Description:
Falcon Rappaport & Berkman LLP is a full-service, rapidly growing and entrepreneurial law firm focused on an interdisciplinary approach to the practice of law. Our team is composed of thought leaders across a variety of practice areas, including some of the nation's leading voices on web3, taxation, and a variety of other fields. We bring together experts across all of our practice areas to achieve extraordinary results which would not be achievable at a more narrowly focused firm.Respect, appreciation, and quality of life come first and foremost. We care deeply about the people we bring into our firm and offer a unique emphasis on professional development. We work collaboratively to drive client success.
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Estate Administration Associate to join our Trusts & Estates team. The ideal candidate brings substantial hands-on experience managing complex estate and trust administration matters, a deep understanding of New York Surrogate's Court procedures, and the ability to work directly with high-net-worth clients, fiduciaries, and beneficiaries.
This role is best suited for someone who thrives in a collaborative legal environment, demonstrates exceptional attention to detail, and can independently manage a sophisticated caseload from start to finish.
Key Responsibilities:
- Handle all aspects of probate and estate administration, including preparing and filing petitions, inventories, fiduciary accountings, notices, waivers, and related Surrogate's Court documents.
- Coordinate and communicate with executors, trustees, beneficiaries, accountants, financial advisors, and other professionals.
- Oversee collection, valuation, and transfer of estate assets, including real estate, business interests, and investment portfolios.
- Prepare estate tax returns (federal Form 706 and NYS ET-706), fiduciary income tax returns, and required supporting documentation in coordination with tax advisors.
- Manage estate settlement tasks such as resolving creditor claims, distributing assets, and drafting release agreements.
- Support attorneys with complex trust administration, including trust funding, trust modification, decanting, and annual fiduciary accountings.
- Maintain organized case files, timelines, and compliance checklists to ensure timely and accurate administration.
- Provide exceptional service to clients by responding to inquiries, explaining processes, and ensuring transparent communication.
Required:
- 5+ years of experience in estate administration within a law firm or trust company environment.
- Comprehensive knowledge of New York Surrogate's Court rules, probate procedures, and relevant state and federal tax requirements.
- Proficiency with NetDocs, Clio, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong drafting and organizational skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously and work efficiently under deadlines.
- Excellent communication skills—both written and verbal—with a client-focused approach.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth estates.
- Familiarity with complex trust structures and multistate or international estate issues.
- Paralegal certification or related professional credential (optional but valuable).
Compensation & Benefits:
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision coverage.
- Retirement plan options.
- Paid time off, holidays, and professional development opportunities.
- Supportive, team-oriented work environment with opportunities for long-term career growth.
Salary Range: $140- $180K