Mid-Level/Senior Associate Legal Counsel

MS | Law is a pioneering legal practice in Pakistan specializing in virtual assets regulation, alongside a strong corporate practice that covers banking and finance, mergers and acquisitions, and commercial contracts. The firm advises a diverse client base, including founders, exchanges, fintech companies, and financial institutions, on the Virtual Assets Act 2026 and the Pakistan-UAE regulatory corridor. Its work encompasses PVARA licensing, regulatory sandbox applications, and cross-border structuring for clients operating across multiple jurisdictions. MS | Law is committed to translating a fast-evolving regulatory framework into clear, commercially practical solutions, offering the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge legal matters in a dynamic and developing environment.

Key Responsibilities
The Mid-Level/Senior Associate Legal Counsel will be based in Islamabad in a full-time, hybrid capacity. The role involves providing expert legal advice on virtual asset regulation, including compliance with the Virtual Assets Act 2026 and related regulatory frameworks. Responsibilities include drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts and legal documents for a variety of clients such as founders, exchanges, fintech firms, and financial institutions. The counsel will manage PVARA licensing applications, advise on participation in regulatory sandboxes, and support cross-border structuring efforts across multiple jurisdictions. The Senior Associate will collaborate closely with internal teams and clients to assess legal risks, develop compliant business structures, and prepare clear, well-reasoned legal opinions and memoranda.

Required Qualifications
Candidates should have between 2 to 6 years of post-qualification experience, particularly in banking and finance as well as mergers and acquisitions. A license to practice law in Pakistan is essential, along with an LL.B or equivalent degree. Strong contract drafting and negotiation skills are required, especially experience handling agreements involving multiple stakeholders. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to prepare legal opinions, regulatory filings, and transaction documents, and provide practical, business-focused advice. Experience working with regulators, banks, financial institutions, or fintech companies is highly valued. Excellent analytical, research, and written communication skills with meticulous attention to detail are necessary. The ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and adapt to a rapidly evolving regulatory environment is critical.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits
Experience with virtual assets, fintech, or digital finance matters is considered a significant advantage. An LL.M or specialization in financial or technology law will be viewed favorably. The firm offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with performance-based bonuses and professional development support. Employees benefit from direct mentorship by the Founding Partner and gain exposure to innovative virtual assets legal work in a forward-looking practice.

This role presents an excellent opportunity for legal professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in banking, finance, and virtual assets within a leading-edge legal environment.