Job Description

Trust & Estate Paralegal

Location: Rochester, NY

Employment Type: Full-Time

Compensation: $65,000–$75,000, possibly more based on exemplary experience.

Join a Respected Trust & Estates Practice

A well-established law firm is seeking an experienced Trust & Estate Paralegal to support its growing Trust & Estates Department in Rochester, New York.

This role offers the opportunity to work closely with attorneys and clients on sophisticated estate and trust matters in a collaborative, team-oriented environment. The ideal candidate will bring strong experience in estate administration, probate, fiduciary accounting, and tax preparation.

Position Responsibilities

• Assist with all phases of estate and trust administration
• Prepare pleadings and court filings to initiate estate proceedings and judicial settlement proceedings
• Monitor and maintain the administration of assigned estates and trusts
• Manage estate and trust accounts, including payment of ongoing expenses
• Prepare federal and New York State estate tax returns, as required
• Marshal and transfer assets
• Gather information for the preparation of fiduciary income tax returns and assist with the initial preparation of returns
• Prepare estate and trust judicial accountings
• Electronically file documents in various counties
• Conduct investigations and prepare correspondence and legal documents for attorney review
• Communicate with courts, regulatory agencies, financial institutions, and other third parties as needed
• Maintain billable hour requirements established by the firm
• Perform additional projects and assignments in support of the department and firm initiatives

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of trust and estate experience, including probate and estate administration, within a law firm or in-house legal department
• Completion of at least two years of college coursework, a Paralegal Certificate, equivalent work experience, or a bachelor's degree in Accounting or Tax
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, written, and verbal communication skills
• Ability to adapt quickly and effectively to changing priorities
• Proven ability to build positive working relationships with attorneys, clients, courts, and outside parties
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Experience with bookkeeping, tax, and estate administration software is preferred

Why Join This Firm?

Exceptional client service and a collegial work environment are cornerstones of the firm's success. The firm is committed to fostering a collaborative culture where employees are encouraged to grow professionally while making meaningful contributions to the communities in which they live and work.

Attorneys and staff are actively engaged in charitable, governmental, professional, and community-based organizations, reflecting the firm's longstanding commitment to community involvement.

• Medical insurance with multiple plan options
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Profit-sharing contributions
• Firm-paid life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage
• Long-term disability insurance
• Optional short-term disability coverage
• Voluntary life insurance for employees, spouses, and dependents
• Paid time off and sick leave
• Parental and family leave benefits

If you are seeking a collaborative environment that values professional development, mentorship, and long-term success, we encourage you to apply.