Associate Attorney – Estate Planning & Tax

About the Opportunity

We are a highly respected, single-attorney boutique law firm focusing on estate planning and tax law, serving clients across Maryland and Southern Pennsylvania. We are seeking an entrepreneurial entry-level Associate Attorney to join the firm.

You will assist clients in a collaborative environment, working with our team to achieve client objectives while learning the mechanics of estate and tax law.

This position is designed as part of the firm’s long-term exit strategy, offering a structured, clear path to partnership and eventual firm succession for the right candidate.

What You Will Do (With Direct Mentorship)

• Client Interaction: Conduct initial consultations and build lasting relationships with individuals, families, and business owners.
• Document Drafting: Draft customized estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and advance directives.
• Tax Strategy and Return Preparation: Assist with estate, gift, and income tax planning and return preparation. Help navigate complex tax implications for high-net-worth clients.
• Estate Administration: Guide fiduciaries through the probate and trust administration process.
• Firm Management: Gradually learn the operations and financial aspects of managing a boutique legal practice.

What We Are Looking For

• Education & License: Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school. Admission to the Maryland Bar is required (or currently awaiting July 2026 bar exam results).
• Experience Level: Entry-level (0–3 years of experience). Judicial clerks, recent graduates, or attorneys looking to transition to transactional law are welcome to apply.
• Core Interest: A genuine interest or academic background in estate planning, trust administration, property, or tax preparation. (A CPA or LL.M. in Taxation or coursework in estate/gift tax is a strong plus, but not a requirement).
• Traits for Success: Exceptional attention to detail, strong empathetic communication skills, and an entrepreneurial mindset. You must be someone who desires autonomy and eventual business ownership.
• Geographic Commitment: Ability to split time between our Frederick and Hagerstown offices, with a desire to become an active member of the local community.

What We Offer

• Competitive entry-level salary commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonuses aligned with firm growth.
• Direct, daily 1-on-1 mentorship from a veteran attorney.
• A healthy work-life balance compared to large-firm environments.
• A path toward firm partnership.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter explaining why you are interested in estate planning and a long-term path to partnership. Applications can be sent to [email protected] with the subject line: "Associate Attorney Application – [Your Last Name]".

All inquiries and applications will be kept strictly confidential.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person