Private Equity Associate (New York)

DLA Piper LLP (US); New York (NY); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

DLA Piper LLP (US) is seeking private equity associates for their New York office to advise on M&A matters in a fast-growing market. Ideal candidates will have 3–7 years of experience at a leading corporate law firm and possess strong analytical and communication skills.

The associates will conduct thorough legal research, draft legal documents, and manage complex transactions while building client relationships. A JD degree and admission to the New York bar are mandatory.

Qualifications

• 3 years of private equity experience; direct and applicable AmLaw 100 firm experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough and comprehensive legal research and analysis to support transaction preparation.
• Draft well-written, error-free legal documents, including memos and contracts.
• Assist/Manage complex transactions from inception to resolution.
• Build and maintain strong internal and external client relationships.
• Collaborate with other lawyers and professionals to develop innovative transaction strategies.
• Attend and participate in high-level legal activities such as negotiations.
• Ensure compliance with legal standards and regulations.
• Seek ongoing training and development opportunities.

Skills

Excellent written and verbal communication abilities

Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

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

Admitted to practice in the state of New York

Job description

DLA Piper is seeking private equity associates to join their New York office. These associates will focus primarily on advising strategic buyers and sellers or private equity firms on M&A matters in a fast‑growing market.

The ideal candidate has experience running high‑profile M&A or PE transactions, spending the majority of their time on M&A or PE matters. They should have 3–7 years of experience at a leading corporate law firm, superior academic credentials, and excellent oral, written, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough and comprehensive legal research and analysis to support transaction preparation and strategy.
• Draft well‑written, error‑free, and reasoned legal documents, including memos, contracts, and correspondence.
• Assist/Manage complex transactions from inception to resolution, including preparing for trials, negotiations, settlements, closings, and other legal activities.
• Build, maintain, and cultivate strong internal and external client relationships, providing support, updates, advice, and addressing concerns promptly.
• Collaborate with other lawyers and business professionals to develop innovative transaction strategies.
• Attend and participate in high‑level legal activities such as client calls, meetings, and negotiations.
• Ensure compliance with legal standards and regulations, staying updated on changes in law.
• Seek out and participate in ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance legal knowledge, technology, management, and leadership skills.
• Engage in firm programs, civic and professional organizations, and pro‑bono work with underserved communities.

Desired Skills

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

Minimum Education & Experience

• JD degree from an accredited law school
• Admitted to practice in the state of New York
• 3 years of private equity experience; direct and applicable AmLaw 100 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 efficiently.
• Provide timely, accurate, and quality work product.
• Meet deadlines and perform required duties.
• Foster positive work relationships.
• Comply with all firm policies and practices.
• Work under pressure and manage competing demands in a fast‑paced environment.
• Perform other duties, tasks, or projects as assigned.

Equal Opportunity Employer 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.