Trusts & Estates Paralegal

Proactive Solutions HR

Chicago, IL

Full-Time

Job Description

Chicago Loop Firm is seeking a Trust & Estates Paralegal

We are growing and excited to add a new experienced Paralegal who will bring value and enthusiasm to a fun team! We help manage the complex trust and estate administration for our high net wealth clientele.

Estate Administration

Obtains the will and drafts necessary documents to file will with probate court.
Evaluates assets (as of date of death and alternate valuation date); verifies bank balances and prepares inventory and appraisement.
Maintains estate bank accounts and investments. Corresponds with dividend disbursing agents
Determines the documentation necessary to effect sale or transfer of probate and non-probate assets including real estate, securities, bank accounts, other case earnings, promissory notes, mortgages, automobiles and recreational vehicles.
Prepares federal and state individual income, charitable organization informational, fiduciary income, federal and state estate tax returns and federal gift tax returns (and any other returns deemed necessary by supervising attorney).

Estate Planning

Contacts insurance companies and assists with transfer of ownership of policies and/or update beneficiary designations, including obtaining value of policies for gift tax preparation.
Prepares and conducts execution and recording of deeds and other necessary documents as needed in accordance with estate plans.

Trust Administration

Responsible for the identification and valuation of trust assets.
Coordinates the transfer of assets into trusts, including bank accounts, stock transfers and real estate deeds.
Reviews wills for creation and direction of testamentary trusts; reviews court orders for creation and direction of statutory trusts.
Drafts inventories, accounts and petitions for those trusts requiring adjudication.
Must possess a high level of professionalism and interpersonal skills so as to be able to work well with employees at all levels within the organization and maintain all information in the strictest of confidence. Required to use tact and diplomacy when dealing with others.

Requirements

Associate’s Degree (or higher) or a Paralegal Certification required.
Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
Substantial equivalent experience in Private Client will be considered in lieu of education.