Associate Attorney - Estate Administration

Gadsden Schneider & Woodward LLP • Wayne, PA

1d

About The Position

GSW is a boutique trust and estate law firm serving high-net-worth individuals and families. We are seeking an experienced Associate Attorney with substantial estate administration experience - including preparation and oversight of Pennsylvania inheritance tax returns (PA-1500) and Federal Estate Tax Returns (Form 706) - to manage sophisticated estate and trust matters from inception through closing.
This position offers significant responsibility, professional autonomy, direct client engagement, and the opportunity to serve in a leadership role within a highly collaborative and respected firm.
Position Overview
The Associate Attorney will play a central role in the firm's estate and trust administration practice. The successful candidate will independently manage complex taxable and non-taxable estate matters, serve as a primary advisor to fiduciaries and beneficiaries, and provide technical guidance on estate and inheritance tax compliance.
This role also includes mentoring and supervising junior paralegals within the estate administration team, helping to develop internal processes and maintain the firm's high standards of accuracy and service.

Requirements

• J.D. from an accredited law school and admission to practice in Pennsylvania (or eligibility for prompt admission).
• Minimum of 3–6+ years of law firm experience in estate and trust administration, including significant experience with PA-1500 and Form 706 preparation.
• Demonstrated ability to manage estate matters independently from beginning to end.
• Strong understanding of federal and Pennsylvania estate and fiduciary income tax principles.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Professional judgment, client-facing confidence, and strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Interest in long-term growth within a boutique trust and estate practice.

Responsibilities

• Independently manage the administration of estates and trusts from opening through closing.
• Prepare and/or supervise the preparation of Pennsylvania inheritance tax returns (PA-1500) and Federal Estate Tax Returns (Form 706).
• Provide substantive legal analysis regarding estate tax elections, valuation issues, and post-mortem planning opportunities.
• Draft probate petitions, court filings, accountings, and closing documents.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for fiduciaries, beneficiaries, financial institutions, and advisors.
• Coordinate with accountants, financial advisors, appraisers, and court personnel to ensure timely and accurate filings.
• Identify and resolve complex administrative or tax issues proactively.
• Mentor and supervise junior paralegals, providing training and oversight to ensure high-quality work product.
• Track deadlines, manage workflow, and maintain efficient administration systems.

Benefits

• Highly respected boutique firm focused exclusively on estate planning, trust administration, and wealth preservation.
• Collegial, professional, and supportive firm culture.
• Meaningful client work with high-level responsibility.
• Opportunity to build technical depth in sophisticated estate tax matters.
• Competitive compensation and benefits, commensurate with experience.
• Long-term growth opportunity for a committed professional.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree