Associate Attorney - Trusts & Estates

Job description

The Associate Attorney – Trusts & Estates supports Senior Attorneys and Partners in practice areas including estate planning, trust formation and administration, probate proceedings, fiduciary representation, asset distribution, tax-related matters, and contested trust or estate disputes. The role requires strong organizational, interpersonal and communication skills, excellent research and writing skills, and the Associate Attorney – Trusts & Estates must be able to multitask and manage a large caseload while fostering teamwork, collaboration, and a positive firm culture. This role requires a self-starter who is willing and open to learning new skills as well as taking initiative and being proactive. JKZ employees are expected to “Think Outside the Box,” applying creativity, sound judgment, and initiative to deliver thoughtful solutions and exceptional client service. Associate Attorneys are expected to model and uphold JKZ’s mission, vision, and values in all professional interactions and to consistently produce work that meets or exceeds the JKZ Standard. Essential Duties and Responsibilities, including but not limited to: The following Sections 1 through 5 include all duties and responsibilities which are typical of Associate Attorney’s duties in the Trusts & Estates department. However, depending on the role, an Associate Attorney may be more heavily involved in certain sectors within the department. Section 6 is applicable to all Associate Attorneys. 1. Legal Drafting & Advocacy • Draft and review wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance healthcare directives, and related estate planning documents. • Prepare probate petitions, trust administration pleadings, accountings, objections, and settlement agreements. • Draft persuasive briefs, declarations, and supporting documents for contested probate or trust litigation matters. • Represent clients in probate court hearings, mediations, settlement conferences, and trust or estate trials. • Prepare and review federal gift and estate tax returns, including Forms 706 and 709. 2. Case Strategy & Matter Management • Manage all aspects of trusts and estates matters, including estate planning, probate, trust administration, and fiduciary disputes. • Identify and analyze key legal and financial issues involving asset distribution, fiduciary duties, beneficiary rights, and tax considerations. • Supervise paralegals and support staff handling document preparation, filings, and administrative tasks. • Ensure compliance with statutory requirements, court rules, and all filing and notice deadlines. 3. Client Counseling & Communication • Advise clients on estate planning options, probate and trust administration processes, and dispute resolution strategies. • Guide clients through complex legal procedures with clear explanations and practical recommendations. • Review asset inventories, fiduciary accountings, tax documents, and supporting financial records. • Maintain consistent, compassionate communication with clients, beneficiaries, trustees, and personal representatives, often during sensitive circumstances. 4. Legal Research & Financial Analysis • Conduct legal research on trusts and estates statutes, case law, tax rules, and local probate court procedures. • Analyze financial information including asset valuations, tax returns, trust accountings, and estate expenses. • Identify tax implications and coordinate with accountants or financial advisors as needed. • Prepare legal memoranda and strategic recommendations based on research and financial analysis. 5. Court & Negotiation Work • Appear in probate court for petitions, accountings, contested hearings, and trials. • Participate in settlement negotiations and mediations involving trust and estate disputes. • Present evidence, examine witnesses, and argue motions in contested matters. • Draft and negotiate settlement agreements, stipulations, and court orders resolving probate and trust issues. 6. Professional Development, Performance & Productivity Requirements • Participate in at least six (6) professional or business development activities annually (beyond required MCLE). • Meet or exceed annual billable hour requirements. • Contribute to firm growth through annual origination of at least $250,000 in new business. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform all essential duties. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and physical and mental abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Mental Demands • Excellent critical thinking, judgment, analytical reasoning, attention to detail, and high-level cognitive functioning. • Ability to remain composed, strategic, and solution-oriented in high-pressure or emotionally charged situations. Physical Demands & Work Environment • For on-site employees: Work in a standard office environment with frequent interaction across multiple departments. • For hybrid employees: Maintain a remote workspace that supports confidentiality and consistent internet connectivity for virtual meetings and system access. • Prolonged periods of sitting, reading, and working at a computer. • Occasional lifting of files or materials up to 15 pounds. • Occasional travel to court, client meetings, or other legal proceedings. • Work is performed in a professional office environment. Education & Experience • Active member of the State Bar of California. • Experience with NumberCruncher and law firm client management software preferred. • One (1) to five (5) years of recent experience in trusts & estates practice area. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities • Communicates promptly, clearly, and professionally with clients, colleagues, and internal stakeholders to support efficient case progress. • Conducts thorough legal research and drafts clear, accurate, and well-organized written work product, demonstrating strong analytical and problem-solving skills. • Demonstrates sound judgment, reliability, and accountability in completing assigned work, meeting deadlines, and following case instructions. • Maintains discretion and professionalism when handling sensitive client information and confidential firm matters. • Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and modern law firm practice management software. • Excellent command of English, including grammar, usage, form, and style.