What are the responsibilities and job description for the Associate Attorney position at SR Staffing?
Associate Attorney, Trusts, Estates & Probate (Contract-to-Hire)
Location: Hackensack, NJ or New York, NY
Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire
Experience Level: 3-5 Years
Start Date: ASAP
About Our Client
Our client is a well-established boutique law firm focused on estate planning, trust and estate administration, probate matters, elder law, and related wealth preservation strategies. The firm serves individuals and families seeking practical legal guidance on protecting assets, planning for future generations, and navigating estate-related legal matters.
Known for its collaborative and client-centered approach, the firm offers attorneys the opportunity to work directly with experienced practitioners in a professional, supportive, and entrepreneurial environment. The culture is highly valued, balancing excellence in client service with a collegial and light-hearted atmosphere.
Position Overview
Our client is seeking a Trusts, Estates & Probate Associate Attorney with approximately 3-5 years of relevant experience to join the practice on a contract-to-hire basis.
This role offers substantial exposure to sophisticated estate planning, probate, and estate administration matters, along with direct client interaction and mentorship from experienced attorneys. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to grow into a long-term position based on performance and business needs.
Candidates may work from either the firm's Hackensack, NJ or New York City office.
Key Responsibilities
- Draft estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives
- Handle probate and estate administration matters from inception through resolution
- Prepare probate and surrogate court filings and related documentation
- Advise fiduciaries, beneficiaries, and family members regarding estate administration matters
- Assist with elder law, asset protection, and related planning strategies
- Conduct legal research and prepare written analyses as needed
- Maintain proactive communication with clients throughout engagements
- Collaborate with attorneys and support staff to ensure exceptional client service
- Effectively manage billable work while maintaining a high-quality work product
Qualifications/Requirements
- J.D. from an accredited law school
- Active admission to practice in New York and/or New Jersey
- 3-5 years of experience in:
- Trusts & Estates
- Estate Planning
- Probate
- Estate Administration
- Strong drafting, analytical, and organizational skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Strong client service orientation and attention to detail
Preferred:
- Experience with elder law and Medicaid planning
- Exposure to high-net-worth estate planning matters
- Probate petition drafting experience
- Familiarity with legal practice management and document automation platforms
Schedule & Work Arrangement
- Initial workload expected to be approximately 20 hours per week
- Hours may increase over time, with the goal of transitioning into a permanent full-time role
- Hybrid work environment
- Preferred in-office schedule:
- New Jersey Office: Monday, Wednesday, Friday (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM)
- New York Office: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM)
- Remote flexibility may be considered for highly qualified candidates
Billable Expectations
- 20-hour schedule: 18-20 billable hours per week
- 40-hour schedule: 32-35 billable hours per week
Benefits Upon Conversion
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Compensation review and growth opportunities
- 30-day introductory period
The ideal candidate is a motivated trusts and estates attorney who enjoys working closely with clients, thrives in a boutique firm environment, and is seeking a long-term opportunity with a growing practice. Candidates should be comfortable taking ownership of matters, collaborating with colleagues, and contributing to a positive and professional team culture. Qualified candidates should be available to start as soon as possible.