What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estate Planning & Probate Paralegal / Legal Assistant position at The Ratchford Firm?
Estate Planning & Probate Paralegal/Legal Assistant
Full Job Description
The Ratchford Firm is seeking an experienced, detail-oriented Estate Planning & Probate Paralegal and/or Legal Assistant to join our team. This position provides comprehensive support to attorneys in the areas of estate planning, probate administration, trust administration, and related matters. The ideal candidate is highly organized, self-motivated, capable of working independently, and thrives in a fast-paced, client-focused environment.
We are looking for a professional who possesses excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail, and a commitment to providing exceptional service to clients during important life transitions.
Primary Responsibilities
- Draft a variety of form-generated legal documents by accurately completing client-specific information and customizing templates as needed to include;
- Wills
- Revocable and irrevocable trusts
- Powers of Attorney
- Advance Healthcare Directives
- Deeds and real estate transfer documents
- Probate petitions, inventories, accountings, and related court filings
Other responsibilities include;
- Manage estate planning, probate, and trust administration files from inception through completion.
- Review legal documents for accuracy, grammar, spelling, punctuation, formatting, and consistency prior to attorney review and execution.
- Prepare documents for attorney review, implement revisions, track outstanding information and documents, coordinate execution of documents, and ensure proper file maintenance.
- Maintain attorney calendars, court deadlines, client meetings, and follow-up schedules while proactively monitoring and communicating important dates and deadlines.
- Serve as a primary point of contact for prospective and existing clients, providing timely and professional communication regarding appointments, document requests, case status updates, and general inquiries.
- Coordinate client meetings, document signings, and conference room scheduling.
- Assist clients with probate and trust administration matters, including preparation of notices, inventories, asset collection documentation, beneficiary communications, and court filings.
- Work closely with attorneys and staff to support day-to-day legal and administrative operations.
- Assist with billing, payment collection, trust accounting support, processing credit card transactions, and tracking outstanding balances.
- Maintain electronic and physical client files in accordance with firm procedures and compliance requirements.
- Perform any additional duties as requested or required by attorneys.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 2 years of experience as a paralegal or legal assistant, preferably in estate planning, probate, trust administration, or real estate.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- High level of professionalism and discretion when handling confidential information.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office
- Proficiency in legal research tools (Westlaw a plus) and case management software (Smokeball a plus)
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with attorneys and staff.
- Experience with Georgia probate and estate planning matters is preferred.
Compensation & Benefits
Pay: $40,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year (based upon experience)
- Paid holidays and paid time off
- Opportunities for professional development and growth
- 401 (k), Dental, Health and Vision
Full-Time: Monday – Friday
Email Resume to Angelica Pittman at angelica@werlaw.com
Pay: $40,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $40,000 - $55,000