Trust & Estates Attorney

This opportunity is with a well-respected mid-size, full-service law firm in Buffalo that has a strong focus on Trust & Estates. The firm prioritizes a positive working culture, outstanding advocacy, and supporting individual professional growth while nurturing long-term relationships with clients and employees.

About the role

We are seeking a seasoned Trust & Estates Attorney with 3-8 years of experience to join our dynamic legal team. This permanent, full-time role offers a challenging and rewarding environment for a driven individual passionate about trust and estate law. The successful candidate will provide comprehensive legal advice on a range of trust and estate matters, including estate administration, estate planning, wills, trusts, estates, and probate.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and advise on trust and estate law, including estate administration, estate planning, wills, trusts, estates, and probate.
• Structure and administer complex trusts, including irrevocable and special needs vehicles.
• Oversee estate and trust administration matters, including probate, fiduciary accountings, and distributions.
• Advise on business succession and wealth-transfer planning for closely held entities.
• Counsel clients on estate, gift, and long-term planning considerations.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, managing matters independently and maintaining long-term relationships.
• Collaborate with attorneys across practices to deliver integrated planning solutions.
• Handle trust- and estate-related disputes or contested matters as needed.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Admitted to practice law in New York.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience in trust and estate law, with a proven track record of success.
• In-depth knowledge of trust and estate law, including estate administration and estate planning.
• Exceptional legal research, analysis, and drafting skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build client relationships and work effectively as part of a team.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to think strategically and creatively.
• High level of professionalism and ethical standards.
• Ability to manage multiple cases and projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and maintain attention to detail.
• Strong commitment to client service and demonstrated ability to provide quality legal advice and representation.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary of $150,000 - $200,000 per year, plus significant opportunities for performance-based bonuses.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401K with a match.
• Flexible work-life balance.
• Generous PTO package, including mental health days.
• Transition of an established client base.
• Firm-paid bar association membership dues and professional development support.
• Access to advanced legal resources, dedicated support staff, and collaboration with seasoned attorneys across multiple practice areas.