California Trust & Estate Litigation Attorney

Overview

An established boutique litigation practice based in San Diego is seeking an experienced California-licensed Trust & Estate Litigation Attorney for a part-time engagement (approximately 15 hours per week). This is a fully remote position.

The practice focuses on complex and emotionally nuanced disputes involving estates, fiduciaries, beneficiaries, and closely held family assets. The role requires a strong understanding of substantive trust and estate law, probate and civil litigation procedures, and the interpersonal dynamics common in these matters.

Responsibilities

• Litigate trust and estate disputes, including will and trust contests, breach of fiduciary duty claims, accounting disputes, creditor claims, trustee/beneficiary conflicts, and related probate and civil matters.
• Draft and argue motions, pleadings, and briefs; manage written discovery; support depositions, mediations, and trial preparation.
• Develop case strategies and craft practical, client-centered solutions considering legal rights, family dynamics, and fiduciary obligations.
• Communicate professionally and thoughtfully with beneficiaries, trustees, fiduciaries, and family members involved in sensitive, high-stakes matters.
• Collaborate closely with partners on complex disputes, taking direction when appropriate while independently managing assignments.
• Organize and manage a busy docket, track deadlines, coordinate filings, and ensure efficient case progression.
• Maintain strong responsiveness and communication while working fully remotely.

Requirements

• Licensed to practice law in California and in good standing.
• Minimum of 4 years of trust & estate or probate litigation experience.
• Strong legal research, writing, and motion practice skills.
• Ability to take direction and implement partner feedback while also working independently.
• Established experience in trust & estate litigation; this role is suited for attorneys looking to apply their existing expertise.
• Organized, proactive, and capable of managing multiple matters while communicating effectively within a small team.
• Comfortable working directly with clients in sensitive family- and wealth-related matters.
• Reasonably available during West Coast business hours.
• Outstanding professional references.

Position Details

• Role Type: Engagement
• Schedule: Part-Time (approximately 15 hours per week)
• Location: Fully Remote (anywhere in the United States)

Compensation & Benefits

• Annualized pay range (full-time equivalent): $200,000 - $260,000. Actual pay for contract engagements depends on factors including experience, qualifications, credentials, location, market supply/demand, and candidate preference.
• Benefits: W2 employees working 20+ hours per week are eligible for full benefits, including a Qualified 401(k) plan.
• Additional benefits include complimentary Group Life, Long-Term Disability (LTD), Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), and professional liability insurance.
• Attorneys receive a Continuing Legal Education (CLE) and Professional Expense stipend.

Confidentiality

Candidates will not be proposed to prospective clients without prior consent. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Location

This is a fully remote position open to candidates located anywhere within the United States, with reasonable availability during West Coast business hours.