Associate Attorney

Hawkstone Search; Los Angeles, California (CA, MO); On-site; USD 160,000 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Compensation based on the Cravath Scale

Additional performance bonuses

Opportunities for professional development and leadership

Collaborative leadership environment

Job summary

A national boutique law firm in California is seeking an Associate Attorney specializing in M&A. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead transactions in a collaborative, client-centric environment. Ideal candidates will have a J.D. and experience in private equity matters. The firm prides itself on growth and competitive compensation that includes performance bonuses.

Qualifications

• Experience working on M&A matters across the U.S. & internationally.
• Focus on private equity in a Big Law environment.
• Commitment to a collaborative, inclusive, and client-centric work environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute complex M&A transactions.
• Advise private equity sponsors and strategic clients.
• Support all stages of the private equity lifecycle.
• Collaborate on specialty practice areas.

Skills

Excellent communication

Teamwork

Problem-solving

Education

J.D. (2018-2022), admitted to practice law (CA)

Job description

Associate Attorney (M&A)

Job title: Associate Attorney (M&A)

After growing attorney headcount by 35% in the last 12 months and recent recognition from Chambers USA for their work in private equity matters, this national boutique is looking to further compete and win against the biggest names in law. Operating for over 10 years, the firm prides itself on providing a clear plan to compete and win against AM25 firms.

With offices across California, New York, and Texas, the firm is committed to expanding its capacity to serve a rapidly growing client base. This position offers a unique opportunity for Big Law attorneys eager to control M&A transactions from inception to close in a dynamic, client‑centric environment focused on business development from day 1.

What you’ll be doing

• Lead and execute complex M&A transactions
• Advise private equity sponsors and strategic clients on growth equity, debt financing, and fund formation
• Support all stages of the private equity lifecycle, from fund formation to acquisition and exit, across various industries
• Collaborate on specialty practice areas, including tax, intellectual property, cybersecurity and data privacy, executive compensation, labor and employment, and environmental

What they need

• J.D. (2018‑2022), admitted to practice law (CA)
• Experience working on M&A matters across the U.S. & internationally, focusing on private equity in a Big Law environment
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem‑solving skills
• Commitment to a collaborative, inclusive, and client‑centric work environment

What’s on offer

• Compensation based on the Cravath Scale plus additional performance bonuses
• Work at a modern alternative to Big Law – escape the mega‑deal focus, high premiums, and diluted attention while handling sophisticated, high‑impact transactions
• Join a firm with 35% headcount growth in the last 12 months, offering significant opportunities for professional development and leadership
• Collaborative leadership—work alongside industry leaders from an AM20 background and help shape the future of mid‑market private equity

If you are a motivated M&A Associate ready to elevate your career with a top‑tier boutique firm, please submit your resume and deal sheet to: [e-mail]

All inquiries will be handled confidentially.