What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estate Planning Paralegal position at Harrison LLP?
Position Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Experienced Paralegal to join our Estate Planning team. This role requires a high degree of organization, initiative, and client service. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in preparing gift tax returns, administering Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs), managing trust funding activities, and tracking estate planning promissory notes. A proactive approach to client communication and file management is essential.
Key Responsibilities
- Gift Tax Returns:
- Prepare and file annual IRS Form 709 Gift Tax Returns with minimal supervision.
- Coordinate with clients and accountants to gather required financial documentation.
- Track filing deadlines and ensure timely submission.
- ILIT Administration:
- Monitor premium payment schedules and maintain accurate tracking logs.
- Draft and distribute Crummey notices in accordance with trust provisions and IRS guidelines.
- Maintain ILIT files and ensure compliance with administrative best practices.
- Trust Funding:
- Prepare and record deeds, assignments, and other related documents for trust funding.
- Coordinate with title companies, banks, and other institutions to transfer assets into trust.
- Maintain organized trust funding binders and checklists.
- Promissory Notes:
- Proactively track maturity dates, interest payments, and compliance deadlines.
- Coordinate with clients and legal team to initiate and document note renewals or payoffs.
- Maintain organized records of all promissory notes and supporting documentation.
- Client Management:
- Serve as a key point of contact for clients throughout the estate planning process.
- Provide regular updates and follow up on outstanding items.
- Anticipate client needs and support attorneys in delivering an exceptional client experience.
Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years of experience in estate planning or tax-related legal work.
- Strong understanding of gift tax law, ILIT compliance, and trust funding procedures.
- Highly organized with excellent attention to detail and time management skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency with legal software, document management systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and maintain confidentiality.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or paralegal certificate from an ABA-approved program.
- Experience with trust accounting or tax software is a plus.
- Notary Public (or willingness to obtain).
