CAREERS

(Current Openings)

Office Manager/Assistant (Full Time)

The Office Manager / Legal Assistant will play a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless operations of Opelon LLP. They will be responsible for managing administrative tasks, providing support to attorneys and staff, facilitating efficient communication and organization within the office and will report directly to the firm’s partners.

Qualifications

Required:

  • A positive attitude, friendly demeanor, and eagerness to learn new skills.
  • Excellent client communication and service.
  • California Notary (or willingness to obtain a notary license).
  • Strong attention to detail.

Optional (but a definite plus):

  • Previous experience working in a law office, with a preference for estate planning, trust administration or probate.
  • Proficiency in a wide variety of office software/applications, such as Microsoft Word, Gmail, Google Drive, Clio, Dialpad, MailChimp, etc.
  • Familiarity with recording deeds with the County Recorder and filing documents with the County Assessor.

Primary Responsibilities

Office Administration:

  • Supervise daily office operations, including managing schedules, coordinating meetings, and overseeing office supplies. Offer general administrative support to attorneys and staff when required.
  • Manage incoming and outgoing correspondence, including emails, phone calls, and mail.
  • Allocate time to streamline office processes, update standard operating procedures, and identify areas for efficiency improvement, which may involve implementing new software tools, optimizing document management systems, or enhancing workflow procedures.

Client Support:

  • Assist attorneys in managing client files, including document preparation, organization, and follow-up.
  • Coordinate client appointments, and maintain calendars.
  • Safeguard confidentiality and handle sensitive client information with discretion and professionalism.

Technology and Office Systems:

  • Manage and troubleshoot office equipment and technology systems, including computers, printers, and software applications.
  • Attend webinars, workshops, or seminars related to estate planning and probate law and the software utilized by the firm to enhance your knowledge and contribute effectively to the firm’s operations.

Marketing and Events:

  • Aid in the planning of seminars and lunch-and-learn events, including locating venues, managing event budgets, obtaining RSVPs, and scheduling co-speakers.
  • Assist in preparing quarterly newsletters using MailChimp and tracking/following up with leads.
  • Monitor and engage with the firm’s social media platforms.

Compensation and Benefits

  • Pay: $25-$35 an hour based on experience
  • Health Care: Health Care Stipend
  • Remote Work Options: Primarily work out of our Carlsbad Office, however,we offer flexibility in work arrangements, including the ability to work (part-time) remotely or have flexible work hours.
  • Bonuses: Performance-based bonuses may be offered to incentivize and reward exceptional performance.

Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications to Matt@Opelon.com.

Opelon LLP is an equal-opportunity employer. We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

We are actively seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented individual to join our team as an Associate Estate Planning Attorney.

This role is pivotal in providing comprehensive and personalized estate planning services to our clients.

If you possess a strong understanding of estate planning, a passion for helping clients navigate this critical aspect of legal services, and a commitment to excellence, we would love to hear from you.

Interested candidates are encouraged to send their resume, cover letter, and compensation expectations to Matt at Matt@opelon.com.

This is an exceptional opportunity to grow professionally in a supportive and dynamic environment. We look forward to discovering how your skills and expertise can contribute to our team’s success and our clients’ peace of mind.

Of Counsel Probate Litigation Attorney

Our esteemed law firm is currently seeking an experienced and skilled Of Counsel Probate Litigation Attorney to augment our team.

This position is crucial for providing expert legal representation in complex probate litigation cases. Ideal candidates should have a profound understanding of probate law, exceptional litigation skills, and a proven track record in handling sensitive and intricate probate disputes.

We are looking for someone who can offer strategic legal guidance and uphold our commitment to delivering outstanding legal services to our clients.

If you are interested in this challenging yet rewarding role, please send your resume, cover letter, and compensation expectations to Matt@opelon.com.

Join us in our mission to navigate clients through the intricacies of probate litigation with integrity, expertise, and compassion. Your expertise will be instrumental in adding value to our probate clients.

Careers in Estate Planning and Probate

Understanding the Varied Careers in Estate Planning and Probate

Estate planning and probate are fields that encompass a variety of career opportunities, each playing a crucial role in managing and distributing a person’s estate after their death. This blog post aims to explore these career paths, shedding light on their roles, responsibilities, and the impact they have in the realm of estate planning and probate.

Estate Planning Attorney Careers

The Role of an Estate Planning Attorney

Estate planning attorneys are legal professionals specializing in preparing legal documents like wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. They provide guidance to individuals in organizing their affairs to ensure their assets are distributed according to their wishes after death. These attorneys are adept at navigating the complexities of estate law, tax implications, and the protection of assets.

