Trusts & Estates Legal Assistant

DarrowEverett LLP; California; On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

DarrowEverett LLP seeks a Trusts & Estates Legal Assistant to support estate planning, probate matters, guardianships, and fiduciary administration. The role requires handling confidential documents, coordinating client meetings, and assisting attorneys and paralegals with casework.

The position emphasizes strong organizational skills, proactive task management, and professional client interaction in a fast-paced law firm environment.

Qualifications

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in a legal environment.
• Exceptional organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to handle confidential information and manage competing deadlines independently.

Responsibilities

• Assist attorneys and paralegals with trusts and estates matters.
• Prepare and revise estate planning and probate documents and correspondence.
• Coordinate client meetings and manage calendars and deadlines.

Skills

Communication

Organization

Confidentiality

Prioritization

Teamwork

Education

Associate degree or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Legal document management systems

Court e-filing systems

Job description

**TRUSTS & ESTATES LEGAL ASSISTANT****DarrowEverett LLP** is seeking a Trusts & Estates Legal Assistant to support our Trusts & Estates Practice Group. The ideal candidate will possess excellent communication and administrative skills, be highly organized and detail-oriented, and have the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment without sacrificing accuracy or efficiency. This individual must exercise sound judgment, maintain strict confidentiality, and represent the firm in a professional manner that enhances its reputation.The Trusts & Estates Legal Assistant will provide administrative and legal support to attorneys and paralegals handling estate planning, trust administration, probate matters, guardianships, and related fiduciary matters. This role combines traditional legal administrative responsibilities with practice-specific support for the Trusts & Estates team.**Principal Duties and Responsibilities*** Assist attorneys and paralegals with trust and estate administration matters.* Prepare, proofread, format, and revise estate planning and probate documents, correspondence, execution packages and related legal materials.* Draft routine legal documents, affidavits, notices, petitions, powers of attorney, and other Trusts & Estates-related forms.* Coordinate client meetings, consultations, and appointments, including preparing necessary correspondence and materials.* Maintain and organize physical and electronic client files, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and confidentiality.* Manage legal documentation and correspondence in strict confidence.* Assist with probate and guardianship filings and monitor deadlines to ensure timely submission of court documents.* Conduct basic legal and factual research relating to trusts, estates, fiduciary matters, and applicable statutes and regulations.* Support attorneys with matters involving trusts, estates, guardianships, conservatorships, powers of attorney, and fiduciary administration.* Prepare client correspondence, engagement letters, and administrative documents related to estate planning and administration.* Answer and direct telephone calls, take messages, and respond to routine client inquiries.* Schedule meetings, hearings, and other appointments and maintain attorney calendars.* Facilitate administrative projects, manage deadlines, and provide timely reminders to attorneys and staff.* File, organize, scan, copy, and maintain documents in an organized and timely manner.* Track and maintain records regarding billable time and matter-related activities.* Work collaboratively with attorneys, paralegals, and staff on special projects and firm initiatives.* Perform other duties as assigned.**Qualifications*** 2-5 years of experience as a Legal Assistant, Legal Administrative Assistant, or similar legal support role, preferably in Trusts & Estates.* Familiarity with estate planning, trust administration, probate, guardianship, and related fiduciary matters preferred.* Associate degree or equivalent professional experience preferred.* Strong understanding of legal terminology, document preparation, and office procedures.* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.* Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.* Ability to prioritize workload, manage competing deadlines, and work independently.* Strong interpersonal and client service skills.* Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion with sensitive information.* Demonstrated professionalism and a collaborative, team-oriented approach.* Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and legal document management systems.* Experience with court e-filing systems is a plus.**Physical Requirements*** Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.* Ability to use standard office equipment, including computers, printers, and telephones.* Occasionally lift and carry up to 15 pounds.* Ability to maintain professional composure in a fast-paced work environment.