The Estate Administrator is a specialist role responsible for guiding fiduciaries and clients through all phases of the estate administration process. The Estate Administrator directly supports the Partners of a sophisticated estate, trust, and guardianship practice. They work closely with clients, attorneys, and professional staff in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. This position is ideal for an Attorney looking for a reduced billable hours requirement and increased work-life balance.
Job Summary: • Guide clients through all phases of estate administration for a robust slate of estates • Read and summarize estate plans, prior tax filings, and other ancillary documents • Supervise Probate Paralegal in preparation of probate petitions for allowance of will, appointment of fiduciaries, and petitions for license to sell real estate • Marshall, inventory, and value assets of the estate for probate and tax purposes • Determine debts, expenses, tax obligations and liquidity needs of estate • Coordinate with Trust department and outside fiduciaries for management of estate accounts and post-mortem trusts, including payment of debts and expenses of administration • Preparation and timely filing of state and federal estate tax returns in tandem with post-mortem tax planning • Prepare fiduciary accounts for allowance; work closely with Probate Paralegal in closing of probate estate • Coordinate with internal and external tax accountants for preparation and timely filing of individual and fiduciary income tax returns • Advise clients and fiduciaries and implement estate asset distribution, including disposition of real estate, distributions in kind, funding and allocation of trust assets
Position Requirements: • Bachelor's Degree and 5+ years of relevant experience • Candidates with a JD from an ABA accredited law school will be given special consideration • In-depth knowledge of estate administration process from inception to completion • Comprehensive knowledge of Massachusetts Probate Code and Massachusetts Probate Court Procedures & Practices • Broad understanding of personal and fiduciary income taxation, gift, and generation-skipping taxation • Estate planning experience is a plus • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and demonstrated precise attention to detail • Proficient in MS Office Suite with an emphasis on Word and Excel. Experience with Gillett Estate Management Suite (GEMS), or comparable software, preferred. • Highly organized, adaptable, focused, and able to handle multiple tasks and matters simultaneously • Proactive with excellent problem solving and follow-through skills.
About Hemenway & Barnes LLP
Hemenway & Barnes LLP is a law firm specializing in the preservation and management of the personal, business, family, and financial assets of its clients. As one of the oldest firms in New England, the people at Hemenway & Barnes have earned a long-held reputation as premier trustees, advisors and attorneys.
Hemenway & Barnes is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.
We encourage applications from a diverse pool of candidates and base employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications.
We support an inclusive workplace and are committed to creating a welcoming environment for all employees.
To Apply:
If you possess the skills and credentials we are looking for, please submit your resume and cover letter, in strict confidence, for consideration to hr@hembar.com