Senior Real Estate Attorney (Grand Rapids)

Foster Swift Collins & Smith, PC is looking to add experienced real estate attorneys with established client base to its Grand Rapids office.

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of successfully handling simple-to- sophisticated real estate transactions and real estate litigation and developing strong client relationships. This is a great opportunity for an attorney to be part of a collaborative team in a growing firm. On the transaction side, the candidate will have significant experience with drafting and negotiating purchase agreements, construction contracts, leases, financing and lending documents, as well as resolving title, zoning, utilities, environmental and real estate tax issues. Candidates should have experience appearing before municipal and state administrative agencies concerning real estate matters. 

Applicants should have a minimum of seven years of experience in private practice with experience taking responsibility for client matters and possessing a pro-active approach in bringing in new clients.

Position responsibilities include:

• Provide first-rate legal counsel for real estate matters including drafting and negotiating purchase agreements, construction contracts, leases, financing and lending documents, as well as resolving title, zoning, utilities, environmental      and real estate tax issues
• Represent clients before municipal and state administrative agencies concerning real estate matters
• Maintain and expand client relationships while managing an existing book of business
• Collaborate with other attorneys and practice groups to enhance service offerings and cross-market legal services
• Identify and pursue business development opportunities to grow the firm’s client base
• Mentor junior associate attorneys and contribute to the firm’s strategic initiatives
• Communicate complex information (written and oral) to stakeholders with a wide array of expertise in an accessible way.
• Stay updated on current real estate laws and regulations
• Deliver high level client service

Why Join Foster Swift?

For over 100 years, Foster Swift has been recognized for legal excellence and outstanding client service.  With offices in Lansing, Grand Rapids, Southfield and Holland our firm delivers comprehensive services for businesses, organizations, municipalities, families and individuals across Michigan, the nation and beyond. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees. Our firm has achieved Mid-Sized Mansfield Rule Certified Plus status from Diversity Lab in 2023 and 2024. 

We offer a competitive compensation structure with the potential for annual bonuses and potential shareholder opportunities. Our attorneys benefit from a seasoned administrative team to provide HR, IT, accounting and marketing support as well as having access to an extensive collection of online legal resources and professional development opportunities. The firms’ comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Affordable medical, dental, and vision insurance (firm pays 85%)
• Company-paid life and long-term disability insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• A variety of voluntary benefits tailored to employees' needs

Apply Now:

Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to submit a resume, cover letter, and persuasive writing sample to recruit@fosterswift.com for immediate consideration.

•  7+ years' experience in real estate law
• JD from an accredited law school
• Admitted to State Bar of Michigan and be in good standing 
• Established transferable business required (at least $300,000 annual)
• Excellent writing, legal research, communication and interpersonal skills 
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage a busy case load, work under pressure, meet deadlines and pay      attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team
• Exceptional client service and business development skills