Our client is seeking a 2–4-year associate to join a finance practice in Palo Alto with a focus on commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) transactions. This opportunity offers substantive transaction work, collaboration across offices and practices, and involvement from diligence and structuring through closing and post-closing.
The Work
- Support CMBS transactions and contribute to their development and execution from initial diligence through closing and post-closing obligations.
- Conduct legal due diligence, assess findings, identify legal and business risks, and develop practical recommendations for clients.
- Draft, review, negotiate, and revise transaction documents, disclosure schedules, correspondence, and ancillary agreements.
- Help structure transactions and advise on related legal, regulatory, business, and operational considerations.
- Coordinate transaction timelines and workstreams, communicate with transaction participants, and assist with closings, including documentation, signatures, and funds flow.
- Participate in negotiations and work with clients, counterparties, lenders, investors, and multidisciplinary legal teams.
- Conduct legal research and prepare clear, well-reasoned written work product to support client matters and decision-making.
What You Bring
- Juris Doctor from an accredited law school.
- At least two years of law firm experience; candidates with 2–4 years of experience are sought for this opening.
- Admission to practice in California, the state in which this position is based.
- Experience in commercial real estate finance, CMBS, structured finance, or securities offerings is preferred, but not required.
- Strong legal research, analytical, problem-solving, and written and verbal communication skills.
- Sound professional judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to identify risks and develop practical solutions.
- Ability to manage deadlines and competing demands while working both independently and collaboratively.
Why Consider It
The position combines a defined CMBS focus with hands-on involvement across the transaction lifecycle, including diligence, drafting, negotiation, execution, and closing.
Associates collaborate with lawyers and business professionals across practices and offices, and the firm describes ongoing professional development and training.
The hybrid arrangement includes regular in-office presence with some work-from-home flexibility.
Compensation & Benefits
The firm-stated annual hiring range is $235,000–$390,000, depending on geographic market and candidate qualifications, and listed benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance and a 401(k).
Confidentiality
This is a confidential opportunity. Contact Advocates Legal Recruiting to discuss the role and receive additional details about the client and team. All inquiries will be handled confidentially.