Summary
We seek a detail-oriented individual to join our team. The Paralegal’s primary responsibility is to draft estate planning documents, assist in the implementation of a client’s estate plan, and prepare gift tax returns. The Paralegal works closely with other Private Client Services team members and Business Operations professionals at the firm. This position is highly visible and requires regular contact with various legal professionals, government agencies, consultants and clients. The ideal candidate has excellent interpersonal skills, a willingness to roll-up their sleeves to get things done, an ability to work independently as well as collaboratively, and a strong desire to learn.
Job Duties
The following are essential job duties and responsibilities of a Paralegal – Estate Planning. The list is not exhaustive, and other duties may be assigned as necessary.
- Facilitate all aspects of estate planning including:
- Collecting and securely storing sensitive client-related data in the document management system.
- Drafting wills, revocable trusts, irrevocable trusts, estate plan flow charts and explanatory memoranda.
- Facilitating the preparation of deed transfers, beneficiary designations, transfer of insurance policies, and tracking and preparing Crummey withdrawal notices.
- Acting as point-person for client communication in lieu of attorney and ensuring timely production of deliverables.
- Prepares gift tax returns, extension requests, and oversees circulation of the same for signature and filing.
- Utilize and keep on top of legal project management software.
- Oversee the quality control of template documents, assignments, and the execution of prepared documents.
- Read and interpret wills and trust instruments.
- Update and organize electronic and physical files for easy access.
- Handle special projects or additional responsibilities as assigned.
Education: Bachelor's Degree or relevant experience.
Experience: 3-5+ years of estate planning experience.
Knowledge/Skills and Abilities:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Analytical, with strong demonstrated problem-solving and reporting abilities.
- Ability to work well under pressure and handle emergency situations.
- Ability to meet strict deadlines and attend to multiple tasks at one time.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Strong interpersonal skills in order to communicate with a diverse group of attorneys, staff and clients.
- Ability to exercise discretion.
- Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office with emphasis on WORD and Excel skills required.
- Familiarity with fiduciary accounting software preferred.
Essential Demands of the Role:
- Flexibility to work overtime as needed.
- Ability to travel to other office locations on occasion.
- Prolonged periods sitting at a desk or standing; using computer equipment.
