Gould & Ratner Llp
Full‑service Chicago‑based law firm advising businesses on corporate, real estate, litigation and tax matters.
14 days ago
Intermediate (4-7 years)
Full Time
Chicago, Illinois, United States
Office Full-Time
Company Size
159 Employees
Service Specialisms
Sector Specialisms
Description
agreement drafting
deal negotiation
transaction closing
m&a transactions
loan documentation
team collaboration
- Draft transactional agreements and documents efficiently, negotiate deal terms, and manage transaction closings while collaborating with internal stakeholders and clients.
- Handle complex M&A transactions, including mergers, equity and asset acquisitions, purchase and sale agreements, and joint ventures.
- Draft and review compliant loan agreements, security agreements, and other financing documents (preferred).
- Maintain a low‑turnover, collegial, and collaborative environment.
Requirements
4-7 years
m&a
illinois license
analytical
client interaction
corporate finance
Gould & Ratner LLP is seeking an experienced Associate to join its Corporate Practice with a strong focus on mergers and acquisitions. The ideal candidate will have at least four years of experience advising on complex M&A transactions (both buy‑side and sell‑side), as well as additional experience in one or more of the following areas: transactional and corporate governance matters, corporate structure (formation and reorganization), corporate contracts such as operating agreements, license agreements, employment/compensation agreements, service contracts, buy/sell agreements, distribution agreements, joint ventures, divestitures, and corporate finance transactions, including secured and unsecured lending, loan and security agreements, syndicated credit facilities, and UCC/securities law compliance.
Candidates can look forward to handling all aspects of complex transactions for sophisticated clients of all sizes and across industries, gaining direct client interaction, business‑development experience, and significant responsibility on sophisticated legal matters. This is an excellent opportunity for a highly motivated attorney seeking a positive career trajectory. More information and highlights about our Corporate Practice can be found here: https://www.gouldratner.com/service-area/corporate.
- Possess 4–7 years of corporate transactional law experience, drafting and negotiating service contracts, disclosure schedules, operating agreements, and related corporate work.
- Demonstrate strong analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills; work collaboratively and assume responsibility for direct client interactions as a business advisor.
- Hold a current license in Illinois or Colorado, or meet UBE requirements for comity and be eligible to waive in or sit for the IL/CO bar exam (relocation considered).
Benefits
- Offer a comprehensive benefits package and competitive salary (details: https://www.gouldratner.com/uploaded_images/GR-salary%20scale-benefits-page-2-01-21-25.pdf).
- Provide healthcare (medical, vision, dental), life and long‑term disability insurance.
- Include competitive compensation, 401(k) and profit‑sharing plans.
- Provide paid primary and secondary caregiver leave.
- Offer pre‑tax commuter benefits and wellness programs such as an in‑office gym, massages, and 24/7 tele‑medicine.
- Work in a hybrid in‑office/remote role.
Training + Development
Interview process
Visa Sponsorship
Security clearance
Overview
Founded in the 1930s
Year Established
The firm was established in the 1930s and has since grown into a multidimensional legal advisor.
Opened in 2024
Denver Expansion
The firm expanded its presence by opening its first office outside Chicago in Denver in 2024.
1961 Landmark Deal
Notable Transaction
The firm's founding partner advised on the 1961 sale of the Empire State Building to the Crown Family.
- The firm evolved from a small corporate practice into a multidimensional legal advisor.
- Over decades, it grew from three attorneys handling general corporate work into a midsize firm with broad capabilities in corporate, real estate, tax, estate planning, construction, litigation, and environmental law.
- Typical engagements include venture-backed startup financings, mergers, major real estate development deals, and complex construction disputes.
- Notable projects include Chicago's LaSalle Street corridor revitalization initiative and transactional, litigation, and regulatory matters across industrial, hospitality, and technology sectors.
- Lawyers often serve as practical, business-savvy counsel, acting as outsourced general counsel for startups, family offices, and private investment funds.
- Despite its scale, the firm maintains a tightly knit structure, enabling attorneys to handle multiple legal disciplines for a single client in a seamless manner.
Culture + Values
- We take pride in being an agile, client-focused firm that provides practical, results-oriented advice.
- Our people are our most valuable asset, and we invest in their growth and development.
- We foster a collaborative environment where teamwork, integrity, and respect are core to everything we do.
- We are committed to delivering exceptional service to our clients while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Environment + Sustainability
2050
Net Zero Goal
The firm aims to eliminate its carbon emissions entirely by 2050.
- Gould & Ratner LLP has committed to reducing its carbon footprint through energy-efficient office practices and sustainable sourcing.
- The firm has implemented waste reduction initiatives and participates in local environmental programs to minimize its impact.
Inclusion & Diversity
35% workforce
Women representation
Women make up 35% of the total workforce, reflecting significant gender diversity within the organization.
25% leadership roles
Women in leadership
25% of leadership positions are held by women, indicating progress toward gender parity in top roles.
- The firm has set specific targets for increasing diversity at all levels, including leadership positions.
- The firm conducts regular training and professional development programs aimed at fostering an inclusive workplace.