Darley, a fourth-generation family-owned business, is seeking a Legal Intern to join our team. This role is ideal for a law student who is passionate about corporate governance and business strategy. Candidates pursuing a dual degree (JD/MBA) are highly preferred. The Legal Intern will play a key role in supporting the development and modernization of corporate governance processes and legal documentation. This position offers hands-on experience in corporate law, governance, and strategic decision-making within a dynamic, family-owned enterprise.

About W.S. Darley & Co: Founded in 1908, W.S. Darley & Co. (Darley) remains a family owned and operated business, supplying the highest quality equipment solutions to its military and first responder customers. With origins in the equipment distribution and Midwest manufacturing, Darley offers a family of leading innovate emergency equipment brands and innovative solutions. Darley prides itself on delivering the highest quality solutions and services from its corporate headquarters in Itasca, IL and its’ ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturing operations in Chippewa Falls, WI and Janesville, IA.

Darley Defense, a division of the W.S. Darley company, specializes in using existing contracts to distribute products and services to the Federal Government. Darley Defense specializes in special operational equipment and fire and emergency services.

Governance Development: 

• Assist in creating a comprehensive Board Charter, including policies for board member selection, term limits, and governance best practices.

Corporate Documentation: 

• Review and update corporate bylaws and shareholder agreements.
• Draft and refine processes for voting share transfers, dividend calculations, and shareholder rights, among others.
• Support legal process documentation for financial analysis for investments, including mergers & acquisitions (M&A), stock investments, and other capital allocation decisions.

Compliance & Risk Management: 

• Ensure all documents and processes align with applicable laws and regulations.

Collaboration: 

•  Work closely with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to implement governance improvements.

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

This job operates in a professional office environment in Itasca, IL. This role routinely uses company standard office equipment such as computer and cell phones.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.

POSITION TYPE / EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK 

This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or as otherwise required.

TRAVEL

No travel.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Currently pursuing a Juris Doctor (JD degree) 2nd year law student preferred; candidates also pursuing MBA, highly preferred
• Undergraduate degree in business discipline or equivalent experience.

Experience

• 1-2 years of experience in corporate law and/or business role or similar. 

Skills

• Strategic thought process in corporate governance, business law, and business strategy
• Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills. 
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities. 
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.

Benefits Offered

• PTO
• Paid Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Health & Wellness Reimbursement
• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life & Disability
• HSA with Darley contribution
• FSA
• 401K/Roth with match and profit sharing
• Darley paid life insurance

AAP/EEO Statement

Darley is an equal opportunity organization. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law