Paralegal (Hospitality & Leisure)

Paralegal - Hospitality & Leisure

Salary: Approximately $90,000 to $130,000, plus bonus

Our client is seeking a full-time Paralegal to support their Hospitality & Leisure practice group, based primarily in Chicago, with consideration for other locations on a case-by-case basis. This role offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), profit sharing, short-term/long-term disability, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, paid holidays, and discretionary bonuses. The Paralegal will report to the Senior Practice Director and will work closely with assigned practice group attorneys.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in the preparation and review of real estate conveyance and closing documents.
• Perform due diligence, including the review of title commitments, surveys, zoning reports, and related documentation.
• Facilitate the closing of real estate transactions such as acquisitions, dispositions, and financing, including managing signature packages, ensuring compliance with closing checklists, and handling recording requirements.
• Prepare, review, and file UCC financing statements.
• Conduct UCC, lien, litigation, and similar searches.
• Manage entity formation and maintenance, including related filings.
• Review and compile officer’s certificates, resolutions, organizational documents, and other closing deliverables, ideally with prior experience in drafting under attorney supervision.
• Create and organize closing books with detailed indices.
• Engage in special assignments that may require routine fact or legal research, report preparation, and associated filings.
• Interface with clients and external entities on assigned matters.
• Undertake additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Associate’s Degree, or a Paralegal Certificate with equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of real estate experience, ideally in a law firm, in-house legal department, or title company.
• Experience with large and complex transactions is preferred; proficiency in title and survey is required.
• Familiarity with the hospitality industry is a plus but not mandatory.
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with minimal supervision.
• Excellent client service and communication abilities.
• Capacity to meet deadlines and work efficiently under pressure.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with attorneys, paraprofessionals, and business service teams.
• Strong verbal, written, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
• Discretion and confidentiality in handling sensitive matters and documents.
• Competency in recognizing and understanding facts and legal concepts.
• Advanced technical skills and a proven ability to learn new software.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, PDF creation tools, document management software, and timekeeping software such as Elite is required.
• Willingness to work overtime as necessary.