Jr. Real Estate Associate (Leasing and Corporate Law) - New Jersey at Direct Counsel

Position Overview
Direct Counsel is representing a well-known firm seeking a motivated Junior Associate to join its Real Estate and Corporate practice groups in New Jersey. This position offers an excellent opportunity for a recent law school graduate or attorney with 1–3 years of experience to develop expertise in commercial real estate leasing transactions and corporate law matters while working alongside experienced partners and senior associates.

Key Responsibilities

Real Estate (primary focus Leasing)

• Draft, review, and negotiate commercial lease agreements for office, retail, industrial, and mixed-use properties

• Assist with lease amendments, assignments, subleases, and lease terminations

• Support landlord and tenant representation matters

• Conduct due diligence reviews for real estate transactions

• Review and analyze purchase and sale agreements

• Prepare closing documents and coordinate real estate closings

Corporate Law

• Draft and review corporate formation documents, including articles of incorporation, bylaws, and operating agreements

• Assist with mergers and acquisitions, including due diligence, purchase agreements, and closing documentation

• Prepare corporate governance documents and board resolutions

• Support securities law compliance and private placement transactions

• Draft and negotiate commercial contracts, including vendor agreements, employment agreements, and non-disclosure agreements

• Assist with corporate restructuring and dissolution matters

• Maintain corporate records and ensure regulatory compliance

Qualifications

Required

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

• Admission to the New Jersey State Bar (or eligibility for admission by motion)

• 1–3 years of relevant legal experience

• Strong academic credentials

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Attention to detail and ability to work under pressure

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment

Preferred

• Prior experience in real estate or corporate law

• Summer associate or internship experience at a large law firm

• Law review, moot court, or other legal writing experience

• Business or finance background

• Admission to the New York State Bar

• Experience with legal research databases and document management systems

What We Offer

• Competitive starting salary commensurate with experience and market rates

• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) retirement plan with firm matching

• Professional development opportunities and CLE support

• Mentorship program pairing junior associates with senior attorneys

• Clear path for advancement within the firm

• Collaborative and supportive work environment

• Opportunity to work on sophisticated transactions with high-profile clients

• Access to cutting-edge legal technology and resources

Application Requirements
Interested candidates should submit the following:

• Cover letter detailing interest in real estate and corporate law

• Current resume

• Law school transcript

• Two professional references

• Writing sample (preferably a legal memorandum or transactional document)