Paralegal Assistant

We are seeing a detail-oriented Paralegal Assistant to support a growing Estate Planning and Elder Law practice. This role is ideal for a professional with some exposure to the following practice areas: Wills, Trusts, Estates, Elder Law, Advanced Medical Directives, or similar; who is either experienced or interested in learning technical drafting. The successful candidate will play a critical role in supporting two paralegals, from initial intake and document drafting, to the formal execution of Wills and Trusts, and the complex process of estate administration.

Key Responsibilities

Document Drafting & Technical Support

• Estate Plan Assembly: Prepare initial drafts of foundational documents, including Wills, Revocable Living Trusts, Powers of Attorney, and Advance Medical Directives using firm templates.
• Quality Control: Conduct meticulous proofreading of legal documents to ensure accuracy in names, fiduciary appointments, and distributive provisions.

Estate & Trust Administration

• Probate Support: Assist in preparing court filings for the Commissioner of Accounts, including Inventories and Accountings for estates and conservatorships.
• Records Management: Maintain high-volume physical and electronic case files; ensuring all original executed documents are scanned, indexed, and filed according to firm protocol.
• Fiduciary Correspondence: Draft transmittal letters to clients, beneficiaries, and financial advisors regarding estate status and asset distributions.

Client Relations & Operations

• Signing Ceremony Coordination: Act as a formal witness and coordinate Notary services for document execution meetings, ensuring all Virginia statutory requirements are met.
• Client Intake: Serve as a professional point of contact for clients, gathering sensitive financial data and family history required for the planning process.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree preferred; Legal Studies or a demonstrated interest in the legal field preferred.
• Experience: A minimum of 1+ years of Legal industry experience with exposure to practice areas that have supported any of the following: Wills, Trusts, Estate administration, Advanced Medical Directives, Elder Law, or similar.
• Certification: Paralegal Certificate or Virginia Notary Public commission is a significant plus (willingness to obtain Notary commission is required).

Technical Skills

• Software: Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Outlook, Excel).
• Legal Tech: Experience with case management software or drafting software is an advantage.

Core Attributes

• Detail-Oriented: An uncompromising eye for detail, specifically regarding legal terminology and financial data.
• Empathetic Communication: Ability to communicate with patience and professionalism, particularly when assisting elderly clients or families in transition.
• Discretion: A high level of integrity and the ability to handle strictly confidential information.
• Organizational Prowess: Ability to manage competing deadlines and "switch gears" in a fast-paced environment.