Trusts and Estates Associate Attorney

A law firm in Charleston, SC, is seeking a Trusts and Estates Associate Attorney with 3-6 years of experience in estate planning and estate administration. The ideal candidate will have experience drafting estate planning documents, probate forms, and other legal instruments necessary to support a sophisticated practice serving ultra-high-net-worth clients. This role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage complex estate planning and administration matters. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in drafting irrevocable trusts, investment partnerships (LLCs), and advanced transfer strategies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Draft and review estate planning documents, including wills, revocable and irrevocable trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives.
• Prepare and file probate court forms, including accountings and other documents required for estate administration.
• Provide counsel to ultra-high-net-worth clients on sophisticated estate planning strategies, tax planning, and asset protection.
• Advise clients on trust administration, fiduciary duties, and related compliance requirements.
• Draft complex legal documents related to advanced estate planning techniques, such as investment partnerships (LLCs), family limited partnerships, and grantor retained annuity trusts (GRATs).
• Assist with the design and implementation of wealth transfer strategies, including charitable planning, gift tax planning, and generation-skipping transfer tax planning.
• Coordinate and oversee estate administration, including probate filings, asset valuation, and distributions.
• Collaborate with financial planners, accountants, and other advisors to provide comprehensive estate planning services.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, providing exceptional client service and personalized legal advice.
• Stay informed of changes in tax laws, probate regulations, and other relevant legal developments impacting trusts and estates practice.

Requirements:

• 3-6 years of experience working primarily in the field of estate planning and/or estate administration.
• Proven experience drafting estate planning documents and probate forms required by probate courts.
• Strong preference for candidates with experience in drafting irrevocable trusts, investment partnerships (LLCs), and advanced transfer strategies.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts in a clear and accessible manner.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and accuracy in drafting legal documents.
• Ability to manage multiple client matters and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated interest in working with ultra-high-net-worth clients on sophisticated estate planning and wealth transfer strategies.

Education and Certifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with the North Carolina and/or South Carolina State Bar.
• LLM in estate planning or tax preferred, but not required.

Skills:

• Proficient in drafting complex legal documents related to estate planning and administration.
• High level of professionalism, integrity, and client service.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing laws and regulations and incorporate new strategies into practice.
• Proficiency with legal research and drafting software.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Robust mental well-being programs and support services.
• Flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts.
• Short- and long-term disability coverage.
• Retirement savings plans, including 401K with firm contributions.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, personal days, and holidays.
• Continuing legal education and professional development opportunities.

This rapidly growing firm has some serious chops with regards to the energy and natural resources, financial, insurance, manufacturing, real estate, retail, transportation, life sciences, communications, and health care sectors. Given the firm?s growth status, this firm promises multiple opportunities for associates to catch a wave and get in on the ground floor of something big.