Description

The Law Office of Nicole M. Soltanzadeh is a boutique law firm focused primarily on estate planning and estate administration, with a related practice handling residential real estate transactions.

We provide highly personalized, comprehensive legal services to individuals and families throughout Illinois. Our practice emphasizes close client relationships, thoughtful legal advice, attention to detail, and practical solutions tailored to each client’s circumstances.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an Associate Attorney to join our growing practice. We are open to candidates at a range of experience levels, including newly admitted attorneys and attorneys with several years of relevant experience.

The ideal candidate is an excellent writer and legal researcher, enjoys working directly with clients, communicates clearly and professionally, and is interested in developing a broad-based practice serving individuals and families.

This is an opportunity to work closely with the firm’s principal and to gain meaningful, hands-on experience rather than functioning solely as a behind-the-scenes document drafter.

Responsibilities

Estate Planning & Estate Administration

•          Participate in client consultations and meetings.
•          Assist in developing and implementing individualized estate plans.
•          Draft and review wills, revocable and irrevocable trusts, powers of attorney, and related estate-planning documents.
•          Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda concerning estate planning, trusts, probate, tax, and related issues.
•          Assist with estate and trust administration, including probate matters.
•          Communicate directly with clients, financial advisors, accountants, and other professional advisors.
•          Identify legal and practical issues and develop thoughtful solutions.
•          Prepare correspondence and other client communications.

Residential Real Estate

•          Represent clients in residential purchase and sale transactions.
•          Review and negotiate contracts, riders, disclosures, and related documents.
•          Communicate with clients, opposing counsel, brokers, lenders, title companies, and other transaction professionals.
•          Review title commitments, surveys, closing documents, and other transaction materials.
•          Address issues that arise during transactions.
•          Prepare clients for and attend residential real estate closings.
•          Handle appropriate post-closing matters.

Qualifications

The number of years in practice is less important to us than finding the right person for our firm and our clients.

We are looking for an attorney with:

•          Excellent legal writing and research skills.
•          Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
•          Excellent verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
•          The ability to explain complicated legal concepts clearly to clients.
•          Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
•          Professionalism, sound judgment, and responsiveness.
•          An interest in developing meaningful client relationships.
•          The ability to work independently while also seeking guidance and collaborating when appropriate.
•          A genuine interest in estate planning, estate administration, residential real estate, or related areas of practice.

Prior experience in estate planning, trusts, probate, estate administration, residential real estate, tax, or a related practice area is helpful but not required. We are willing to train the right candidate.

Why Work With Us?

A boutique practice offers an opportunity to become a well-rounded attorney and to develop both substantive legal expertise and strong client-management skills.

As an associate, you will have the opportunity to:

•          Work directly with clients.
•          Participate in matters from initial consultation through completion.
•          Develop substantive expertise in estate planning and estate administration.
•          Gain practical experience handling residential real estate transactions and attending closings.
•          Work closely with the firm’s principal and receive hands-on mentorship.
•          Develop relationships with clients and other professional advisors.
•          Take on increasing responsibility as your knowledge and skills develop.
•          Build a strong foundation for a long-term legal career.

Work Environment

This is a hybrid position combining remote and in-office work.

Because client relationships are central to our practice, the position includes regular opportunities for in-person client meetings, team collaboration, and attendance at residential real estate closings in the Chicago area.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $100,000–$130,000+, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits include:

•          Medical insurance
•          401(k)
•          Paid time off and holidays
•          Flexible hybrid work arrangements
•          Regular opportunities for in-person client interaction
•          Illinois bar dues and professional licensing fees
•          Professional development and continuing legal education
•          Professional liability/malpractice insurance
•          Hands-on mentorship

The compensation package will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

How to Apply

Please submit a resume and cover letter explaining your interest in the position, your interest in estate planning, estate administration, and/or residential real estate, and why you believe you would be a good fit for a boutique, client-focused law practice.

Please send application materials to nicole@soltanzadehlaw.com.

The Law Office of Nicole M. Soltanzadeh is an equal opportunity employer.