Paralegal

Duane Morris LLP; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive healthcare benefits

401(k) and Pension Plan

Employee Referral Bonus ($3,000.00)

Job summary

A global law firm in Philadelphia is seeking an experienced paralegal for their Private Client Services practice group. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 7 years of experience, particularly focused on trusts and estates, and be able to manage multiple attorneys in a fast-paced environment. Key responsibilities include preparing estate documents, managing case files, and filing tax returns. This role offers excellent benefits, including healthcare plans and a generous PTO policy.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of experience as a paralegal, with at least 5 years focused on trusts and estates.
• In‑depth knowledge of probate procedures and estate administration in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
• Strong understanding of estate, gift, and fiduciary tax rules and filings.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and file estate probate and administration petitions in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
• Assist with all phases of estate and trust administration.
• Draft and file federal and state estate tax returns.
• Organize and manage case files and documentation.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Knowledge of probate procedures

Ability to manage multiple priorities

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Paralegal certificate from an ABA-approved program

Tools

ONESOURCE

GEMS

Lackner

Estate Val

Job description

OVERVIEW

Duane Morris LLP, a global law firm with 900+ attorneys in offices across the U.S. and around the world, offers innovative solutions to the legal and business challenges presented by today’s evolving global markets.

SUMMARY

The Philadelphia office of Duane Morris LLP is seeking a full‑time experienced paralegal to join our Private Client Services (PCS) practice group. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in trusts and estates, probate, and estate and gift tax filings, with the ability to work independently and support multiple attorneys in a fast‑paced environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare and file estate probate and administration petitions in Pennsylvania and New Jersey
• Assist with all phases of estate and trust administration, including preparing inventories, asset valuations, fiduciary accountings, and related documentation
• Draft and file federal (Form 706) and state estate tax returns (PA and NJ Inheritance Tax Returns)
• Assist with the preparation of fiduciary income tax returns (Form 1041)
• Organize and manage case files, deadlines, and documentation
• Communicate professionally with clients, court personnel, accountants, and financial institutions
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold the highest ethical standards in handling sensitive client information

QUALIFICATIONS (EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES)

• Bachelor’s degree and paralegal certificate from an ABA‑approved program preferred
• Minimum 7 years of experience as a paralegal, with at least 5 years focused on trusts and estates
• In‑depth knowledge of probate procedures and estate administration in Pennsylvania and New Jersey
• Strong understanding of estate, gift, and fiduciary tax rules and filings
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with estate tax and accounting software (e.g., ONESOURCE, GEMS, Lackner, Estate Val or similar)
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines with minimal supervision

BENEFITS

• Comprehensive healthcare, dental, vision, and prescription plans.
• Commuter, HSA, and FSA spending accounts
• Short‑term and long‑term disability and life insurance coverage
• 401(k) and Pension Plan
• 22 PTO days, 11 paid holidays
• Employee Referral Bonus ($3,000.00)

ACCOMMODATION STATEMENT

If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please contact Nate Maxwell at 215‑979‑1000.

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Disclaimer: The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not a contract or employment agreement and is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of all functions, responsibilities or requirements. In addition, Duane Morris reserves the right to amend, suspend or terminate any benefit plan, in whole or in part, at any time. The authority to make such changes rests with the Plan Administrator.