Client Contracts Counsel

Client Contracts Counsel | Am Law 100 Litigation Firm | Chicago

About the Firm

Our client is a nationally recognized Am Law 100 law firm known for high-stakes litigation, government investigations, regulatory work, and complex corporate transactions. With offices across major U.S. markets and internationally, the firm advises Fortune 100 companies, leading private enterprises, prominent nonprofits and universities, and private equity investors. The firm has a long track record of national recognition for its pro bono commitment and a culture built on integrity, collaboration, and respect for every member of the team, attorneys and professional staff alike.

The Opportunity

This is a chance to step into a highly visible in-house role within the firm’s General Counsel’s office, where you will be the go-to resource on client engagement terms. You will partner directly with firm leadership, practice group partners, and clients to shape how the firm negotiates and manages its client relationships across domestic and international matters. It is an ideal seat for an attorney who enjoys contract work, wants meaningful influence on firm policy, and is energized by building better processes rather than just following them.

What You Will Do

• Serve as a trusted advisor on engagement letters, outside counsel guidelines, RFPs, and client and vendor agreements, flagging terms that conflict with firm practice and recommending practical solutions
• Evaluate key risk provisions including conflicts, billing and rate terms, confidentiality, file retention, AI usage, liability caps, and indemnification
• Build and maintain an organized, searchable repository of client engagement terms so attorneys and staff can find what they need quickly
• Track open contract reviews and exceptions, and keep partners and firm leadership informed on status and outcomes
• Lead the design of best practices and workflows for engagement terms review, negotiation, and compliance
• Develop training content and deliver sessions to attorneys and staff, and mentor fellow members of the General Counsel’s team on contract analysis
• Advise the new business intake and conflicts teams on issue spotting and client contract procedures
• Field questions from internal departments and clients with responsiveness and sound judgment
• Help evaluate and roll out technology that improves how the firm reviews and manages client terms
• Stay current on professional responsibility rules, professional liability guidance, and data protection laws in the U.S. and abroad

What You Bring

• J.D. from an accredited law school and active bar admission
• Background in a law firm, professional services, or financial services environment
• Solid grasp of how law firms operate, including client relationship dynamics and the regulatory landscape
• Working knowledge of data privacy, information security, AML, governance, and professional conduct requirements
• Comfort with risk management and analytics tools
• Sharp analytical skills and a practical, solutions-oriented approach
• Polished written and verbal communication, with the ability to explain risk issues clearly to audiences at every level
• Ability to lead, influence without formal authority, and work confidently alongside senior leadership and firm committees
• Self-starter who can drive projects forward independently and enjoys finding ways to do things better

Compensation and Benefits

Anticipated base salary of $115,000 to $200,000 in Chicago, depending on experience and qualifications, plus a comprehensive benefits package including health and wellness coverage and 401(k) profit sharing. Candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S.; visa sponsorship is not available for this role.