Senior Paralegal

Job Description: Senior Paralegal/Probate Paralegal

Position Title: Senior Paralegal

Department: Estate Planning and Probate

Reports To: Managing Attorney

Location: Lee’s Summit

Job Type: Full-Time

Purpose: The Senior Paralegal plays a critical role in managing complex legal tasks, supporting attorneys, and overseeing the work of junior paralegals. This position requires extensive experience in estate planning, trust administration, and probate law, strong organizational skills, and the ability to handle sensitive client matters with professionalism.

Client Benefit: By managing the intricacies of estate planning, trust administration, and probate cases, the Senior Paralegal ensures that clients receive accurate, timely, and thorough legal services, helping them navigate complex legal processes with confidence and ease.

Primary Responsibilities

Advanced Document Preparation and Review:

• Prepare and manage probate documents, including petitions, accountings, and court filings, ensuring compliance with state and local regulations.
• Prepare and manage trust administration documents, including beneficiary letters, final accountings, and receipt and release forms.
• Oversee the preparation and execution of client documents, coordinating signing appointments and ensuring all documents are properly witnessed and notarized.
  
  

Case Management

• Manage a high volume of probate and trust administration cases, tracking deadlines, court dates, and required actions to ensure timely completion.
• Maintain detailed and organized client files, both physical and electronic, ensuring that all relevant documents are filed correctly and easily accessible.
• Coordinate with attorneys to develop case strategies and assist in the preparation for client meetings, court appearances, and hearings.
  
  

Client Interaction

• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, providing updates on case status, answering questions, and addressing concerns.
• Conduct client interviews to gather information for trust administration and probate cases, ensuring all necessary details are documented accurately.
• Assist clients in navigating the probate and trust administration process, explaining legal procedures, and guiding them through the required steps.
  
  

Research And Analysis

• Conduct in-depth legal research on trust administration and probate issues, including changes in laws and regulations that may impact client cases.
• Analyze complex legal documents and financial information to identify potential issues and recommend solutions to attorneys.
• Stay current on industry trends and legal developments related to trust administration and probate law.
  
  

Supervision And Mentorship

• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior paralegals and administrative staff, overseeing their work and ensuring high standards of accuracy and efficiency.
• Assist in training new paralegals and support staff on firm procedures, legal software, and best practices in estate planning, trust administration, and probate law.
• Review and provide feedback on the work of junior staff, helping them develop their skills and knowledge.
  
  

Technology And Software Management

• Utilize legal practice management software (e.g., MyCase) for document management, case tracking, and billing.
• Maintain proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Word, Excel, and other relevant software tools.
• Assist in the implementation and optimization of new legal technology and software within the firm.
  
  

Compliance And Recordkeeping

• Ensure compliance with all legal and ethical standards related to estate planning, trust administration, and probate practices.
• Manage and oversee the administration of client trust accounts, ensuring all financial transactions are accurately recorded and reported.
• Maintain and update internal processes and procedures to ensure the firm’s compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
  
  

Required Skills And Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 7-10 years of experience as a paralegal. Experience in estate planning, trust administration, and probate law is preferred.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree or paralegal certification from an accredited program is required. An advanced degree or certification (e.g., Certified Paralegal, Probate Certification) is preferred.
• Skills:
• Expert knowledge of estate planning and probate laws, procedures, and document preparation.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to handle complex and sensitive client matters with discretion and professionalism.
• Proficiency in legal research, document drafting, and case management.
• Leadership and mentorship abilities, with experience overseeing junior staff.
  
  

Work Environment: This role is primarily performed in an office setting. The position may require occasional overtime to meet client needs or legal deadlines, particularly during busy periods.

Note: This job description provides a general overview of the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Senior Paralegal position. Duties may evolve over time to meet the needs of the firm.