Trust & Probate Litigation Paralegal
Job Description
Our client is a boutique trust and estate litigation firm specializing in representing trustees and beneficiaries in complex probate and trust disputes. The firm is known for its high-performing, collaborative team that values accountability, communication, and excellence in client service.
This is a key role within the litigation team, offering ownership over a caseload and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to case strategy, workflow management, and client outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
Case Management & Workflow Oversight
Manage a portfolio of trust and probate litigation matters from intake through resolution or trial
Monitor case progress using internal systems and ensure matters are advancing appropriately
Identify and escalate issues such as overdue tasks, stalled cases, billing delays, or extended timelines
Coordinate with responsible attorneys to ensure weekly case status updates are completed
Ensure monthly client case status letters are prepared and sent consistently
Litigation Support & Execution
Handle all phases of active litigation matters, including court filings (electronic and physical)
Draft, prepare, and edit legal documents and discovery responses
Conduct document review, legal research, cite-checking, and shepherdizing
Prepare deposition summaries, trial binders, exhibit lists, and trial support materials
Maintain organized case files and ensure case management systems are updated and accurate
Manage deadlines, calendars, and litigation milestones to ensure timely execution
Communication & Team Support
Serve as a central communication point between attorneys, clients, and support staff
Support onboarding and initial case planning meetings with new clients
Mentor junior paralegals and legal assistants as needed
Review and monitor time entries for accuracy and completeness
Strategic & Operational Contribution
Anticipate case next steps and proactively manage workflow
Identify workload or case progression issues and collaborate with the team to resolve
Support special projects assigned by firm leadership
Ensure compliance with firm standards for case progression and performance metrics
Qualifications
5+ years of litigation paralegal experience
At least 3+ years of trust and estate litigation experience
Experience supporting at least 25 depositions and 3 trials
Strong knowledge of Probate Code, California Rules of Court (CRC), and Code of Civil Procedure (CCP)
Proficiency in Adobe Acrobat Pro (OCR, Bates stamping, document management)
Familiarity with Trial Director or similar litigation support tools
Strong Microsoft Office skills (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams)
Experience with case management systems (Clio or similar preferred)
Strong organizational skills and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to manage time entries accurately and consistently
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary (based on experience)
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with safe harbor matching
Health savings account (HSA) and FSA options
Paid time off (PTO)
Life insurance
Paid parental leave
Paid professional development opportunities
Internal growth and leadership opportunities
