Trusts & Estates Associate Attorney

Donahue Fitzgerald•Oakland, CA

5d•$165,000 - $195,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Donahue Fitzgerald is a highly respected and growing law firm with a strong commitment to providing exceptional legal services to our clients. Our Trusts and Estates Litigation practice is a cornerstone of our firm, recognized for its sophisticated handling of complex and high-stakes disputes. We pride ourselves on a collaborative environment, professional development opportunities, and a commitment to work-life balance. We represent a diverse client base, including high-net-worth individuals, fiduciaries, and charitable organizations, in all aspects of trust and estate controversies. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Trust & Estates Litigation Attorney to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of dedicated experience in trust, estate, and conservatorship litigation in California. This role offers the opportunity to manage a diverse caseload, work closely with partners, and take a lead role in all phases of litigation, from initial case assessment through trial and appeal. We believe in rewarding hard work. Our attorneys have a minimum billable hour requirement of 1,610 hours per year. For those who meet or exceed this goal, our tiered bonus program provides a clear path to increase your earnings significantly.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
Active membership in good standing with the California State Bar.
5+ years of demonstrable experience specializing in California Trust & Estates Litigation.
Strong understanding of the California Probate Code, related statutes, and case law.
Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with a proven ability to draft persuasive legal documents and advocate effectively in court.
Excellent analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Strong interpersonal skills and a client-focused approach.
A proven track record of successfully resolving complex litigation matters.

Nice To Haves

Experience with trial preparation and courtroom advocacy is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

Manage and litigate complex trust, estate, and conservatorship disputes, including but not limited to: Will and trust contests (e.g., undue influence, lack of capacity, fraud), Breach of fiduciary duty claims against trustees, executors, and conservators, Petitions for instructions and accountings, Spousal property petitions, Elder abuse actions (financial and physical), Conservatorship contested matters, Probate and trust administration disputes
Conduct legal research and analysis, draft pleadings, motions, and briefs.
Handle all aspects of discovery, including propounding and responding to written discovery, and taking/defending depositions.
Prepare for and attend court hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and trials.
Communicate effectively with clients, opposing counsel, and court personnel.
Develop and implement effective case strategies.
Collaborate with partners and other attorneys on complex matters.
Mentor junior attorneys and support staff as needed.
Maintain accurate time records and ensure compliance with billing requirements.