Senior Trusts & Estates Paralegal (Individual Client Services Specialist)

📍 Location: New York, NY (On-site 4–5 days/week)

💼 Schedule: Full-Time | Exempt

💲 Salary Range: Up to $170K–$200K for a stellar candidate

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Team: Individual Client Services (ICS)

What You’ll Do:

• Handle complex estate administration, including marshaling assets, arranging appraisals, and preparing all necessary court filings.
• Prepare Federal and State estate tax returns and run estate/gift tax projections for trusts (e.g., GRATs, QPRTs).
• Draft probate petitions, applications for preliminary letters testamentary, petitions for advance payment of commissions, and receipt and release agreements.
• Manage IRS and state estate tax audits and assist with trust administration and accounting proceedings.
• Guide and mentor junior legal assistants and collaborate closely with attorneys on estate and tax planning matters.
• Interface directly with clients with sensitivity and professionalism, often during difficult or emotional circumstances.
• Assemble required documentation for fiduciary accountants and ensure the accuracy and completeness of all filings and client deliverables.

What You’ll Bring:

• 10–15 years of specialized Trusts & Estates experience —ideally from an AM Law firm or a boutique firm focusing exclusively on T&E.
• Proven ability to read and interpret wills, handle elder care matters (Medicaid/Medicare claims), and support complex trust/estate matters.
• Advanced knowledge of estate and tax planning, probate procedures, and relevant court systems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Adobe Acrobat; experience with OneSource and document management systems is a plus.
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to manage a high volume of clients and cases while maintaining accuracy and empathy.
• Strong leadership and mentorship capabilities with a collaborative team mindset.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and hands-on experience.