Paralegal-Trusts and Estates

Cozen O’Connor is seeking a full-time Trust and Estate Administration Paralegal to support the Private Client, Trusts and Estates (“PCTE”) group in the Philadelphia office.  

 

The PCTE group has unsurpassed experience in representing executors, trustees, and beneficiaries in the full range of trust and estate administration matters, from the settlement of estates, to tax return preparation and audits, to ongoing trust accounting and implementation. PCTE is looking for a dedicated paralegal to support its attorneys in taking a practical and personalized approach to serving clients. 

 

The ideal candidate will have 5+ years’ experience, advanced knowledge of the administration of trusts and estates, the ability to manage confidential information with discretion, strong interpersonal skills to build a rapport with clients, and a desire to grow in the position. 
 

• Lead contact for personal representatives for estates and trusts, beneficiaries, financial advisors, and accountants. Work with financial advisors and others to maintain accurate financial records.
• Manage day-to-day aspects of estate administration, coordinate probate of Wills and appointment of personal representatives; collect and value assets, arrange for payment of debts and expenses; prepare and file Federal and State estate and inheritance tax returns; coordinate with accountants for preparation of income and fiduciary returns; facilitate tax payments and distributions to beneficiaries; terminate estates; prepare and file fiduciary accountings, with moderate supervision by attorneys.
• Prepare Federal gift tax returns.
• Coordinate the delivery of certain family office services with our HomeBase team, Cozen O’Connor’s integrated family office, for a completely customized client experience.
   

• A minimum of 3 years of experience in a legal environment.
• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build a rapport with team and clients.
• Proven computer/technology skills.in Microsoft Office Suite (including Excel) is a must and a familiarity with advanced accounting functions is required.  
• Familiarity with OneSource, the tax return preparation system currently being used, is preferred but not required.  
• Experience with Turstdesk preferred.
• Detail oriented, able to work independently, and possess excellent organizational and written/oral communication skills.
• Must have the motivation and skill to juggle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• A four-year college degree and/or paralegal certificate required.
  
   

Known for its commitment to action and tangible results, Cozen O'Connor has rapidly grown to become one of North America's fastest-growing law firms. Offering full-service expertise in litigation, business law, and government relations, the firm serves a diverse clientele, including global Fortune 500 companies, growing middle-market firms, startups, and high-profile individuals. Founded in 1970, Cozen O’Connor has over 825 attorneys practicing internationally in 31 cities across North America and Europe. The firm is consistently ranked among the top 100 law firms in America and has received recognition from prestigious legal and business organizations such as Chambers & Partners, The American Lawyer, The Legal 500, and Best Lawyers. Cozen O'Connor is dedicated to excellence and strives to achieve the right results for its clients, no matter how complex or critical the legal challenges may be.

Cozen O’Connor is committed to fostering greater inclusion in the legal profession. We understand the organizational effectiveness that comes from welcoming and valuing differences within the firm, and we know that assembling a team with a breadth of perspectives and experience is necessary to provide the highest quality legal service. We encourage candidates to apply and join us in this effort.

Cozen O'Connor actively welcomes applicants who have previously left the workforce and are looking to return to their careers. Gaps in experience are not penalized. Cozen O’Connor is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.