Mid-to Senior-level Private Client, Trusts, and Estates Attorney

Washington, D.C. office of a BCG Attorney Search Top Ranked Law Firm seeks a mid-to senior-level private client, trusts, and estates attorney with 7+ years of experience. The candidate will handle all aspects of estate and trust administration and assist with estate planning matters, specifically relating to DC, MD, and VA. Prepare estate tax returns, gift tax returns, and fiduciary income tax returns. Maintain books and records for estates and trusts. Assist with asset valuations (as of the date of death and alternate valuation date). Verify bank balances and prepare inventory and appraisement. Coordinate and manage post-death administration of trusts and estates. Maintain estate bank accounts and investments. Prepare and file probate forms and manage dockets. Appear in probate court in routine probate matters. Prepare fiduciary accountings; organize assets; coordinate trust funding; marshal assets; prepare real property deeds and related documents. Prepare annual trust accountings. Prepare schedules for asset distribution and trust funding, and coordinate the distributions on termination of trusts. Determine the documentation necessary to effect the sale or transfer of probate and non-probate assets, including real estate, securities, bank accounts, partnership and LLC interests, corporate stock, promissory notes, mortgages, automobiles, and recreational vehicles. Obtain federal and state tax clearance to release any tax liabilities. Coordinate the transfer of assets into trusts, including bank accounts, stock transfers, partnership and LLC transfers, and real estate deeds. Prepare financial/computation spreadsheets. The ability to draft routine estate planning documents, such as wills, revocable trusts, and powers of attorney, is appreciated. Strong knowledge of gift and estate tax, generation-skipping transfer tax, and fiduciary income tax principles is a priority. Proficiency in a tax preparation program such as GEMS, Wolters Kluwer, and CCH Axcess is required, along with proficiency with Windows-based software, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. Should be licensed and in good standing in DC, MD, or VA. Must have the ability to work in an organized, efficient manner under minimal supervision, deal directly with clients in an effective manner, and take a proactive approach to being team-oriented.

This large DC firm is known as a place that offers a broad and sophisticated practice, while also being very family friendly. Although salaries are slightly less than competitor firms as associates become more senior, this is reflected in the lower billable hour requirement, which seems to be welcomed by associates that seem to value a more balanced work and personal life. We hear that associates are treated with respect, the culture is exceptionally diverse and progressive, and pro bono work is valued beyond mere lip service.