We are seeking a dedicated and experienced In-House Legal Counsel to support our trust and estate administration team. This position involves advising on legal matters related to trust and estate planning, administration, compliance, and fiduciary responsibilities. As a key part of our team, you will work closely with trust officers, advisors, and clients to provide expert guidance in navigating complex trust and estate matters.
Key Responsibilities:
Provide comprehensive legal support for trust and estate administration, including the interpretation of trust documents, wills, and estate plans.
Offer guidance on fiduciary duties and responsibilities, ensuring that trust officers and administrators adhere to all relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
Collaborate with internal stakeholders on the management and administration of trusts and estates, including handling complex cases involving multiple jurisdictions and intricate asset structures.
Advise on compliance with federal and state laws affecting trusts, estates, and fiduciary operations, maintaining awareness of regulatory updates.
Review and draft trust documents, estate planning documents, amendments, and other legal instruments as necessary.
Coordinate with external legal counsel as needed on specialized or complex legal issues.
Assist in preparing and reviewing legal documents for trust transactions, including asset transfers, distributions, and trust terminations.
Provide support on tax matters related to trust and estate administration, in collaboration with tax advisors and accountants.
Facilitate client meetings, offering legal insights and assistance to trust officers and relationship managers to address client questions or concerns.
Support risk management initiatives by identifying potential risks and ensuring compliance with internal policies, regulatory standards, and industry best practices.
Qualifications:
Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and active bar membership in Tennessee or the ability to obtain Tennessee licensure.
Minimum of 5-7 years of experience as a trust and estate attorney, ideally with in-house experience at a financial institution, trust company, or wealth management firm.
Strong knowledge of trust and estate laws, probate procedures, and fiduciary principles, including experience with high-net-worth individuals and complex trust structures.
Familiarity with state and federal regulatory requirements applicable to trust and estate administration, including tax laws and fiduciary standards.
Excellent drafting, analytical, and problem-solving skills with a high level of attention to detail.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment and with clients.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize work, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced setting.