Senior Trust & Estate Administration Attorney for Pasadena Office

Job Overview:

A law firm seeks an experienced Senior Trust & Estate Administration Attorney for its Pasadena, CA office. The attorney will manage all aspects of trust and estate administration, working directly with clients to guide them through complex probate and trust processes. This role requires expertise in estate and gift tax issues, as well as trust administration while providing exceptional client service.

Duties:

• Analyze and administer various types of trusts, including A-B, A-D, A-B-C, dynasty trusts, GRATs, QPRTs, ILITs, and CRTs.
• Meet with clients to guide them through trust and estate administration, ensuring sensitivity and professionalism.
• Draft trust administration documents, such as those related to asset distribution, funding of sub-trusts, and allocation.
• Prepare necessary court documents, including 850 petitions and 17200 petitions.
• Oversee probate matters from filing to discharge, including attending court hearings and creating accountings.
• Manage client relationships by maintaining consistent, timely communication and resolving issues promptly.
• Collaborate with clients and advisors to inventory and value assets; prepare asset allocation agreements and spreadsheets.
• Draft and review estate tax returns and federal and state fiduciary income tax returns.
• Conduct legal research as needed and supervise paralegals and legal assistants.
• Participate in litigation-related matters such as depositions, hearings, and conferences.
• Properly track and record billable hours, consistently meeting monthly targets.
• Contribute to firm administrative projects, including developing forms and participating in team meetings.

Requirements:

• Licensed to practice law in California, in good standing with the California Bar.
• At least 5 years of experience in trust administration and estate/probate administration.
• Strong drafting and writing skills, adaptable to the firm’s specific drafting style and format.
• Ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously and prioritize tasks efficiently.
• Experience handling estate tax, probate court processes, and estate administration matters.
• Strong decision-making, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent time management, organization, and attention to detail.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.

Certifications:

• An active member of the California Bar.
• Notary commission preferred or willingness to become a notary.

Skills:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with Hotdocs, Abacus, and Timeslips preferred.
• Excellent legal research and drafting capabilities.
• Strong client management and communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients, maintaining professionalism and delivering high-quality work.

Location:

• Pasadena, CA

Benefits:

• Opportunity to work with a well-established law firm.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health and retirement plans.
• Professional growth opportunities within a supportive work environment.

This job description has been restructured to focus on essential responsibilities and requirements while ensuring confidentiality. Applicants are directed to apply through the recruiting firm rather than external platforms.