Estate Planning Lawyer

Location: Head Office - Coquitlam, BC

Position Type: Full-time Department: Wills & Estates Reports to: Managing Director, Spraggs Law Compensation: $100 - $120K + variable compensation/bonus (~10%)

Position Summary

This role is dedicated to estate planning, including wills, powers of attorney, representation agreements, trusts, and succession planning, and is distinct from our existing probate and estate litigation practice.

Working alongside our existing Probate & Estate Litigation lawyer, whose practice is primarily focused on probate and estate litigation, you will lead the estate planning side of the department. You will be responsible for independently managing client matters from initial consultation through execution while collaborating with colleagues to ensure clients receive seamless support across all areas of Wills & Estates law.

This position requires a lawyer who combines strong technical expertise with exceptional client service, sound judgment, and the ability to efficiently manage multiple files in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

Estate Planning Independently manage a high-volume estate planning practice.

Advise clients on a broad range of estate planning matters, including

Wills Powers of Attorney Representation Agreements Personal and family estate planning Estate administration planning Business succession planning Trust planning, where appropriate Assess each client's personal, family, financial, and business circumstances to develop practical estate planning strategies. Identify legal risks and opportunities while providing clear, practical advice tailored to each client's goals. Draft accurate, comprehensive, and legally sound estate planning documents. Conduct document signing meetings and ensure all execution requirements are properly completed. Maintain accurate and thorough file documentation.

Client Service

Deliver an exceptional client experience from initial consultation through completion of the engagement. Explain complex legal concepts in a clear, approachable manner. Build trusted relationships with clients through responsive communication and practical advice. Manage client expectations regarding timelines, costs, and outcomes. Respond to client inquiries promptly and professionally. Identify opportunities to provide additional legal services where appropriate.

Practice Management

Manage an active caseload while maintaining a high standard of quality and client service. Prioritize competing deadlines and efficiently manage workflow. Meet established billing, productivity, and file management expectations. Ensure files progress efficiently and matters are completed in a timely manner. Maintain compliance with all professional, ethical, and regulatory obligations. Utilize the firm's practice management systems and technology to manage files effectively.

Collaboration

Work collaboratively with the firm's Probate and Estate Litigation lawyer to provide clients with comprehensive Wills & Estates services. Identify matters requiring probate, estate administration, or litigation support and facilitate smooth internal referrals. Collaborate with lawyers across other practice areas, including Corporate and Workplace Law, when estate planning intersects with broader legal needs. Work closely with paralegals and legal assistants to maximize efficiency and client service.

Business Development

Develop and maintain referral relationships with financial advisors, accountants, insurance professionals, and other community partners. Participate in networking and community events that support growth of the Estate Planning practice. Contribute to initiatives that strengthen the firm's reputation within the community. Identify opportunities to expand existing client relationships.

Continuous Improvement

Stay current on legislative changes, case law, and best practices affecting estate planning. Contribute to the development and improvement of precedents, templates, and internal processes. Share knowledge and collaborate with colleagues to improve the overall effectiveness of the department. Support the continued growth and development of the Wills & Estates practice.

Qualifications

Required Juris Doctor (JD) or Bachelor of Laws (LLB). Member in good standing with the Law Society of British Columbia. 3-5 years of experience practicing primarily in Estate Planning. Demonstrated experience independently managing estate planning files from consultation through execution. Strong drafting skills for Wills, Powers of Attorney, Representation Agreements, and related estate planning documents. Ability to manage a high-volume caseload with minimal supervision. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong organizational and time management skills. Exceptional attention to detail. Sound legal judgment and analytical abilities. Commitment to delivering outstanding client service. Proficiency with legal practice management software and Microsoft Office.

Preferred

Experience advising business owners on succession planning. Experience with trust planning and trust administration. Existing referral relationships within the local professional community. Experience participating in business development initiatives. Familiarity with tax considerations impacting estate planning (working collaboratively with accountants and tax professionals as appropriate).