Corporate Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorney
Job Description
Job DescriptionCorporate 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:
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Execute complex merger and acquisition transactions for private and public companies.
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Conduct legal research and analysis to support transaction preparation, structuring, and strategy.
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Draft and review transaction documents, contracts, memoranda, and client correspondence.
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Assist with transaction management, negotiations, due diligence, and closings.
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Collaborate with attorneys and business professionals to develop effective transaction strategies.
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Build strong client relationships and provide responsive, practical legal advice.
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Maintain compliance with applicable legal standards and securities regulations.
Requirements:
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J.D. from an accredited law school.
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Admission to practice law in California.
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1–3 years of corporate experience, preferably with a direct and applicable AmLaw 100 firm background.
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Experience executing M&A transactions for private and/or public companies.
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Strong academic credentials and excellent research, writing, analytical, and communication skills.
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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.