Senior Paralegal - Trusts & Estates

JKZ LLP•San Diego, CA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Paralegal – Trusts & Estates provides substantive case support to attorneys through drafting, research, factual analysis, and workflow management. This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage complex tasks and deadlines across multiple matters. Additionally, the Senior Paralegal – Trusts & Estates must have strong organizational skills, knowledge of statutory requirements, and the ability to manage sensitive client matters, as well as being extremely detail-oriented, organized, critical about accuracy, spelling and grammar and possess the ability to prioritize and follow up. This is a very fast-paced environment, and the Senior Paralegal – Trusts & Estates must be able to multitask and assist attorneys with a voluminous caseload. This role requires a self-starter who is willing and open to learning new skills as well as taking initiative and being proactive. JKZ employees are expected to “Think Outside the Box,” applying creativity, sound judgment, and initiative to deliver thoughtful solutions and exceptional client service. Senior Paralegals are expected to model and uphold JKZ’s mission, vision, and values in all professional interactions and to consistently produce work that meets or exceeds the JKZ Standard.

Requirements

Paralegal certificate or attestation.
At least five (5) years recent experience as a Paralegal in a law firm
Communicates promptly and professionally with clients, attorneys, fiduciaries, and beneficiaries.
Strong research, writing, and analytical skills supporting estate planning, trust administration, and probate matters
Demonstrates reliability, accountability, and ownership of matters and deadlines with minimal supervision.
In-depth knowledge of estate planning documents, trust structures, and implementation processes.
Working knowledge of probate procedures, statutory notices, court processes, and examiner notes.
High level of accuracy and discretion in handling original and notarized documents.
Substantial experience with trust administration, inventories, fiduciary accountings, and asset marshaling.
Understanding of estate- and trust-related tax documents and compliance timelines.
Experience preparing deeds, affidavits of death, and property transfer documents.
Skilled in reviewing financial records and asset valuations.
Professional and compassionate in interactions involving sensitive family and fiduciary matters.
Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and modern law firm practice management software.
Excellent command of English, including grammar, usage, form, and style.
Excellent critical thinking, judgment, analytical reasoning, attention to detail, and high-level cognitive functioning.
Ability to remain composed, strategic, and solution-oriented in high-pressure or emotionally charged situations.
Prolonged periods of sitting, reading, and working at a computer.
Occasional lifting of files or materials up to 15 pounds.
Occasional travel to court, client meetings, or other legal proceedings.
Work is performed in a professional office environment.