Trusts & Estates Associate

Job Overview:
A well-regarded law firm is seeking a Trusts & Estates Associate to join its Buffalo office. This role involves a strong focus on estate and trust administration, fiduciary litigation, and exposure to estate planning matters. Ideal for attorneys with experience in trusts and estates or commercial litigation, this position offers meaningful client interaction, courtroom exposure, and opportunities for long-term career growth within a collaborative legal team.

Location:

• Buffalo, NY

Duties:

• Manage all aspects of estate and trust administration, including probate proceedings and fiduciary accountings

• Represent clients in Surrogate’s Court for contested matters such as will and trust disputes, accounting controversies, and fiduciary removal proceedings

• Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, discovery requests, and settlement agreements

• Assist with drafting estate planning documents, such as:

  • Wills

  • Powers of attorney

  • Health care proxies

  • Revocable living trusts

• Participate in client meetings and court appearances under supervision

• Support partners and senior attorneys in complex fiduciary litigation and transactional matters

Requirements:

• Minimum of 3 years of progressively responsible experience in trusts and estates or commercial litigation

• Demonstrated ability to manage fiduciary disputes or estate administration

• Strong attention to detail and a proactive work ethic

• Interest in building a career within the trusts and estates field

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative legal team

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school

Certifications:

• Licensed and in good standing to practice law in the State of New York

Skills:

• Excellent legal research, writing, and analytical skills

• Strong communication and client service capabilities

• Familiarity with Surrogate’s Court procedures and filings

• Ability to draft comprehensive legal documents and estate planning instruments

• Organizational skills to handle multiple active matters effectively

• Litigation experience and understanding of procedural rules is a plus

Benefits:

• Eligibility for performance- and merit-based bonuses

• Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement plans, etc.)

• Mentorship and training opportunities

• Hands-on experience in client-facing matters and court appearances

• Opportunity for professional growth within a respected trusts and estates practice

With offices in New York, Massachusetts, Washington, D.C., and Canada, this leading full-service law firm has a distinguished and long- standing reputation. Established in the mid-nineteenth century, the firm is comprised of a considerably large team of seasoned attorneys who deal with issues related to about 30 areas of law. The firm embraces diversity and provides quality service to its clients. The attorneys here participate in seminars throughout the year and contribute court case studies and rulings to their recurrent law review.