Paralegal - Trusts and Estates

Description

Hinman, Howard & Kattell, LLP, an established and respected law firm, is seeking an experienced Trusts and Estates Paralegal to join our collaborative team. This is an excellent opportunity for a detail-oriented professional who enjoys managing sophisticated estate and trust matters while providing exceptional service to clients during important life transitions.

Our attorneys and professional staff work together across multiple offices in a supportive, team-oriented environment where collaboration, mentorship, and outstanding client service are valued. If you are looking for a position where your experience is respected and your work makes a meaningful difference, we encourage you to apply.

This is a full-time position with a comprehensive benefits package.

What You'll Do

As a Trusts & Estates Paralegal, you will independently manage complex estate and trust administration matters from inception through closing while working closely with attorneys as needed.

Responsibilities include:

• Manage all phases of estate and trust administration.
• Identify, gather, value, and transfer estate assets.
• Prepare probate petitions, inventories, accountings, and other Surrogate's Court filings.
• File and manage probate proceedings throughout New York State.
• Monitor court deadlines and maintain accurate case calendars.
• Conduct research to identify and locate heirs, beneficiaries, and interested parties.
• Review wills, trusts, and related estate planning documents with attorneys to ensure proper administration and trust funding.
• Prepare federal and state fiduciary income tax returns, estate tax returns, and personal income tax returns.
• Coordinate with financial institutions, accountants, beneficiaries, and other professionals throughout the administration process.
• Utilize legal and tax research resources to resolve procedural and administrative issues.
• Assist with estate administrations in other jurisdictions, particularly Pennsylvania and Florida.

What We're Looking For

The successful candidate is a compassionate, organized professional who enjoys working independently while also collaborating with attorneys and colleagues. Because our clients are often experiencing the loss of a loved one, empathy, professionalism, and excellent communication skills are essential.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Outstanding organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and mathematical abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Superior client service skills with the ability to communicate compassionately with clients during difficult circumstances.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities and consistently meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong technology skills and the ability to quickly learn new software and processes.
• The initiative to work independently while contributing positively to a collaborative team environment.
• A willingness to mentor others and learn from experienced colleagues.

Qualifications

• Three to five years of Trusts and Estates paralegal experience in a medium or large law firm preferred.
• Demonstrated experience handling all aspects of estate and trust administration.
• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Paralegal certificate preferred.
• Notary Public commission preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Experience with ProLaw and ProSystem Fx Tax is preferred.
• Familiarity with estate administration procedures in Pennsylvania and/or Florida is a plus.

Why Join Hinman, Howard & Kattell?

At Hinman, Howard & Kattell, we recognize that our people are our greatest strength. We foster a collaborative workplace where experienced professionals are trusted with meaningful work, supported by knowledgeable colleagues, and encouraged to continue growing throughout their careers.

If you are an experienced Trusts and Estates Paralegal seeking a rewarding opportunity with a respected law firm, we would welcome the opportunity to hear from you.