Private Client Services AssociateDirect Counsel is seeking a Private Client Services Associate to join a premier Private Client Services practice in Los Angeles. This is an exceptional opportunity for an attorney interested in sophisticated estate planning, wealth transfer planning, tax strategy, trust and estate administration, and advising high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families.The ideal candidate will have 5–9 years of experience, a strong interest in private wealth planning, and a desire to develop long-term, multi-generational relationships with clients and their trusted advisors. Attorneys with a demonstrated interest in tax law through prior experience, coursework, or an LL.M.
are strongly encouraged to apply.ResponsibilitiesAdvise high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families on:Estate planningWealth preservation strategiesGift and estate tax planningGeneration-skipping transfer tax planningSuccession planningDesign and implement sophisticated domestic and international wealth transfer structuresDraft and review estate planning documents, trusts, and related instrumentsCounsel clients on:Federal gift and estate tax mattersFiduciary income tax planningCalifornia property tax planningResidency planningDomestic and international tax considerationsAssist with pre- and post-liquidity event planning for business owners and entrepreneursAdvise fiduciaries and beneficiaries regarding trust and estate administration mattersSupport probate and post-death trust administrationCounsel clients on fiduciary obligations and compliance requirementsAdvise on:Foreign trusts with U.S. assets or beneficiariesInternational wealth planning structuresCharitable planning and philanthropyPrivate foundation and nonprofit organization mattersAssist with trust and estate disputes, fiduciary matters, and beneficiary-related issuesWork directly with clients and their professional advisorsCollaborate with attorneys across:CorporateTaxReal EstateEmploymentEntertainmentEnvironmentalOther practice groupsParticipate in thought leadership, industry events, and professional development initiativesQualificationsJ.D. from an accredited law schoolActive California Bar membership5–9 years of legal experienceStrong interest in private client services, estate planning, and wealth transfer planningExcellent legal writing, analytical, and communication skillsAbility to build and maintain trusted client relationshipsStrong organizational and project management abilitiesInterest in sophisticated tax and wealth planning mattersPreferred QualificationsPrior experience in:Estate planningTrusts and estatesWealth transfer planningTax planningFiduciary administrationLL.M.
in Taxation (or current pursuit of an LL.M.)Coursework or experience involving estate, gift, and income tax planningWork ArrangementFull-time, in-office positionRemote and hybrid arrangements are not available for this role.Compensation & BenefitsSalary range: $265,000 – $320,000Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insuranceLife, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverageHealth Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) optionsGenerous paid time off and parental leaveEmployee assistance and wellness programsProfessional development and business development supportFormal mentoring and associate training programsWhy This OpportunityWork with high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals and familiesGain exposure to sophisticated domestic and international tax and estate planning mattersBuild meaningful, long-term client relationshipsCollaborate across a full-service law firm platformSignificant mentorship, professional development, and thought leadership opportunitiesJoin a nationally respected Private Client Services practice with a strong reputation in the wealth planning communityDirect Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier law firms and fostering inclusive hiring practices.