Trusts and Estates Associate Attorney

A law firm in Raleigh, 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 catering to ultra-high-net-worth clients. This role requires experience drafting estate planning documents, probate forms, and court-required accountings. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in drafting irrevocable trusts, investment partnerships (LLCs), and advanced transfer strategies. Strong written and oral communication skills are essential, and candidates 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.
• Advise ultra-high-net-worth clients on complex estate planning strategies, tax planning, and asset protection.
• Develop and implement advanced wealth transfer strategies, including irrevocable trusts, family limited partnerships, and grantor retained annuity trusts (GRATs).
• Manage all aspects of estate administration, including probate filings, asset valuation, and distributions.
• Provide guidance on trust administration, fiduciary responsibilities, and compliance issues.
• Collaborate with financial advisors, accountants, and other professionals to deliver comprehensive estate planning solutions.
• Stay informed about changes in estate, tax, and probate laws and incorporate this knowledge into practice.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, offering personalized and exceptional legal services.
• Participate in client meetings, presentations, and strategy sessions.

Requirements:

• 3-6 years of experience focused on estate planning and/or estate administration.
• Proven experience in drafting estate planning documents and probate forms, including accountings required by probate courts.
• Preference for candidates with experience in drafting irrevocable trusts, investment partnerships (LLCs), and advanced transfer strategies.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to handle complex legal documents and matters accurately.
• Ability to manage multiple client matters and deadlines effectively.
• Demonstrated commitment to client service and the ability to work with ultra-high-net-worth clients.

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:

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

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Mental health and wellness programs.
• Benefits for child, family, elder, and pet care.
• Short- and long-term disability coverage.
• 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.
• 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.