Restructuring Associate (Multi-Office)

DLA Piper•Chicago, IL

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

DLA Piper is seeking a restructuring associate to join its finance group. The role is open in the firm’s Chicago, New York, and Wilmington offices and is intended for candidates with one to two years of restructuring experience. The associate will advise companies experiencing financial difficulties, lenders, and creditors in complex business reorganizations, debt restructurings, and financing matters; debtor-side experience is preferred. Direct and applicable experience at an AmLaw 100 law firm is preferred. The associate will perform core legal work, including research, analysis, drafting, client service, collaboration, risk assessment, and compliance with legal and professional standards. The role also includes transaction-related responsibilities such as supporting complex matters from inception through closing, conducting due diligence, drafting and negotiating documents, advising on transaction structures and regulatory considerations, coordinating deal execution and closings, and working with multidisciplinary teams. This position offers a potential hybrid arrangement combining remote and in-office work. The specific arrangement will be determined at hiring and may be modified at the firm’s discretion. The work is primarily sedentary and may involve occasional domestic and international travel. The expected hiring range is $225,000–$235,000 per year, depending on geographic market and candidate qualifications. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance and a 401(k). The position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship or support, and relocation assistance is generally unavailable unless relocation is required at the firm’s direction.

Requirements

JD degree from an accredited law school.
Admitted to practice in the state in which the candidate will be working.
One to two years of restructuring experience representing and advising companies experiencing financial difficulties, lenders, and creditors in complex business reorganizations, debt restructurings, and financing matters.
Strong analytical and writing skills.
Attention to detail and good business judgment.
Excellent organizational skills.
Ability to work collaboratively and independently.
Demonstrated oral and written communication skills.
Research and problem-solving skills.
Conceptual thinking and ability to influence others.
Persuasive communication and management skills.

Nice To Haves

Debtor-side restructuring experience.
Direct and applicable experience at an AmLaw 100 law firm.

Responsibilities

Conduct legal research and analysis to support client matters, legal strategy, and decision-making.
Prepare legal documents, correspondence, memoranda, and other work product.
Build and maintain internal and external client relationships by providing responsive, practical, high-quality legal services.
Collaborate with lawyers and business professionals across practices and offices to support client objectives.
Exercise professional judgment, identify legal and business risks, and develop practical solutions.
Comply with applicable legal, regulatory, ethical, and professional standards.
Participate in ongoing training and development.
Contribute to firm initiatives, professional organizations, community service, and pro bono programs.
Manage and support complex domestic and cross-border corporate, finance, real estate, tax, employment, and other transactional matters from inception through closing and post-closing activities.
Conduct legal due diligence, analyze findings, identify risks, and develop practical recommendations for clients.
Draft, review, negotiate, and revise contracts, transaction documents, disclosure schedules, and ancillary agreements.
Structure transactions and advise on legal, regulatory, business, and operational considerations.
Support deal execution by managing timelines, coordinating workstreams, and facilitating communication among transaction parties.
Participate in negotiations with clients, counterparties, lenders, investors, regulators, and other stakeholders.
Coordinate and manage transaction closings, including closing documentation, signatures, funds flow, and post-closing obligations.
Analyze and advise on regulatory requirements, governance matters, and compliance considerations affecting transactions.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary legal teams and business professionals to deliver integrated solutions.
Communicate effectively with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and external audiences.
Produce high-quality work, respond to correspondence efficiently and professionally, meet deadlines, manage competing priorities, comply with firm policies, and maintain confidences.