Overview
Investigator – (Human Services Specialist II) – Howard County State’s Attorney Office Jobs in Ellicott City, MD at Howard County
We are looking for an experienced Senior Paralegal to support our growing Trusts & Estates practice. Working under the direct supervision of our attorneys, you will handle complex matters spanning estate planning, probate and estate administration, fiduciary litigation, adult guardianship, and long-term-care Medicaid application and planning.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in trusts and estates, probate and estate administration in both New Jersey and New York, trust and estate accounting, combined with the ability to manage client relationships with professionalism and care.
Key Responsibilities
Estate & Probate Administration – Prepare and file probate, administration, and ancillary petitions in New Jersey and New York Surrogate’s Courts; marshal assets, settle debts, and coordinate distributions.
Court Filings & Deadlines – Draft and submit all Surrogate’s Court pleadings (Rule 4:87 accountings in NJ; SCPA §2211 accountings in NY) and track related deadlines.
Fiduciary Accountings & Tax Compliance – Compile informal and formal accountings; prepare and file federal and state forms including 706, 1041, IT-R, IT-NR, NJ-1041, L-8/L-9 waivers, ET-706, ET-85, ET-30, IT-205.
Client & Third-Party Liaison – Communicate with clients, courts, financial institutions, accountants, and appraisers to gather information and resolve issues.
Research & Drafting – Conduct legal research; draft memoranda, petitions, and reports for attorney review.
Case Management – Maintain organized electronic files, calendaring systems, and task lists in practice-management software to ensure all deliverables are met on time.
Qualifications
7+ years of hands-on probate, estate, and trust-administration experience in both New Jersey and New York
Thorough knowledge of Surrogate’s Court procedures, state court rules, and civil procedure
Demonstrated proficiency in fiduciary accountings and estate-tax preparation
Experience with estate-accounting software (GEMS, ONESOURCE, or similar) — preferred
Proficient in practice-management platforms such as Clio, LEAP, or comparable systems
Excellent legal research, writing, and drafting abilities
Superior organization and attention to detail; able to manage multiple matters simultaneously
Strong interpersonal and client-service skills
Bachelor’s degree and/or ABA-approved Paralegal Certificate required
Notary Public commission in NJ and/or NY — a plus
What We Offer
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off)
Continuing-education and professional-development opportunities
Collaborative environment where your expertise is valued and growth is encouraged
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $75,000.00 – $95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid sick time
Paid time off
Retirement plan
Vision insurance
Schedule:
Monday to Friday
Ability to Commute:
Paramus, NJ 07652 (Required)
Work Location: In person
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Title: Investigator – (Human Services Specialist II) – Howard County State’s Attorney Office
Company: Howard County
Location: Ellicott City, MD
