Paralegal - Personal Planning

Perkins Coie LLP’s nationally recognized Private Client Services group is seeking a highly motivated Probate Paralegal to join our team. The Paralegal will, under supervision, assist lawyers with drafting court probate documents, estate inventories, estate and gift tax returns and correspondence with clients. The Paralegal will also assist clients in understanding the probate processes.

In addition, as a member of the Perkins Coie LLP professional support staff team, this position is responsible for promoting and maintaining the goodwill and reputation of the firm. In this capacity, the Paralegal is expected to maintain the highest level of professional conduct and confidentiality.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

These essential functions are primary job duties that incumbents must be able to perform unassisted or with some reasonable accommodation.

• Maintains positive contact with clients and observes confidentiality of client matters.
• Coordinates and attends client conferences and assists attorneys in preparing for client meetings.
• Administers allocation of assets and trust funding and coordinates asset transfers. 
• Maintains current knowledge of Washington probate proceedings.
• Maintains a positive attitude and provides excellent client service. 
• Prepares federal and state estate tax returns and federal gift tax returns. 
• Manages intestate and insolvent estates. 
• Prepares estate and gift tax calculations and projections.
• Conducts evaluation of assets and prepares estate inventories.
• Performs other duties, as assigned.
• Keeps accurate time records. 
• Is present at work during regularly scheduled working hours and as needed in the position, consistent with the Firm’s attendance expectations.

SPECIFIC SKILLS REQUIRED

• Ability to express oneself effectively, both verbally and in writing and analyze and organize data for presentation to clients.
• Independently prioritize and organize workflow and possess a strong attention to detail.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks, and concurrent deadlines and to communicate the status of projects.
• Ability to work independently upon receiving assignments.
• Have a strong work ethic, be a self-starter, and operate with a strong initiative to meet billable requirements.
• Possess a client-focused approach to work and the ability to handle multiple tasks and concurrent deadlines efficiently.
• Work directly with clients and other professionals outside the Firm. 
• Experience with sophisticated and technical probate issues.

SPECIFIC SKILLS PREFERRED

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Works well under pressure and has the flexibility to assist teams in meeting client demands on accelerated schedules.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with firm lawyers and staff, client personnel and other professionals.
• Ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment.
• Knowledge of Oregon probate procedures.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree and at least 3 years of recent experience in probate and trust administration in a law firm preferred.
• Recent experience with tax preparation software.
• Paralegal Certificate preferred.

At Perkins Coie, we look for self-motivated individuals dedicated to providing value and superior service and who have a high degree of integrity and enthusiasm for their work. We have created a company culture based on collaboration, devotion to serving our clients, and mutual respect. Perkins Coie is committed to advancing diversity and inclusion both within the firm and throughout our collective communities. Work with one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For and receive great health insurance, tuition reimbursement, and paid sabbaticals. 

This position is eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, 401(k) plan, medical, dental, and vision insurance, accrued paid time off plan starting at 20 days annually, personal medical and parental leave, up to 10 paid holidays, and family care benefits. More information regarding benefits and programs may be found here. 

This position may be filled in the following location(s). The compensation depends on qualifications and experience. 

Washington state compensation range: $59,820 to $107,680 annually

#LI-Hybrid