Estate Planning Associate - Chicago

About Harrison LLP:

Harrison LLP is a national law firm specializing in private wealth planning and preservation. The Firm’s services extend to the natural interplay among estate planning, tax controversies, business succession, matrimonial law, and related affinity practices. Founded in 2003, Harrison LLP focuses on providing sophisticated legal advice, exceptional client service, and innovative solutions.

We are seeking a skilled and client-focused Associate with 4+ years of relevant experience in estate planning to join our Chicago-based team. This role involves drafting estate planning documents, managing client matters independently, and delivering high-quality work in a timely manner. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working with minimal supervision and engaging directly with clients as part of a collaborative team.

• Draft estate planning documents, including revocable and irrevocable trusts, gift trusts, promissory notes, and related instruments.
• Analyze and summarize existing trust documents, identifying key provisions and issues.
• Assist with modifications to irrevocable trusts, including through the decanting process.
• Prepare and file gift and estate tax returns, coordinating with paralegals as necessary.
• Draft professional client correspondence and respond to client inquiries promptly and effectively.
• Manage multiple client matters, ensuring timely and accurate delivery of work products.
• Collaborate closely with senior attorneys and support staff to ensure smooth client service and matter management.
• Participate in client meetings and serve as a trusted member of the client service team.

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Active Illinois Bar license and good standing.
• 4+ years of relevant experience in estate planning, and trust and estate administration (including related tax return preparation).
• Solid understanding of trusts, estate planning documents, and federal gift and estate tax rules.
• Proven ability to draft estate plans and trust documents independently.

• Exposure to business succession planning and related estate planning documents.
• Experience serving high-net-worth clients and managing sensitive family dynamics.
• Ability to thrive in a busy, client-focused environment without extensive supervision.
• Self-starter with excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Confidence in client-facing roles and building trusted relationships.

• Opportunity to work with a premier private wealth planning firm handling sophisticated estate planning matters.
• Supportive, collaborative team environment with clear expectations and growth opportunities.
• Competitive compensation and transparent professional development path.
• Hybrid work structure with focus on Chicago office presence (Monday through Thursday in office).
• Chance to directly impact client service and firm success.

$190,000 - $250,000 annually. Compensation decisions depend on a wide range of factors including but not limited to experience and training, and other job-related factors permitted by law. This role will also be eligible for an annual discretionary variable incentive bonus.

Harrison LLP offers a comprehensive benefits package including personal time off, Firm paid holidays, medical/dental/vision insurance, and 401(k).

Harrison LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Harrison LLP will not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies for this role. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Harrison LLP, and the Firm will not be obligated to pay a placement fee.