Senior Paralegal - Trusts & Estates Administrator

The paralegal will work independently to assist lawyers and provide support to the Private Client Group. Bill 1500 hours annually. 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, communication with fiduciaries and beneficiaries.
• Maintain financial records for use in preparation of tax returns and accountings and prepare Orphans’ Court accountings.
• Prepare tax returns, including Federal Estate Tax Returns, PA, NJ, CT, and NY Estate and Inheritance Tax Returns, Federal Gift Tax Returns, Individual and Fiduciary Income Tax Returns.
• Assist with Trust administration.
• Prepare Agreements for informal settlement of accounts for estates and trusts.
• Organize and maintain extensive files for high net worth individuals and related estates and trusts.
• Effectively work with attorneys/paralegals/accountants, including communicating regularly regarding status of projects, pointing out issues and tracking deadlines.
• Effectively communicate with banks, investment firms and clients.
• Assist with miscellaneous projects assigned by Private Client attorney, accountant and/or practice group director.
• Practice and foster an atmosphere of teamwork and cooperation.
• Accurately record time spent on billable and non-billable matters and describe work performed.
• Perform any and all other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the Department, Office and Firm.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 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.
• Bachelor’s Degree required.  Paralegal Certificate preferred. 
• Knowledge of accounting and Tax Programs (Zane, CCH Axcess) a plus.

Additional Job Description

At the time of this posting, the salary range for this position in New York is $109,000 - $137,000 annually. Actual compensation is commensurate with job related knowledge, skills, experience, and location of the position.

Location(s)

New YorkPhiladelphia

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.