Position Summary
The trusts and estates administrative paralegal is responsible for managing and timely producing a high volume of complex detailed work involving domestic estate administration, trust administration, and fiduciary accounting in a manner that ensures that Day Pitney successfully meets its objective of distinguishing itself through exceptional service. The paralegal must be able to work independently, handling the administration of an estate from beginning to end, collaborating with attorneys as needed. Because much of the work is in the areas of accounting and estate taxes, the paralegal must have good mathematical skills, good organizational skills, and strong technological skills.
Day Pitneys lawyers and staff work collaboratively in a team environment across all offices, sharing significant client contact accordingly the paralegal must be willing to mentor and be mentored. In addition, the paralegal must be able to interact with and show compassion to individuals who may have suffered the loss of a loved one or are under a great deal of stress. In general, the position requires excellent organizational, client service, communication, and technological skills, effective judgment, managing information, the ability to manage and meet deadlines in a fast-paced work environment, flexibility to work overtime as deadlines require, the ability to multitask while adapting to changes in priorities, and the ability to adapt to changes in technology and process.
Responsibilities
Identifying, gathering, and valuing assets Preparing various probate and accounting documents Preparing accountings for both estates and trusts Preparing death tax returns, including the federal estate tax return and state estate tax returns Reviewing and interpreting wills and trust agreements in collaboration with attorneys so as to implement the plan during the estate and trust administration process and to fund trusts Although attorneys generally research issues of law, the paralegal must be able to use reference materials and perform basic research using a variety of resources.
Education and Experience
Undergraduate degree and paralegal certification or equivalent Familiarity with procedures of courts and regulatory agencies Experience working with Microsoft Office resources, Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, with PDF software and related scanning and production utilities, and with document management software Experience working with tax preparation and accounting software, e.g. FastTax ProSystems Ability to learn and use advanced software programs and new technology and desire to seek and attend training to improve skills Good understanding of basic business relationships and client confidentiality principles
Compensation & Benefits
This position offers a compensation range of $100,000 to $125,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Final compensation will be determined based on factors such as experience, skills, and qualifications. Staff may also be eligible for discretionary year-end bonuses and annual merit-based increase. The comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, and paid time off.