Senior Estate Planning Associate Attorney

A law firm in Brookfield, WI, is seeking a Senior Estate Planning Associate Attorney to handle a demanding caseload related to estate planning, estate administration, and probate matters. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of estate planning experience, including planning for taxable estates, and 3 years of estate and trust administration and probate experience. The role involves managing client meetings, drafting and reviewing documents, supervising paralegals, and representing clients in court. Proficiency with basic technology and a commitment to excellent client service are essential.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage a demanding caseload involving estate planning, estate administration, and probate matters.
• Conduct client meetings to understand their estate planning needs, fears, and desires.
• Draft and review wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and other estate planning documents.
• Supervise probate paralegals in preparing petitions, accountings, and related filings.
• Oversee estate administration, including marshalling assets, determining cash needs, and preparing plans of distribution.
• Review and update clients’ older estate plans periodically.
• Represent clients in court regarding estate matters, including preparation and legal research.
• Handle a pipeline of estate planning production, from design to delivery.
• Answer client inquiries promptly and professionally.
• Manage and track work time and report on progress.
• Delegate tasks to paralegals and legal assistants as appropriate while ensuring timely and professional completion.
• Collaborate with other attorneys and paralegals to effectively move files through the estate administration process.
• Assist fiduciaries with ongoing estate or trust administration.
• Make recommendations on policies, procedures, and systems to improve efficiency.
• Deliver presentations to clients, attorneys, and financial professionals.
• Maintain up-to-date CLEs and law license.
• Develop and nurture relationships within the community and with community leaders.
• Utilize technology effectively, including Windows 10/11, Microsoft Office, MS Teams, Adobe Acrobat Pro, and Actionstep.

Requirements:

• 5+ years of estate planning experience, including planning for taxable estates.
• 3 years of experience in estate and trust administration and probate matters preferred.
• Juris Doctorate (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Must be licensed to practice law in Wisconsin or able to be licensed within 3 months.
• Familiarity with the estate administration process and probate procedures.
• Ability to handle a dynamic caseload and meet deadlines efficiently.
• Strong communication skills, especially in high-stress and emotional situations.

Skills:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and basic technology.
• Experience with MS Teams, Adobe Acrobat Pro, and Actionstep preferred.
• High level of professionalism and integrity.
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of cases.
• Effective delegation and supervision skills.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance (company contribution towards the plan)
• 401(k) with firm contributions
• Paid holidays
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Life insurance
• Continuing education budget
• Individual office