Associate Attorney - Trusts and Estates

We are seeking a highly skilled Estate Planning Attorney to join a sophisticated and client-focused trusts and estates practice. This role is ideal for an attorney who thrives in a technical environment, enjoys direct client interaction, and brings strong drafting capabilities across complex estate planning structures.

This is not a purely advisory role. You will be hands-on in designing, drafting, and executing advanced estate plans for high-net-worth individuals and families.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft and prepare a wide range of estate planning documents, including wills, revocable and irrevocable trusts, and advanced wealth transfer structures
• Design and implement sophisticated estate plans, including multi-generational strategies, family partnerships, and charitable planning vehicles
• Advise clients on estate, gift, and generation-skipping transfer tax strategies
• Conduct client meetings and lead individual client calls, providing clear and practical guidance
• Collaborate with appraisers and other advisors to value and structure discounted assets
• Advise on partnership structures and asset discounting strategies as part of broader estate plans
• Prepare and review generation-skipping transfer tax returns and related filings
• Manage an active caseload with a high level of responsiveness and attention to detail
• Supervise and support paralegals and staff in document preparation and case management
• Stay current on federal and state estate planning laws and proactively apply changes to client strategies
• Contribute to business development efforts and support the continued growth of the practice

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Active New Jersey Bar membership required
• 3+ years of experience in trusts and estates, with exposure to complex and high-net-worth planning
• Strong drafting experience across estate planning documents and trust structures
• Experience with generation-skipping transfer planning and tax filings
• Comfort working directly with clients and leading client conversations
• Experience working with appraisers and advising on asset valuation and discounting strategies
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work closely with internal teams and external advisors
• Interest in business development and client relationship building is a plus

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary plus performance-based bonus
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with employer match
• Generous paid time off and holidays
• Ongoing professional development, including training in a proprietary estate planning process
• Collegial, team-oriented environment within a well-established boutique practice