Trusts & Estates Litigation Attorney

Donahue Fitzgerald LLP; San Francisco (CA); Hybrid; USD 165,000 - 195,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

401(k) plan

Generous PTO

Hybrid schedule

Job summary

Donahue Fitzgerald LLP in San Francisco seeks an experienced Trust & Estates Litigation Attorney to lead complex disputes, manage cases from intake through trial, and advise clients on strategic priorities.

Candidates must have 5+ years in California trust and estate litigation, be admitted to the California Bar, and demonstrate exceptional writing and oral advocacy. The role supports a hybrid schedule with 3 days in the office after a 90-day intake period.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Active CA State Bar membership in good standing.
• 5+ years in CA Trust & Estates Litigation.
• Strong knowledge of California Probate Code.
• Excellent written and oral advocacy.
• Hybrid schedule after 90 days (3 days in office).

Responsibilities

• Manage and litigate complex trust, estate, and conservatorship disputes.
• Prepare pleadings, motions, and briefs.
• Handle discovery and depositions.
• Attend court hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and trials.
• Collaborate with partners and mentors junior attorneys.
• Maintain accurate time records and billing.

Skills

Communication

Analytical

Research

Prioritization

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Active California State Bar

Job description

Donahue Fitzgerald is a highly respected and growing law firm with a strong commitment to providing exceptional legal services to our clients. Our Trusts and Estates Litigation practice is a cornerstone of our firm, recognized for its sophisticated handling of complex and high-stakes disputes. We pride ourselves on a collaborative environment, professional development opportunities, and a commitment to work-life balance. We represent a diverse client base, including high-net-worth individuals, fiduciaries, and charitable organizations, in all aspects of trust and estate controversies.

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Trust & Estates Litigation Attorney to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of dedicated experience in trust, estate, and conservatorship litigation in California. This role offers the opportunity to manage a diverse caseload, work closely with partners, and take a lead role in all phases of litigation, from initial case assessment through trial and appeal.

We believe in rewarding hard work. Our attorneys have a minimum billable hour requirement of 1,610 hours per year. For those who meet or exceed this goal, our tiered bonus program provides a clear path to increase your earnings significantly.

The annual base salary for this position is $165,000 to $195,000. Depending on billable hours, total compensation can range up to $207,000 for those at the lower end of the salary range, or up to $245,000 at the higher end.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Manage and litigate complex trust, estate, and conservatorship disputes, including but not limited to:

• Will and trust contests (e.g., undue influence, lack of capacity, fraud)
• Breach of fiduciary duty claims against trustees, executors, and conservators
• Petitions for instructions and accountings
• Spousal property petitions
• Elder abuse actions (financial and physical)
• Probate and trust administration disputes

Conduct legal research and analysis, draft pleadings, motions, and briefs.

Handle all aspects of discovery, including propounding and responding to written discovery, and taking/defending depositions.

Prepare for and attend court hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and trials.

Communicate effectively with clients, opposing counsel, and court personnel.

Develop and implement effective case strategies.

Collaborate with partners and other attorneys on complex matters.

Mentor junior attorneys and support staff as needed.

Maintain accurate time records and ensure compliance with billing requirements.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
• Active membership in good standing with the California State Bar.
• 5+ years of demonstrable experience specializing in California Trust & Estates Litigation.
• Strong understanding of the California Probate Code, related statutes, and case law.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with a proven ability to draft persuasive legal documents and advocate effectively in court.
• Excellent analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a client-focused approach.
• Experience with trial preparation and courtroom advocacy is highly preferred.
• A proven track record of successfully resolving complex litigation matters.
• Ability to work a hybrid schedule of 3 days in the office after completing 90 days of employment.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• 401(k) plan
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• A collegial and supportive work environment.
• Opportunity for significant growth and advancement within the firm.

Donahue Fitzgerald LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The salary range for this position applies to California. Salary range is $165,000 - $195,000. The salary range does not guarantee, obligate, or set expectations of an applicant’s salary in the event of hire. Actual compensation will depend upon several factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s years of experience, qualifications, and skill set.