Trusts and Estates Paralegal

OVERVIEW:

The Trusts & Estates Paralegal works individually, within the Trusts & Estates group, to assist attorneys in the administration of estates and trusts, and works on various projects under attorney supervision.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Prepares petition and related papers to probate clients’ wills;
• Compiles exhibits to Form 706, the United States Estate (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Return and Form 709, the United States Gift Tax Return;
• Creates first drafts of various T&E practice documents including by not limited to: cover letters, powers of attorney, health care proxies, living wills, unanimous written consents, bills, summaries of wills and trust agreements, trustee appointment/resignation/removal instruments, Crummey notices, promissory notes, GRAT agreements, various ancillary GRAT documents, and debt forgiveness letters;
• Creates execution versions of various documents for signature including proofing for spelling errors, formatting, pagination, correct numbering of sections, cross-references, etc.;
• Assists with administration of trusts by keeping track of trust information, including trust assets, current trustees, grantor trust status, GST-exempt status, etc.;
• Plays an active role in helping the Firm to provide our clients with legal services of the highest caliber;
• Conducts research and compiles corporate information and precedent binders;
• Frequently interacts with partners, associates and clients; and
• Performs other duties, as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree with high academic standing;
• 2-5 years of relevant experience preferred;
• Experience supporting Trust & Estates attorneys highly desired;
• Excellent communication and organizational skills;
• The ability to work well under pressure and coordinate several activities at once;
• The initiative to problem-solve;
• The capacity to meet strict deadlines;
• Strong research skills;
• Proficiency using computer software and the internet;
• The flexibility to work a considerable amount of overtime and be available as needed; and
• The willingness and ability to make a two year commitment.

Market and Firm factors are also considered. In addition to base salary and discretionary bonus(es), we offer a generous employee benefits package including, but not limited to, paid time off, medical, dental, vision care, 401(k) and substantial health club discounts.