Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorney

Company: Direct Counsel
Location: Chicago
Posted on: February 21, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Associate Attorney – Mergers & Acquisitions (Chicago, IL; Los Angeles, CA) Direct Counsel is seeking an Associate Attorney to join a leading national law firm in its Chicago or Los Angeles office. This is an excellent opportunity for a transactional attorney with private company M&A and private equity experience who wants to work in a collaborative, client-focused environment with meaningful responsibility early in their career. About the Practice The firm’s Mergers & Acquisitions team works with a diverse set of clients, including private companies and private equity/sponsor clients, on acquisitions, dispositions, growth equity transactions, and other complex corporate deals. The practice offers significant exposure to all stages of a transaction, from initial deal structuring to drafting definitive agreements, and emphasizes professional development, client service, and collaborative teamwork. Responsibilities Lead or support private company M&A transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, and growth equity deals Advise private equity and sponsor clients on deal structuring and execution Negotiate term sheets and draft (or mark up) purchase or merger agreements Manage multiple transactions simultaneously, balancing deadlines and priorities Provide high-quality, efficient legal services independently and as part of a team Participate in client-facing activities and business development as appropriate The firm offers a hybrid work model , with three days in-office and two days remote, fostering collaboration while providing flexibility. Qualifications JD or equivalent degree from an ABA-accredited law school Admission to, or eligibility for admission to, the Illinois or California Bar 3–6 years of transactional/M&A experience , with a focus on private company deals and private equity clients Experience managing multiple matters simultaneously and handling the early stages of transactions Strong academic credentials Excellent written and oral communication skills Professionalism and ability to collaborate effectively in team-oriented environments Compensation & Benefits Base salary: $260,000 – $340,000 (commensurate with experience) Bonus eligible Comprehensive benefits package Professional development support, including training, mentoring, and performance feedback

Keywords: Direct Counsel, Mishawaka , Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorney, Legal , Chicago, Indiana