Trusts and Estates Paralegal

Cozen O’Connor is seeking a full-time Trust and Estate Administration Paralegal to support the Private Client, Trusts and Estates (“PCTE”) group in the Philadelphia office, on a 3/2 hybrid schedule.  

The PCTE group has unsurpassed experience in representing executors, trustees, and beneficiaries in the full range of trust and estate administration matters, from the settlement of estates, to tax return preparation and audits, to ongoing trust accounting and implementation. PCTE is looking for a dedicated paralegal to support its attorneys in taking a practical and personalized approach to serving clients.

The ideal candidate will have 5+ years’ experience, advanced knowledge of the administration of trusts and estates, the ability to manage confidential information with discretion, strong interpersonal skills to build a rapport with clients, and a desire to grow in the position. 

• Lead contact for personal representatives for estates and trusts, beneficiaries, financial advisors, and accountants. Work with financial advisors and others to maintain accurate financial records
• Manage day-to-day aspects of estate administration, coordinate probate of Wills and appointment of personal representatives; collect and value assets, arrange for payment of debts and expenses; prepare and file Federal and State estate and inheritance tax returns; coordinate with accountants for preparation of income and fiduciary returns; facilitate tax payments and distributions to beneficiaries; terminate estates; prepare and file fiduciary accountings, with moderate supervision by attorneys
• Prepare Federal gift tax returns
• Coordinate the delivery of certain family office services with our HomeBase team, Cozen O’Connor’s integrated family office, for a completely customized client experience

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a legal environment
• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion
• Strong interpersonal skills to build a rapport with team and clients
• Proven computer/technology skills in Microsoft Office Suite (including Excel) is a must and a familiarity with advanced accounting functions is required
• Familiarity with OneSource, the tax return preparation system currently being used, is preferred but not required
• Experience with Trustdesk preferred
• Detail oriented, able to work independently, and possess excellent organizational and written/oral communication skills
• Must have the motivation and skill to juggle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• A bachelor's degree and/or paralegal certificate required

The salary range for this role is $80,000 -$115,000 and represents the Firm’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be dependent upon a number of factors, including but not limited to, the candidate’s relevant experience, qualifications and location.