Corporate M&A Associate (Chicago)

Summary DLA Piper is seeking an associate to join its growing corporate group in its Chicago office. The candidate must have experience executing merger and acquisitions transactions for private and public companies, with a desired emphasis on drafting principal acquisition agreements and direct negotiation thereof. Candidates must have direct and applicable big law firm experience, immediately transferable skills and strong academic backgrounds from nationally recognized schools. Location Chicago office – hybrid work model. Responsibilities Legal Research: Conduct thorough and comprehensive legal research and analysis to support case/transaction preparation and strategy. Legal Writing: Draft well‑written, error‑free, and reasoned legal documents, including briefs, motions, contracts, and correspondence. Case/Transaction Assistance and Management: Assist/Manage a variety of complex cases/transactions from inception to resolution, including preparing for trials, negotiations, settlements, closings, and other legal activities while continuously demonstrating strong judgment. Internal/External Client Interaction: Build, maintain, and cultivate strong internal and external client relationships by providing support, regular updates, advice, and addressing concerns promptly and with the utmost professionalism. Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other lawyers and business professionals to support and develop innovative case/transaction strategies to achieve the most favorable outcomes for clients. Attend, support, and participate in high‑level legal activities including court hearings, depositions, negotiations, trials, etc. Compliance: Ensure rigorous compliance with legal standards and regulations, staying abreast of changes in law and legal precedents. Professional Development: Proactively seek out and participate in ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance legal knowledge, practice technology, management, and leadership skills. Firm Citizenship and Community Involvement: Engage in and contribute to firm programs and initiatives, civic and professional organizations, and pro‑bono work by providing legal assistance to underserved and underrepresented communities. Desired Skills Excellent written and verbal communication abilities. Strong research, analytical, and problem‑solving skills. Attention to detail. Good business and professional judgment. Excellent organizational skills. Ability to work collaboratively and independently. Conceptual thinking. Persuasive communication. Management skills. Minimum Education JD Degree from an accredited law school. Certifications Admitted to practice in the state of Illinois. Minimum Years of Experience 3–7 years of corporate experience. Direct and applicable AmLaw 100 firm experience preferred. Benefits Salary range: $260,000–$420,000 per year, depending on geographic market location. Medical, dental, and vision insurance. 401(k) plan. Relocation assistance may be provided at the firm’s direction; applicants not based in the jurisdiction are not eligible for relocation assistance. Equal Opportunity Statement DLA Piper is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. #J-18808-Ljbffr DLA Piper LLP (US)