Paralegal - Estate Planning & Probate
Downey Law Group LLC · Topsfield, MA · 6 days ago
On-siteLegalFull-time
Overview The Estate Planning & Probate Paralegal supports attorneys in preparing estate planning documents and administering estates and trusts through the probate process. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, strong client service skills, and the ability to manage sensitive personal information with professionalism and discretion. Estate Planning Support Draft wills, trusts, powers of attorney, health care directives, HIPAA releases, and related estate planning documents. Prepare asset summaries, funding instructions, trust certifications, and beneficiary designation forms. Coordinate document execution meetings, including witnessing and notarizing when required. Maintain organized client files and track planning milestones, updates, and follow up tasks. Client Intake & Communication Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, providing updates and answering routine questions. Schedule meetings and appointment reminders, manage attorney calendars, followup on nonclosed matters, and ensure clients receive required documentation in a timely manner. Probate & Estate Administration Prepare and file probate petitions, notices, inventories, accountings, and related court documents. Communicate with probate courts, state agencies, financial institutions, and beneficiaries. Monitor deadlines and ensure compliance with statutory requirements and court timelines. Research & Asset Organization Conduct basic legal research related to probate procedures, estate tax requirements, and state specific rules. Maintain detailed checklists to ensure all steps in the planning or administration process are completed accurately. Skills & Qualifications Strong understanding of estate planning concepts, probate procedures, and trust administration. Excellent drafting, proofreading, and organizational skills. Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and empathy. Proficiency with legal practice management software and Microsoft Office. Experience in an estate planning or probate practice preferred. Communication & Client Support Serve as a primary point of contact for clients. Respond to inquiries, provide status updates, and ensure all parties have required documentation. Assist with other administrative tasks within the office, as required. Support attorneys with research, drafting, and performs general administrative tasks as needed such as answering phones, scanning, filing, data entry, and office coordination Qualifications Paralegal Certificate or prior paralegal experience Experience in real estate transactions strongly preferred Strong understanding of legal terminology, document formatting, and procedural requirements Excellent writing, proofreading, and organizational skills Proficiency with real estate software, e filing systems, and case management tools Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast paced environment Strong attention to detail and a proactive, solutions oriented mindset Preferred Skills Notary Public commission is preferred Prior experience with Clio or other client case management tools preferred Comfort working directly with clients during sensitive or complex matters Works well in a team environment, friendly, customer service minded