Trusts & Estates Attorney

Location/Schedule:

Owego, New York |

Full-Time Salary Description:

$100,000 - $140,000, commensurate with experience

Practice:

Trusts & Estates What Stands Out About This Opportunity:

Coughlin & Gerhart is one of the Southern Tier's longest standing and most respected law firms, serving clients throughout New York and Pennsylvania since the 1890s. While we've grown to eight offices and a wide range of practice areas, we've remained grounded in the same philosophy that built the firm: strong client relationships, practical legal guidance and collaborative team culture. This opportunity is ideal for an attorney looking to continue building Trusts & Estates experience within a firm that values professionalism, mentorship and long-term growth. Our attorneys work closely together across offices and practice groups, creating an environment where collaboration is encouraged. Attorneys have the opportunity to take on meaningful work from the beginning. The Owego office offers the ability to practice in a community focused environment while still having the resources and support of a larger firm. Attorneys in this role will have direct client interaction, courtroom exposure and the opportunity to handle a broad range of Trusts & Estates matters.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include guiding clients through the estate planning process and advising them on strategies to protect assets and achieve their personal and family objectives. The attorney will draft and review a variety of estate planning and trust administration documents, assist clients with trust funding, prepare federal estate tax returns, and provide practical legal counsel on matters involving estate planning, probate, and trust administration. This role also involves managing probate and trust administration matters from inception through completion, preparing and filing documents with Surrogate's Court, ensuring compliance with applicable deadlines and procedural requirements, and interpreting laws, regulations, and legal developments affecting clients and their estates. The attorney will maintain strong client relationships, exercise sound judgment and attention to detail, and contribute to a collaborative team environment across practice groups and offices while delivering exceptional client service. Success in this position requires strong analytical, research, and communication skills, as well as the ability to navigate complex legal and personal matters with professionalism and discretion.

Core Requirements:

Candidates must possess a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school and be currently admitted to practice in New York State. Prior Trusts & Estates experience of at least three years is preferred. We are seeking someone who is motivated to continue developing their legal skills while contributing positively to the client service standards of the firm. Coughlin & Gerhart is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a professional and inclusive workplace. To express interest, please submit a cover letter, resume, and transcripts to Careers@cglawoffices.com.