Probate specialist

$130,000 - $150,000/Yr

Copenbarger & Copenbarger - Tustin, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Remote - Tustin, CA

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

Copenbarger & Copenbarger LLP is seeking a Trust and Estate Administration Associate Attorney to join their full-service estate planning and elder law firm in Santa Ana, CA. This role focuses on the administrative aspects of trust and estate law, guiding clients through legal processes following the loss of a loved one. The firm values work-life balance and offers a supportive, family-like work environment, making it an excellent opportunity for experienced attorneys in this field.

Responsibilities

• Meet with individuals who lost a loved one and guide them through legal processes such as probate and conservatorship.
• Administer wills and trusts; prepare necessary legal documents for probate and conservatorship administration.
• Gather, inventory, identify, and value assets for estate administration.
• Draft court documents including 850 petitions and 17200 petitions.
• Prepare and review accounts, estate tax returns, and fiduciary income tax returns.
• Conduct legal research as necessary.
• Collaborate with paralegals, legal assistants, and other attorneys.
• Engage in direct communications with clients and staff via phone and email.
• Participate in litigation-related events including depositions and hearings.
• Oversee guardianship and probate matters from filing to discharge.

Requirements

• 5+ years of trust and estate administration law experience.
• Completed JD/Juris Doctorate.
• California Bar Admission/Member in good standing.
• Comfortable consulting with clients directly.
• LLM in Tax or Estate Planning is a plus.
• Ability to write clearly and logically, integrating legal analyses into work.
• Excellent organization, computer, and math skills.
• Ability to analyze facts and apply statutes and case law.
• Ability to verbally present case facts and recommendations.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Nice-to-haves

• LLM in Tax or Estate Planning is a plus.

Benefits

• Health insurance with employer-covered options.
• Dental insurance with employer-covered options.
• Vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan.
• Paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick time.
• Bonus volunteer days off for specific events.
• Parental leave.
• Continuing education reimbursement.
• Flexible working arrangements/work-from-home days.
• Referral program.