Trusts & Estates Paralegal

Department: Paralegal

Reports To: Paralegal Committee

Location: Houston

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Jackson Walker, the largest law firm in Texas, has an exciting full-time employment opportunity for a Trusts & Estates Paralegal in our Houston office. The Trusts & Estates Paralegal is responsible for providing legal and administrative support to attorneys in all aspects of estate planning, probate, and trust administration. This role is responsible for drafting legal documents, preparing tax filings, managing estate administration processes, and maintaining client and entity records. The position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple matters while maintaining a high level of client service and confidentiality.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Estate Planning & Document Preparation

• Prepare correspondence, estate planning documents, and corporate, partnership, and LLC documents.
• Assist with execution of estate planning documents.
• Draft probate pleadings and prepare materials related to court proceedings.

Tax & Financial Filings

• Prepare initial drafts of state and federal tax reports and returns, including:
  • Texas Franchise Tax No Tax Due Reports
  • Texas Franchise Tax Public Information Reports
  • U.S. Gift Tax Returns (Form 709)
  • U.S. Estate Tax Returns (Form 706)

Probate & Estate Administration

• Support all phases of estate administration, including maintaining probate tracking systems and monitoring deadlines.
• Prepare correspondence and coordinate with clients and witnesses regarding hearings.
• Interact with courts and government agencies to schedule hearings and obtain information.

Research & Record Management

• Perform legal research using available resources and research tools.
• Organize and maintain trust, estate, and entity record books, forms, and indices.
• Maintain tracking systems for clients and entities, including document management within Firm systems.

Transactional & General Support

• Assist with review of real estate contracts, title commitments, surveys, and closing documents.
• Travel as needed to support attorneys in client-related matters.
• Track and record time for all Firm-related work.
• Take initiative in managing and advancing assigned projects.

Client Service & Collaboration

• Maintain positive and professional communication with clients, attorneys, and staff.
• Collaborate effectively while managing multiple priorities and deadlines

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or GED required, bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Paralegal certification preferred; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 5 years’ relevant in a law firm, preferably in estate planning or trusts and estates.
• Strong knowledge of estate planning, probate processes, and related legal documentation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail, proofreading, and editing skills.
• Ability to perform basic calculations and review financial information on legal forms.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion.

Working Conditions:

This position operates in a professional office environment with standard equipment. Occasional travel and extended hours may be required to meet business needs.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities, or requirements.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. It is our intention that all qualified applicants are given equal opportunity and that employment decisions be based on job-related factors.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact us at BusinessProfessionalRecruiting@jw.com