Finance Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel is seeking a Finance Associate Attorney to join a highly respected Am Law firm in its San Francisco office.

This opportunity is ideal for an attorney with 3–6 years of experience representing private equity sponsors, private companies, and other borrowers in sophisticated secured financing transactions. The successful candidate will join a premier finance practice handling complex acquisition financings, refinancings, and other strategic lending transactions while working closely with clients and colleagues in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Represent private equity sponsors, portfolio companies, and corporate borrowers in secured financing transactions.

• Draft, review, and negotiate credit agreements, commitment letters, security documents, and related financing agreements.

• Advise clients on acquisition financings, refinancings, recapitalizations, and other leveraged finance transactions.

• Conduct and manage legal due diligence and transaction execution processes.

• Coordinate with lenders, opposing counsel, and transaction parties to facilitate successful closings.

• Collaborate with attorneys across corporate, private equity, and finance practice groups.

• Develop and maintain strong client relationships while providing practical, business-focused legal advice.

• Manage multiple sophisticated transactions simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications:

• J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school.

• Active membership and good standing with the California Bar.

• 3–6 years of experience in finance transactions at a leading law firm.

• Significant experience representing private equity sponsors, private companies, and borrowers in secured lending transactions.

• Experience with acquisition financings and refinancing transactions strongly preferred.

• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.

• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.

• Demonstrated client relationship and business judgment skills.

• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

• Outstanding academic credentials.

Why Apply?

This is an excellent opportunity to join a nationally recognized finance practice known for handling sophisticated and high-profile lending transactions. Attorneys in this group receive substantial responsibility, direct client interaction, meaningful mentorship, and the opportunity to work alongside highly regarded practitioners in a collaborative and entrepreneurial environment.

Compensation: $260,000 – $390,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications, plus potential bonus eligibility.

Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance; 401(k); generous parental and family-building benefits; flexible time off; wellness resources; bar membership support; professional development programs; pro bono opportunities; and additional firm-sponsored benefits.