Trusts and Estates Paralegal
Cozen O'Connor

Job Description

Cozen O'Connor is seeking a full-time Trust and Estate Administration Paralegal to support the Private Client, Trusts and Estates ("PCTE") group in the Minneapolis office.

The PCTE group has unsurpassed experience in representing executors, trustees, and beneficiaries in the full range of trust and estate administration matters, from the settlement of estates to tax return preparation and audits, to ongoing trust accounting and implementation. PCTE is looking for a dedicated paralegal to support its attorneys in taking a practical and personalized approach to serving clients.

The ideal candidate will have 3+ years' experience, knowledge of the administration of trusts and estates, the ability to manage confidential information with discretion, strong interpersonal skills to build a rapport with clients, and a desire to grow in the position.

Responsibilities

• Lead contact for personal representatives for estates and trusts, beneficiaries, financial advisors, and accountants. Work with financial advisors and others to maintain accurate financial records.
• In addition to managing daily estate aspects under moderate supervision the paralegal should coordinate probate of Wills and appointment of personal representatives and assist in preparation for hearings, including use of a HotDocs probate drafting system.
• Assist clients to identify, collect, and document assets, use EstateVal software and interface with qualified appraisers and outside financial parties, and arrange for payment of debts and expenses.
• Prepare and file Federal and State estate and inheritance tax returns; assist attorneys in preparation of income and fiduciary returns; facilitate tax payments and distributions to beneficiaries; terminate estates; prepare and file fiduciary accountings.
• Prepare Federal gift tax returns and manage Crummey letter notification processes.
• Use title databases and public information, interface with title companies to provide attorneys information from land records.
• Coordinate the delivery of certain family office services with our HomeBase team, Cozen O'Connor's integrated family office, for a completely customized client experience.

Qualifications

• The ideal candidate will have 3+ years' experience, knowledge of the administration of trusts and estates, the ability to manage confidential information with discretion, strong interpersonal skills to build a rapport with clients, and a desire to grow in the position.
• Experience with basic computer programs (including Excel), iManage and InTapp and a familiarity with basic accounting functions is required. A four-year college degree and/or paralegal certificate required.
• Skills preferred but not required:
  • Ability to walk clients through basic software functions such as e-signature processes
  • Familiarity with OneSource and Trustdesk tax return preparation systems
  • Familiarity with Minnesota probate procedure and court rules

The salary range for this role is $90,000 - $115,000 and represents the Firm's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be dependent upon a number of factors, including but not limited to, the candidate's relevant experience, qualifications and location.

About Us

Known for its commitment to action and tangible results, Cozen O'Connor has rapidly grown to become one of North America's fastest-growing law firms. Offering full-service expertise in litigation, business law, and government relations, the firm serves a diverse clientele, including global Fortune 500 companies, growing middle-market firms, startups, and high-profile individuals. Established in 1970, Cozen O'Connor has more than 1,000 attorneys who help clients manage risk and make better business decisions. The firm counsels clients on their most sophisticated legal matters in all areas of the law, including litigation, corporate, and regulatory law. Representing a broad array of leading global corporations and middle market companies, Cozen O'Connor services its clients' needs through 35 offices across two continents. The firm is consistently ranked among the top 100 law firms in America and has received recognition from prestigious legal and business organizations such as Chambers & Partners, The American Lawyer, The Legal 500, and Best Lawyers. Cozen O'Connor is dedicated to excellence and strives to achieve the right results for its clients, no matter how complex or critical the legal challenges may be.

Cozen O'Connor is committed to fostering greater inclusion in the legal profession. We understand the organizational effectiveness that comes from welcoming and valuing differences within the firm, and we know that assembling a team with a breadth of perspectives and experience is necessary to provide the highest quality legal service. We encourage candidates to apply and join us in this effort.

Cozen O'Connor actively welcomes applicants who have previously left the workforce and are looking to return to their careers. Gaps in experience are not penalized.
Cozen O'Connor is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.

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