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Retail Leasing Attorney Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Direct Counsel

Real Estate Attorney

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$160K - $210K/yr

Retail leasing lease experience is preferred * Responsiveness to business unit needs * Strong academic credentials * Detail-oriented and highly organized with a solid work ethic * Strong ...

Direct Counsel

Real Estate Associate Attorney

Chicago, IL · On-site

$240K - $420K/yr

Leases * Easements * Licenses * CC&Rs * Development agreements * Property management agreements ... Handle transactions involving mixed-use, office, multifamily, retail, hospitality, resort, and ...

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All JobsRetail Leasing Attorney JobsRetail Leasing Attorney Jobs in Chicago, IL

Retail Leasing Attorney information

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How much do retail leasing attorney jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for retail leasing attorney in Chicago, IL is $20.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a retail leasing attorney?

A retail leasing attorney is a legal professional who specializes in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating lease agreements for retail properties such as shopping centers, storefronts, and malls. They represent either landlords or tenants to ensure that the terms of the lease are fair and legally sound. Their duties include advising clients on lease provisions, resolving disputes, ensuring compliance with local laws, and helping to navigate issues related to renewals, expansions, or terminations. Retail leasing attorneys play a crucial role in protecting their clients’ interests throughout the leasing process.

What are some common challenges retail leasing attorneys face when negotiating commercial lease agreements?

Retail Leasing Attorneys often encounter challenges such as balancing the interests of landlords and tenants, negotiating complex clauses related to rent escalations, maintenance obligations, and exclusivity rights. Navigating evolving retail trends, like the rise of e-commerce and shifting tenant needs, can also complicate negotiations. Clear communication and collaboration with clients, brokers, and opposing counsel are essential to resolve disputes and ensure agreements are both legally sound and commercially viable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a retail leasing attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Retail Leasing Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, a valid law license, and specialized expertise in real estate and contract law. Familiarity with lease management software, document drafting tools, and legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis is typically required. Strong negotiation, attention to detail, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies ensure clients’ interests are protected, leases are soundly structured, and complex transactions proceed smoothly.

What are popular job titles related to Retail Leasing Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Retail Leasing Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Retail Leasing Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Retail Leasing Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Retail Leasing Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Retail Leasing Attorney job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,599 per year, or $21 per hour.

Real Estate Attorney

Direct Counsel

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$160K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Real Estate Attorney - Chicago, IL
 
Direct Counsel is partnering with a nationally recognized AmLaw 200 law firm to identify a mid-level Associate Attorney with 5-8 years of experience to join its Real Estate business unit in Chicago, IL. Candidates must hold an active Chicago Bar license. We are also willing to consider fully remote candidates.
 

The Ideal candidate will possess the following experience and skills:

  • Extensive leasing experience is required
  • Retail leasing lease experience is preferred
  • Responsiveness to business unit needs
  • Strong academic credentials
  • Detail-oriented and highly organized with a solid work ethic
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills
  • Commitment to their professional development
  • Able to work independently without supervision

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Salary range: $160,000 – $210,000 annually (DOE).

  • Eligible for an annual discretionary bonus.

  • Comprehensive benefits including health insurance with HSA/FSA options

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Short-term and long-term disability 

  • Life insurance

  • 401(k)

  • Vacation and sick time 

  • Parking/public transportation allowance

  • Employee assistance program.