Probate & Court Filings: Prepare and file probate petitions, inventories, and required court forms. They also manage deadlines to ensure compliance with court calendars.
Asset Management: Identify, gather, and value all estate assets, including real estate, bank accounts, and investments. This often involves obtaining EINs for estates and communicating with financial institutions.
Tax Preparation: Draft state and federal death tax returns, gift tax returns, and fiduciary income tax returns.
Estate Accounting: Prepare formal and informal judicial accountings, track distributions, and maintain accurate financial records for the estate.
Client & Stakeholder Communication: Serve as a primary point of contact for heirs, beneficiaries, and advisors, often providing empathetic support during sensitive times.
Document Drafting: Create legal correspondence, deeds, and documents for trust funding and asset transfers.
Typical Qualifications
Education: Bachelor’s degree or a Paralegal Certificate from an ABA-approved program.
Experience: Standard requirements range from 2 to 8 years of specific experience in trusts and estates law.
Soft Skills: High level of organization, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment