Senior Trusts and Estates Associate

Job Overview
A highly regarded law firm is seeking a Senior Associate Attorney to join its Trusts & Estates Practice Group in one of its Southeast Michigan offices. This role involves working closely with high-net-worth individuals and families to develop sophisticated estate plans, advise on tax strategies, manage probate and trust administration matters, and handle sensitive succession planning issues. The position offers significant opportunities for client interaction, legal strategy development, and long-term practice growth in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Location

• Sterling Heights, MI

Duties

• Design and implement customized estate plans tailored to client goals

• Advise on the tax implications of estate plans and minimize liabilities through strategic planning

• Handle probate processes, including court filings, asset valuation, and distributions

• Administer trusts in accordance with legal standards and client documentation

• Assist with succession planning, fiduciary accounting, and resolving will and trust contests

• Draft and review complex legal documents including CRUTs, SLATs, GRATs, FLPs, QPRTs, IDGTs, ILITs, and family settlement agreements

• Prepare estate and gift tax filings and provide guidance on compliance

• Maintain confidentiality while managing sensitive client information

Requirements

• Minimum of 5–8 years of experience in estate planning, trust and estate administration, and related tax and corporate matters

• Background in working with high-net-worth individuals and families

• Experience with complex wealth transfer strategies and succession planning

• Ability to build and maintain client relationships and contribute to business development efforts

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school

Certifications

• Active license to practice law in the State of Michigan, in good standing

Skills

• Deep understanding of estate, trust, probate, and tax law

• High-level drafting skills for legally complex estate documents

• Excellent interpersonal communication with clients, professionals, and colleagues

• Ability to simplify complex legal concepts for clients

• Strong problem-solving and analytical capabilities

• Detail-oriented and professional in managing sensitive and confidential matters

Benefits

• Competitive compensation based on experience

• Comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Professional development and mentorship opportunities

• Hybrid work flexibility

• Team-based compensation model promoting collaboration

• Supportive and inclusive workplace culture focused on:

  • Work-life balance

  • Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives

  • Community engagement and volunteer opportunities

The law firm has eighty-one years of legal expertise. They're a Michigan based legal practice with an AV rating and a prominent law publication recognition. There are over two-hundred results-driven attorneys employed at the law practice. Disciplines are significant such as advertising-marketing law, business-corporate law, international services and litigation-dispute resolution. A few of their varied practice industries include automobile, concierge medicine, construction and financial services. The firm embraces diversity in the workplace.