The Opportunity: We are seeking a Real Estate In-House Counsel who will oversee legal activities for the business and provide expert legal advice and counsel in areas such as real estate purchases/divestitures, rezoning, mergers and acquisitions, procurement contracts, asset protection, tactical matters, and litigation. The position will also manage complex agreements for operations and provide general and employment law guidance, including compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws, employment issues related to corporate acquisitions and divestitures, and wage and hour compliance. Additionally, the In-House Counsel manages the engagement and services provided by outside counsel.
The Client: Our client is a boutique real estate investment and development company specializing in the acquisition and development of commercial, multifamily, residential, and mixed-use properties in Gainesville, GA. It has subsidiaries dedicated to development and management services, including design, procurement, general contracting, and operations.
Essential Functions:
- Rezoning representation and land development application preparation and negotiation.
- Identify, analyze, and advise on all legal issues for the organization, balancing legal risks with business considerations. Ensure compliance with laws, sound business practices, and ethical standards.
- Draft, train, and implement processes and procedures to maintain compliance and mitigate legal risks. Manage outside counsel to optimize legal costs and service quality.
- Adapt strategic models to specific local legal, regulatory, and business requirements, often across multiple disciplines and in cooperation with various business units.
- Assist with negotiations related to real estate acquisitions and financing agreements with investors.
- Manage all legal aspects of acquisition and financing transactions as a transaction coordinator.
- Advise on construction law matters, including risk mitigation, liability management, change order provisions, insurance, and warranty exposures.
- Manage all litigation, including claims by third parties that have not reached the litigation stage.
- Work with business units to resolve claims, disputes, and litigation, providing necessary legal advice.
Compensation & Benefits:
- Competitive compensation package
- Remote work opportunity
- Generous holiday allowance
- Exceptional benefits including medical, dental, vision, and short-term coverage options
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
Experience Desired:
- 5-10 years of experience as a Partner or Junior Partner in a large firm
- Litigation experience is a plus but not required
- Juris Doctorate (JD) and licensed in Georgia
- At least 4 years of experience in real estate transactions and 1 year in employment and labor law
- Background in commercial real estate and corporate transactions, with experience in multifamily, industrial, land use, and rezoning
- Strong business sense and financial acumen
- Ability to manage pressure and deadlines
- Excellent interpersonal, analytical, and critical thinking skills
- Strong organizational and drafting abilities
- Excellent academic credentials and communication skills
- Attention to detail and management skills
- Ability to quickly assimilate information and work effectively in a fast-paced environment