Associate - Private Wealth Services

Company: Direct Counsel represents a reputable law firm
Job Type: Full-Time | Hybrid (3 days in-office)

Overview
Direct Counsel is seeking a Private Wealth Associate to join a top-tier law firm in Chicago. Work with high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and fund principals on sophisticated estate planning, tax strategy, and wealth transfer matters.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement advanced estate and tax planning strategies
• Draft complex estate planning documents (Wills, SLATs, GRATs, ILITs, etc.)
• Advise on trust and estate administration and tax filings (Forms 706 & 709)
• Handle trust modifications, decanting, and restructuring strategies
• Support family office structuring, philanthropy, and governance planning

Qualifications

• J.D. or LL.M. with 3+ years of estate planning experience
• Strong background in estate, gift, and GST tax planning
• Experience drafting sophisticated estate planning documents
• Familiarity with multi-jurisdictional or cross-border tax issues is a plus
• Illinois Bar admission (or eligibility within 2 years) required

Compensation & Benefits

• $310,000 base salary + bonus
• Hybrid schedule (3 days in-office, Chicago)
• Full benefits: medical, dental, vision, 401(k)
• PTO, disability coverage, and more