Paralegal

The Paralegal will work independently to assist lawyers and other team members in order to provide support to the Private Client Group. Overtime may be required from time to time.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Assist with administration of estates and trusts, including preparation of probate petitions and related court filings, collection and valuation of assets with instruction and guidance of senior paralegals.
• Assist with maintaining financial records for use in preparation of tax returns and accountings with instruction and guidance of senior paralegals.
• Assist with preparation of tax returns, including Federal Estate Tax Returns, PA Inheritance Tax Returns, Federal Gift Tax Returns, Individual and Fiduciary Income Tax Returns with instruction and guidance of senior paralegals.
• Assist with Trust administration with instruction and guidance of senior paralegals.
• Maintains Practice Groups filing system:  inserting additional data on the file records, keeping files current, closing files and sending and recalling files from the Records Department.
• Open and distribute mail.
• Effectively work with attorneys/paralegals/accountant/secretaries, including communicating regularly regarding status of projects pointing out issues and tracking deadlines.
• Effectively communicate with banks, investment firms and clients, as needed, with instruction and guidance of senior paralegals.
• Assist with miscellaneous projects assigned by Private Client attorneys, paralegals and accountant.
• Practice and foster an atmosphere of teamwork and cooperation.
• Perform any and all other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the Department, Office and Firm.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree required.  Paralegal Certificate preferred.  Knowledge of accounting and Tax Programs (Zane, Axcess) a plus.
• Excellent written and oral communication, interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with computer programs Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, etc.).
• Excellent typing, spelling and grammatical skills. 
• Ability to manage varied tasks, prioritize deadlines, and work cooperatively within a team is essential.
• Independent individual with a willingness to learn/acquire new skills.
• Ability to work productively and cooperatively with other employees.
• Ability to maintain confidential information.
• Ability to think critically and analytically in a pressured environment.

Additional Job Description

Location(s)

Philadelphia

Time Type

Full time

Dechert LLP is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination.  The Firm prohibits unlawful discrimination in any term or condition of employment against any employee or applicant for employment because of the individual’s race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, membership or service in the armed forces, or any other characteristic protected by law.