Woods Rogers · 1 week ago
Trusts & Estates Attorney
Norfolk, VA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
5+ years expWoods Rogers is seeking a Trusts and Estates Attorney to join its dynamic team in Norfolk, VA. The role involves advising clients on estate planning, asset protection, probate, and trust administration, including drafting legal documents and providing counsel on tax implications and family dynamics.
Consulting
Responsibilities
Draft and review wills, trusts (revocable and irrevocable), durable powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and other estate planning documents
Tailor estate plans to address specific client needs, including asset protection, family governance, and charitable giving
Guide clients through the administration of trusts, including the selection and duties of trustees, managing trust assets and distributing assets to beneficiaries
Assist in the preparation of trust accountings and other necessary documentation
Coordinate with accountants for the timely and efficient filing of all tax returns
Advise clients on estate planning strategies to minimize taxes, avoid probate, and ensure proper asset distribution
Advise trustees on fiduciary duties and compliance with trust terms
Represent clients in probate proceedings, including the appointment of personal representatives, and facilitate the probate process in accordance with state laws
Prepare and file necessary documents with probate courts and Commissioner of Accounts’ offices and assist with any litigation related to estate disputes
Help clients navigate the distribution of assets according to a decedent’s will or trust, ensuring all legal and tax requirements are met
Advise clients on the tax benefits of charitable giving, including maximizing deductions and ensuring compliance with IRS regulations
Provide counsel on strategies, including bequests, drafting charitable trusts, and foundations
Handle or support litigation relating to trusts and estates, including contested wills, trust disputes, and claims of breach of fiduciary duty
Stay current on changes in laws, regulations, and trends affecting trusts and estates, including state-specific probate laws and federal tax policy
All other duties and responsibilities as assigned
Qualification
Required
Juris Doctor (JD) degree
Admission to the state bar of Virginia
Minimum of five (5) years of experience in trust and estate planning, trust administration, probate law, or related fields
Familiarity with closely held business entities such as limited liability companies and S corporations
Strong knowledge of trust and estate law
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts in a clear, understandable manner
Proficiency in legal research and utilizing relevant software tools (e.g., Trust administration platforms, MS Office Suite, Westlaw, etc.)
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work well with clients and their family members, and other professionals such as financial advisors and accountants
Empathy and discretion when dealing with sensitive family and financial matters
A client-focused, solutions-oriented mindset
Preferred
Experience with complex estate planning (including business succession, tax-efficient planning, and charitable planning)
Benefits
Medical Insurance
Paid Time Off
401(k) + matching
Paid Holidays
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
Company
Woods Rogers
Woods Rogers is a Virginia-based law firm delivering uncommon service and solutions.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Adam Rafal
Partner
Anita Poston
partner
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