Associate Attorney - Trust And Estate

Job Title: Associate Attorney - Trust And Estate

Job Overview:
A prominent law firm based in Buffalo, NY, is seeking a driven Associate Attorney with 1-3 years of experience focused on trusts and estates. The role offers a dynamic opportunity to work directly with experienced attorneys across estate planning, administration, and litigation matters. Candidates with prior involvement in Surrogate’s Court proceedings, whether contested or uncontested, will find this position particularly aligned with their skill set. This position allows for early client interaction and a clear path for professional development in a supportive legal environment.

Duties:

• Assist with drafting and implementing estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney

• Handle probate and estate administration procedures, ensuring compliance with New York State laws

• Participate in contested and uncontested Surrogate’s Court proceedings

• Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda, pleadings, and other court filings

• Collaborate with partners and team members to develop strategies for client matters

• Communicate with clients regarding planning objectives, asset structures, and fiduciary responsibilities

• Support business development and client relationship efforts as needed

Requirements:

• 1-3 years of relevant legal experience in trusts and estates

• Demonstrated experience or familiarity with Surrogate’s Court procedures

• Strong research, writing, and communication skills

• Ability to manage deadlines and multiple priorities in a fast-paced legal setting

• Motivated and self-directed with a commitment to client service and team collaboration

Education:

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

Certifications:

• Admission to practice law in New York State (required)

• Admission in additional jurisdictions is a plus

Skills:

• Proficient in trust and estate planning concepts

• Capable of handling both contested and uncontested estate matters

• Strong analytical and organizational abilities

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for client interaction

• Competency in legal research platforms and case management software

Job Location:

• Buffalo, NY

Benefits:

• Multiple medical plan options, including Highmark BCBS PPO/POS and HDHP/HSA-eligible plans

• Comprehensive dental coverag,e including orthodontics

• Vision insurance

• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

• Paid time off (PTO) encompasses vacation, sick leave, and personal days

• 401(k) with guaranteed safe harbor contributions and profit-sharing opportunities

• Company-paid life insurance and AD&D

• Short-term and long-term disability coverage

• Optional supplemental insurance plans (e.g., hospital, accident, specified disease)

• Mental health resources via Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Discounts on legal services for personal matters

This firm maintains offices in Buffalo and Albany, New York. This large firm has over sixty attorneys, and the firm's hiring philosophy is to hire attorneys with unique and nontraditional experience. The firm's basic practice areas are business law, finance, banking, and commercial real estate. These areas branch out and include mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property, securities, labor and employment, business litigation, medical malpractice defense, trusts, estate law, immigration, franchising, environment and energy law, private equity, and family businesses.