What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estate Planning Paralegal - Virginia Beach position at Melone Hatley?
Company Overview
Melone Hatley, P.C. is a fast-growing family and estate planning law firm with offices across Virginia, Florida, South Carolina, and Texas. Named one of the 500 fastest-growing law firms in the United States and recognized by Super Lawyers, we've built our reputation on delivering compassionate, high-quality legal services and creating a workplace where talent thrives.
Our mission is simple: to be the premier law firm for individuals looking to protect what matters most their families, their finances, and their future. We achieve this by fostering a culture rooted in transparency, integrity, and open communication. Every team member plays a vital role in delivering personalized, results-driven support to our clients, and we're proud to be known as one of the top employers in the region.
Join us and become part of a team that is redefining family and estate law with purpose, passion, and people at the center of everything we do.
Position Overview
Melone Hatley is seeking a full-time Paralegal to join our Estate Planning team. This role provides administrative and legal support to the firm's Estate Planning Attorneys, including preparing estate planning documents, assisting with probate and trust administration, communicating with clients, and maintaining organized case files. The ideal candidate has experience in estate planning or a related practice area, is detail-oriented and client-focused, and thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment while handling sensitive matters with professionalism and discretion.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare and assemble estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance healthcare directives, and related documents.
- Assist with probate and trust administration matters, including gathering information, preparing court filings, and coordinating required documentation.
- Obtain and organize legal, financial, and client documents.
- Perform administrative and client service functions, including scheduling meetings and maintaining regular communication with clients.
- Conduct basic legal research as needed.
- Assist with drafting correspondence and other legal documentation.
- Prepare, review, and file legal documents with courts and government agencies, as applicable.
- Maintain and organize electronic and physical client files and databases.
- Coordinate with attorneys, clients, financial advisors, accountants, and other professionals when appropriate.
- Assist with other essential duties and special projects as assigned.
Qualifications and Skills:
- Prior paralegal or legal assistant experience is required.
- Prior estate planning, probate, trust administration, or related legal experience is preferred.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
- Excellent organizational, time management, and client service skills.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a team.
- Willingness to learn and develop expertise in estate planning and probate matters.
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Associate's degree in Paralegal Studies or a related field, required.
- Bachelor's degree and/or paralegal certification, preferred.
Pay & Benefits:
- $22/hr - $32/hr
- 100% Employer Paid Medical Benefits for Employees and Dependents
- Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- 401 (k) Matching
- Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay
Work Environment:
- Full-time position (8-hour shift)
- On-site attendance required
Join Our Team!
If you are a motivated individual with a genuine enthusiasm for the legal field, we encourage you to apply. We offer competitive compensation and benefits, along with opportunities for professional development within our firm.
Melone Hatley, P.C. is an equal opportunity employer.