Trusts & Estates Associate Attorney

A law firm seeks an experienced Trusts & Estates Associate Attorney to join its Ithaca, NY office, with a hybrid remote work option. This role involves delivering comprehensive legal services to high-net-worth individuals, families, and businesses. The ideal candidate will thrive in a collaborative environment while providing tailored legal solutions to clients.

Duties

• Counsel clients on estate planning, trust administration, and probate matters.
• Draft and finalize estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and advance healthcare directives.
• Advise clients on strategies to minimize estate taxes and protect their assets.
• Oversee the administration of estates and trusts, including managing asset distribution, preparing and filing necessary legal documents, and resolving disputes.
• Conduct legal research and stay current on developments in estate planning, tax law, and probate law.
• Collaborate with financial advisors, accountants, and other professionals to create comprehensive estate plans.
• Represent clients in Probate Court and related legal proceedings as necessary.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships by effectively understanding and addressing their needs.
• Maintain a minimum of 1,800 billable hours annually.

Requirements

• 4-6+ years of experience in trusts and estates law.
• Active bar membership in New York, Connecticut, and/or Massachusetts (or the ability to waive in).
• Demonstrated experience drafting estate planning documents, including various types of trusts, and handling complex estate and trust administration.
• Proficiency in preparing estate, gift, and fiduciary income tax returns.
• Experience representing fiduciaries and beneficiaries in Probate Court proceedings.
• Exceptional legal writing and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
• Demonstrated professionalism, conscientiousness, and a sense of responsibility.
• A positive, flexible, and cooperative attitude.
• Military experience is welcomed.

Education

• Juris Doctorate from an ABA-accredited law school.

Certifications

• Active membership in good standing with the bar in relevant jurisdictions.

Skills

• Expertise in estate planning, tax law, and probate law.
• Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate with clients and other professionals.
• Ability to absorb and apply new information quickly.
• High standards of performance and a commitment to client service.
• Capacity to work effectively with diverse personalities and at a variety of organizational levels.

Benefits

• Hybrid remote work flexibility.
• Opportunities to work in a supportive, inclusive environment that values diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• Commitment to professional development and fostering a respectful, productive work atmosphere.

This position is an excellent opportunity for a motivated attorney to join a dynamic team and advance their career in the area of trusts and estates law.

One of the top 250 law firms in the US, this time-honored law firm was established more than 150 years ago and is comprised of a considerably large team of seasoned attorneys. It has 14 offices in New York and the surrounding regions and provides expert legal counsel on varied and proven practice areas in a multitude of industries. This firm firmly believes in diversity in the workplace and embraces pro-bono and community outreach work. It has received numerous industry honors for its outstanding legal services.