Trusts and Estates Associate

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:

• High-net-worth individuals and families

• Public and private corporations

• Pass-through entities

• 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

• Draft and implement comprehensive estate plans

• Advise on trust and estate administration, including probate matters

• Handle or support probate litigation, as needed

• Provide tax-efficient planning and structuring advice for individuals and closely held businesses

• Work directly with clients and collaborate closely with partners and team members

Who They’re Looking For

• 5–10 years of experience in:

  • Estate planning

  • Trust & estate administration

  • Probate (litigation experience is a plus)

• Active Illinois Bar admission

• Strong drafting and writing skills with excellent academic credentials

• LL.M. in Taxation or Estate Planning strongly preferred

• A collaborative mindset and comfort handling matters with a high degree of independence

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary Range: $160,000 – $230,000

• Bonus Potential: Up to $106,000

• Competitive bonus structure

• Unlimited PTO

• 401(k)

• 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