Mullen & Henzell L.L.P. in Santa Barbara, California is seeking an Estate Planning Associate with 1 to 3 years of experience to join one of the largest Estate Planning practices on the Central Coast. Conservatorship experience is preferred. Our Estate Planning practice includes working on sophisticated estate plans, conservatorships, post death probate and trust administrations. This is an exceptional opportunity to work with a dynamic firm that values collaboration, professional growth, and client satisfaction.
Please submit resume, cover letter, and writing sample. In your cover letter, please highlight any experience in estate planning and explain why you are a great fit for our team. Please send to Brian Daly and use “Estate Planning – [Your Name]” in subject line.
Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with a team of attorneys, paralegals, and other professionals to deliver comprehensive estate planning solutions to clients.
-Draft and review legal documents, such as wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations, ensuring accuracy and compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
- Prepare and file Trust Petitions, Probate Petitions, and Petitions for Conservatorship, and manage and maintain client matters through conclusion.
- Conduct legal research to stay updated on changes in estate planning laws and regulations and integrate the latest industry knowledge into client recommendations.
- Assist with trust and estate administration, including asset distribution, tax filings, and resolution of any disputes or challenges.
- Develop comprehensive estate plans tailored to clients’ individual needs and goals, while considering tax implications, asset protection, and probate avoidance.
- Conduct client meetings to assess their estate planning requirements, address concerns, and offer strategic advice.
- Maintain client confidentiality and ensure adherence to ethical and professional standards.
Requirements:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Admitted to practice law in California and in good standing.
- Prior experience in estate planning (including wills, trusts, and probate matters) preferred.
- Knowledge of California estate planning laws, regulations, and tax implications commensurate with experience.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts in a clear and concise manner.
- Detail-oriented and proficient in drafting accurate and comprehensive legal documents.
- Demonstrated ability to handle multiple client matters simultaneously and meet deadlines.
- Team player with strong interpersonal skills, able to collaborate effectively with colleagues and support staff.
- High level of professionalism, integrity, and commitment to client service.
- Ability to meet billable hour expectations and work in-person at our downtown Santa Barbara office.
Compensation and Benefits: The compensation (base annual salary plus an incentive bonus plan) range for our 1 to 3 year associates is $135,000 to $220,000, depending on experience and other job-related factors permitted by law. Full-time associates are also eligible for the following firm benefits: vacation, sick time, medical insurance, dental insurance, Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, life insurance, disability insurance, 401(k) plan and profit-sharing contributions. Mullen & Henzell L.L.P. is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce.
Work with the best! Our firm was voted “Best Law Firm” in 2021, 2022 and 2023 in the SB Independent Readers’ Poll.