About Opelon LLP
Careers in Estate Planning and Probate

Careers in Estate Planning and Probate

(Current Openings)

Client Services Coordinator

Location: Carlsbad, California (Palomar Airport Road) 

Position Type: Full-Time, In-Office

Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

 Compensation: $21.00 – $26.00 per hour, depending on experience

About Opelon LLP

Opelon LLP is a boutique estate planning law firm in Carlsbad, California, helping clients protect their families and legacies through thoughtful Estate Planning, Probate, and Trust Administration services.

Our team is small by design, two partners and a paralegal, which means every team member has a meaningful impact on our clients’ experiences and the firm’s success. We work hard, support each other, and believe that a well-run office enables excellent client service.

We’re looking for someone who wants to grow with us for the long term, not just fill a seat.

The Opportunity

We’re looking for a Client Services Coordinator to become the welcoming face and organized backbone of our firm. Reporting directly to the Managing Attorney, you’ll provide administrative support to both the Managing Attorney and our paralegal while serving as the immediate point of contact for potential clients, current clients, and referral sources.

You’ll be the first voice people hear when they call and the person who keeps our client communications running smoothly. This role requires someone who can follow instructions precisely, communicate with warmth and clarity, and show genuine empathy for clients navigating important life decisions.

This is a full-time, in-office position, though we’re flexible and accommodating when it comes to scheduling needs. 

What You’ll Do

Client Intake & Communication

  • Answer phones and serve as the first point of contact for prospective clients, current clients, and referral sources
  • Screen new leads and respond to inquiries via phone and email with professionalism and care
  • Schedule and coordinate client appointments
  • Guide clients through the engagement process and answer questions along the way
  • Request and collect prior estate planning documents

Administrative Support

  • Provide day-to-day administrative support to the Managing Attorney and paralegal
  • Create and maintain organized digital client files in Google Drive and Clio
  • Scan, file, and distribute legal documents (engagement agreements, executed estate plans, etc.)
  • Prepare client binders and witness Will signings
  • Track open invoices and send payment reminders

Office Administration

  • Manage incoming mail, voicemail, and phone system settings
  • Order supplies and keep common areas tidy and welcoming
  • Review monthly bills and flag discrepancies
  • Assist with compliance documentation and year-end reporting
  • Support firm marketing efforts, including occasional social media posts

Who You Are

Required

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Empathy and patience when working with clients during significant life moments
  • Ability to follow instructions precisely and see tasks through to completion
  • Strong organizational skills with keen attention to detail
  • Self-starter mentality, you take initiative and don’t wait to be told what to do next
  • Comfortable handling sensitive and confidential information with discretion
  • Proficiency with Google Workspace (Drive, Calendar, Gmail)
  • Professional, friendly demeanor with a genuine client-service mindset

Preferred

  • Previous experience in a receptionist, administrative, or client-facing role
  • Background in sales or client relations
  • Office management experience
  • Experience in a legal or professional services environment
  • Ability to quickly learn new software platforms

What We Offer

  • Compensation: $21.00 – $26.00 per hour, based on experience
  • Health Insurance: Medical coverage for eligible employees
  • Retirement Plan: 401(k) with a 3% Safe Harbor employer contribution (that’s money we contribute whether you do or not)
  • Flexible Scheduling: We understand life happens and offer reasonable flexibility
  • Supportive Environment: Join a collaborative team that values quality work and work-life balance

How to Apply

Please submit the following to info@opelon.com (CC: satori@opelon.com):

  1. Resume (PDF format)
  2. Brief cover letter telling us why you’re interested in joining an estate planning firm

Subject Line: Client Services Coordinator – [Your Name]

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Opelon LLP is an equal opportunity employer.

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.

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 who specialize in preparing legal documents such as wills, revocable living 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.

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.