What are the responsibilities and job description for the Trusts and Estates Associate position at Direct Counsel?
Trusts & Estates / Tax Planning Associate – Chicago
5–10 Years | High-Level Planning, Structuring & Administration
Direct Counsel is partnering with a growing, full-service law firm to add a senior-level Associate to its Tax, Benefits & Estate Planning Group in Chicago. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced trusts and estates attorney who enjoys sophisticated planning work and wants to play a meaningful role in a collaborative, expanding practice.
About the Practice
This group advises a broad and sophisticated client base, providing tax planning and business structuring services for:
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High-net-worth individuals and families
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Public and private corporations
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Pass-through entities
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Trusts and estates
The work is intellectually rigorous and varied—ideal for attorneys who enjoy combining technical depth with practical, client-focused solutions.
What You’ll Do
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Draft and implement comprehensive estate plans
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Advise on trust and estate administration, including probate matters
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Handle or support probate litigation, as needed
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Provide tax-efficient planning and structuring advice for individuals and closely held businesses
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Work directly with clients and collaborate closely with partners and team members
Who They’re Looking For
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5–10 years of experience in:
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Estate planning
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Trust & estate administration
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Probate (litigation experience is a plus)
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Active Illinois Bar admission
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Strong drafting and writing skills with excellent academic credentials
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LL.M. in Taxation or Estate Planning strongly preferred
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A collaborative mindset and comfort handling matters with a high degree of independence
Compensation & Benefits
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Base Salary Range: $160,000 – $230,000
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Bonus Potential: Up to $106,000
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Competitive bonus structure
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Unlimited PTO
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401(k)
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Full benefits package
Why This Role Stands Out
This is a rare chance to join a growing estate planning practice where senior associates are trusted with meaningful responsibility, client contact, and long-term growth opportunities—without sacrificing work-life balance or collegiality.
About Direct Counsel
Direct Counsel partners with leading law firms and in-house legal departments nationwide to connect talented attorneys with outstanding opportunities. We take pride in matching professionals with roles that align with their expertise, values, and long-term career goals.
📩 Apply confidentially by sending your resume to sagan@directcounsel.net
Salary : $160,000 - $230,000