Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorney Shareholder Activism Defense

Company: Direct Counsel
Location: New York City
Posted on: February 15, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorney – Shareholder Activism Defense Direct Counsel is seeking a Mergers & Acquisitions Associate with a focus on Shareholder Activism Defense to join a leading Am Law firm in New York. This position offers the opportunity to work closely with senior partners on high-stakes, market-moving matters and to play a pivotal role in the firm’s growing shareholder activism defense practice. Key Responsibilities: Advise public companies on shareholder activism defense and takeover matters. Handle complex M&A transactions with a focus on public company governance. Apply expertise in securities law, Delaware law, and corporate governance. Develop client relationships while working on high-profile, strategic matters. Qualifications: 4–7 years of experience in M&A and corporate governance. Strong background in public company M&A and activism defense. Excellent academic credentials from a nationally recognized law school. Exceptional communication and client management skills. Compensation & Benefits: Annual base salary range: $310,000–$420,000 , based on experience, skills, and location. Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, commuter benefits, life and disability insurance, and long-term care coverage. Generous paid time off, including four weeks of vacation, two weeks of sick leave, 10 paid holidays, parental leave, and fertility benefits. A collaborative environment with opportunities for mentorship and professional growth.

Keywords: Direct Counsel, Cherry Hill , Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorney Shareholder Activism Defense, Legal , New York City, New Jersey