Real Estate Associate

Posted on November 25, 2025

Culture and Engagement at Dentons

Fostering an inclusive and welcoming culture is a core priority at Dentons. We are committed to creating an environment that values and respects the contributions of all colleagues. By attracting, supporting, promoting and retaining highly qualified individuals of various backgrounds and experiences, we strengthen our ability to provide innovative solutions, deliver exceptional client service, and advance the success of our Firm. Dentons takes an active approach to promoting a collaborative and inclusive workplace by investing in professional development and culture initiatives.

Responsibilities and practice

Dentons US LLP is seeking a talented mid-level or senior associate to join our nationally recognized Real Estate practice in Chicago or St. Louis. This is an opportunity to step into sophisticated, high-impact work for premier clients while benefiting from the resources, mentorship and cross-office collaboration throughout the Firm. You will work closely with partners and clients across the full real estate lifecycle, assume meaningful responsibility from day one, and help drive complex transactions to a successful close.

Candidates must have excellent academic credentials and 4-7 years of broad-based experience advising clients on real estate matters. Primary responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Representing lenders, investors, developers, owners and other clients in connection with the acquisition, disposition, development, financing – including New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC) and Historic Tax Credits (HTC) financing – and leasing of real property across all major asset classes, including office, retail, industrial, multifamily, community facility, and mixed-use projects
• Drafting and negotiating loan documents, operating agreements, purchase and sale agreements, commercial leases, development agreements, and other financing and real estate-related contracts
• Coordinating and closing real estate and real estate financing transactions, including title and survey review, due diligence, zoning and land-use analysis, and entity formation
• Advising on construction, development, and joint venture arrangements, as well as assisting clients with day-to-day operational and asset management issues
• Mentoring junior associates, overseeing work streams, and ensuring timely and accurate completion of client deliverables

Our fully integrated Real Estate group is known for practical counsel, commercial acumen and the ability to navigate complexity with speed and precision. At Dentons, you will:

• Work on market-leading matters for sophisticated clients in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
• Gain hands-on responsibility with direct client contact, supported by partners who invest in your growth
• Leverage a global platform to develop cross-disciplinary skills and relationships across offices and practice areas
• Build a career with clear pathways for development, training and mentorship

Pursuant to Illinois law, the salary range for this position in Chicago is $300,000 to $390,000, based on experience. Based on years of experience, Dentons US LLP associates may have a title of Associate, Managing Associate, or Senior Managing Associate. Dentons US LLP offers a competitive salary and benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401k, short-term/long-term disability, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, paid holidays and discretionary bonuses.

Position requirements

Personal skills/attributes

• Exceptional written and oral communication skills and the ability to produce clear, concise, and thoughtful work product
• Strong analytical abilities and a demonstrated understanding of complex real estate concepts
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a commitment to client service
• Capacity to manage multiple matters simultaneously and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Collaborative mindset and enthusiasm for working as part of a cohesive team

Technical skills

• Minimum of four years of sophisticated real estate practice experience
• Experience representing clients in any combination of acquisitions, dispositions, financings, tax credit transactions, leasing, and development matters
• Prior law firm experience is required
• NMTC and HTC experience is required

Other requirements

• Must be licensed to practice law and be in good standing in the state where the hired candidate will be practicing
• Submission of a cover letter, résumé, and law school transcript with application materials

Equal opportunities

Dentons US LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Disability/Vet. Pursuant to local ordinances, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

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