Trusts & Estates Associate

Simpson Judge USA; Naples (FL); On-site; USD 170,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Simpson Judge USA in Naples, Florida seeks a mid-to-senior Trusts & Estates Associate for a clear partnership-track position.

You will advise high-net-worth individuals and families, draft sophisticated estate plans, and guide fiduciaries through trust administration and tax compliance in a boutique, collaborative setting.

This role offers a merit-based path to equity partnership and the opportunity to shape sophisticated wealth-planning matters with national scope.

Qualifications

• J.D. required; LL.M. in Taxation or Estate Planning strongly preferred.
• Active Florida Bar membership or willingness to seek admission.
• Impeccable drafting abilities and client-facing demeanor.

Responsibilities

• Advanced Estate Planning: draft sophisticated estate plans and trust instruments.
• Client Advisory: participate in consultations and planning sessions.
• Trust & Estate Administration: guide fiduciaries through probate and administration.
• Tax & Compliance Oversight: review complex fiduciary tax returns.
• Specialized Planning: assist with business succession and charitable giving.

Skills

Estate Planning

Drafting Expertise

Taxation Knowledge

Client Advisory

Probate & Administration

Education

J.D.

LL.M. Taxation

Job description

A premier, nationally recognized Private Client practice in Naples, Florida is seeking a talented mid-to-senior Trusts & Estates Associate for a clear partnership-trackposition.

This is an ideal opportunity for an attorney looking to step into a sophisticated wealth-planning practice without the grind of a mega-firm. You will work closely with senior practitioners advising high-net-worth individuals, multi-generational families, family offices, closely held enterprises, and philanthropic organizations.

Key Responsibilities

• Advanced Estate Planning: Design and draft sophisticated estate plans, complex trust instruments, and wealth-transfer structures.
• Client Advisory: Participate directly in client consultations, wealth-planning sessions, and family meetings.
• Trust & Estate Administration: Guide fiduciaries through probate, trust administration, and asset-funding mechanics.
• Tax & Compliance Oversight: Prepare and/or review complex federal estate, gift, and fiduciary income tax returns ($706$, $709$, $1041$), supported by dedicated fiduciary accountants.
• Specialized Planning: Assist with business succession strategies, corporate restructuring for families, and charitable giving vehicles.

Candidate Requirements

• Experience: 4-7 years of dedicated, high-level T&E experience gained at a reputable regional boutique, national, or AmLaw firm.
• Education: J.D. required; an LL.M. in Taxation or Estate Planning is strongly preferred.
• Admissions: Active member of the Florida Bar (or willingness to seek prompt admission).
• Skills: Immaculate drafting capabilities, strong command of federal transfer tax laws, and a polished, client-facing demeanor.

Why Make the Move?

• Clear Partnership Path: A transparent, merit-based trajectory toward equity partnership.
• Culture: A collegial, stable, and highly collaborative office environment with strong local roots and national prestige.
• Quality of Work: Premium, ultra-high-net-worth matters paired with a desirable Southwest Florida lifestyle.