Paralegal - Trusts and Estates

Harris Beach Murtha • Rochester, NY

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Trusts & Estates Team at Harris Beach Murtha is in search of a Paralegal with a positive, flexible attitude to assist multiple attorneys. This role supports attorneys with a wide range of estate planning and administration matters. The firm is an innovative, growing law firm that has been successful for more than 165 years.

Requirements

• 1+ years of experience as a trusts and estates paralegal required
• Experience preparing Surrogate’s Court filings, fiduciary accountings, and tax returns (including Forms 1041, 706, and related New York forms)
• The ability to assist with estate administration, including asset inventory, valuation, distribution, and probate documentation
• Strong organizational, analytical, and proofreading skills to ensure accuracy of legal documents
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills, with a client-focused approach
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• A Notary Public license (or willingness to obtain one after hire)

Nice To Haves

• 3+ years of experience preferred
• experience with fiduciary income tax preparation and fiduciary accounting software a plus

Responsibilities

• Prepare and file probate documents, fiduciary accountings, and related court filings
• Assist with estate and trust administration, including asset tracking, funding, and beneficiary communications
• Draft and finalize estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and beneficiary designations and assist in retitling assets in accordance with attorney direction
• Assemble and organize financial records for fiduciary accountings, estate tax returns, and audits
• Prepare, edit, and review fiduciary accountings, estate tax returns, fiduciary income tax returns, and settlement papers for both informal and formal settlement of estates and trusts
• Conduct legal research related to trusts, estates, tax regulations, and case law
• Communicate with clients to gather information, provide updates, and respond to inquiries
• Organize and maintain physical and electronic files to ensure accessibility and accuracy
• Support attorneys with case management and day-to-day administrative needs
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Benefits

• Inclusive environment
• Opportunity to work with diverse personalities
• Hybrid schedule (1 day remote)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed