Estate Administration Paralegal

Our client is seeking an Estate Administration Paralegal to join its legal team. Working out of Smithtown, NY or Melville, NY, he/she will assist attorneys in all aspects of estate and trust administration, including probate proceedings, asset collection, and distribution to beneficiaries. This position requires strong communication, drafting, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple matters and deadlines efficiently.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and file probate and administration petitions with the Surrogate's Court


• Collecting and valuing estate assets, including obtaining date-of-death valuations


• Draft and file legal documents such as inventories, accountings, receipts and releases, and consents


• Communicate with clients, financial institutions, and government agencies on behalf of the attorney


• Monitor deadlines and maintain estate administration calendars and checklists


• Prepare estate tax returns (Internal Revenue Service Form 706 and state estate tax forms) and fiduciary income tax returns (Form 1041) in coordination with CPAs


• Review and reconcile estate bank statements and prepare informal accountings


• Assist with trust funding, trust administration, and post-mortem planning

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree or Paralegal Certificate preferred


• 3+ years of experience as a Trusts & Estates or Estate Administration paralegal


• Knowledge of probate procedures and Surrogates Court rules


• Familiarity with estate tax and fiduciary income tax returns


• Strong written and verbal communication skills


• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail


• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal case management software

Salary is between 70K-90K plus solid benefits