Estate Planning and/or Probate paralegal

Job Title: Estate Planning and Probate Paralegal

Location: Santa Fe, Albuquerque, or remote

Job Type: Full-time

Reports To: Managing Attorneys

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented paralegal to focus on Estate Planning and/or Probate Paralegal to join our small, client-focused law firm. The ideal candidate will be responsible for supporting attorneys in all aspects of estate planning and probate matters, ensuring accurate and timely document preparation, client communication, court filings, and case management.

Key Responsibilities:

Estate Planning:

• Draft estate planning documents including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance directives, and related documents under attorney supervision.
• Assist in gathering and organizing client information through intake interviews and questionnaires.
• Maintain and update estate planning templates and checklists.
• Coordinate document signings, witness arrangements, and notary services.
• Prepare final binders and electronic files for clients.
• Maintain confidentiality and sensitivity when dealing with personal client matters.

Probate & Trust Administration:

• Prepare and file probate petitions and related court documents.
• Draft notices, inventories, accountings, and final reports for probate and trust administrations.
• Assist in managing timelines and court deadlines.
• Communicate with clients, beneficiaries, courts, and financial institutions.
• Help marshal and inventory assets, and coordinate appraisals when needed.
• Track and process creditor claims and distributions.

Qualifications:

• Education: Paralegal certificate or equivalent experience required.
• Experience: Minimum 2–3 years in estate planning or probate law preferred, but other experience will be considered.
• Familiarity with New Mexico probate procedures. 
• Strong drafting, proofreading, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in legal software (e.g., Clio, Microsoft Office Suite).
• Ability to manage multiple files and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Discretion and professionalism in handling sensitive information.

Preferred Traits:

• Compassionate and client-focused.
• Self-starter with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Comfortable working in a small office setting and wearing multiple hats.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Health benefits.
• 401(k) with matching.
• Revenue based bonuses.
• Opportunities for continuing legal education (CLE).
• Supportive and flexible work environment.