Probate Paralegal

The Legacy Elder Law Center•Leesburg, VA

16d

About The Position

The Legacy Elder Law Center is a client-focused, team-oriented law firm with a robust probate and estate administration practice. Our compassion, efficiency, and attention to detail help families navigate the complexities of estate settlement. While fostering a supportive and professional workplace culture, we remain committed to maintaining the highest standards of legal service for clients and their loved ones. We are seeking an experienced and highly organized Probate Paralegal to join our growing probate department. The ideal candidate will have a thorough understanding of probate procedures, demonstrate exceptional client service skills, and possess strong analytical and organizational abilities.

Requirements

Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience as a probate or estate administration paralegal in a law firm or fiduciary setting.
Knowledge: Strong working knowledge of probate processes, court rules, and fiduciary responsibilities; familiarity with relevant state statutes and local court practices.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and experience with legal practice management software (e.g., Clio, Actionstep, or similar). Ability to navigate court e-filing systems.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly and compassionately to clients.
Organization: Outstanding organizational and time-management skills; demonstrated ability to handle multiple priorities and deadlines with accuracy and attention to detail.
Professionalism: Commitment to confidentiality, discretion, and a high level of professionalism in all client and team interactions.
Education: Associate’s degree or higher; completion of a paralegal certificate program from an ABA-approved institution preferred.

Nice To Haves

Experience with the preparation of estate or fiduciary tax returns.
Experience assisting in the sale or transfer of real estate within an estate context.
Notary public commission.

Responsibilities

Case Management: Independently manage probate and estate administration cases from initial intake through final distribution and closing.
Document Preparation: Draft and prepare all necessary probate documents, including petitions, inventories, accountings, fiduciary reports, notices to heirs and creditors, and final distributions.
Court Filings: File documents electronically and in person as required; ensure compliance with local court rules and deadlines.
Asset Coordination: Identify, collect, and value estate assets; assist with the liquidation and distribution of assets; work with financial institutions and appraisers.
Client Communication: Serve as a primary point of contact for personal representatives, beneficiaries, and other interested parties; provide regular updates and respond promptly to inquiries.
Tax Assistance: Assist with the preparation and filing of estate tax returns, inheritance tax returns, and fiduciary income tax returns as needed (in coordination with attorneys and accountants).
Task Tracking: Maintain detailed and accurate case notes, calendars, and task lists using the firm’s practice management system.
Support Litigation: When applicable, assist attorneys with contested estate matters, including preparing pleadings, subpoenas, and discovery responses.