Description:

Hoge Fenton, a distinguished multi-service law firm, headquartered in downtown San Jose, is seeking a Senior Associate or Counsel level attorney to join its Trust & Estate Litigation Group.

This is a leadership role for an experienced litigator with 8 or more years of trust and estate litigation experience who is ready to drive case strategy, cultivate client relationships, and help shape the direction and culture of a growing practice group. The ideal candidate will bring a strong track record of handling complex trust and estate matters, a commitment to business development, and a genuine passion for mentoring the next generation of attorneys.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Drive case strategy and lead high-stakes, complex trust and estate litigation matters from inception through resolution.
  • Cultivate and deepen client relationships, serving as a trusted advisor and primary point of contact for key clients.
  • Contribute to business development initiatives and the continued growth of the Trust & Estate Litigation practice.
  • Supervise and manage associates on active matters, including delegation and oversight of case work.
  • Provide hands-on mentoring, training, feedback, and performance guidance to develop associates' litigation skills.
  • Help shape the direction and culture of the Trust & Estate Litigation Group.
  • Represent senior citizens and their families in financial elder abuse litigation.
  • Represent trustees, executors, administrators, and beneficiaries in trust and probate litigation, including:
  • Will and trust contests based on lack of capacity, undue influence, or fraud.
  • Negligent management of assets.
  • Failure to account or inadequate accounting.
  • Co-trustee disputes.
  • Removal and surcharge actions.
  • Breach of fiduciary duty (lack of impartiality, self-dealing, and secret profits).

Requirements:
  • Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
  • Active membership in the State Bar of California (in good standing).
  • 8+ years of trust and estate litigation experience.
  • Demonstrated leadership in case management, client development, and associate supervision.
  • Strong analytical, negotiation, consulting, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
  • Excellent reputation for integrity and collegiality among both bench and bar.

Location:
This position may be based in any of the firm's offices: Silicon Valley (Downtown San Jose), Tri-Valley (Pleasanton), or Peninsula (San Mateo). Travel between offices may be required.

Compensation:
$225,000 to $275,000 base salary, depending on experience, qualifications, and skill set.