Paralegal (Part-Time) - Probate and Trust Administration

We are a well-established estate planning and trust law firm seeking an experienced **Trust Administration and Probate Paralegal** to join our team on a **part-time basis**. We are looking for someone with at least two years of meaningful, hands-on experience in California trust administration and probate who can confidently manage multiple matters, anticipate next steps, and keep cases moving forward with minimal supervision, while working under the direction of our attorneys. Our ideal candidate is someone who takes pride in doing things correctly, enjoys being organized, follows through on commitments, and genuinely cares about the clients we serve. We work with families during some of the most difficult and emotional times in their lives. Accordingly, we need someone who combines strong technical skills with patience, compassion, professionalism, and excellent judgment. **Responsibilities** * Assist attorneys with all aspects of California trust administration and probate, from the initial administration through final distribution and closing. * Prepare probate petitions, notices, inventories, accountings, and other court filings under attorney supervision. * Manage trust administration deadlines, beneficiary notifications, and statutory requirements under California law. * Proactively monitor assigned matters, anticipate upcoming tasks, and ensure that files continue moving forward without unnecessary delays. * Gather, review, and organize financial records, investment statements, real estate information, and other documentation necessary to administer trusts and estates. * Prepare correspondence, deeds, beneficiary receipts, distribution documents, and other trust and estate administration documents. * Communicate with financial institutions, title companies, CPAs, investment advisors, beneficiaries, and other professionals to facilitate asset collection, valuation, transfers, and distributions. * Assist in gathering and organizing documentation for estate tax returns (Form 706), fiduciary income tax returns (Form 1041), and related tax reporting, in coordination with attorneys and tax professionals. * Maintain accurate and organized electronic files, calendars, deadlines, and task lists. * Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, providing regular updates, answering procedural questions, and requesting necessary documents, while appropriately referring legal questions to the attorneys. * Collaborate with other team members, share knowledge, and contribute to improving our firm's trust administration and probate procedures. **Required Qualifications** * **At least two years of hands-on experience in California trust administration and/or probate**, with a strong preference for candidates experienced in both. * Practical knowledge of California trust administration procedures, Probate Code requirements, and probate court processes. * Experience preparing trust administration documents, beneficiary notices, court filings, and related correspondence. * Ability to independently organize and manage multiple active matters while working under attorney supervision. * Strong understanding of financial documents, trust assets, real estate transactions, and asset distribution procedures. * Exceptional attention to detail and the ability to identify potential problems before they become larger issues. * Excellent written and verbal communication skills. * Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize competing deadlines. * Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with Clio or similar legal practice management software is a plus. **The Person We Are Looking For** Technical experience matters, but so does attitude. We are looking for someone who: * **Takes ownership:** You don't simply wait to be told what to do next. You know how to keep matters moving and follow through until tasks are completed. * **Pays attention to details:** You understand that even small errors can have significant consequences in trust and estate administration. * **Is resourceful:** You are comfortable working independently, but you also know when to ask questions rather than make assumptions. * **Loves organization:** You enjoy managing deadlines, organizing information, and bringing order to complicated matters. * **Communicates well:** You are comfortable speaking with clients, beneficiaries, and professionals, including when conversations are sensitive or challenging. * **Is a team player:** You are willing to help others, share what you know, and contribute to the success of the entire firm. * **Has a heart for service:** You recognize that behind every file is a person or family who deserves patience, respect, and thoughtful attention. **Why Join Our Team?** We are a busy, established law firm with a wonderful team of people who work hard, support one another, and genuinely enjoy what we do. We take our work seriously, but we also believe that **how we treat one another matters just as much as how we treat our clients.** We value initiative, professionalism, accountability, and teamwork. We want our employees to feel appreciated, supported, and proud of the work they do. This part-time opportunity offers the chance to use your experience in meaningful, challenging matters while becoming part of a firm that values both excellent legal work and personal relationships. **We work hard. We like each other. And we love our clients.** If you are looking for a position where your experience is valued, your contributions matter, and you can be part of a team that genuinely cares about one another, we would love to hear from you. **How to Apply** Please submit your resume and a cover letter describing your experience with California trust administration and probate matters. **We would also love for you to tell us a little about yourself beyond your professional experience. What are you passionate about outside of work?** We look forward to getting to know you! Pay: $35.00 - $50.00 per hour Expected hours: 24.0 – 30.0 per week Benefits: * Flexible schedule * Free parking * Paid sick time * Paid time off * Professional development assistance * Travel reimbursement Experience: * Trust Administration and Probate: 3 years (Required) Work Location: In person