Trust & Estates / Probate Paralegal

Del Mar, California

Our Del Mar-based law firm is seeking a seasoned Trust & Estates / Probate Paralegal to join our growing team. This is a newly created position due to firm expansion and increased client demand. The ideal candidate will bring deep experience in probate, estate planning, and trust administration, along with a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.

We recently placed a paralegal earlier this summer who is thriving in the role, and we are looking to add another professional with a similar foundation of experience and engagement.

Position Overview

The Trust & Estates Paralegal will support attorneys in a broad range of matters, including estate planning, probate administration, trust administration, and related business and entity planning matters. This position is well-suited for a detail-oriented professional who is comfortable handling court filings, client communications, and complex estate documentation.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist attorneys with probate matters, estate planning, and trust administration
• Prepare, file, and manage court documents, including e-filing in California courts
• Draft and file real property documents, deeds, and related filings
• Support trust funding, trust administration, and distribution activities
• Prepare and coordinate Federal Estate Tax Returns (IRS Form 706) and other related IRS filings
• Maintain case calendars, deadlines, and correspondence
• Communicate professionally with clients, courts, financial institutions, and taxing authorities
• Maintain accurate and organized electronic and physical files
• Collaborate closely with attorneys and staff as a strong team player

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience as a Trust & Estates / Probate Paralegal
• ABA-approved Paralegal Certificate or formal paralegal attestation
• Demonstrated experience with:
  • Probate administration
  • Estate planning documents
  • Trust administration
  • Court filings and e-filing systems
  • Real property-related documents
• Experience handling Federal Estate Tax Returns (Form 706) and other IRS filings strongly preferred
• Background working in or alongside a CPA or accounting firm is a plus
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $70,000 - $100,000 (Dependent on Experience)
• Comprehensive benefits package, including:
  • Medical and dental insurance
  • 401(k) plan
  • Paid vacation and time off
• Stable, collegial work environment with long-term growth potential

Schedule

• Full-time position
• 40-hour work week
• 9:00 AM start time