Cona Elder Law · 2 days ago
Estate Litigation Senior Counsel
Melville, NY
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
7+ years expCona Elder Law is a respected elder law firm dedicated to serving the legal and financial needs of older adults and their families. They are seeking an accomplished Senior Counsel – Estate Litigation Attorney to lead complex probate litigation matters in Surrogate’s Court, representing fiduciaries, beneficiaries, and disinherited heirs in contested estate proceedings. The role involves advising clients, managing litigation strategy, and mentoring junior team members in high-stakes estate disputes.
ConsultingLaw EnforcementLegal
Hiring Manager
Courtney Grafstein, MS-HRM, SHRM-CP
Responsibilities
Represent clients in contested probate and administration proceedings in Surrogate’s Court
Litigate disputes involving will contests, undue influence, lack of capacity, fiduciary misconduct, constructive trust and accounting proceedings
Navigate complex asset distributions, including those involving business interests, real estate, and international assets
Advise clients on New York estate tax exposure, valuation issues, and strategies to minimize liability during litigation
Draft and argue motions, petitions, and legal memoranda; conduct depositions and handle discovery
Participate in court conferences, settlement negotiations, and mediations
Collaborate with estate planning attorneys, tax professionals, and forensic accountants
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of EPTL, SCPA, and related statutes and case law
Provide mentorship and oversight to associates and litigation support staff
Develop client relationships built on trust, discretion, and results
Qualification
Required
J.D. from an accredited law school
Admission to the New York Bar (required)
7+ years of litigation experience with a strong emphasis on estate, probate, or fiduciary disputes
Proven success handling complex and high-net-worth contested estate matters
In-depth knowledge of New York Surrogate's Court procedures, the EPTL, and the SCPA
Familiarity with estate and gift tax laws and their application in contested matters
Exceptional written and oral advocacy skills
Strong negotiation, case strategy, and client counseling abilities
Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative legal team
Preferred
Representation of executors, trustees, guardians, and beneficiaries in disputed matters
Experience with multi-jurisdictional estates
Prior appearances in New York County, Kings County, Queens County, Westchester, and other Surrogate's Courts
Exposure to elder law issues, guardianship litigation, or closely held business disputes within estates
Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance.
401(k) plan with firm match.
Generous paid time off and holidays.
CLE, bar dues, and professional development covered.
State-of-the-art gym with complimentary membership.
Interior Pickle Ball and Basketball Courts with on-site locker rooms and showers.
Interior Golf Center with simulator and putting green.
On-site Restaurant & Dining Area on lower level with Foosball and Shuffleboard Tables.
In-office Zen Room, for relaxing quiet time.
Charitable events and opportunities for community involvement.
Social events fostering a positive, engaging work environment.
Superb Firm Culture, a collaborative work environment, company outings, kitchen snacks, fresh fruit, coffee.
Centrally located, modern office buildings, beautiful contemporary offices, ample parking, convenient headquarters in Melville, Long Island.
Company
Cona Elder Law
Cona Elder Law is a law firm that provides legal services for elder law, estate planning, administration, litigation, and health care law.
11-50 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageLeadership Team
Jennifer B. Cona
Founder and Managing Partner
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