Paralegal - Corporate and Trusts & Estates

Harris Beach Murtha•Albany, NY

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Harris Beach Murtha is seeking a Paralegal to support multiple attorneys with business succession, estate planning, estate administration, and trust matters. The role is based 100% onsite in Albany, New York, and has an anticipated schedule of 37.5 hours per week. The Paralegal prepares and reviews probate and court filings, fiduciary accountings, tax returns, estate planning documents, and settlement papers; assists with estate and trust administration; conducts legal research; communicates with clients; and provides case-management and administrative support. The position requires at least 1,400 billable hours annually. The anticipated pay range in Albany is $33.34–$43.59 per hour, depending on relevant experience, location, and weekly schedule.

Requirements

At least 3 years of experience as a trusts and estates paralegal.
Experience preparing Surrogate’s Court filings, fiduciary accountings, and tax returns, including Forms 1041 and 706 and related New York forms.
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 and a client-focused approach.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
A Notary Public license or willingness to obtain one after hire.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Well-developed interpersonal skills, including patience and empathy, particularly with clients.
Ability to complete a minimum of 1,400 billable hours annually.
Commitment to the firm’s core values: integrity, respect, accountability, ingenuity, teamwork, inclusion, and engagement.
Enjoy working with diverse personalities across various levels of the firm.

Nice To Haves

At least 5 years of experience as a trusts and estates paralegal.
Experience with fiduciary income tax preparation and fiduciary accounting software.

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; assist with retitling assets as directed by attorneys.
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 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 for accessibility and accuracy.
Support attorneys with case management and day-to-day administrative needs.
Perform additional duties as assigned.