Entry-Level Private Equity Attorney/Non-Partnership Track (Chicago)

DLA Piper is, at its core, bold, exceptional, collaborative and supportive.  Our people are the backbone, heart and soul of our firm.  Wherever you are in your professional journey, DLA Piper is a place you can engage in meaningful work and grow your career.  Let’s see what we can achieve. Together.

Job Description

DLA Piper is seeking entry-level attorneys to join our Private Equity practice in the Fall of 2025 in our Chicago office. Applicants should be current third year law students with an anticipated graduation date of spring 2025. We are seeking exceptional law students with an entrepreneurial mindset, who are motivated to build their legal skills and gain insight into client needs. We value innovators and creative thinkers. If you thrive on challenge and value teamwork, we want to hear from you.

This is a non-partnership track position which will allow you to participate in a comprehensive training and development program and work on client projects across cutting-edge practices, industries and borders, while having a reduced billable hours requirement.  As part of this program, you will be immediately integrated into a practice group and be part of a team.  You will have the opportunity to support causes that impact our clients and better our communities through the firm’s commitment to pro bono. 

Minimum Education

Current third year law students with an anticipated graduation date of Spring 2025.

Job Competencies & Desired Skills 

• Strong analytical and writing skills 
• Attention to detail 
• Good business judgment 
• Excellent organizational skills 
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently 
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills 
• Research and problem-solving skills 
• Conceptual thinking 
• Ability to influence others 
• Persuasive communication 
• Management skills 

General & Essential Job Expectations

While the specific job requirements of a DLA Piper position may vary depending upon scope of the job and area of specialty, there are certain universal requirements that are expected of all DLA Piper employees, which include but are not limited to:

• Effectively communicate, verbally and in writing, with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and third parties;
• Produce deliverables, answer phone calls, and reply to correspondence in an efficient and responsive manner
• Provide timely, accurate, and quality work product
• Successfully meet deadlines, expectations, and perform work duties as required
• Foster positive work relationships
• Comply with all firm policies and practices
• Engage in both physical and sedentary activity, such as (a) working at a computer for extended periods of time, including on-screen reading and typing; (b) participating in digital/virtual conference calls; (c) participating in meetings as needed
• Perform all other duties, tasks or projects as assigned.

Our employees are expected to embrace and uphold our firm values as a part of our DLA Piper culture. We are committed to excellence in how we represent our clients and develop our people.

Physical Demands, Work Environment, and Other Requirements

Sedentary work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

Work Environment

Hybrid with some in-office expectations

Application Process

Applicants should provide a cover letter, resume, and law school transcript. Applicants must apply directly online instead of sending application materials via email.  If you have a request for an accommodation during the application process or if you have any questions about the process, please contact legalrecruiting-bos@us.dlapiper.com. Please add noreply@dlapipertalent.com to your list of safe senders.

Direct applicants only. No third-party submissions.

Pay Transparency

The firm’s expected hiring pay for this position is $225,000 per year depending on the candidate’s geographic market location. The compensation offered for employment will also be dependent on other factors including the candidate’s experience, skills, educational and professional background, and overall qualifications. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, and 401(k).

#LI-Hybrid

#LI-CS1

DLA Piper is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Job applicant poster viewing center.