Corporate Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorney

Job Description

Job Description

Corporate Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorney – San Francisco or Palo Alto, CA

Direct Counsel is seeking a Corporate M&A Associate Attorney to join a leading global law firm in its growing Corporate M&A group in San Francisco or Palo Alto, California.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a premier AmLaw 100 firm and work on sophisticated merger and acquisition transactions for both private and public companies. The ideal candidate will have 1–3 years of corporate experience , a strong foundation in M&A, and an interest in developing their practice in a dynamic, high-stakes environment. Experience with capital markets matters, including public offerings, SEC reporting, securities work, growth equity, or corporate venture capital, is also beneficial.

Responsibilities:

• Execute complex merger and acquisition transactions for private and public companies.

• Conduct legal research and analysis to support transaction preparation, structuring, and strategy.

• Draft and review transaction documents, contracts, memoranda, and client correspondence.

• Assist with transaction management, negotiations, due diligence, and closings.

• Collaborate with attorneys and business professionals to develop effective transaction strategies.

• Build strong client relationships and provide responsive, practical legal advice.

• Maintain compliance with applicable legal standards and securities regulations.

Requirements:

• J.D. from an accredited law school.

• Admission to practice law in California.

• 1–3 years of corporate experience, preferably with a direct and applicable AmLaw 100 firm background.

• Experience executing M&A transactions for private and/or public companies.

• Strong academic credentials and excellent research, writing, analytical, and communication skills.

• Sound business judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Compensation: $225,000–$260,000 annually, depending on experience and geographic market.

Locations: Palo Alto, CA; San Francisco, CA

Work Arrangement: Hybrid, with regular in-office presence and some flexibility to work remotely.