Hybrid Attorney, Estate Planning

at Westside Justice Center

• Job title: Attorney, Estate Planning
• Job type: Full Time
• Experience level: Mid level, Senior
• Salary: $65,000 - $75,000 per year
• Degree requirement: Bachelor's Degree
• Location requirements: Hybrid, Chicago, United States

About the role

• Attorney at Westside Justice Center focusing on estate planning, probate, and asset protection. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to empower underserved communities.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct legal representation, advice, and referrals in matters related to estate planning.
• Draft, review, and execute estate planning documents including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance directives, transfer-on-death instruments, and petitions.
• Represent clients in court proceedings.
• Counsel clients on succession planning, charitable giving, and intergenerational wealth protection.
• Address title and deed issues impacting estate transfers, including clearing title for heirs’ property and resolving ownership disputes.
• Ensure all estate planning services are culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of Illinois probate law, estate tax implications, and property transfer procedures.
• Collaborate with other WJC attorneys and paralegals to assist clients with intersecting legal needs.
• Develop and facilitate community legal workshops and clinics focused on estate planning, probate navigation, and wealth equity.
• Supervise, train, and mentor volunteer attorneys, law students, and paralegals engaged in estate planning and related cases.

Requirements

• Active license to practice law in Illinois (required).
• 5 or more years of experience in estate planning, probate, elder law, or related legal practice areas.
• Strong drafting and analytical skills with proven ability to manage detailed legal documentation.
• Excellent communication and client counseling skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly and compassionately.
• Commitment to racial equity, community empowerment, and holistic legal services.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary legal team.
• Strong organizational and project management skills; ability to balance multiple cases and deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with case management systems.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• 401(k) Retirement Plan