Attorney – Trusts and Wills

Palesa Mbali Group; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A legal services firm in Johannesburg seeks a qualified legal advisor to provide specialised services in trusts and wills. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in estate planning and at least 3-5 years of post-admission experience. This role requires excellent drafting skills and the ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly to clients. Join a team dedicated to ensuring compliance and safeguarding clients’ interests.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years post-admission experience in wills, trusts, and estate planning.
• Experience in a private client or fiduciary law environment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and advise on trusts, wills, and related estate planning instruments.
• Provide legal advice on estate planning and fiduciary duties.
• Administer deceased estates and trusts.

Skills

Strong technical knowledge of wills and trusts

Excellent drafting skills

Strong interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Client-centric approach

Education

LLB degree

Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa

Tools

Fiduciary software (e.g., LegalSuite, GhostPractice)

Job description

Job Purpose

To provide specialised legal services in the drafting, administration, and execution of trusts and wills. The incumbent will offer strategic estate planning advice and ensure compliance with relevant legal and regulatory frameworks to safeguard clients’ assets and interests.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and advise on trusts, wills, and related estate planning instruments.
• Provide legal advice on estate planning, fiduciary duties, and tax implications of wills and trusts.
• Administer deceased estates and trusts, including liaising with the Master of the High Court and SARS.
• Interpret and explain legal terms and implications to clients in accessible language.
• Assist clients in the creation and registration of inter vivos and testamentary trusts.
• Ensure compliance with the Wills Act, Trust Property Control Act, Administration of Estates Act, and related legislation.
• Work closely with financial advisors, tax consultants, and fiduciary specialists.
• Represent the firm in client meetings, workshops, and other professional forums.
• Maintain accurate legal records and prepare legal reports for clients and stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of changes in estate, tax, and fiduciary law.

Qualifications & Experience

• LLB degree (essential).
• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
• At least 3–5 years post-admission experience, with a focus on wills, trusts, estate planning, and deceased estates.
• Experience working in a private client or fiduciary law environment preferred.

Key Competencies

• Strong technical knowledge of wills, trusts, and estate law.
• Excellent drafting skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong ethical and professional standards.
• Ability to communicate complex legal information clearly.
• Client-centric approach with strong interpersonal skills.
• Organised and deadline-driven.

Desirable Attributes

• Postgraduate qualification in Tax or Estate Planning (advantageous).
• Member of FISA (Fiduciary Institute of Southern Africa) preferred.
• Experience with fiduciary software (e.g., LegalSuite, GhostPractice).