Commercial Real Estate Transactional Associate

Direct Counsel is seeking a Real Estate Associate to join a sophisticated commercial real estate practice in Los Angeles. This is an outstanding opportunity for an experienced real estate attorney looking to handle complex transactions, work directly with clients, and play a meaningful role within a collaborative and entrepreneurial practice.

The ideal candidate will have 5 years of commercial real estate transactional experience with a strong background in leasing and acquisitions/dispositions. Candidates should be comfortable managing matters independently while delivering exceptional client service.

Responsibilities

• Handle a broad range of commercial real estate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, and leasing matters
• Draft, review, and negotiate purchase and sale agreements, leases, and related transaction documents
• Manage transactions from initial structuring through closing with minimal supervision
• Provide strategic and practical legal advice to clients on complex real estate matters
• Identify legal and business risks and develop practical, solutions-oriented recommendations
• Collaborate with clients and colleagues across practice groups on multidisciplinary matters
• Maintain strong client relationships through responsive, high-level service and communication

Qualifications

• 5 years of commercial real estate transactional experience
• Significant experience with commercial leasing and acquisitions/dispositions
• Ability to independently manage sophisticated transactions with minimal oversight
• Large law firm experience is a plus
• Strong drafting, negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent writing, communication, and interpersonal abilities
• Demonstrated commitment to client service and relationship development
• Strong academic credentials
• Active California Bar admission required

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary range: $220,000 -- $260,000
• 4x4 Hybrid Model (in-office Wednesdays plus four additional in-office days per month)
• Significant client interaction and hands-on responsibility
• Collaborative and entrepreneurial practice environment
• Strong mentorship and professional development opportunities

The Ideal Candidate Will:

• Deliver premium, top-tier client service
• Be solutions-oriented and exercise strong business judgment
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment
• Demonstrate exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• Remain highly organized while managing multiple priorities and deadlines
• Anticipate challenges, identify risks, and provide practical, actionable recommendations

Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier law firms and fostering inclusive hiring practices.