Estate Planning And Elder Law Associate Attorney

Job Title: Estate Planning & Elder Law Associate Attorney

Job Overview:
A distinguished law firm in Watchung, NJ is actively seeking a dedicated and experienced Associate Attorney to join its Estate Planning and Elder Law practice. This in-office position presents an excellent opportunity for a legal professional with a client-centered mindset and a background in planning, administration, Medicaid, guardianship, and elder law-related litigation. The ideal candidate will bring both technical expertise and empathetic client engagement to assist families in navigating complex legal and emotional life stages.

Duties:

• Prepare and review legal instruments including Wills, Trusts, Health Care Directives, Powers of Attorney, and related planning documents

• Advise clients on asset protection strategies, including family partnerships and irrevocable trusts

• Supervise client signing appointments and manage client communications throughout the planning process

• Administer estates and trusts, including advising fiduciaries, preparing fiduciary accountings, filing inheritance and estate tax returns, and coordinating with financial institutions

• Provide Medicaid planning and application support; represent clients in fair hearings and advocate for appropriate care settings

• Represent clients in litigation involving guardianship/conservatorship, will or trust disputes and other elder law matters

• Oversee and mentor paralegals in support of client deliverables

• Conduct legal research, draft pleadings and memoranda, and track billable time accurately

• Participate in CLE courses, legal association events, and firm-sponsored networking opportunities

Requirements:

• Minimum of 3 years of direct experience in estate planning and elder law

• Prior experience handling Medicaid planning, trust administration, and related litigation matters

• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex concepts to clients with clarity and empathy

• Proficiency in drafting legal documents and interpreting relevant laws and regulations

• Proven experience handling sensitive client matters with professionalism and discretion

Education:

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

Certifications:

• Bar admission in New Jersey required

Skills:

• Strong legal writing and analytical skills

• Exceptional verbal and written communication abilities

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel)

• Experience using legal practice management tools (e.g., Clio, ClioDraft)

• Client-focused problem-solving approach with the ability to manage multiple priorities

• Leadership capability to supervise and guide legal support staff

Job Location:

• Watchung, NJ (on-site, full-time position)

Benefits:

• Paid time off

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, life insurance)

• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• On-site wellness amenities including an Exercise Room, Meditation/Relaxation Room, and private shower facilities

• Discretionary performance-based bonuses and commissions