Litigation Attorney Trust & Estate Litigation

A law firm seeks an experienced and motivated Litigation Attorney to handle trust and estate litigation, probate matters, real estate litigation, and guardianship proceedings. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of experience, a strong presence in the courtroom, and the ability to manage cases from initial filing through trial and appeal. The role offers the flexibility to work remotely or in a hybrid work environment, with required travel for court appearances and proceedings across Albany County and other New York State jurisdictions.

Duties

• Represent clients in various trust and estate matters, including will contests, trust disputes, probate cases, partition actions, and guardianship (Article 81) proceedings.
• Manage a caseload from intake through resolution, including preparing legal documents, conducting discovery, and representing clients in depositions, hearings, mediations, and trials.
• Provide strategic legal advice in estate administration and litigation.
• Draft pleadings, motions, and other legal documents with precision.
• Research complex issues in trust and estate law, real estate litigation, and guardianship matters.
• Negotiate settlements and draft settlement agreements in contested estate and trust disputes.
• Appear in court (in-person or virtually) for hearings and trials in Albany County and surrounding areas, as well as other jurisdictions as needed.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues, clients, and support staff to ensure case success.
• Keep clients informed of case developments and advise on legal strategies.
• Stay updated on relevant laws, rules, and best practices in the practice areas.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in trust and estate litigation, probate, real estate litigation, will contests, and guardianship proceedings (Article 81).
• Proven courtroom experience, including handling complex cases from filing through trial and appeal.
• Strong legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload and meet deadlines effectively.
• Comfortable with both in-person and virtual court appearances across New York State.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact professionally with clients, colleagues, and opposing counsel.
• Self-motivated, highly organized, and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Willingness to travel for court appearances and related duties.

Education

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

Certifications

• Admission to practice law in New York State.

Skills

• Strong legal writing and research abilities.
• Skilled in negotiation and settlement drafting.
• Ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient in using case management and legal research software.
• Strong attention to detail and strategic thinking.

Benefits

• Flexible work environment, including remote or hybrid options.
• Opportunities for career advancement in a supportive, dynamic environment.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a law firm that values work-life balance and professional growth while handling a variety of challenging and rewarding cases in the trust and estate litigation space.