters
• Collaborate closely with partners and clients on complex transactional and strategic matters
• Participate in practice development and firm initiatives within a collaborative team environment

Qualifications:

• 6+ years of private funds and investment management experience from a leading law firm
• Strong background in fund formation and sponsor-side representation
• Excellent drafting, analytical, and communication skills
• Ability to manage sophisticated matters and client relationships independently
• Strong academic credentials and attention to detail
• Active bar admission in the applicable jurisdiction or eligibility to waive in

Compensation:
Expected salary range: $390,000 – $435,000, commensurate with experience and location

This opportunity offers sophisticated sponsor-side private funds work, substantial professional growth opportunities, and the ability to join a highly collaborative and nationally recognized investment management practice.