Transactional Attorney

About the role

Donahue Fitzgerald, LLP seeks a Mid‑Level Attorney with transactional experience to join the IP Practice Group in the Oakland office. The position offers an excellent opportunity for a skilled transactional attorney to expand expertise into franchise law. While prior franchise‑law experience is a plus, the firm will train the right candidate to serve as outside general counsel for franchisor clients. The practice primarily represents franchisors across a wide variety of industries and provides a clear path to partnership for motivated attorneys.

Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, including master service agreements, license agreements, and customer contracts.
• Draft and revise Franchise Disclosure Documents and related contractual agreements.
• Respond to comment letters from state regulators.
• Advise clients on compliance with federal and state franchise laws and regulations.
• Guide clients regarding franchise sales compliance, renewals, and terminations.
• Analyze and implement exemption‑based franchise sales strategies.
• Research and provide advice on a variety of legal issues.
• Manage client communication and expectations.
• Participate in business development activities and network within the franchise community.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
• California Bar license in good standing.
• 3–5 years of transactional experience, including contract analysis, drafting, and advising clients in corporate and commercial matters.
• Strong drafting and negotiating skills.
• Excellent research skills.
• Familiarity with AI‑powered legal research and drafting tools, with a commitment to leveraging technology while maintaining confidentiality and professional accuracy.
• Superior verbal and written communication skills.
• Self‑starter with outstanding organizational abilities and the capacity to manage multiple assignments independently.
• Ability to interface regularly with clients and provide sound legal advice that considers practical business considerations.
• Strong attention to detail, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Genuine interest in learning and developing expertise in franchise law.
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite; experience with a Document Management System is desired.
• Litigation, trademark, regulatory compliance, and/or data privacy experience is not required but considered a significant plus.

Benefits

• Collaborative working environment.
• Opportunities to support pro bono activities.
• Competitive benefits package.

Pay

Salary range: $160,000 to $190,000. The range does not guarantee or obligate any specific salary; actual compensation will depend on experience, qualifications, and skill set.