Private Equity/Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorney
Company: Direct Counsel
Location: Chicago
Posted on: February 13, 2026
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Job Description:
Job Description Job Description Direct Counsel is seeking a
Corporate Associate Attorney to join a leading national firm.
Position: Private Equity/M&A Associate Location: Chicago, IL
About the Role: The incoming associate will join an elite Private
Equity practice advising domestic and international private equity
sponsors on complex business transactions, including leveraged
buyouts, add-on acquisitions, dispositions of portfolio companies,
co-investments, recapitalizations, and general corporate governance
matters. You will be expected to take a front-line role in drafting
key transaction documents, managing due diligence processes,
negotiating NDAs and ancillary agreements, and coordinating the
execution of sophisticated M&A transactions alongside partners
and senior associates. Key Responsibilities: Advise private equity
sponsors and their portfolio companies throughout the investment
lifecycle Lead drafting of purchase agreements, operating
agreements, and other key transaction documents Manage
cross-functional deal teams across tax, finance, labor &
employment, and IP specialty areas Perform and oversee legal due
diligence and prepare disclosure schedules Work directly with
clients, investment bankers, and opposing counsel on live
transactional matters Qualifications: J.D. from a top-tier law
school 2–6 years of experience in PE/M&A at an Am Law 100 or
similarly sophisticated platform Substantive experience handling
buyouts, acquisitions, dispositions, and/or minority investments
Superior drafting, analytical, and negotiation skills Ability to
thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume transactional practice
Compensation: Annual base salary range: $235,000 to $390,000 ,
commensurate with experience Generous bonus potential aligned with
market practice Why This Opportunity: This is an outstanding
opportunity to work at the forefront of the private equity market,
gaining hands-on experience on high-profile deals for blue-chip
clients. The group boasts a nationally recognized platform, a
collegial culture, direct access to partners, and meaningful client
interaction from day one.
Keywords: Direct Counsel, Skokie , Private Equity/Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorney, Legal , Chicago, Illinois
