Direct Counsel is seeking an Emerging Growth & Venture Capital Associate to join the Corporate Practice of a leading Am Law firm in either its Washington, DC or Reston office. This opportunity is ideal for a mid-level attorney with at least 3 years of experience representing emerging growth companies, venture-backed startups, and institutional investors in venture capital financings and strategic corporate matters.
The ideal candidate has experience advising both issuers and investors through all stages of the company lifecycle, from early-stage financings to strategic transactions, while serving as a trusted legal advisor on day-to-day corporate matters.
Responsibilities
- Represent emerging growth companies, founders, and institutional investors in venture capital financing transactions.
- Advise startup and growth-stage companies on corporate governance, entity management, and general corporate matters.
- Draft, review, and negotiate financing documents, investment agreements, and related corporate transaction documents.
- Assist with mergers and acquisitions involving venture-backed and high-growth companies.
- Manage transactions from inception through closing, including coordinating due diligence and transaction workstreams.
- Conduct legal research and provide strategic legal analysis to support corporate transactions and client objectives.
- Collaborate with attorneys across multiple practice areas to deliver practical, business-focused legal solutions.
- Build and maintain strong client relationships while providing responsive and high-quality legal counsel.
Qualifications
- J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school with strong academic credentials.
- At least 3 years of emerging growth and venture capital experience at a leading law firm, preferably an Am Law 100 firm.
- Significant experience representing both institutional investors and issuers in venture capital financings.
- Experience advising emerging growth companies on day-to-day corporate matters.
- M&A transaction experience involving venture-backed or technology companies is preferred.
- Strong drafting, negotiation, analytical, and project management skills.
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication abilities.
- Active bar admission in the jurisdiction where practicing or eligibility for admission in Washington, DC or Virginia.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary of $260,000โ$390,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
- Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) retirement benefits.
- Hybrid work environment offering regular in-office collaboration with flexibility for remote work.
- Outstanding opportunities for mentorship, professional development, client engagement, and long-term career growth within a nationally recognized emerging companies and venture capital practice.