JKZ LLP · 11 hours ago
Senior Attorney - Trusts & Estates
San Diego, CA
Full-time
Hybrid
Senior Level
5+ years expJKZ LLP is a law firm specializing in trusts and estates, and they are seeking a Senior Attorney to independently manage estate planning and probate matters. The role involves providing legal guidance, supervising staff, and ensuring compliance with legal standards while serving as a strategic advisor to clients.
Law Practice
Responsibilities
Draft and review wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance healthcare directives, and related estate planning documents, tax analysis and compliance
Prepare and supervise probate petitions, trust administration pleadings, fiduciary accountings, objections, and settlement agreements
Draft and review persuasive briefs, declarations, and supporting filings in contested probate and trust litigation matters
Represent clients in probate court hearings, mediations, settlement conferences, and trust or estate trials
Prepare and review federal gift and estate tax returns, including Forms 706 and 709, ensuring accuracy and compliance
Manage a diverse trusts and estates caseload, including estate planning, probate, trust administration, and fiduciary disputes
Develop case strategies and timelines, identifying legal, financial, and tax issues impacting asset distribution, fiduciary duties, and beneficiary rights
Supervise and coordinate the work of paralegals and support staff by assigning tasks, setting priorities, monitoring workloads, and ensuring timely completion
Review staff work product for accuracy, consistency, and adherence to firm standards
Track deadlines, filings, notices, and court requirements to ensure full compliance with statutory and procedural rules
Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, advising on estate planning strategies, probate and trust administration processes, and dispute resolution options
Communicate complex legal and tax concepts in a clear, practical, and client-focused manner
Review and interpret asset inventories, fiduciary accountings, tax documents, and financial records in coordination with staff
Maintain professional, compassionate communication with clients, beneficiaries, trustees, and personal representatives, particularly in emotionally sensitive matters
Conduct and oversee legal research on trusts and estates statutes, tax regulations, case law, and local probate court procedures
Analyze financial data including asset valuations, trust accountings, estate expenses, and tax filings
Identify tax implications and coordinate with accountants, financial advisors, and other professionals as needed
Prepare and review legal memoranda and strategic recommendations to guide case direction and client decision-making
Appear in probate court for petitions, accountings, contested hearings, and trials
Lead and participate in settlement negotiations and mediations involving trust and estate disputes
Present evidence, examine and cross-examine witnesses, and argue motions in contested matters
Draft, review, and negotiate settlement agreements, stipulations, and court orders resolving probate and trust issues
Provide mentorship, training, and ongoing feedback to Associates and staff to support skill development and professional growth
Participate in at least eight (8) professional or business development activities (4 of which can be attendance) annually (beyond mandatory MCLE)
Demonstrate leadership in promoting a positive workplace culture aligned with firm values
Meet or exceed annual billable hour requirements
Consistent billing realization 95% or higher
Consistent collections realization of 90% or higher
Contribute to firm growth through annual origination of at least $500,000 in new business
Qualification
Required
Active Member of the State Bar of California
Minimum 5–10 years recent experience in trusts & estates practice area
Excellent critical thinking, judgment, analytical reasoning, attention to detail, and high-level cognitive functioning
Ability to remain composed, strategic, and solution-oriented in high-pressure or emotionally charged situations
Prolonged periods of sitting, reading, and working at a computer
Occasional lifting of files or materials up to 15 pounds
Occasional travel to court, client meetings, or other legal proceedings
Work is performed in a professional office environment
Demonstrates advanced legal research, writing, analytical, and strategic problem-solving skills across complex matters
Exhibits strong professional judgment, reliability, and accountability with respect to work product, deadlines, and case milestones
Maintains discretion and professionalism when handling sensitive client information and confidential firm matters
Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and modern law firm practice management software
Excellent command of English, including grammar, usage, form, and style
Preferred
Experience with NumberCruncher and law firm client management software preferred
Preferably holds an advanced law degree, specialization, or approved certification in practice area
Prior experience supervising or mentoring Associate Attorneys preferred
Company
JKZ LLP
At JKZ LLP, we believe that competent, dependable trust and estate representation requires expertise in estate planning, trust administration, probate, and the formation of business entities.
11-50 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageLeadership Team
Deb Kinney
Of Counsel / Founding Partner
John Rueppel
Partner
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