Skills and Qualifications

To become an estate planning attorney, one must obtain a law degree and pass the bar exam. Key skills include strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills. Knowledge of tax law and financial planning is also beneficial.

Probate Lawyer Careers

Understanding the Role of a Probate Lawyer

Probate lawyers, also known as estate lawyers or estate attorneys, play a pivotal role in the probate process, which involves the legal process of transferring a deceased person’s assets to their beneficiaries. They assist in proving the validity of the will, inventorying the deceased’s assets, and guiding the estate through the court process.

Necessary Skills and Training

Like estate planning attorneys, probate lawyers must have a law degree and pass the bar exam. They should possess excellent negotiation and mediation skills, as they often deal with potentially contentious family situations.

Fiduciary / Professional Trustee Careers

Role and Responsibilities

A Professional Fiduciary, often acting as a Professional Trustee, is responsible for managing and administering trusts on behalf of beneficiaries. Unlike personal trustees who are usually family members or friends of the trust’s grantor, Professional Fiduciaries are impartial third parties. Their duties include making prudent investment decisions, ensuring fair and accurate distribution of assets, and maintaining comprehensive records. They are also responsible for understanding and adhering to the specific terms of the trust and relevant legal requirements.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Professional Fiduciaries typically have a background in law, finance, or accounting. Many hold relevant professional certifications, such as the Certified Trust and Financial Advisor (CTFA) designation. Key skills include a deep understanding of fiduciary law, strong financial management abilities, impartial judgment, and excellent communication skills to interact effectively with beneficiaries and other stakeholders. A Professional Fiduciary must be licensed or registered in some states, adhering to strict ethical and professional standards.

Probate Paralegal

Role and Responsibilities

Probate Paralegals support probate lawyers in the administration of estates. They help prepare and file legal documents, manage estate accounts, and communicate with clients and beneficiaries. Their role is crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of the probate process.

Required Skills and Qualifications

A degree or certificate in paralegal studies is often required, along with experience in a law office. Probate Paralegals should be detail-oriented, organized, and possess strong research and writing skills.

Office Manager in Estate Planning and Probate

Role and Responsibilities

The Office Manager in an estate planning and probate firm plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of the office. This role involves overseeing administrative staff, managing office budgets, and ensuring compliance with legal procedures and protocols.

Office Managers are responsible for coordinating with legal staff, maintaining client records, overseeing the scheduling of appointments, and sometimes handling client communications. They play a crucial role in creating an organized and efficient work environment, which is vital for handling sensitive client matters effectively.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Office Managers in this field typically have a background in business administration or office management. Key skills include strong organizational abilities, excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Knowledge of legal terminology, proficiency in office software, and an understanding of estate planning and probate procedures are also highly beneficial. While a specific degree may not always be required, experience in legal or administrative settings is often preferred.

Challenges and Opportunities

Office Managers in estate planning and probate face the challenge of managing a dynamic work environment, balancing legal requirements with day-to-day administrative tasks. However, this role offers the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of the legal field, specifically estate planning and probate, and to play a key role in the success of the firm. It is well-suited for individuals who excel in multitasking and enjoy working in a fast-paced, legally-driven environment.

Legal Assistant in Estate Planning and Probate

Role and Responsibilities

Legal Assistants in estate planning and probate are instrumental in supporting attorneys with various tasks. They assist in drafting documents, conducting legal research, and preparing for hearings or trials. Legal Assistants often interact directly with clients, gathering necessary information, and keeping them informed about the status of their case.

They are responsible for organizing and maintaining documents in a client’s file and may also handle administrative duties such as scheduling and file management.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Typically, a Legal Assistant will have completed a paralegal or legal assistant program and may hold a certification. Key skills include strong writing and research abilities, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of legal terminology and procedures. Proficiency in legal software and a background in estate planning and probate law are also advantageous. Effective communication skills are essential for interacting with clients, attorneys, and court personnel.

Challenges and Opportunities

Legal Assistants in this field are often required to handle multiple tasks under tight deadlines, which can be challenging. However, this role provides an excellent opportunity to gain extensive knowledge in estate planning and probate law. It is an ideal position for those who are detail-oriented and interested in a supportive role within the legal field, offering a blend of administrative and substantive legal work.

Careers in estate planning and probate offer a unique blend of legal expertise and personal client service. Whether you’re drawn to the legal intricacies of estate law or the financial aspects of estate management, there’s a path in this field for you. These careers not only provide professional satisfaction but also the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives during challenging times.

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