Job Title: In-House Legal Counsel, Trust & Estate Administration
Location: Franklin, Tennessee
About the Role:
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced In-House Legal Counsel to support our trust and estate administration team. This position involves advising on legal matters related to trust and estate planning, administration, compliance, and fiduciary responsibilities. As a key part of our team, you will work closely with trust officers, advisors, and clients to provide expert guidance in navigating complex trust and estate matters.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide comprehensive legal support for trust and estate administration, including the interpretation of trust documents, wills, and estate plans.
- Offer guidance on fiduciary duties and responsibilities, ensuring that trust officers and administrators adhere to all relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders on the management and administration of trusts and estates, including handling complex cases involving multiple jurisdictions and intricate asset structures.
- Advise on compliance with federal and state laws affecting trusts, estates, and fiduciary operations, maintaining awareness of regulatory updates.
- Review and draft trust documents, estate planning documents, amendments, and other legal instruments as necessary.
- Coordinate with external legal counsel as needed on specialized or complex legal issues.
- Assist in preparing and reviewing legal documents for trust transactions, including asset transfers, distributions, and trust terminations.
- Provide support on tax matters related to trust and estate administration, in collaboration with tax advisors and accountants.
- Facilitate client meetings, offering legal insights and assistance to trust officers and relationship managers to address client questions or concerns.
- Support risk management initiatives by identifying potential risks and ensuring compliance with internal policies, regulatory standards, and industry best practices.
Qualifications:
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and active bar membership in Tennessee or the ability to obtain Tennessee licensure.
- Minimum of 5-7 years of experience as a trust and estate attorney, ideally with in-house experience at a financial institution, trust company, or wealth management firm.
- Strong knowledge of trust and estate laws, probate procedures, and fiduciary principles, including experience with high-net-worth individuals and complex trust structures.
- Familiarity with state and federal regulatory requirements applicable to trust and estate administration, including tax laws and fiduciary standards.
- Excellent drafting, analytical, and problem-solving skills with a high level of attention to detail.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment and with clients.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize work, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced setting.
