Private Clients Paralegal

$100,000 - $130,000/Yr

Cleary Gottlieb - New York, NY

Full-time - Mid Level

New York, NY

About the position

Cleary Gottlieb's private clients practice is dedicated to assisting clients in protecting and managing their family wealth, as well as planning for the transmission of that wealth to family members and charitable organizations. The practice integrates sophisticated yet practical tax advice into confidential estate plans that align with clients' family, charitable, and business objectives. The Private Clients paralegal plays a crucial role in supporting the U.S. private clients lawyers in all facets of trust and estate administration. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of estate planning and administration, as well as the ability to navigate complex tax issues that may arise during the process. The paralegal will be responsible for preparing, editing, and reviewing various legal documents related to probate and estate administration. This includes the collection and valuation of assets, payment of debts and bequests, and the preparation of federal and state estate tax returns. Additionally, the paralegal will handle informal estate and trust accountings, manage the administration of ongoing trusts, and oversee distribution requests and income tax payments. A key aspect of the role involves reviewing Form 1041s prepared by outside accountants and ensuring compliance with all relevant legal requirements. The Private Clients paralegal must be proactive in managing upcoming filing deadlines and liaising with attorneys, clients, and various government agencies. This position requires a high level of discretion and the ability to maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information. Flexibility in working hours is also essential, as the role may require early mornings, evenings, and weekends to meet the demands of the practice.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, edit and review probate or administration proceeding papers, collection and valuation of assets, payment of debts and bequests
• Prepare, edit and review federal and state estate tax returns
• Prepare, edit and review informal estate and trust accountings, administration of ongoing trusts, including distribution requests and income tax payments
• Review Form 1041s prepared by outside accountants
• Prepare, edit and review receipt and release agreements, fiduciary appointments and tax planning under the supervision of an attorney
• Be proactive in upcoming filing deadlines and meeting necessary deadlines
• Liaise with attorneys, clients and various government agencies and services

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in trusts and estates paralegal experience required
• Bachelor's degree required
• Estate administration experience, including work on large estates with complicated tax plans; preparation of Federal and State estate tax returns, probate documents and Surrogate's Court related filings
• Knowledge of estate and trust income taxation
• Knowledge of fiduciary accounting preferred
• Experience with One Source Estate Tax Program (formerly FPS), NYSBA Surrogate's Court program and Excel
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Ability to effectively communicate and work directly with clients
• Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality of sensitive information
• Flexibility to work outside regular business hours, including early mornings, evenings and weekends as needed

Benefits

• Estimated base salary range of $100,000 to $130,000
• Overtime pay eligibility for non-exempt role
• Respect for individuals and appreciation for contributions to the community
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Equal opportunities for development and success