Probate and Estate Planning Staff Attorney

A law firm in Washington, DC, is seeking a dedicated Probate and Estate Planning Staff Attorney to join their team. This position focuses on increasing access to justice in probate and estate planning matters by providing direct representation, advice, and advocacy for clients and community members. The role involves managing a full caseload of probate and estate planning cases, engaging in community outreach and education, and collaborating with the Probate & Estate Planning Managing Attorney. Candidates should have a J.D. and be licensed to practice in the District of Columbia or eligible for immediate waiver.

Duties:

• Provide direct representation for personal representatives in probating estates and assist individuals with proactive estate planning.
• Draft and review estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney.
• Offer legal advice on estate and probate matters to clients and community members.
• Engage in community outreach and education to raise awareness about probate and estate planning, mechanisms to avoid heirs' property and probate, and the benefits of effective planning.
• Manage a full caseload, including maintaining case files, timekeeping, and data management in accordance with organizational policies.
• Participate in case rounds, staff meetings, and contribute to the enhancement of organizational policies and procedures.
• Report to the Probate & Estate Planning Managing Attorney and collaborate with other legal staff and stakeholders.
• Provide client-centered and trauma-informed advocacy.

Requirements:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law and in good standing in the District of Columbia, or eligible for immediate waiver into DC.
• Minimum of 1+ years of experience post-J.D., preferably in a judicial clerkship or direct legal services. Candidates with additional years of experience and/or probate and estate planning experience are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Background in probate, estate planning, elder law, accounting, or real estate law is preferred.
• Emphasis on client-centered and trauma-informed advocacy.

Skills:

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with a diverse range of people.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and Excel.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage a full caseload independently.
• Experience with community engagement and/or community education is preferred.
• Spanish proficiency is a plus.

Benefits:

• 401(k) retirement plan with 3% employer match.
• Medical insurance with elective dental and vision insurance options.
• Generous paid leave, including vacation, sick, and personal days, winter break closure, Thanksgiving break, and all Federal and local holidays.
• Paid parental/family leave through the DC Paid Family Leave Program.
• Ongoing training opportunities.