Pathfinder Legal Placement
Corporate Associate - Big Law
Pathfinder Legal Placement, California, Missouri, United States, 65018
AmLaw 5 Associate → Headhunter | President of Pathfinder Legal Placement
As a former Big Law corporate associate, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to navigate the lateral market without clear guidance. I went through the process myself and ultimately lateraled to an AmLaw 5 firm, which gives me a practical perspective on what actually matters to firms and how candidates can position themselves effectively.
I'm currently recruiting for a
Cravath-scale AmLaw 100 firm
seeking
Corporate Associates with 2 to 7 years of experience
for its
Los Angeles office , with additional openings in
NYC, D.C., San Fransisco, Miami, Chicago, and Charlotte . The firm is open to associates with backgrounds or interest across a broad corporate platform, including:
Mergers and acquisitions
Securities and capital markets
Investment funds
General corporate governance
Finance and related transactional work
The practice area may be broad or specialized, depending on the candidate.
Key Qualifications
2 to 7 years of corporate transactional experience at an AmLaw 200 firm or elite boutique
JD from top law school with strong academic credentials
Experience drafting and negotiating transaction documents in M&A, securities, funds, finance, or general corporate matters
Admitted in California or eligible to waive in. Other markets require admission in the state where the associate will sit
Desired Competencies
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
Exceptional attention to detail and sound business judgment
Ability to manage matters independently and collaborate in team environments
Professionalism and strong commercial awareness
Compensation
Base salary: $235,000 to $420,000, Cravath scale and class-year dependent
Bonus range: $30,000 to $115,000, based on performance and seniority
About Pathfinder At Pathfinder, I've built our process entirely around the candidate experience, not just firm demand. Since leaving practice, I've helped associates nationwide secure multiple Cravath-scale offers at top firms.
In Q4 2025 alone, we've placed numerous associates at AmLaw 100 firms and continue to see strong hiring momentum across corporate practices.
If you're interested in learning more about this opportunity in LA, or openings in NYC, D.C., SF, Miami, Chicago, or Charlotte, or if you simply want candid guidance from someone who has been in your position, feel free to reach out or apply directly. All inquiries are confidential.
Seniority level Associate
Employment type Full-time
Job function Legal
Industries Legal Services and Law Practice
#J-18808-Ljbffr
I'm currently recruiting for a
Cravath-scale AmLaw 100 firm
seeking
Corporate Associates with 2 to 7 years of experience
for its
Los Angeles office , with additional openings in
NYC, D.C., San Fransisco, Miami, Chicago, and Charlotte . The firm is open to associates with backgrounds or interest across a broad corporate platform, including:
Mergers and acquisitions
Securities and capital markets
Investment funds
General corporate governance
Finance and related transactional work
The practice area may be broad or specialized, depending on the candidate.
Key Qualifications
2 to 7 years of corporate transactional experience at an AmLaw 200 firm or elite boutique
JD from top law school with strong academic credentials
Experience drafting and negotiating transaction documents in M&A, securities, funds, finance, or general corporate matters
Admitted in California or eligible to waive in. Other markets require admission in the state where the associate will sit
Desired Competencies
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
Exceptional attention to detail and sound business judgment
Ability to manage matters independently and collaborate in team environments
Professionalism and strong commercial awareness
Compensation
Base salary: $235,000 to $420,000, Cravath scale and class-year dependent
Bonus range: $30,000 to $115,000, based on performance and seniority
About Pathfinder At Pathfinder, I've built our process entirely around the candidate experience, not just firm demand. Since leaving practice, I've helped associates nationwide secure multiple Cravath-scale offers at top firms.
In Q4 2025 alone, we've placed numerous associates at AmLaw 100 firms and continue to see strong hiring momentum across corporate practices.
If you're interested in learning more about this opportunity in LA, or openings in NYC, D.C., SF, Miami, Chicago, or Charlotte, or if you simply want candid guidance from someone who has been in your position, feel free to reach out or apply directly. All inquiries are confidential.
Seniority level Associate
Employment type Full-time
Job function Legal
Industries Legal Services and Law Practice
#J-18808-Ljbffr