Associate Lawyer

Company DescriptionIcaza, González-Ruiz & Alemán is a prestigious Panamanian law firm founded in 1920. With over a century of legal excellence, the firm has a longstanding reputation for delivering high-quality, client-focused solutions across more than 25 areas of practice. Our team of skilled attorneys is committed to innovation, integrity, and results, supporting clients in complex legal matters in Panama and across global financial and commercial hubs. We foster long-term careers by promoting ongoing learning, cross-border collaboration, and a clear professional growth path for legal talent.

Role DescriptionWe are seeking a highly motivated Associate Lawyer to join our Banking and Finance Department. This is a full-time position based in Panama, offering the opportunity to work on high-level legal matters in corporate finance, banking operations, regulatory compliance, and financial project structuring. The successful candidate will advise clients on complex transactions, conduct legal research, draft and negotiate financial and fiduciary instruments, and provide legal opinions in both Spanish and English. This role offers significant exposure to cross-border matters and the opportunity to work with a multidisciplinary team on impactful projects in Panama and internationally.

Key ResponsibilitiesProvide legal advice on banking operations, corporate financing, regulatory compliance, and financial projects. Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, trust deeds, loan agreements, and complex financial instruments in Spanish and English. Conduct legal research and prepare legal opinions on local and international financial regulations. Support clients in structuring fiduciary and financial products, including syndicated loans, securities, and infrastructure financing. Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure timely and accurate execution of transactions. Assist in AML/CFT compliance matters and regulatory reporting as needed. QualificationsLaw degree from a recognized university in Panama, Europe, or the United States.

3–5 years of relevant experience in banking, finance, or corporate law, preferably at a top-tier law firm or financial institution. Specialization or hands-on experience in banking and financial law, capital markets, trusts and fiduciary structures, debt restructuring and structured finance, and regulatory compliance and AML/CFT frameworks. Excellent command of Spanish and English, both written and spoken, with proven ability to draft and negotiate legal documents in both languages. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and legal research tools. Strong analytical thinking, client orientation, negotiation skills, and ethical judgment. Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and contribute to multidisciplinary teams.