Senior Associate / Attorney - Real Estate

We Are Legal Revolution; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 340,000 - 375,000; Full time

Job summary

We Are Legal Revolution, a Chicago boutique law firm with a nationally ranked real estate practice, seeks a senior attorney to lead sophisticated commercial transactions and work directly with partners.

You will handle acquisitions, dispositions, development, financing, leasing, and joint ventures for high-profile clients; mentoring juniors and contributing to growth in a collaborative, entrepreneurial culture.

Qualifications

• 7–9 years of commercial real estate transactional experience (large firm or strong boutique).
• GPA 3.5+.

Responsibilities

• Lead sophisticated commercial real estate transactions: acquisitions/dispositions, development, financing, leasing, joint ventures, asset management.
• Handle complex deals across asset classes (industrial, retail, multifamily, office) for high-profile clients.
• Conduct due diligence, draft/negotiate agreements, advise on risks/strategies.
• Mentor juniors and contribute to firm growth in a collaborative team.

Skills

Real estate transactions

Education

JD from a T15 law school

Job description

We're representing a highly regarded Chicago boutique law firm with over 40 years of excellence, known for its top-tier real estate group (nationally ranked by Chambers USA) handling sophisticated transactions for iconic clients like developers, investors, REITs, and luxury brands.

This senior role offers a collaborative, entrepreneurial environment with direct partner access, substantial responsibility, and early leadership on complex deals—providing a compelling alternative to Big Law's bureaucracy while maintaining high-calibre work and strong work-life balance.

Highlights

• Nationally Ranked Real Estate Practice — Consistently top-tier by Chambers USA; one of the most experienced teams in the country for complex commercial transactions
• Boutique Advantages — Work directly with partners on leading roles earlier than in larger firms; greater client contact and autonomy from day one
• Collegial & Entrepreneurial Culture — Strong emphasis on mentorship, hands-on training, and innovation; minimal bureaucracy with a business-oriented approach to efficient solutions
• Diversity & Inclusion Focus — Recognized as a 2025 LCLD Top Performer; committed to DEI with measurable leadership opportunities for women and minorities
• Prestigious Recognition — Ranked #1 Midsize Law Firm in Chicago by Vault (2022–2024); a platform for building lasting impact

The Role

• Lead sophisticated commercial real estate transactions: acquisitions/dispositions, development, financing, leasing, joint ventures, asset management
• Handle complex deals across asset classes (industrial, retail, multifamily, office) for high-profile clients
• Conduct due diligence, draft/negotiate agreements, advise on risks/strategies
• Mentor juniors and contribute to firm growth in a collaborative team

Compensation

• Competitive base salary $340,000 – $375,000 (DOE)

Hybrid schedule (in-office Tue–Thu, flexible around holidays/meetings); target 1,850 billables in a supportive setting

Must-Haves

• 7–9 years of commercial real estate transactional experience (large firm or strong boutique)
• JD from a T15 law school
• GPA 3.5+

This is an ideal role for a seasoned real estate attorney seeking meaningful leadership, sophisticated work, and a balanced, inclusive boutique culture with real partnership potential.