Company Description:
Dienstag Law PLLC is a boutique law firm located in Great Neck, NY. We cater to a diverse clientele, including individuals, closely-held, and family-owned businesses. Our clients rely on our expert legal counsel to navigate complex estate and succession planning, probate and trust administration, tax planning, and business transactions. Our approach emphasizes practical, personalized advice educating our clients about their legal needs to help them achieve their business and personal goals.
Position Overview:
We are looking for a Mid-Level Trusts and Estates Associate Attorney with 2-6 years of relevant experience to contribute to our thriving practice. The successful candidate will have substantial knowledge in trusts and estates law, showcasing proficiency in estate planning, trust administration, and be comfortable communicating directly with clients and other advisors. An LL.M. (or credits towards an LL.M.) in Taxation is a plus. This position offers significant opportunities for growth and a clear partnership track for the right candidate.
Responsibilities:
- Work closely with partners and senior associates to counsel clients on a broad spectrum of trusts and estates matters, including estate planning, trust creation and administration, wealth preservation, and tax planning strategies.
- Prepare and review legal documents such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and advance directives, ensuring precision and adherence to relevant laws and regulations.
- Perform legal research and analysis to support client cases, keeping current with developments in trusts and estates law and tax legislation.
- Assist with probate and estate administration, including estate inventory, asset valuation, distribution planning, and fiduciary accounting.
- Provide strategic advice to high-net-worth individuals, families, and fiduciaries on complex estate planning techniques, asset protection strategies, and charitable planning initiatives.
- Build and maintain strong client relationships, delivering exceptional service and customized solutions to meet clients' specific needs and objectives.
- Stay updated on current laws and developments in trusts and estates law and tax legislation.
- Collaborate well with a small team and report work status to the partner.
- Oversee and assist paralegals with probate proceedings and estate and trust administration.
- Manage multiple clients and matters in a fast-paced work environment.
- Independently draft estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, advance directives, ILITs, and SLATs among others.
- Prepare probate and administration petitions and handle surrogate court procedures and rules.
Required and Preferred Qualifications:
- Minimum Education: Juris Doctorate
- An LL.M. (or credits towards an LL.M.) in taxation is a plus.
- Required Licensure: Admission to the New York State Bar, licensed to practice law in New York State (REQUIRED).
- Additional admissions to the NJ and/or FL Bar are preferable but not required.
- 2-6 years of experience in trusts and estates law at a reputable law firm.
- Comprehensive understanding of federal and state tax laws, trust principles, and estate planning strategies.
- Experience drafting estate planning documents such as wills, trusts, advance directives, ILITs, SLATs, Credit Shelter Trusts, and QTIP trusts.
- Experience in estate administration, including marshalling assets, accountings, and funding trusts.
- Experience preparing Federal 706 and NY ET-706 returns is a plus but not required.
Competencies:
- Ownership Mindset: Dependable and reliable, consistently delivering high-quality work. Takes personal responsibility for completing tasks and resolving issues promptly and independently. Actively seeks opportunities to contribute beyond assigned responsibilities.
- Attention to Detail: Produces accurate, error-free work, taking pride in deliverables and ensuring thorough review.
- Organizational Skills: Efficiently plans and prioritizes tasks, meeting deadlines and managing workload effectively.
- Adaptability: Maintains a positive outlook, adapts to changing needs, and remains composed in stressful situations.
- Client Focus: Prioritizes client needs, managing expectations effectively, and delivering appropriate services.
- Communication Skills: Demonstrates excellence in written and verbal communication, responding promptly and accurately to client needs.
- Technological Proficiency: Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, strong information management skills, and the ability to learn new software as required.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $110,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
Schedule:
License/Certification:
- Admission to the New York State Bar (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Great Neck, NY 11021 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Great Neck, NY 11021: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person