Trusts and Estates Associate Attorney

A law firm in Durham, NC, is seeking a Trusts and Estates Associate Attorney with 3-6 years of experience in estate planning and estate administration. The ideal candidate will support a sophisticated practice serving ultra-high-net-worth clients. Experience in drafting estate planning documents and probate forms, including accountings required by the probate court, is preferred. Preference will be given to candidates with specific experience in drafting irrevocable trusts, investment partnerships (LLCs), and advanced transfer strategies, or those who demonstrate a strong interest in these areas. Strong written and oral communication skills are essential. The candidate must be licensed in North Carolina and/or South Carolina. An LLM in estate planning or tax is preferred but not required.

Key Responsibilities:

• Draft and review estate planning documents, including wills, revocable and irrevocable trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives.
• Prepare and file probate forms and accountings required by the probate court.
• Provide legal counsel on sophisticated estate planning strategies, tax planning, and asset protection for ultra-high-net-worth clients.
• Develop and manage complex wealth transfer strategies, including irrevocable trusts, family limited partnerships (LLCs), and grantor retained annuity trusts (GRATs).
• Oversee estate administration processes, including probate filings, asset valuations, and estate distributions.
• Advise on trust administration, fiduciary duties, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Collaborate with financial advisors, accountants, and other professionals to deliver comprehensive estate planning solutions.
• Stay current with developments in estate, tax, and probate law to ensure compliance and best practices.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships by providing tailored and high-quality legal services.
• Participate in client meetings, strategy sessions, and professional presentations.

Requirements:

• 3-6 years of experience in estate planning and/or estate administration.
• Proven experience in drafting estate planning documents and probate forms, including court-required accountings.
• Preference for candidates with experience in irrevocable trusts, investment partnerships (LLCs), and advanced transfer strategies.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex legal concepts clearly and effectively.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple client matters and deadlines efficiently.
• Commitment to delivering exceptional client service and fostering long-term client relationships.

Education and Certifications:

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

Skills:

• Proficiency in drafting and reviewing complex estate planning documents and probate forms.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and ethical standards.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Familiarity with legal research, drafting software, and relevant technologies.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Robust mental health and wellness programs.
• Benefits for child, family, elder, and pet care.
• Short- and long-term disability insurance.
• Health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts.
• Long-term care insurance.
• 401K retirement plan with firm contributions.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation and personal days.
• Support for continuing legal education and professional development.

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.