Estate Planning Associate

Job Overview

A distinguished law firm is seeking an experienced Estate Planning Associate Attorney to join its growing Private Wealth Planning practice. This opportunity is ideal for attorneys with at least three years of experience handling estate planning, probate, and trust administration matters. The role involves working on complex legal strategies, collaborating with nationally recognized practitioners, and participating in a mentorship-driven, inclusive firm culture. Candidates should be committed to excellence, integrity, and personal and professional development.

Location

• Washington, D.C.

Duties

• Draft wills, revocable living trusts, property agreements, and advanced estate planning instruments, including:

  • Irrevocable trusts

  • Charitable trusts

  • Grantor trusts

  • Insurance trusts

  • Family limited partnerships

  • Limited liability companies

  • Durable powers of attorney (financial and healthcare)

• Advise clients on multi-generational wealth transfer and estate tax minimization strategies

• Provide counsel to business owners regarding entity formation, succession planning, and buy/sell agreements

• Represent trustees, executors, and beneficiaries in trust and estate administration matters

• Assist with probate and post-mortem trust administration

• Prepare and review estate and gift tax returns

• Address disputes between beneficiaries and fiduciaries when necessary

• Collaborate with attorneys across offices on complex planning strategies

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in estate planning, trust administration, and probate

• Proven ability to manage sophisticated matters with minimal supervision

• Strong interpersonal skills and experience in client-facing roles

• Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively across offices

• Licensed to practice law in the District of Columbia (required)

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited U.S. law school

• LL.M. in Taxation or Estate Planning is a plus, but not required

Certifications

• Active bar membership in the District of Columbia (required)

• Additional bar admissions a plus, particularly in neighboring jurisdictions

Skills

• Advanced knowledge of estate planning structures and federal estate/gift tax laws

• Strong drafting and analytical skills

• Ability to explain complex legal concepts to clients in a clear and approachable manner

• Excellent research and written communication abilities

• Strong attention to detail and project management capabilities

• Team-oriented with a growth mindset

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan with firm contributions

• Profit-sharing program

• Health insurance

• Dental and vision insurance

• Life and disability insurance

• Paid holidays and leave

• Opportunities for mentorship and career advancement within a nationally recognized practice group