Paralegal

Job Description

Job Description

Out client is looking for a skilled Paralegal to support a busy trusts and estates practice in Burlingame, California, serving individuals and families. This position offers meaningful hands-on involvement in estate and trust matters, regular interaction with clients and advisors, and exposure to sophisticated asset and tax issues. The right candidate brings strong organizational ability, sound judgment, and a detail-oriented, service-oriented approach to sensitive matters.

Responsibilities:

• Guide clients, trustees, and family members through trust and estate administration matters with care.

• Coordinate communications with beneficiaries and outside professionals such as accountants, financial advisors, and other consultants to keep matters moving efficiently.

• Prepare and revise legal correspondence, transfer documents, deeds, and court filings related to probate and estate administration.

• Assemble and maintain detailed asset schedules, allocation summaries, and distribution records to support accurate administration.

• Assist with the preparation of federal estate and gift tax filings, including Forms 706 and 709, and organize supporting financial information.

• Examine bank records and related financial documents to identify assets, verify transactions, and support reporting requirements.

• Maintain orderly client files, oversee document execution logistics, and provide notarial support when needed.

• Contribute to the day-to-day management of probate proceedings and post-death trust administration from opening through final distribution.

• At least 3 years of paralegal experience focused on trust and estate matters within a law firm environment.
• Completion of an approved paralegal program or equivalent qualification is required; a bachelor’s degree is preferred.
• Practical experience handling trust administration after the death of a trustor, including preparation of final distribution documentation.
• Working knowledge of estate and gift tax principles, with experience supporting or preparing Forms 706 and 709.
• Strong understanding of probate procedures and familiarity with Judicial Council forms.
• Excellent organizational and prioritization skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and a substantial workload independently.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills, along with strong analytical, proofreading, and numerical abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel; familiarity with legal and tax-related software platforms is preferred.