Junior Associate Lawyer / Underbar Associate

Company Description de Guzman Mayuga is a full-service law firm known for its expertise in corporate, commercial, intellectual property, technology, tax, customs, real estate, labor, immigration, and litigation matters. The firm is led by solution-oriented lawyers who provide bespoke and cutting-edge legal services tailored to clients commercial objectives. It partners closely with clients to craft strategies that offer both legal protection and competitive advantage. de Guzman Mayuga invests in continuous learning and technology to support innovative and emerging business ideas. The firm advises local, foreign, and multinational clients across diverse industries, including technology, fintech, real estate, energy, healthcare, retail, hospitality, and manufacturing.

Role Description The Junior Associate Lawyer / Underbar Associate will support the firm's practice groups through legal research, drafting of pleadings, contracts, and opinions, and assisting in the preparation of legal strategies. The role includes reviewing and organizing documents, supporting due diligence and transaction-related work, and coordinating with senior lawyers on client matters. The associate will help prepare for hearings and meetings, attend hearings and client conferences as needed, and ensure accurate and timely documentation and filing. This is a full-time, on-site role based in Makati, requiring close collaboration with colleagues and active participation in the firm's training and knowledge-building initiatives.

Qualifications

• Law degree (LLB or JD) from an accredited law school; bar passer or bar candidate (underbar) strongly preferred.
• Strong legal research and writing skills, including the ability to analyze statutes, case law, and regulations and produce clear, structured memoranda.
• Competence in drafting contracts, pleadings, legal opinions, and correspondence with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Solid understanding or interest in corporate, commercial, and regulatory practice areas; exposure to litigation or dispute resolution is an advantage.
• Proficient in verbal and written communication in English; ability to present legal issues clearly to both legal and non-legal audiences.
• High level of integrity, professional ethics, and respect for confidentiality.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to handle multiple matters and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfort with office and legal technology tools (word processing, spreadsheets, research databases, document management systems); willingness to learn new systems.
• Ability to work collaboratively with partners, senior associates, and staff, while also managing tasks independently and proactively.
• Willingness to engage in continuous learning, training, and professional development within the firm's practice areas.