Job Title: Legal Secretary/Paralegal
Job Responsibilities:
As a Trust & Estates Assistant at a New York City law firm, you will play a vital role in supporting a team of attorneys who specialize in trust and estate planning. Your responsibilities will encompass a wide range of administrative and clerical duties. These duties are essential for ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the legal team and include:
- Assisting attorneys and paralegals in drafting, editing, and proofreading legal documents. This includes documents such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and estate planning agreements, all of which require precision and attention to detail.
- Managing client communications, which involves answering phone calls, responding to emails, and scheduling appointments. Effective communication with clients is crucial for maintaining strong relationships and ensuring client satisfaction.
- Coordinating meetings, conferences, and appointments with clients, attorneys, and other professionals involved in trust and estate matters. This requires excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple schedules.
- Organizing and maintaining physical and electronic files and records. Ensuring accuracy and confidentiality in handling these documents is of utmost importance.
- Assisting with the execution of legal documents, including obtaining necessary signatures and notarizations as required by law.
- Conducting research on legal and procedural issues related to trust and estate planning, probate administration, and tax matters. This research is essential for providing accurate and up-to-date information to the legal team.
- Assisting with the administration of trusts and estates, which includes processing distributions, preparing accountings, and filing required documents with courts and government agencies. This requires a thorough understanding of legal and procedural requirements.
- Providing general administrative support, such as photocopying, scanning, faxing, and filing documents as needed. These tasks are essential for maintaining an organized and efficient office environment.
- Assisting with billing and invoicing for legal services rendered to clients. Accurate billing is crucial for the financial health of the law firm.
Education and Experience Information:
To qualify for the role of Trust & Estates Assistant, candidates should have the following qualifications:
- A Bachelor's degree in a related field such as legal studies, business administration, or paralegal studies is preferred. This educational background provides a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of trust and estate planning.
- Previous experience working in a law firm, financial institution, or trust company is preferred. Experience in these settings provides valuable insights into the legal and financial aspects of trust and estate management.
- Knowledge of trust and estate planning concepts, probate procedures, and tax implications is preferred. This knowledge is essential for effectively supporting attorneys in their work.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are crucial for managing multiple tasks and ensuring accuracy in all aspects of the job.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills are necessary for effectively interacting with clients, attorneys, and other professionals.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and legal research databases is required. These tools are essential for document preparation, communication, and research.
- The ability to multitask and prioritize workload effectively is important for managing the demands of a fast-paced legal environment.
- Discretion and professionalism when handling confidential information are essential for maintaining client trust and complying with legal and ethical standards.
- A willingness to learn and adapt to changing priorities and procedures is important for staying current in the field of trust and estate planning.
- Certification as a paralegal or legal assistant is a plus, as it demonstrates a commitment to professional development and expertise in the field.
Salary Information:
The salary for the Trust & Estates Assistant position ranges from $50,000 to $60,000 per year. The exact salary offered will be commensurate with the candidate's experience, skills, and qualifications. This competitive salary reflects the importance of the role and the expertise required to perform it effectively.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $50, - $60, per year
Benefits:
The law firm offers a comprehensive benefits package to employees, which includes:
- 401(k) retirement savings plan
- 401(k) matching contributions
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
The position operates on a day shift schedule, from Monday to Friday. This schedule provides a consistent work routine and allows for a healthy work-life balance.
Work Location: In person
This job description outlines the primary responsibilities and qualifications for the Trust & Estates Assistant role. Specific duties may vary depending on the needs of the employer and the complexity of the trust and estate matters involved. Candidates are encouraged to review the requirements carefully and consider how their skills and experience align with the expectations of the position.
