Trusts & Estates Associate

Des Moines, IA
Full Time
DB Law
Mid Level
About DUGGAN BERTSCH:
DUGGAN BERTSCH is a full-service law firm that specializes in the needs of the Private Client. Our clients include ultra-high net worth and new wealth individuals (business owners, athletes, and entertainers). Our practice areas include trusts & estates, corporate, litigation, real estate, sports & entertainment, tax, healthcare and a stand-alone tax and accounting firm. We are a group of talented entrepreneurial legal professionals who care about culture and have a multi-state presence.

Job Summary:
The role of the Trusts & Estates, Associate will assist clients with estate planning, trust administration, probate matters, and related legal services. You will work closely with senior attorneys to provide exceptional legal guidance and support to individuals, families, and fiduciaries in managing their estate and wealth.

Responsibilities:
  • Assist in drafting estate planning documents such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives.
  • Provide legal advice to clients on estate planning strategies, tax implications, and asset protection.
  • Assist with probate administration, including filing petitions, preparing inventories, and resolving disputes among beneficiaries or heirs.
  • Support senior attorneys in the administration of trusts, including the preparation of trust accounting and compliance with fiduciary duties.
  • Conduct legal research and draft memoranda on various trusts, estates, and tax-related issues.
  • Participate in meetings with clients and assist in the development of estate plans that align with their goals.
  • Prepare and review documents related to estate and trust administration, including tax returns, deeds, and other filings.
  • Assist in resolving conflicts involving estate or trust disputes, working toward a resolution in collaboration with senior attorneys and clients.
  • Stay up to date on relevant changes in estate planning laws, tax laws, and probate procedures.
  • Manage deadlines, organize case files, and communicate regularly with clients to provide updates on case progress.

Qualifications:
  • Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
  • Licensed to practice law in Iowa.
  • 2-15 years of experience in trusts and estates law, including estate planning, probate administration, or fiduciary law (internships and clerkships may count towards experience).
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts in clear, understandable terms.
  • Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
  • Proficiency in legal research tools and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • A team-oriented mindset with a strong work ethic and the ability to work independently when necessary.

Preferred Skills:
  • LLM in Taxation or Estate Planning (or in progress)

Benefits:
Competitive salary and benefits package.
Opportunity to work in a dynamic and sophisticated legal practice.
Positive and collaborative work environment.

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