Trust & Estates Paralegal

Coughlin & Gerhart LLP • City of Binghamton, NY

5h • $24 - $34

About The Position

Coughlin & Gerhart, LLP is seeking an experienced Trusts & Estates Paralegal to work with attorneys on estate planning and administration matters, including trusts, guardianships, and Medicaid planning. The role involves independently managing a caseload under attorney supervision, working directly with clients, and helping guide matters from intake through completion. The paralegal will support individuals and families through sensitive legal matters and coordinate with courts, financial institutions, government agencies, and other parties.

Requirements

• High school diploma required.
• Strong knowledge of estate planning, estate administration, and trusts and estates law.
• Familiarity with legal research, court procedures, and preparing and filing legal documents.
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage competing priorities, maintain accuracy, and meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to interact professionally and sensitively with clients and other parties.
• Strong attention to detail and proofreading skills, and the ability to handle complex financial calculations and accountings.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and standard office technology.
• Sound judgment and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently while recognizing appropriate legal and ethical boundaries.
• Knowledge of legal principles and practices acquired through formal paralegal training.

Nice To Haves

• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree or paralegal certificate.
• At least one year of relevant experience.
• Notary Public commission.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, review, and interpret estate planning documents, including Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney, Living Wills, and Health Care Proxies.
• Prepare court filings and supporting documentation for estate and trust administration, voluntary administrations, and guardianship proceedings.
• Draft correspondence, accountings, asset transfer documents, and other legal materials needed for estate and trust administration.
• Independently manage an active caseload under attorney supervision, monitor deadlines, communicate case developments, and move matters toward completion.
• Conduct client intake; gather financial records and supporting documentation; coordinate conflict searches; and assist with opening and closing files.
• Communicate with clients, attorneys, courts, financial institutions, insurance companies, accountants, and government agencies to facilitate estate and trust administration.
• Prepare and coordinate Medicaid applications for nursing home and community coverage, including collecting financial records, calculating eligibility, analyzing asset transfers, and communicating with the Department of Social Services.
• Prepare and file guardianship documents, including appointment and termination proceedings and required annual reports.
• Conduct legal research, identify potential issues, and recommend practical solutions while following applicable legal and ethical guidelines.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED