Estate Planning Attorney

Job Overview:

A law firm in Pasadena, California is seeking a skilled Estate Planning Attorney to join their team. The ideal candidate will meet with prospective and returning clients, analyze estates, and prepare tailored estate plans. The role involves drafting legal documents, managing client relationships, and ensuring that estate plans meet legal and financial requirements. This is a full-time, in-office position with competitive compensation and benefits.

Location:

• Pasadena, California

Duties:

• Conduct consultations with prospective and current clients to gather information and make estate planning recommendations.
• Review and update existing estate plans for clients, ensuring they meet the client’s evolving needs.
• Quote fees and manage client engagement, including preparing and signing engagement agreements.
• Draft estate planning documents based on client needs and recommendations.
• Present estate plans to clients, explaining the design and answering any questions.
• Maintain detailed client records, including meeting notes, emails, and other correspondence.
• Use task management systems (e.g., Lawcus, Asana) to monitor progress and respond to correspondence.
• Attend and participate in attorney meetings, department meetings, and staff meetings.
• Refer clients to affiliated financial advisors when necessary and manage related disclosures and consent forms.
• Respond promptly to client inquiries via phone or email.
• Handle other duties and projects as assigned.

Requirements:

• Licensed attorney by the California State Bar.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in estate planning.
• Strong knowledge of income, gift, and estate tax laws.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Ability to manage client relationships and ensure high-quality service.
• Familiarity with technology and task management software (Lawcus, Asana).
• State Bar Certified Specialist in Trusts, Wills, and Probate preferred.
• Notary Public certification is a plus.
• Advanced estate planning experience is preferred.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in California.

Certifications:

• California State Bar licensure required.
• Notary Public certification preferred.
• State Bar Certified Specialist in Trusts, Wills, and Probate preferred but not required.

Skills:

• Proficient in estate planning and related legal matters.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently.
• Strong client consultation and interpersonal skills.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with up to 4% company match.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• Employee referral program.
• Bonus opportunities through a written bonus plan.

This California firm focuses on living trust matters and estate planning, in addition to trust administration, legacy care, and elder law. The firm has been making a name for itself since 2005, and now has 13 offices across Northern and Southern California. If you would like to be part of a growing presence in the Golden State, this firm is one to check out.