Guardianship Paralegal

About Us:

Cona Law, PLLC is an award-winning and well-respected elder law and estate planning firm dedicated to serving the legal and financial needs of older adults and their families. We concentrate in legal matters such as asset protection planning, estate planning, Medicaid planning and applications, guardianships, estate litigation, and health care reimbursement and recovery. We are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality legal services with integrity and professionalism.

Position Summary:

The Paralegal will be responsible for drafting a high volume of guardianship petitions, communicating with court personnel, and meeting strict deadlines. The Guardianship department is comprised of the Nursing Home (NH)/Guardianship Partner & Department Head, Senior Counsel, Associate Attorneys, Executive Paralegal, and Senior Paralegal. This position requires you to work cohesively as a team with clear communication.

This position will be an addition to our existing Guardianship team as we continue to grow and expand the firm.

Team members “own” their positions at Cona Law, PLLC and are 100% responsible for their own work and caseloads. You will have extensive client contact and opportunities to represent the firm outside of the office. You will have autonomy and independence while being part of a collaborative team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Draft guardianship petitions, court motions, pleadings, and accountings.
• Communicate and correspond with private clients and corporate clients (via their employees, agents, or representatives).
• Communicate and correspond with court personnel.
• Handle the electronic filing of documents with NYSCEF.
• Effectively navigate a high volume of cases and workload.
• Meet strict monthly deadlines.
• Coordinate with attorneys regarding contested guardianship matters.
• Assist the Estate Litigation Partner, as needed.
• Work closely with guardianship team members and divide the workload between each other.
• Track and maintain case files, ensuring all documents are organized, up-to-date, and compliant with firm and regulatory requirements.
• Represent the firm to maintain strong community relationships and brand reputation, including at business development and networking events.
• Handle confidential client information with the highest level of professionalism and integrity.
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or Paralegal Certification (ABA-approved preferred).
• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a paralegal or legal assistant.
• Prior experience maintaining a Court calendar strongly preferred.
• Estate Planning experience preferred including drafting of all estate planning documents (Wills, Trusts, Advance Directives, Power of Attorney for health care, and Living Wills).
• Knowledge of elder law, Article 81 Guardianships,17-A Guardianships, estate litigation, and collections strongly preferred.
• Proven experience managing complex cases with strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts to clients and non-legal professionals.
• Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively in a team environment.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with firm match.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunity to work in a supportive and collegial work environment.

Additional Perks:

• Flexible schedules.
• Work/life Integration.
• Awesome company parties/events.
• Fun, energetic work environment.
• Opportunity to learn new skills!
• State-of-the-art gym with complimentary membership.
• Interior Pickle Ball and Basketball Courts with on-site locker rooms and showers.
• Interior Golf Center with simulator and putting green.
• On-site Restaurant & Dining Area on lower level with Foosball and Shuffleboard Tables.
• In-office Zen Room, for relaxing quiet time.
• Charitable events and opportunities for community involvement.
• Social events fostering a positive, engaging work environment.
• Superb Firm Culture, a collaborative work environment, company outings, kitchen snacks, fresh fruit, coffee.
• Centrally located, modern office building, beautiful contemporary offices, ample parking, convenient headquarters in Melville, Long Island.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Paralegal