Estate Planning Legal Assistant

$50,000 - $60,000/Yr

Lee Hecht Harrison - Cleveland, OH

Full-time - Entry Level

Cleveland, OH

Administrative and Support Services

About the position

LHH is seeking an Estate Planning Legal Assistant to join a downtown firm. This role is pivotal in assisting attorneys with all aspects of estate planning, which includes significant client communications. The ideal candidate will possess a high level of organization, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining confidentiality. The Estate Planning Legal Assistant will be responsible for preparing and organizing documents for client meetings, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is available and in order. Regular communication with clients is essential to gather information and provide updates on the status of their estate planning matters. In addition to document preparation, the assistant will maintain attorneys’ calendars, schedule and coordinate client meetings, including initial consultations and document signings. Answering client inquiries via phone or email, aiding with form completion, and ensuring clients understand documents are also key responsibilities. The assistant must ensure compliance with state and federal laws in all estate planning documents and procedures, maintain organized and up-to-date client files, and track important deadlines related to trust administration and probate processes. The role also involves assisting attorneys in the administration of trusts and estates, which includes gathering and organizing necessary documents, preparing accounting, and filing paperwork with the court. Coordination with financial institutions, beneficiaries, and other parties involved in the probate process is required. Routine administrative tasks such as answering phones, managing correspondence, and maintaining office supplies will also be part of the job. Additionally, the assistant will prepare billing statements and manage time entries for estate planning matters.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and organize documents for client meetings and ensure that all necessary paperwork is available and in order.
• Regularly communicate with clients to gather information and provide updates on the status of their estate planning matters.
• Maintain attorneys’ calendars and schedule client meetings, including initial consultations and document signings.
• Answer client inquiries, either by phone or email, and aid with completing forms and understanding documents.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal laws in all estate planning documents and procedures.
• Maintain organized and up-to-date client files, both physical and electronic, ensuring all documents are accurately filed and easily accessible.
• Track deadlines and important dates, such as review periods for trust administration and probate processes.
• Assist attorneys in the administration of trusts and estates, including gathering and organizing necessary documents, preparing accounting, and filing paperwork with the court.
• Coordinate with financial institutions, beneficiaries, and other parties involved in the probate process.
• Handle routine administrative tasks such as answering phones, managing correspondence, and maintaining office supplies.
• Prepare billing statements and manage time entries for estate planning matters.

Requirements

• Strong understanding of estate planning terminology and procedures.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in office software (e.g., Microsoft Office, document management systems).
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
• Strong client service orientation and the ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Positive attitude and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate’s degree or paralegal certification preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a legal assistant, preferably in estate planning or a related field.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with firm match to help you plan for your future.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation days, personal days, and holidays.
• Ongoing training opportunities and support for professional certifications to help you grow in your career.
• Access to counseling and support services for personal and professional challenges.
• Access to on-site fitness facilities and mental health resources.
• Regular team-building activities, social events, and opportunities to connect with colleagues.