What are the responsibilities and job description for the Probate and Estate Planning Paralegal position at McGovern Law Group, APC?
Job description:
Job Title: Probate and Estate Planning Paralegal
Location: La Mesa (with occasional travel to Alpine and Chula Vista locations)
Position: Full-Time
Wage: Commensurate with Experience (Target: $27 to $37 per hour DOE)
Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Chiropractic, and Life Insurance
About the Firm
McGovern Law Group is a growing estate planning and probate law firm serving families throughout San Diego County. We focus on delivering high-quality, relationship-driven legal services with an emphasis on clarity, efficiency, and protecting our clients’ legacies.
We are building a team that values professionalism, accountability, and pride in their work—while maintaining a supportive and positive office culture.
Position Overview
We are seeking a highly experienced Estate Planning & Probate Paralegal (3–5 years experience) who can operate with a high degree of independence and take ownership of drafting and case progression.
This is not an entry-level role. The ideal candidate is confident managing files, drafting complex documents, and supporting attorneys in both estate planning and probate/trust administration matters.
Key Responsibilities
Estate Planning
- Draft comprehensive estate plans, including:
- Revocable Living Trusts
- Wills (including pour-over wills)
- Durable Powers of Attorney
- Advance Health Care Directives
- Assist with trust funding instructions and asset transfer documentation
- Prepare client correspondence and follow-up materials
- Coordinate signing appointments and ensure proper execution
Probate & Trust Administration
- Draft and manage probate filings from start to finish, including:
- Petitions for Probate
- Spousal Property Petitions
- §850 Petitions (Heggstad petitions and related matters)
- Prepare notices, pleadings, and supporting documents
- Assist with:
- Inventory & Appraisals
- Accountings (preferred)
- Court filings and calendaring deadlines
- Communicate with clients regarding status and required information
Case Management & Support
- Maintain organized and up-to-date client files
- Track deadlines and ensure timely progression of matters
- Coordinate with attorneys, clients, and third parties
- Identify missing information and proactively move files forward
Qualifications
- 2–5 years of experience in estate planning and probate preferred
- Demonstrated experience drafting:
- Trusts, wills, POAs, and healthcare directives
- Probate petitions, including spousal property and §850 petitions
- Strong understanding of California probate procedures and timelines
- Ability to manage multiple files with minimal supervision
- High attention to detail and accuracy
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Proficiency with legal software and document management systems
What We’re Looking For
- Someone who takes ownership of their work and their files
- A professional who is organized, proactive, and dependable
- A team player who communicates clearly and follows through
- Someone who takes pride in producing clean, accurate work
How to Apply:
If you are a detail-oriented professional with a passion for probate and estate planning, we invite you to apply for this position. Please submit your resume and an optional cover letter or message through LinkedIn or directly to info@mcgovernlawgroup.com.
McGovern Law Group is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Salary : $27 - $37