Attorney

Job Description Job Description

Position: Attorney - Probate, Wills, Trusts
Location: Fullerton, CA
Department: Legal
Reports To: Managing Attorney
Shift: Monday-Friday, standard business hours
Compensation: $95,000-125,000

1. Job Summary

The Associate Attorney will support the firm's estate planning and probate practice, focusing on wills, trusts, and estate administration matters. This role is ideal for an attorney with approximately one year of experience who is seeking to develop substantive expertise in estate planning and probate while working closely with senior attorneys. The Associate Attorney will assist with client consultations, document drafting, court filings, and case management, ensuring high-quality legal services and client satisfaction.

2. Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Estate Planning

• Draft wills, revocable and irrevocable trusts, powers of attorney, and advance healthcare directives
• Review and summarize client financial and asset information to assist in plan design
• Conduct legal research related to estate planning strategies and tax considerations
• Participate in client meetings and explain estate planning documents under attorney supervision
• Assist with trust funding and asset transfer documentation

Probate & Trust Administration

• Prepare and file probate petitions and related court documents
• Assist with estate administration, including asset inventory and creditor notifications
• Draft accountings, reports, and proposed orders
• Communicate with beneficiaries, executors, trustees, and court personnel
• Monitor case deadlines and ensure timely filings

Client Communication & Case Management

• Maintain regular communication with clients regarding case status
• Respond promptly to client inquiries in a professional and courteous manner
• Maintain organized and accurate case files, both electronic and physical
• Track deadlines and manage calendar reminders

Legal Research & Compliance

• Conduct research on California probate code and related laws
• Stay current on changes in estate planning and probate regulations
• Ensure compliance with all court rules and ethical obligations

3. Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Active member in good standing with the California State Bar
• Approximately 1 year of legal experience, preferably in estate planning, probate, or a related practice area
• Strong legal research and writing skills
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple matters and meet deadlines
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and legal case management software

4. Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer
• Ability to attend court hearings and client meetings as needed
• Occasional lifting of files and documents up to 15 pounds