Private Client Trusts & Estates Counsel

Job Overview:
A prestigious law firm is seeking an experienced Private Client Trusts & Estates Counsel to join its nationally recognized team in New York, NY. This role is designed for an attorney with a minimum of eight years of sophisticated experience in high-net-worth estate planning and trust administration. The successful candidate will provide strategic guidance on domestic estate planning, tax matters, wealth transfer strategies, and fiduciary counsel. This is an excellent opportunity to join one of the most respected private client practices in the U.S., working with families, fiduciaries, and tax-exempt entities.

Location:

• New York, NY

Duties:

• Advise high-net-worth clients on estate planning, trust administration, and succession planning

• Counsel clients on tax-efficient wealth transfer strategies, charitable giving, and estate/income taxation

• Prepare and review estate planning documents and provide legal solutions for complex family and financial structures

• Collaborate with attorneys in other practice areas (corporate, tax, real estate, employment) for holistic client service

• Advise on fiduciary and compliance matters for private clients and family offices

• Participate in the structuring of family offices and high-value trusts

Requirements:

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in trusts and estates law, focused on high-net-worth individuals and families

• Extensive knowledge of estate, gift, income, and generation-skipping transfer tax laws

• Familiarity with charitable planning and tax-exempt entities

• Strong client service mindset and communication skills

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple sophisticated matters

• Collaborative, team-oriented approach

• Admission to the New York State Bar in good standing (required)

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school

• Strong academic record preferred

Skills:

• Technical knowledge of federal and state tax laws related to trusts and estates

• Strong drafting and analytical capabilities

• Excellent verbal and written communication

• Strategic problem-solving in complex legal and financial matters

• Ability to build long-term client relationships and provide proactive counsel

Benefits:

• Hybrid work schedule (flexible remote/in-office structure)

• Opportunities for professional development and mentorship

• Inclusive and collaborative firm culture

• Supportive path to advancement and partnership consideration

This firm is all about keeping costs low and revenue high--by servicing regional clients (including some impressive Manhattan companies) from their New Jersey offices. Although not terribly interested in glitz or glamour, this firm's practice areas, in particular ERISA and technology departments, do a good job of keeping step with their larger, more urban law firm competitors. Although one of New Jersey's largest and oldest firms, these lawyers try their best to keep a young attitude and management philosophy--and, according to our sources--are succeeding.