We are looking for an experienced Paralegal to join our boutique estate planning and trust administration practice in Los Altos, California. This position requires a motivated and meticulous individual who thrives in a collaborative environment and possesses expertise in all aspects of trust and estate administration. You will work closely with attorneys, clients, fiduciaries, and support staff, managing complex cases and meeting deadlines with precision.
Responsibilities:
- Organize and analyze asset information to support trust and estate administration processes.
- Assist in appraising and valuing assets, including strategies for asset allocation and subtrust funding.
- Prepare inventories, asset allocation agreements, and transfer documents for trust and estate matters.
- Draft and file court pleadings such as Probate petitions, Spousal Property petitions, and Trust Reformation petitions.
- Manage court filings, eFilings, discovery processes, and service of legal documents.
- Research and prepare deeds and supporting documents for real property transfers, including grant deeds and quitclaim deeds.
- Create fiduciary reports and accountings to ensure compliance and accuracy.
- Review and prepare Estate and Gift Tax returns with attention to detail.
- Maintain organized physical and electronic client files for seamless access and management.
- Minimum of three years of hands-on experience in trust and estate administration.
- Ability to analyze financial statements from banks, brokerages, and other institutions.
- Strong communication skills for interacting with clients, attorneys, and external organizations.
- Familiarity with local court rules, procedures, and legal documentation standards.
- Exceptional attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
- Proven ability to track and report billable hours efficiently and meet expectations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Office, and Publisher.
- Paralegal Certification from an approved program is required.