Law Clerk, Private Client Services

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We are seeking a Law Clerk, Private Client Services to join our team on a 18-month contract basis in our Waterloo Office

In this role, the law clerk will deal with: (i) estate planning matters and documents, together with reporting and accounting; (ii) probate and administration matters and documentation, including providing assistance to executors and administrators in the administration of estates; (iii) conducting and reporting various searches; (iv) communications with the various government agencies, as well as participating in client interviews, direct phone and e-mail communications with clients and others and the execution of documents by clients; and (v) the ongoing development and maintenance of the precedent system, together with other administrative support to the private client group as required.

Key responsibilities:

Drafting and Revising 

• Prepare initial drafts of estate planning documents (wills, powers of attorney, representation agreements).
• Prioritize and monitor the various components of the matter.
• Supervise processes and procedures relating to estate administration.
• Conduct and report on wills notice and other searches.
• Maintain and prepare estate accounts.
• Draft various documentation and correspondence.
• Arrange publication of notices to creditors and related tasks.
• Calculate, draft and analyze financial documentation and data, and handle the receipt and disbursal of funds for matters and all financial reporting requirements.
• Compile information and drafting written report(s), opinions and accounting to client.

Reviewing and Document Management 

• Conduct, document, review, analyze, verify, monitor, summarize and report on due diligence for matters including corporate records and searches, financial and other records and searches.
• Assist in the ongoing development and maintenance, precedent system in respect of estate planning and estate administration matters.

Preparing and Assembling 

• Prepare Certificate of Appointment application materials and supporting documents.
• Prepare court application materials and management plans for guardianship applications.
• Prepare court documentation for passing of account applications.

Liaising and Communicating 

• Consult and collaborate with solicitors and clients to receive and implement instructions at onset and during the course of the matter.
• Communicate with financial institutions and others to gather information relating to estate assets.
• Act as primary liaison with the court offices, The Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee and other government agencies.
• Act as primary liaison with client's accountants to assist in tax return preparation.
• Assist executors and administrators in the administration of estates, including the transmission and transfer of estate assets and the preparation of accounts.
• Flagging and anticipating potential issues and communicating these issues to the attention of the solicitor in charge.
• Collaborate with support staff and supervise assistant(s).
• Participate in client interviews, engage in telephone and e-mail communications with clients and others and attend to execution of documents by clients.

Research 

• Research and interpret legal and technical procedures, statutes, and regulations applicable to area of practice.

Misc.

• Assist with maintenance of, or maintain, will vault and records relating to the will vault.

What you'll bring:

• Paralegal Certificate or Diploma; potentially also an Undergraduate degree (preferred);
• At least 2-5 years of experience or higher;
• Varied experience dealing estate planning and estate administration matters with a minimum of supervision in a fast paced, high volume environment which requires excellent written and verbal communication as well as excellent organizational and analytical skills;
• Good drafting and mathematical skills are also required; 
• Continuing education to keep abreast of changes; 
• Proficient in word processing using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook;
• Competent with Emergent program and components (Wind-up, Estate-a-Base, Will Vault);
• Up to date and sound working knowledge of relevant legislation, Supreme Court Rules, and probate registry practice and procedures;
• Sound knowledge of accounting concepts as they relate to estate administration matters transactions;
• Proficient in legal related accounting program (Aderant preferred);
• Ability to compile report books.

What we offer:

We believe in the importance of a Total Compensation package, ensuring our mix of salary, benefits, and perks are competitive within the market as well as a work-life balance. We offer:

• A comprehensive Benefits package that includes Health, Dental and Vision Care, 3+ Weeks' Vacation and 10 Personal Days;
• A Diverse and Inclusive Workplace;
• Flexible working options;
• Employee appreciation events;
• Charitable giving programs.

Who we are:

Miller Thomson LLP is one of Canada's fastest-growing national business law firms, with ten offices across the country. Our consistent ability to provide practical, creative and cost-effective advice, combined with an unyielding service commitment to our clients and a strong dedication to our lawyers, staff and the communities in which we practice, gives us a unique position in the Canadian legal industry.

Miller Thomson LLP is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility.

While we thank all applicants for their interest, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are unable to respond to queries individually, and only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls or agencies, please.

Miller Thomson will provide accommodation on request throughout the recruitment, selection and assessment process for applicants with disabilities. If you require accommodation, please inform our Talent department of the nature of the accommodation that you may require, to ensure your equal participation.

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