Private Funds Associate (Mid level) - Chicago

Direct Counsel is representing a well-known Am Law 100 firm seeking a Mid-Level Associate to join its Fund Formation & Investment Management team within the Corporate Practice. Position: Mid-Level Associate - Fund Formation & Investment Management Location: Miami, FL or Chicago, IL (Hybrid) Compensation: $250k/y-$320k/yr, based on experience. Full benefits package included. Responsibilities: Advise private equity, venture capital, and hedge fund managers on fund formation and structuring, including GP and management company entities, investment funds, and alternative investment vehicles. Represent investor clients in side letter negotiations and provide counsel on investment opportunities with third-party managers. Assist clients with fundraising processes, regulatory compliance, and day-to-day legal needs. Draft, review, and negotiate fund agreements and related documentation. Collaborate with colleagues in a fast-paced, client-driven practice. Qualifications: Juris Doctor degree; admission to practice in Florida or Illinois (or eligibility for admission). 4-6 years of large law firm experience, with exposure to fund formation and investment adviser work. Strong academic background and superior legal research, drafting, and analytical skills. Interest in developing a practice in private funds law. Basic understanding of entity types from a tax perspective and the Federal securities laws ('33 Act, '34 Act, Investment Company Act, Investment Advisers Act). Familiarity with fund economics and ability (or motivation to learn) to draft related language in fund agreements. Excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to handle multiple matters simultaneously. Candidates should specify preferred office location (Miami or Chicago) when applying.

Created: 2026-03-04