Probate and Estate Planning Paralegal

Job description:Job Title: Probate and Estate Planning ParalegalLocation: La Mesa (with occasional travel to Alpine and Chula Vista locations)Position: Full-TimeWage: Commensurate with Experience (Target: $27 to $37 per hour DOE)Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Chiropractic, and Life InsuranceAbout the FirmMcGovern Law Group is a growing estate planning and probate law firm serving families throughout San Diego County. We focus on delivering high-quality, relationship-driven legal services with an emphasis on clarity, efficiency, and protecting our clients’ legacies.We are building a team that values professionalism, accountability, and pride in their work—while maintaining a supportive and positive office culture.Position OverviewWe are seeking a highly experienced Estate Planning & Probate Paralegal (3–5+ years experience) who can operate with a high degree of independence and take ownership of drafting and case progression.This is not an entry-level role. The ideal candidate is confident managing files, drafting complex documents, and supporting attorneys in both estate planning and probate/trust administration matters.Key ResponsibilitiesEstate PlanningDraft comprehensive estate plans, including:Revocable Living TrustsWills (including pour-over wills)Durable Powers of AttorneyAdvance Health Care DirectivesAssist with trust funding instructions and asset transfer documentationPrepare client correspondence and follow-up materialsCoordinate signing appointments and ensure proper executionProbate & Trust AdministrationDraft and manage probate filings from start to finish, including:Petitions for ProbateSpousal Property Petitions§850 Petitions (Heggstad petitions and related matters)Prepare notices, pleadings, and supporting documentsAssist with:Inventory & AppraisalsAccountings (preferred)Court filings and calendaring deadlinesCommunicate with clients regarding status and required informationCase Management & SupportMaintain organized and up-to-date client filesTrack deadlines and ensure timely progression of mattersCoordinate with attorneys, clients, and third partiesIdentify missing information and proactively move files forwardQualifications2–5+ years of experience in estate planning and probate preferredDemonstrated experience drafting:Trusts, wills, POAs, and healthcare directivesProbate petitions, including spousal property and §850 petitionsStrong understanding of California probate procedures and timelinesAbility to manage multiple files with minimal supervisionHigh attention to detail and accuracyExcellent written and verbal communication skillsProficiency with legal software and document management systemsWhat We’re Looking ForSomeone who takes ownership of their work and their filesA professional who is organized, proactive, and dependableA team player who communicates clearly and follows throughSomeone who takes pride in producing clean, accurate workHow to Apply:If you are a detail-oriented professional with a passion for probate and estate planning, we invite you to apply for this position. Please submit your resume and an optional cover letter or message through LinkedIn or directly to info@mcgovernlawgroup.com.McGovern Law Group is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.Job Type: Full-timeBenefits:Dental insuranceHealth insuranceLife insurancePaid sick timePaid time offVision insurance