State Bar of South Dakota
Associate Attorney - Business

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Associate Attorney - Business
By Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm 6/29/2026
Job Title & Company
Associate Attorney - Business at Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm (Hybrid Position based in Sioux Falls, SD, Full-time)
About Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm
Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm is a full-service law firm with offices in Sioux Falls, SD and Sioux City, IA. We are committed to delivering responsive, high-quality legal services across diverse practice areas. Our culture thrives on collaboration, trust, and professionalism, and every team member plays a key role in supporting clients and each other.
Job Overview
We are seeking a talented, motivated attorney to join our business law team. Ideal candidates should have 3+ years of experience in:
- Business and corporate law
- Entity formation
- Contract drafting
- Mergers and acquisitions (M&A)
This role offers collaborative opportunities to work with startups, entrepreneurs, and established businesses—fostering legal strategies for their growth.
Key Requirements:
- Licensed in South Dakota or Iowa (or willing to license to service clients in Iowa, South Dakota, Nebraska)
- Experience servicing small and closely-held family businesses is a plus
- Candidates with an existing client base are encouraged to apply; business development enthusiasm is equally valued
Attorneys at Halbach|Szwarc are also licensed in Minnesota, Nebraska, and Wyoming, with experience serving U.S. and international clients.
Responsibilities
Core Legal Duties
- Entity Selection & Formation: Advise clients on business structuring (e.g., partnerships, LLCs, corporations) and draft formation documents.
- Agreement Drafting & Review: Prepare and review purchase agreements, leases, asset purchases, real estate agreements, and related contracts.
- Mergers & Acquisitions: Assist with structuring, negotiating, and closing M&A transactions, prioritizing small businesses and family-owned operations.
- Client Communication: Provide exceptional client service and maintain strong business relationships.
- Business Development: Actively grow the client base, expand professional networks, and contribute to firm growth.
- Remote Collaboration: Use modern technologies to effectively engage with clients and colleagues.
- Stay Informed: Keep pace with business law, tax regulations, and estate planning trends.
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Qualifications
Education & Experience
✔ Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school ✔ 3+ years of post-dimissory practice with a focus on business law ✔ Strong business law and tax knowledge ✔ Drafting and negotiation expertise
Preferred (but not mandatory)
- Undergraduate degree in business, economics, finance, or accounting
Professional Traits
✔ Self-directed and disciplined, able to work remotely with minimal oversight ✔ Proven business development skills ✔ Strong written and verbal communication ✔ Commitment to excellence and long-term client partnerships
Attitude, Energy, and Effort
Expected Cultural Additions
- Professionalism & Judgment: Approach legal matters with thoroughness, integrity, and clear problem-solving.
- Precision & Accountability: Deliver work that reflects high standards, understanding how legal support impacts client success and firm reputation.
- Proactive Mindset: Anticipate risks early, drive momentum without instruction, and respond decisively in fast-paced settings.
- Collaboration & Feedback: Engage constructively with feedback, model a growth mindset, and cultivate respectful professional dynamics.
- Discretion & Confidentiality: Uphold trustworthiness in all interactions, especially with sensitive or high-stakes matters.


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Benefits & Perks
Compensation & Incentives
- Competitive salary (based on experience)
- Bonus eligibility (performance-driven)
- Fully firm-paid:
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
Work-Life Support
- Unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO)
- 13 paid holidays/year
- Fully stocked 401(k) with profit-sharing
Technical & Professional Investment
- Monthly tech stipends with firm-provided remote technology tools
- Covered continuing education expenses
Culture & Environment
- Team-driven, positive workplace
- Opportunities for career and personal development
How to Apply
If you’re a detail-oriented, client-focused attorney devoted to excellence, we’d love to hear from you!
Email your resume and cover letter (detailed with relevant experience) to: Miranda Basye mirandab@halbachlawfirm.com
Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and encourage applications from all qualified candidates.
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