Associate Attorney

Associate Attorney — Bankruptcy & Real Estate

Citizens Law Group, LTD. | Chicago, IL (Logan Square)

About Citizens Law Group, LTD.

Citizens Law Group is a growing Chicago law firm focused on helping individuals and property owners navigate financial distress and complex real estate issues. Our core practice areas include consumer bankruptcy and real estate law, particularly matters involving foreclosure, distressed properties, litigation, and transactions.

We’re a small, high-performing team that values accountability, efficiency, and thoughtful client advocacy. This is not a siloed or “research-only” role — attorneys here take ownership of cases and play an active role in outcomes.

About the Role

We are seeking an Associate Attorney to support and grow our bankruptcy and real estate practices, with bankruptcy as the primary focus of this position.

The ideal candidate has experience in at least one of these practice areas and a genuine interest in learning the other. If you are strong in bankruptcy but newer to real estate (or vice versa), we are willing to train — provided you bring a strong work ethic, organization, and initiative.

This role is well-suited for a newer attorney (0–3 years) who wants meaningful responsibility, direct client contact, and the opportunity to build a well-rounded practice in a fast-moving environment.

Primary Responsibilities (Bankruptcy Focus)

• Manage a caseload of Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy matters from intake through discharge.
• Draft and review petitions, schedules, motions, and related bankruptcy filings.
• Communicate directly with clients regarding eligibility, documentation, timelines, and expectations.
• Appear at 341 meetings, hearings, and other bankruptcy proceedings as needed.
• Coordinate with trustees, opposing counsel, and court staff.

Secondary Responsibilities (Real Estate Practice)

• Assist with and manage real estate matters, including foreclosure defense, quiet title, and related litigation.
• Support real estate transactions and short sales, including document review, lender coordination, and closing support.
• Communicate with clients, lenders, title companies, and opposing counsel.
• Attend court appearances, closings, and client meetings as required.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Active Illinois law license (or awaiting bar results).
• Experience in bankruptcy or real estate law required; experience in both is a strong plus.
• Strong interest in consumer bankruptcy and distressed real estate matters.
• Ability to manage deadlines, details, and client communication independently.
• Strong writing, analytical, and organizational skills.
• High level of professionalism, accountability, and work ethic.

Why Join Us

• Hands-On Practice: Immediate responsibility and real client impact.
• Cross-Training: Opportunity to develop skills across bankruptcy and real estate law.
• Mentorship: Direct access to experienced attorneys invested in your growth.
• Meaningful Work: Help clients navigate financial hardship and protect their homes and assets.
• Growth-Oriented Firm: Room to expand responsibilities, compensation, and leadership as the firm grows.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary, commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Profit-sharing potential.
• Paid time off and flexible work environment.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and cover letter with your application. In your cover letter, please describe:

• Your experience in bankruptcy and/or real estate law, and
• Which practice area you see yourself growing into long-term.

We are a small firm with high standards. This role requires initiative, strong follow-through, and comfort managing cases independently with support when needed.

Application Question(s):

• If you are offered and accept this position, how soon would you be able to begin work?

Experience:

• bankruptcy law: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Illinois Bar License (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Chicago, IL 60647 (Required)

Work Location: In person