Emerging Growth & Venture Capital Associate (Chicago)

DLA Piper•Chicago, IL

20h•$235,000 - $435,000•Hybrid

About The Position

DLA Piper is seeking an associate to join its Emerging Growth & Venture Capital group in the Chicago office. The role focuses primarily on representing emerging growth companies and the institutional investors that support them. The ideal candidate has at least two years of experience representing both institutional investors and issuers in venture capital financings, along with experience in M&A transactions and advising emerging growth companies on day-to-day corporate matters. The associate conducts legal research and analysis, drafts legal documents, assists with and manages complex transactions, interacts with clients, collaborates with colleagues, and participates in legal activities such as negotiations and closings. Associates are also expected to maintain compliance with legal standards, pursue professional development, and contribute to firm and community initiatives, including pro bono work. The role has a hybrid work arrangement, requiring regular in-office presence with some flexibility to work from home. The firm may modify its work location requirements at its discretion. The position requires a JD from an accredited law school and admission to practice in the state where the employee is based. The expected hiring range is $235,000–$435,000 per year, depending on geographic market and candidate qualifications.

Requirements

JD from an accredited law school.
At least 2 years of Emerging Growth/Venture Capital experience.
Admission to practice in the state where the candidate is based.
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Attention to detail and good business and professional judgment.
Excellent organizational skills.
Ability to work collaboratively and independently.
Conceptual thinking and persuasive communication abilities.
Management skills.
Ability to work under pressure and manage competing demands in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Direct and applicable AmLaw 100 firm experience is preferred.
Experience representing both institutional investors and issuers in venture capital financings.
Experience with M&A transactions.
Experience advising emerging growth companies on day-to-day corporate matters.

Responsibilities

Conduct thorough legal research and analysis to support transaction preparation and strategy.
Draft clear, accurate, and reasoned legal documents, including briefs, motions, contracts, and correspondence.
Manage complex transactions from inception through resolution, including negotiations, settlements, and closings, while exercising sound judgment.
Build and maintain internal and external client relationships by providing support, updates, advice, and timely responses to concerns.
Collaborate with lawyers and business professionals to develop strategies for clients.
Attend, support, and participate in legal activities such as hearings, depositions, negotiations, and trials.
Ensure compliance with legal standards and regulations and stay current on changes in law and legal precedents.
Participate in ongoing training and development to enhance legal knowledge, technology, management, and leadership skills.
Contribute to firm programs and initiatives, civic and professional organizations, and pro bono work.
Communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, business professionals, and third parties.
Produce timely, accurate, and quality work; respond efficiently to calls and correspondence; and meet deadlines and expectations.
Foster positive work relationships, comply with firm policies and practices, and perform other assigned duties.