Entry Level (3L) Real Estate Finance Associate | Philadelphia

Ballard Spahr LLP seeks to hire a First Year Associate (JD 2027) to join our Real Estate Finance practice group in the Philadelphia office in the fall of 2027.

This is a great opportunity to become part of our long standing national finance practice which has closed real estate finance transactions in all 50 states with exposure to sophisticated structured real estate finance, preferred equity investments, and distressed commercial real estate matters (transactional). The group tends to focus on lender/capital provider-side work though it also handles a wide-range of borrower-side work. Additionally, the position provides the opportunity to consistently work one-on-one with partners while gaining direct client contact in a collegial environment.  Ballard gives significant responsibility to young Associates, with substantial client contact and a fundamental emphasis on teamwork. The firm also encourages involvement of Associates in marketing and business development, allowing for personal interaction with clients and their industries at conferences and in other settings. 

Successful candidates will have strong academic credentials and excellent writing and communication skills, as well as a demonstrated interest in finance law. Prior finance or transactional experience is helpful but not required.  

How to Apply: 

Ballard Spahr is a nationally recognized law firm with more than 750 lawyers across 19 offices in the United States. A career at Ballard Spahr means joining a team of talented mentors, colleagues, and friends, supported by strong leadership that actively encourages professional growth. 

To apply, please submit a resume, law school transcript, and cover letter (optional) through our online application system. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. 

Compensation and Benefits: 

Based on the Firm's good faith and reasonable estimate of possible compensation, as of January 1, 2027, the anticipated salary for this position is $225,000. Actual pay will depend on several factors such as the candidate’s experience, qualifications, and location. 

In addition to the salary for this position, lawyers may be eligible for an incentive bonus program and/or a profit-sharing bonus program. 

Ballard Spahr also offers an excellent benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts, short and long-term disability, a 401(k) retirement savings plan, paid time off, ten paid holidays and an employee assistance program. A detailed summary of available benefits can be found here on our Careers website. 

At Ballard Spahr, we believe that our skills, perspectives, and backgrounds drive innovation and excellence, while our unique culture fosters collaboration and success. Our culture of thriving together forms the cornerstone of how we deliver exceptional service and position our firm for a strong future. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.  

Ballard Spahr is an equal opportunity employer. We offer equal consideration to all qualified applicants, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, age, national origin, handicap or disability, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, transgender status, sex stereotyping, genetic information, ancestry, veteran status or any other category protected by applicable law. 

SEARCH FIRM: We are not currently accepting search firm submissions for this position. For questions or more information, please contact Kathleen Moody, Legal Recruiting Specialist, at moodyk@ballardspahr.com.