The Associate Counsel role at the Los Angeles Lakers offers a pivotal opportunity to safeguard the organization's legal interests while contributing to its legacy of excellence in professional basketball. This position is crucial for navigating complex legal landscapes in sports entertainment, ensuring compliance, mitigating risks, and enabling strategic growth that impacts millions of fans and the franchise's global brand. In this dynamic role, you will provide legal advice on a wide range of matters including player contracts, sponsorship agreements, and broadcast rights. Daily tasks involve drafting and reviewing contracts, conducting legal research, and advising internal teams on compliance with NBA regulations and state laws. Weekly, you will collaborate with the executive team, human resources, and marketing departments to resolve disputes and negotiate partnerships. Monthly responsibilities include preparing reports on litigation risks, managing intellectual property filings, and participating in policy development meetings. You will also handle vendor agreements, employment law issues, and crisis response, delivering measurable outcomes like reduced legal exposures and successful deal closures. Leadership involves mentoring junior staff and liaising with external counsel to optimize efficiency. Candidates must hold a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school and be an active member of the California State Bar. A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in sports law, entertainment law, or corporate legal practice is required, with proven expertise in contract negotiation and regulatory compliance. Proficiency in legal research tools such as Westlaw or LexisNexis, Microsoft Office Suite, and contract management software is essential. Deep knowledge of NBA collective bargaining agreements, labor laws, and intellectual property rights in sports is highly valued. Any certifications in sports law or alternative dispute resolution are advantageous. Success demands exceptional analytical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and superior written and verbal communication skills for interacting with high-profile stakeholders. You should exhibit strong negotiation prowess, the ability to thrive under pressure in fast-paced environments, and ethical judgment. Industry competencies include understanding sports media rights, athlete endorsements, and venue operations, paired with collaborative teamwork and strategic problem-solving to drive organizational objectives. The Los Angeles Lakers, an iconic NBA franchise based in El Segundo, CA, embody a culture of winning, innovation, and community impact. With a storied history of 17 championships, our mission is to inspire greatness on and off the court through passionate leadership and fan engagement. The legal team operates within a collaborative, high-energy environment that values diversity, work-life balance, and professional growth amid world-class facilities. We offer competitive compensation, though salary details are not specified at this time, commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, a robust 401(k) retirement plan with matching, generous paid time off, and flexible work arrangements. Additional perks feature Lakers game tickets, fitness center access, employee discounts, performance bonuses, and opportunities for stock options in Lakers affiliates. Advancement paths include progression to Senior Counsel or General Counsel roles, with extensive professional development through training programs, NBA legal conferences, and mentorship. To apply, submit your resume and cover letter via our careers portal, and join a championship-caliber team today.