Trust and Estates Attorney

Trusts & Estates Litigation Attorney (Probate Litigation)
Direct Hire On-site Los Angeles, CA

Overview

A well-established law firm is seeking an entry-to-mid-level attorney to join its Trusts & Estates Litigation practice. This role focuses on contested probate and trust matters, including will and trust disputes, fiduciary litigation, and conservatorship proceedings. The ideal candidate is a motivated litigator with strong research, writing, and advocacy skills who is eager to develop a courtroom and case-management practice within a collaborative team.

Responsibilities

• Handle contested probate, trust, and estate matters, including will and trust contests, breach of fiduciary duty claims, accountings disputes, and conservatorship/guardianship proceedings.
• Draft pleadings, motions, discovery, briefs, and other litigation documents.
• Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda on probate, trust, and fiduciary law issues.
• Manage discovery, including propounding and responding to written discovery and assisting with depositions.
• Prepare for and attend hearings, mediations, settlement conferences, and trials.
• Communicate with clients, opposing counsel, courts, and third parties professionally and effectively.
• Assist in developing case strategy and managing matters through resolution.
• Maintain accurate case files, deadlines, and calendaring in compliance with firm procedures.

Required Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with the California State Bar.
• Approximately 1-5 years of litigation experience; probate, trust, or estate litigation experience strongly preferred.
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Solid understanding of California civil procedure and litigation practice.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with the California Probate Code and probate court procedures.
• Familiarity with conservatorship and trust administration disputes.
• Experience managing matters with minimal supervision.

Education & Experience

• J.D. required; active California bar admission required.
• 1-5 years of relevant litigation experience preferred; entry-level candidates with strong litigation fundamentals or relevant clerkship/internship experience will be considered.