Probate and Estate Planning Legal Assistant

Job Summary:

·         The Trust Operations Administrator will be responsible for all phases of the administration of a specific book of assigned estates in accordance with Department and Firm policies and procedures.

Job Functions:

·         Estimates value of all assets of the estate, debts of the decedent, costs of administration and estate taxes to determine cash needs for estate.

·         Collects all assets of the decedent and arranges payment of debts of the decedent and federal and state estate taxes, income taxes and other expenses of administration.

·         Prepares federal, Massachusetts and other state estate tax returns.

·         Participates in federal and/or state estate tax audits with the responsible attorney.

·         Arranges for the distribution of the estate assets in accordance with the terms of the estate plan, applicable statutes and/or beneficiary designations, and originates trust-funding plan.

·         Prepares probate accountings for estates.

·         Consults with the responsible attorney on a continual basis to ensure the attorney is informed on all aspects of the administration and all procedural deadlines are met.

·         Establishes and maintains an effective working relationship with the clients, related advisors, and other professionals to obtain and provide information and respond to any concerns or questions.

·         Participates in training and development initiatives, including outside and in-house educational programs, consultation with attorneys and colleagues.

·         Maintains complete file for each assigned estate.

·         Reports to the Estate & Trust Administration Manager the status and issues relating to the administration of their assigned estates.

Essential Competencies:

·         Works proactively with others to support efforts within a department or function of the Firm.

·         Organizes and prioritizes assignments and serves as a department liaison to ensure collaborative efforts result in meeting or exceeding goals and standards.

·         Maintains current knowledge of trends and developments affecting the area of specialization.

·         Uses innovative thinking and exercises sound judgment to achieve results.

Qualifications:

·         Bachelor’s degree in Finance or related field required or equivalent work experience.

·         Solid estate settlement experience.

·         Exceptional written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.

·         Proven ability to think quickly in a fast-paced environment. Strong organizational, problem solving and analytical skills.

·         Ability to work in a multi-task environment with minimum supervision.

·         Proficient use of various software packages, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint. Knowledge of SE2 Trust Accounting System or similar, SEI/SWP, GEMS,

·         TrustEase, CCH ProSystem FX, Zane Software, CCH ViewPlan, ZCalc, or similar systems beneficial.