Description:
Culture and Engagement at DentonsFostering an inclusive and welcoming culture is a core priority at Dentons. We are committed to creating an environment that values and respects the contributions of all colleagues. By attracting, supporting, promoting and retaining highly qualified individuals of various backgrounds and experiences, we strengthen our ability to provide innovative solutions, deliver exceptional client service, and advance the success of our Firm. Dentons takes an active approach to promoting a collaborative and inclusive workplace by investing in professional development and culture initiatives.
Responsibilities and practice:
Dentons US LLP is seeking a talented mid-level associate to join our nationally recognized Real Estate practice in Chicago. This is an opportunity to step into sophisticated, high-impact work for premier clients while benefiting from the resources, mentorship and cross-office collaboration throughout the Firm. You will work closely with partners and clients across the full real estate lifecycle, assume meaningful responsibility from day one, and help drive complex transactions to a successful close.
You will advise lenders, investors, developers, owners and operators on a wide range of real estate and real estate finance matters across major asset classes, including office, retail, industrial, multifamily, community facility and mixed-use projects. Your work will include drafting and negotiating key deal documents, managing transactions end-to-end and counseling clients on strategic, practical solutions that advance their business objectives.
Your core responsibilities will include:
- Structuring, documenting, and negotiating acquisitions, dispositions, financings, joint ventures, leasing arrangements and development projects
- Drafting and negotiating loan documents, operating agreements, purchase and sale agreements, commercial leases, development agreements and related contracts
- Leading and coordinating closings, including title and survey review, due diligence, zoning and land-use analysis, and entity formation
- Advising on construction and development matters and supporting ongoing operational and asset management issues
- Mentoring junior associates, managing workstreams and ensuring timely, high-quality deliverables
- Work on market-leading matters for sophisticated clients in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
- Gain hands-on responsibility with direct client contact, supported by partners who invest in your growth
- Leverage a global platform to develop cross-disciplinary skills and relationships across offices and practice areas
- Build a career with clear pathways for development, training and mentorship
Position Requirements:
We are looking for a proactive, business-minded associate with strong judgment and a commitment to excellence.
Personal skills/attributes:
- Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with the ability to deliver clear, concise and thoughtful work product
- Strong analytical capabilities and comfort with complex real estate concepts and structures
- Excellent interpersonal skills and a client-service mindset
- Proven ability to manage multiple matters and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment
- A collaborative approach and enthusiasm for working within a cohesive team
Technical skills:
- 3–6 years of sophisticated real estate practice experience
- Experience in one or more of the following: acquisitions, dispositions, financings, leasing and development matters
- Prior law firm experience is required
- Lender-side financing experience is valued but not mandatory
Other Requirements:
- Admission to, and good standing with, the State Bar of Illinois
- Submission of a résumé, deal list and law school transcript with application materials
Equal opportunities:
Dentons US LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Disability/Vet. Pursuant to local ordinances, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
