Attorney

Five Valleys Law, P.L.L.C. is a small Missoula-based law firm serving all of Montana and parts of North Dakota. We limit our focus to estate planning, probate/trust administration, adult guardianships, business transactions, contracts, real estate and related litigation matters for the benefit of our clients. Our firm takes a team approach to the practice and believes it is the best way to serve the clients. Each attorney and support person at the firm has his or her own strengths and we are stronger when we work together for our clients.

Job Summary:

The ideal candidate will have experience in (1) handling probate and trust; (2) administration estate planning, including tax planning or Medicaid planning; and (3) real estate law or estate/trust litigation. If hired, the candidate will take the lead on most probate and trust administration matters and help to continue to build our practice. This role involves direct client interaction, so strong interpersonal skills and a high level of professionalism are essential.

Responsibilities:

Probate and trust administration matters

• Drafting pleadings
• Inventories and accountings
• Settlement Agreements
• Meet and advise clients on the process

Estate Planning

• Advise clients on tax implications and asset protection strategies
• Meet with clients to assess estate planning needs
• Assist clients with trust funding
• Research and stay current on estate, gift, and income tax laws
• Draft estate planning documents (wills, trusts, POAs, healthcare directives)
• Conduct client consultations for Medicaid planning and eligibility assessment
• Develop and implement asset protection strategies (e.g., irrevocable trusts, spend-down planning)
• Research and stay current on federal and state Medicaid regulations and elder law developments

Litigation

• Drafting pleadings
• Court Room Experience
• Mediation
• Ability and desire to mentor
• Strategize with and advise clients

General

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, and case management software
• Maintain detailed and accurate client records
• Collaborate with financial professionals and care coordinators
• Accurate and ethical billing
• Ability to work independently and with a team

Qualifications:

J.D. from an accredited law school

Active license to practice law in Montana or ability to obtain

Minimum of 4 years of experience in elder law, estate planning, tax law, litigation, or related practice areas

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Succession Planning Skills

Strong organizational and analytical abilities

Compassionate and client-focused demeanor

Ability to manage multiple matters independently

Preferred but not required:

Ll.M. in Tax or Elder Law

Experience with estate planning software (e.g., Interactive Legal Services)

Interest in implementing new technologies

Licensure in multiple states

Benefits:

Amazing Team – Supportive, collaborative, open communication

Ability to structure your career with the support of a team

Collections bonuses

Health Stipend

Simple IRA

Paid Time Off

Continuing legal education (CLE) support

Malpractice Insurance – covered

Bar Fees – covered

All applications will be kept confidential unless otherwise agreed to with the the applicant.