Probate & Estate Administration Paralegal
Beacon Hill · New York, NY · 1 wk ago
On-siteLegal$85k/yrFull-time
We are a growing law firm seeking an experienced Probate & Estate Administration Paralegal to support attorneys in estate administration, probate, estate planning, and fiduciary accounting matters.
About the role
This role is ideal for a detail-oriented professional who thrives in a client-focused environment and can independently manage complex estate matters from initiation through final distribution.
Responsibilities
- Prepare and file probate and estate administration petitions, pleadings, and supporting documents.
- Assist attorneys with estate administration, estate planning, elder law, trust administration, and related Surrogate's Court proceedings.
- Draft estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and related instruments.
- Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, guiding families through the probate and estate administration process with professionalism and compassion.
- Maintain communication with beneficiaries, fiduciaries, financial institutions, and court personnel.
- Track and reconcile estate bank accounts, investment accounts, debts, and distributions.
- Prepare estate inventories, asset valuations, and supporting financial documentation.
- Manage estate accounting functions, including:
- Tracking estate receipts, disbursements, and distributions
- Reconciling financial records and account activity
- Categorizing capital gains, losses, and expenses
- Preparing informal and judicial fiduciary accountings for court filings and beneficiary review
- Organize and maintain case files, deadlines, and probate court requirements.
- Support attorneys with guardianship matters and other related trust and estate proceedings as needed.
Requirements
- 3+ years of experience in probate, estate administration, trust administration, or estate planning.
- Strong understanding of probate procedures, fiduciary accounting, and estate administration processes.
- Experience preparing probate petitions, estate inventories, accountings, and related court filings.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a strong client-service orientation.
- Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail and strong analytical skills.
- Ability to manage multiple matters independently in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with estate planning or legal practice management software is a plus.
Preferred Experience
- Preparation of formal and informal fiduciary accountings.
- Experience working with high-net-worth estates and trusts.
- Exposure to elder law and guardianship matters.
Pay
Up to $85,000, commensurate with experience.
Benefits
Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and federal and state leave programs for eligible employees. Details will be provided upon hiring.