Estate Planning Associate - Join a Premier Seattle Law Firm

Are you an experienced attorney passionate about estate planning, trusts, and tax law? Robert Half is excited to partner with a long-standing, highly regarded law firm in Seattle, Washington to find a talented Estate Planning Associate. This is your chance to join one of the top estate planning teams in the city, where you'll deliver exceptional client service while growing your career in a supportive, hybrid work environment. With a competitive salary around $155,000 and outstanding benefits, this full-time role offers stability, growth, and the opportunity to make a real impact on high-net-worth clients' legacies.

About the Role

In this pivotal position, you'll work closely with partners in the firm's renowned Estate Planning group, handling complex estate and trust matters from inception through administration. The firm values attorneys who bring 3+ years of specialized experience and a client-first approach. Whether you're drafting sophisticated wills and trusts or navigating intricate tax filings, your expertise will help clients achieve their long-term financial and personal goals. Located in the heart of Seattle, WA, this role combines intellectual challenge with work-life balance, including hybrid options that let you thrive both in the office and remotely.

Key Responsibilities

As an Estate Planning Associate, your days will be filled with meaningful work that directly benefits clients:

• Draft and meticulously review estate planning documents such as wills, revocable living trusts, irrevocable trusts, powers of attorney, and advance healthcare directives.
• Guide clients through trust administration and probate estate processes, ensuring full compliance with Washington state laws and federal regulations.
• Perform in-depth tax research and assist in preparing/filing federal estate tax returns (Form 706), state inheritance tax returns, and gift tax returns (Form 709).
• Provide strategic advice on estate and gift tax planning, applying expertise in IRC Sections 2001-2704 and relevant Treasury Regulations.
• Collaborate directly with clients, addressing concerns and crafting customized legal solutions tailored to their unique family dynamics and asset portfolios.
• Handle litigation support including drafting motions, managing discovery, and preparing trial briefs for contested probate or trust disputes.
• Maintain comprehensive, organized records for all client matters, supporting seamless legal proceedings and audits.
• Proactively monitor evolving tax laws, such as recent changes from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act or SECURE Act, to deliver cutting-edge advice.
• Foster enduring client relationships through clear communication, empathy, and unparalleled service.

Required Qualifications

To excel in this role, you should possess:

• 3+ years of hands-on experience in estate planning, trusts, and probate matters at a law firm or in-house counsel role.
• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school and an active Washington State Bar license (or eligibility for immediate admission).
• Proven track record drafting complex estate documents and handling tax-related filings.
• Deep knowledge of federal estate/gift tax rules, Washington probate code, and uniform trust code.
• Strong litigation skills for occasional trust/estate disputes.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills to build trust with affluent clients.
• Tech-savvy with estate planning software like WealthCounsel or Clio, plus proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal research tools (Westlaw/Lexis).

This is an ideal opportunity for mid-level associates seeking partnership tracks or those wanting to specialize further in HNW estate planning.

Why Join Us?

Partnering with Robert Half means access to this elite firm's comprehensive benefits package, including full healthcare coverage, 401k with match, profit sharing, and substantial bonus potential tied to performance. Enjoy hybrid work flexibility, generous PTO, and the chance to develop your practice under seasoned mentors in Seattle's premier estate planning team. The firm is committed to your professional growth, offering CLE reimbursements, networking events, and a collaborative culture that celebrates success.

Seattle's vibrant legal market demands top talent in estate planning—don't miss this role! To apply confidentially, send your resume to Sam.Sheehan@RobertHalf.com. Join Robert Half Careers today and elevate your legal career in the Pacific Northwest.