Associate Attorney- Probate and Trust Litigation

Job Description

Job Description

Associate Attorney – Probate & Trust Litigation

Location: In-office (Boutique Law Firm)

Compensation: Starting at $130,000 annually + bonus structure

Benefits: Health insurance, 401(k) with employer match, profit sharing (varies), pension plan, professional dues, continuing education support, and career development opportunities

About Us

We are a boutique, tech-savvy law firm focused exclusively on Probate and Trust matters, including Estate Planning, Special Needs Planning, Conservatorships, Probate Administration, and Trust Litigation. Our team is intentionally small—no more than five attorneys—supported by skilled paralegals and a collaborative operations team.

We are building something special: the most compassionate and client-centered estate and trust law firm in Newport Beach. Our approach is team-based, efficient, and deeply committed to both excellence and empathy.

We work hard, support each other, and maintain a friendly workplace culture that values work-life balance while delivering exceptional legal service.

What We Value

We are looking for someone who reflects our core values:

• Communication 
• Respect 
• Integrity 
• Accountability 
• Fun and a friendly, collaborative attitude 

Responsibilities

• Handle probate, trust, estate planning, special needs planning, conservatorships, and trust litigation matters 
• Manage a monthly baseline of 120 billable hours (with bonus opportunities above baseline) 
• Maintain strong client relationships with clear, responsive communication 
• Work closely with attorneys and paralegals in a collaborative team environment 
• Participate in case strategy, drafting, hearings, and client meetings as appropriate 
• Contribute to a high standard of professionalism and ethical practice 
• Support firm growth through excellent client service and client origination where applicable 

Qualifications

We are seeking someone who demonstrates:

• 3–5 years of experience in Estate Planning, Probate, and/or Trust Litigation 
• Excellent communication and responsiveness 
• Strong ethical standards 
• Positive, team-oriented attitude 
• Professionalism in all interactions 
• Strong work habits and time management skills 
• Desire to grow within a boutique, collaborative firm environment 

Compensation & Benefits

• Starting salary: $130,000/year 
• Bonus structure available after meeting baseline performance (120 billable hours/month) 
• Origination bonus for clients brought into the firm 
• Health insurance 
• 401(k) with employer match (3% match) 
• Pension plan 
• Profit sharing (varies) 
• Paid sick time: 5 days (usable for personal needs) 
• Vacation accrual begins after year one (5 days in first completed year) 
• Paid holidays 
• Firm closure between Christmas and New Year’s (does not count toward vacation) 
• Continuing education support 
• Professional dues covered 
• Career development opportunities 
• Quarterly team-building events 

Why Join Us

This is a place where your work is meaningful, your contributions are valued, and your growth is supported. We combine high-quality legal work with a collaborative, friendly, and balanced environment. You’ll be part of a team committed to excellence in client service while maintaining a culture of trust, respect, and enjoyment in the work we do together.

Apply today and build a career with purpose, impact, and long-term opportunity.

We understand the complexities of navigating new opportunities in the legal space. You can trust that all employment inquiries are kept strictly confidential.

Job Type: Full-time