What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estate Administration & Probate Paralegal / Front Desk Receptionist position at Finger Lakes Attorney PLLC?
Estate Administration & Probate Paralegal / Front Desk Receptionist
Employer: Finger Lakes Attorney PLLC
Location: Canandaigua, NY
Position Type: Full-Time
Experience Level: Entry-Level to Early Career (1-3 Years Preferred)
About Finger Lakes Attorney PLLC
Finger Lakes Attorney PLLC is a boutique law firm focused on estate planning, probate, estate administration, and elder law. We are committed to providing personalized legal services with compassion, patience, and exceptional client care.
Many of our clients are older adults and couples seeking guidance through important life decisions and challenging transitions. We strive to make every client feel welcomed, heard, and supported.
We are seeking an organized, compassionate, and motivated individual to join our team as an Estate Administration & Probate Paralegal / Front Desk Receptionist. This position offers an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional interested in developing a long-term career in the legal field.
Position Overview
This role combines paralegal, client service, and administrative responsibilities in a small law firm environment. The successful candidate will work directly with the attorney, assist with estate administration and probate matters, and serve as the first point of contact for clients and visitors.
Responsibilities
Estate Administration & Probate Support:
- Assist with estate administration and probate matters from opening through closing.
- Prepare draft legal documents, correspondence, petitions, affidavits, and related materials for attorney review.
- Organize and maintain client files and case records.
- Gather and track estate asset information and supporting documentation.
- Communicate with clients, financial institutions, fiduciaries, and court personnel.
- Monitor deadlines and assist with case management.
Client Relations & Front Desk Duties:
- Welcome clients and visitors in a professional and friendly manner.
- Answer and direct incoming phone calls.
- Schedule consultations, meetings, and appointments.
- Assist with client communications and follow-up.
- Manage incoming and outgoing mail.
- Maintain an organized and welcoming office environment.
Qualifications
Required
- Associate's degree, bachelor's degree, paralegal certificate, or equivalent professional experience.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and priorities.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365.
- Professional, compassionate, and client-focused demeanor.
Preferred
- 1-3 years of paralegal, legal assistant, administrative, customer service, or professional office experience.
- Experience or coursework related to probate, estate administration, estate planning, legal studies, public administration, or a related field.
- Familiarity with New York Surrogate's Court procedures.
- Experience working with older adults and their families.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is someone who:
- Enjoys helping people and building relationships.
- Demonstrates empathy, patience, and professionalism.
- Is comfortable working with elderly clients and their families.
- Takes initiative and works well independently.
- Is interested in developing legal and client-service skills.
- Thrives in a small-office environment where teamwork and personal responsibility matter.
What You'll Gain
- Direct mentorship from an experienced attorney.
- Hands-on experience with estate administration, probate, estate planning, and elder law matters.
- Professional development in legal, administrative, and client-service skills.
- Meaningful work helping individuals and families navigate important life transitions.
- Opportunity for long-term growth within the firm.
Application Instructions
To apply, please submit:
- Resume
- Brief cover letter describing your interest in the position and any relevant experience
We welcome applications from recent graduates and early-career professionals who are eager to learn and build a career in the legal field.
Finger Lakes Attorney PLLC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, inclusion, and respect in the workplace.