Job Description
Ready to Lead High-Stakes Real Estate Transactions?
Underberg & Kessler LLP is seeking a skilled and confident Commercial Real Estate Associate Attorney with at least 7 years of experience to join our Real Estate & Finance Practice Group. This is a high-impact role for an attorney who thrives on deal-making, strategic advising, and client leadership.
Our clients include regional and national developers, financial institutions, municipalities, and growth-oriented businesses—and we’re looking for someone who can manage complex transactions from start to finish while serving as a trusted legal partner.
What You'll Do :
Real Estate Transactions
- Lead commercial acquisitions, dispositions, development, leasing, and financing
- Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of real estate contracts, including purchase and sale agreements, loan documents, easements, and leases
- Conduct comprehensive title and survey reviews and resolve encumbrance issues
- Oversee due diligence, including environmental, zoning, and land use compliance
- Manage the full lifecycle of real estate closings—from kickoff to compliance
Client Representation & Advisory
Serve as lead counsel for developers, lenders, municipalities, and investorsProvide strategic advice on risk mitigation, deal structuring, and regulatory mattersWork directly with senior decision-makers and in-house legal teamsRepresent clients in development projects, including negotiations with municipal bodiesTeam & Project Leadership
Supervise and collaborate with paralegals, closing coordinators, and legal staffPartner with attorneys across practices (litigation, tax, corporate, trusts & estates)Mentor junior attorneys and contribute to the group’s knowledge-sharing cultureSupport business development initiatives and client-focused innovationWhat You Bring :
Minimum 7 years of commercial real estate law experience, ideally in a firm settingAdmission to practice in New York State and a J.D. from an accredited law schoolProven ability to lead deals, advise clients, and manage transaction teamsStrong negotiation, drafting, and project management skillsBonus points for experience with tax credit financing, municipal approvals, or commercial leasingWhat We Offer :
Competitive salary with structured bonus potential401(k) with profit sharing + employer contributionComprehensive benefits : health, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage4 weeks PTO, plus 9 paid holidaysHybrid schedule available after onboardingOngoing professional development, mentorship, and leadership opportunitiesAbout Underberg & Kessler LLP
With a legacy of excellence spanning over a century, Underberg & Kessler is a full-service law firm deeply embedded in the business landscape of Western New York and beyond. We pride ourselves on our collaborative culture, high-stakes legal work, and long-term client partnerships. Here, your legal skills will not just be valued—they’ll help shape the future of our clients' success.
Underberg & Kessler LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Please submit your cover letter, references and resume to Leslie Helmerci, Legal Operations and HR Manager at lhelmerci@underbergkessler.com