ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Estate Planning Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Direct Counsel

Trusts and Estates Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$160K - $230K/yr

Estate planning * Trust & estate administration * Probate (litigation experience is a plus ... associates are trusted with meaningful responsibility, client contact, and long-term growth ...

Apply Early

FarrLaw Firm

Estate Planning Paralegal

Punta Gorda, FL · On-site

Bachelor's or Associate's degree helpful but not required About Farr Law Firm For more than 100 ... Farr Law Firm is growing, and we're looking for a motivated Estate Planning Paralegal to join our ...

Beacon Legacy Law

Estate Planning Attorney

Palm City, FL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Description An Estate Planning and Probate Law Firm in beautiful Martin County, FL, is hiring an Associate Attorney. Our mission is to help people preserve and protect their legacy , and we are ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEstate Planning Associate Jobs

Estate Planning Associate information

See salary details

$38.5K

$78.3K

$108K

How much do estate planning associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for estate planning associate in the United States is $78,283.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Estate Planning Associates?

Estate Planning Associates are legal professionals who assist clients with organizing their assets and preparing legal documents, such as wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, to ensure their wishes are carried out after death or in the event of incapacity. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced estate planning attorneys and help research, draft documents, and communicate with clients. Their role is essential in helping individuals and families protect their wealth and provide for their loved ones.

What are some typical challenges faced by Estate Planning Associates when working with clients?

Estate Planning Associates frequently encounter the challenge of translating complex legal and tax concepts into clear, actionable strategies for clients from diverse backgrounds. They must balance sensitive family dynamics and confidentiality concerns while ensuring that all documentation accurately reflects the client's wishes. Additionally, staying current with changing laws and regulations is crucial for providing compliant and effective advice. Collaboration with senior attorneys, financial advisors, and clients' family members is often necessary to create robust, comprehensive estate plans.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Estate Planning Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Estate Planning Associate, you need a law degree, bar admission, and a solid understanding of trusts, wills, tax law, and probate procedures. Familiarity with legal research platforms (like Westlaw or LexisNexis) and document drafting software is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, discretion, and attention to detail help build client trust and manage sensitive financial information. These competencies ensure accurate, compliant estate plans and foster long-term client relationships.
What cities are hiring for Estate Planning Associate jobs? Cities with the most Estate Planning Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Estate Planning jobs? The most popular types of Estate Planning jobs are:
What states have the most Estate Planning Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Estate Planning Associate jobs include:
Estate Planning Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Estate Planning Associate job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,283 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Trusts and Estates Associate

Direct Counsel

Chicago, IL • On-site

$160K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Trusts & Estates / Tax Planning Associate – Chicago

5–10 Years | High-Level Planning, Structuring & Administration

Direct Counsel is partnering with a growing, full-service law firm to add a senior-level Associate to its Tax, Benefits & Estate Planning Group in Chicago. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced trusts and estates attorney who enjoys sophisticated planning work and wants to play a meaningful role in a collaborative, expanding practice.

About the Practice

This group advises a broad and sophisticated client base, providing tax planning and business structuring services for:

  • High-net-worth individuals and families

  • Public and private corporations

  • Pass-through entities

  • Trusts and estates

The work is intellectually rigorous and varied—ideal for attorneys who enjoy combining technical depth with practical, client-focused solutions.

What You’ll Do

  • Draft and implement comprehensive estate plans

  • Advise on trust and estate administration, including probate matters

  • Handle or support probate litigation, as needed

  • Provide tax-efficient planning and structuring advice for individuals and closely held businesses

  • Work directly with clients and collaborate closely with partners and team members

Who They’re Looking For

  • 5–10 years of experience in:

    • Estate planning

    • Trust & estate administration

    • Probate (litigation experience is a plus)

  • Active Illinois Bar admission

  • Strong drafting and writing skills with excellent academic credentials

  • LL.M. in Taxation or Estate Planning strongly preferred

  • A collaborative mindset and comfort handling matters with a high degree of independence

Compensation & Benefits

  • Base Salary Range: $160,000 – $230,000

  • Bonus Potential: Up to $106,000

  • Competitive bonus structure

  • Unlimited PTO

  • 401(k)

  • Full benefits package

Why This Role Stands Out

This is a rare chance to join a growing estate planning practice where senior associates are trusted with meaningful responsibility, client contact, and long-term growth opportunities—without sacrificing work-life balance or collegiality.


About Direct Counsel

Direct Counsel partners with leading law firms and in-house legal departments nationwide to connect talented attorneys with outstanding opportunities. We take pride in matching professionals with roles that align with their expertise, values, and long-term career goals.

Apply confidentially by sending your resume to sagan@directcounsel.net