Associate Attorney - Estate Planning / Drafting

Roles and Responsibilities

• Document Drafting & Technical Delivery
• Document and prepare a full suite of estate planning documents, including Wills (including tax-planned structures)
• Revocable and irrevocable trusts
• Advanced wealth transfer planning documents
• Powers of attorney and healthcare directives
• Ancillary documents (e.g. deeds, funding schedules, assignment documents)
• Customize documentation based on attorney guidance, client intake data, and established firm templates
• Prepare complete estate planning packages, ensuring consistency across all documents
• Collaboration & Matter Support
• Work closely with attorneys, financial advisors and clients to support the implementation of comprehensive estate planning strategies
• Incorporate revisions and feedback efficiently, ensuring deadlines and client expectations are met
• Liaise with internal stakeholders to gather information and ensure smooth progression of matters
• Support junior drafters or paralegals where required, providing guidance on templates and firm drafting standards (where applicable at this level)
• Workflow, Systems & Process Contribution
• Use estate planning software and firm templates to produce documents efficiently
• Maintain organized document management, including version control and file integrity
• Contribute to the refinement of templates, precedents, and internal drafting processes
• Stay current with developments in estate planning practices, including relevant legal and tax considerations
• Comply with all relevant legal and regulatory obligations including the New York and Connecticut
• Assist with trust administration and estate settlement matters as needed
• Review and analyze estate structures, asset titling, and tax considerations to support planning objectives

Skills and Experience

• An Associate Attorney admitted to the Connecticut or New York State Bar (with willingness to obtain the other jurisdiction)
• Minimum 3+ years’ experience drafting estate planning documents within a law firm or specialist legal environment
• Deep knowledge of trust and estate administration and tax planning for high-net-worth clients
• LL.M. in Taxation a plus

Person Specification

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information in a clear and concise manner
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work with a moderate level of independence while appropriately escalating complex issues
• Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced and changing environment
• Colelgiual and responsive to feedback
• Client-focused mindset with a track record of responsiveness and service excellence