Trusts & Estates Litigation Attorney

We are working with highly respected, growing, full-service, Oakland, California based law firm with a strong commitment to providing exceptional legal services to its clients. The firm seeks a highly motivated and experienced Trust & Estates Litigation Attorney to join its Trusts and Estates Litigation Practice Group, representing a diverse client base including high-net-worth individuals, fiduciaries, and charitable organizations, in all aspects of trust and estate controversies.

The ideal candidate will have five or more (5+) years of dedicated experience in trust, estate, and conservatorship litigation in California. The role offers the successful candidate the opportunity to manage a diverse caseload, work closely with partners, and take a lead role in all phases of litigation, from initial case assessment through trial and appeal. Minimum billable hours are 1610/yr. Attorneys meeting or exceeding that goal may increase their earnings significantly through the firm’s tiered bonus program. The annual base salary for the position is $165,000 to $195,000/yr., depending upon attorney experience, skills, and qualifications. Depending on billable hours, total compensation can range up to $207,000 for those at the lower end of the salary range to $245,000 at the higher end.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage and litigate complex trust, estate, and conservatorship disputes, including but not limited to (a) will and trust contests (e.g., undue influence, lack of capacity, fraud); (b) breach of fiduciary duty claims against trustees, executors, and conservators; (c) petitions for instructions and accountings; (d) spousal property petitions; (e) elder abuse actions (financial and physical); (f) conservatorship contested matters; (g) probate and trust administration disputes.
• Conduct legal research and analysis, draft pleadings, motions, and briefs.
• Handle all aspects of discovery, including propounding and responding to written discovery, and taking/defending depositions.
• Prepare for and attend court hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and trials.
• Communicate effectively with clients, opposing counsel, and court personnel.
• Develop and implement effective case strategies.
• Collaborate with partners and other attorneys on complex matters.
• Mentor junior attorneys and support staff as needed.
• Maintain accurate time records and ensure compliance with billing requirements.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
• Active membership in good standing with the California State Bar
• Five or more (5+) years of demonstrable experience specializing in California Trust & Estates Litigation
• Strong understanding of the California Probate Code, related statutes, and case law
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with a proven ability to draft persuasive legal documents and advocate effectively in court
• Excellent analytical, research, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong interpersonal skills and a client-focused approach
• Experience with trial preparation and courtroom advocacy is highly preferred
• A proven track record of successfully resolving complex litigation matters
• Ability to work on a hybrid schedule requiring three (3) days in the office after ninety (90) days of employment

OTHER DETAILS

• Salary of $165,000 - $195,000 (for minimum billables of 1610 hrs./yr.), depending upon attorney experience, skills, and qualifications.
• Hybrid work schedule requiring three (3) days in office after ninety (90) days of employment
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• 401(k) plan
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities
• A collegial and supportive work environment.
• Opportunity for significant growth and advancement within the firm.

Candidates may apply for this position on LinkedIn, on the Hire Counsel website, or by direct e-mail to View email address on click.appcast.io. We at Hire Counsel cannot promise that a particular candidate will get the job or an interview, but we can promise that we will review all submitted resumes.

About Hire Counsel, a Purpose Legal Company

Hire Counsel, a Purpose Legal Company, is an agile legal talent agency. We build connections between legal professionals and our clients, some of the nation's largest law firms and legal departments (and some of the smallest). By connecting good lawyers with our clients, we help attorneys find a permanent home. We also provide individuals with the option to work on contract (temporary) assignments to aid their stability as they proceed with their job searches. Hire Counsel holds all resumes in the strictest confidence.