Trusts & Estates Attorney

Woods Rogers seeks a Trusts and Estates Attorney to join its dynamic team in Norfolk, VA. The Trust and Estates Attorney specializes in advising clients on estate planning, asset protection, probate, and trust administration matters. The attorney works with individuals and families to help them manage their estates and plan for the transfer of their assets upon death. This includes drafting wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance medical directives and other legal documents, as well as providing counsel on tax implications, closely held family businesses, charitable giving, and complex family dynamics.

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
• Admission to the state bar of Virginia.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in trust and estate planning, trust administration, probate law, or related fields.
• Experience with complex estate planning (including business succession, tax‑efficient planning, and charitable planning) is preferred.
• Familiarity with closely held business entities such as limited liability companies and S corporations.
• Strong knowledge of trust and estate law.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts in a clear, understandable manner.
• Proficiency in legal research and utilizing relevant software tools (e.g., Trust administration platforms, MS Office Suite, Westlaw, etc.).
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work well with clients and their family members, and other professionals such as financial advisors and accountants.
• Empathy and discretion when dealing with sensitive family and financial matters.
• A client‑focused, solutions‑oriented mindset.

• Draft and review wills, trusts (revocable and irrevocable), durable powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and other estate planning documents.
• Tailor estate plans to address specific client needs, including asset protection, family governance, and charitable giving.
• Guide clients through the administration of trusts, including the selection and duties of trustees, managing trust assets and distributing assets to beneficiaries.
• Assist in the preparation of trust accountings and other necessary documentation.
• Coordinate with accountants for the timely and efficient filing of all tax returns.
• Advise clients on estate planning strategies to minimize taxes, avoid probate, and ensure proper asset distribution.
• Advise trustees on fiduciary duties and compliance with trust terms.
• Represent clients in probate proceedings, including the appointment of personal representatives, and facilitate the probate process in accordance with state laws.
• Prepare and file necessary documents with probate courts and Commissioner of Accounts’ offices and assist with any litigation related to estate disputes.
• Help clients navigate the distribution of assets according to a decedent’s will or trust, ensuring all legal and tax requirements are met.
• Advise clients on the tax benefits of charitable giving, including maximizing deductions and ensuring compliance with IRS regulations.
• Provide counsel on strategies, including bequests, drafting charitable trusts, and foundations.
• Handle or support litigation relating to trusts and estates, including contested wills, trust disputes, and claims of breach of fiduciary duty.
• Stay current on changes in laws, regulations, and trends affecting trusts and estates, including state‑specific probate laws and federal tax policy.
• All other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

• Medical Insurance
• 401(k) + matching
• Professional office environment
• Travel is required to attend client meetings, court proceedings and other related events.

Woods Rogers is an equal opportunity employer. Review of applications will begin immediately. This position will remain open for applications until filled.

• Associate

• Full‑time

• Legal

• Legal Services and Law Practice

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