Private Equity Associate (Atlanta)

DLA Piper LLP (US); Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

DLA Piper LLP (US) is seeking a private equity associate to join its Atlanta office. The ideal candidate will have 3-6 years of experience in private equity or M&A, along with a JD degree from an accredited law school. Responsibilities include conducting legal research, managing transactions, and fostering client relationships.

Candidates must demonstrate strong communication, analytical, and organizational skills. This is a crucial role within a fast-growing market, focusing on collaboration and compliance to ensure successful outcomes.

Qualifications

• 3-6 years of private equity experience, direct and applicable AmLaw100 firm experience preferred.
• Admitted to practice in the state of Georgia.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough legal research and analysis to support transactions.
• Draft well-written legal documents including memos and contracts.
• Assist or manage complex transactions from inception to resolution.
• Build and maintain client relationships, providing prompt support.
• Collaborate with lawyers to support innovative transaction strategies.
• Ensure compliance with legal standards and stay updated on regulations.
• Engage in ongoing training to enhance legal knowledge and skills.
• Participate in firm programs and pro-bono work.

Skills

Excellent written and verbal communication abilities

Strong research, analytical and problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Good business and professional judgment

Excellent organizational skills

Ability to work collaboratively and independently

Conceptual thinking

Persuasive communication

Management skills

Education

JD Degree from an accredited law school

Job description

Overview

DLA Piper is seeking private equity associates to join its Atlanta office. These associates will primarily advise strategic buyers, sellers, and private equity firms on M&A matters in a fast‑growing market. The ideal candidate will have experience running high‑profile M&A or PE transactions and will have spent the majority of their time on M&A or PE matters. Candidates should have 3‑6years of experience at a leading corporate law firm, superior academic credentials, and excellent oral, written and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Legal Research: Conduct thorough and comprehensive legal research and analysis to support transaction preparation and strategy.
• Legal Writing: Draft well‑written, error‑free, and reasoned legal documents, including memos, contracts, and correspondence.
• Transaction Assistance and Management: Assist or manage a variety of complex transactions from inception to resolution, including preparing for trials, negotiations, settlements, closings, and other legal activities while demonstrating strong judgment.
• Internal/External Client Interaction: Build, maintain, and cultivate strong internal and external client relationships by providing support, regular updates, advice, and addressing concerns promptly and with the utmost professionalism.
• Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other lawyers and business professionals to support and develop innovative transaction strategies, achieving the most favorable outcomes for internal and external clients. Attend, support, and participate in high‑level legal activities including client calls and meetings, negotiations, etc.
• Compliance: Ensure rigorous compliance with legal standards and regulations, staying abreast of changes in law and legal precedents.
• Professional Development: Proactively seek out and participate in ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance legal knowledge, practice technology, management, and leadership skills.
• Firm Citizenship and Community Involvement: Engage in and contribute to firm programs and initiatives, civic and professional organizations, and pro‑bono work by providing legal assistance to underserved and under‑represented communities.

Desired Skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Strong research, analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Good business and professional judgment.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently.
• Conceptual thinking.
• Persuasive communication.
• Management skills.

Minimum Education

JD Degree from an accredited law school.

Certifications

Admitted to practice in the state of Georgia.

Minimum Years of Experience

3‑6years of private equity experience, direct and applicable AmLaw100 firm experience preferred.

Essential Job Expectations

• Effectively communicate, verbally and in writing, with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and third parties.
• Produce deliverables, answer phone calls, and reply to correspondence in an efficient and responsive manner.
• Provide timely, accurate, and quality work product.
• Successfully meet deadlines, expectations, and perform work duties as required.
• Foster positive work relationships.
• Comply with all firm policies and practices.
• Engage in both physical and sedentary activity, such as working at a computer for extended periods of time, participating in digital/virtual conference calls, and participating in meetings as needed.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing demands in a fast‑paced environment.
• Perform all other duties, tasks or projects as assigned.

EEO Statement

DLA Piper is an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.