Category: Legal Location: Melbourne Victoria Australia Position: Associate / Senior Associate - Trusts & Estates Location: Melbourne (hybrid available) Employment type: Full time The firm A specialist Melbourne boutique advising private businesses, business owners and family groups is seeking a Trusts & Estates practitioner. The role We are partnering with the firm to appoint an Associate or Senior Associate to join a specialist Trusts & Estates team. The role offers hands-on client work, ownership of matters and exposure across estate planning, probate and administration, trust advice and trust disputes, estate and will litigation, guardianship/capacity matters and tax‑effective succession planning. Key responsibilities Prepare and review Wills (including testamentary trust wills), powers of attorney and advance care directives; advise on asset protection and business succession structures. Manage deceased estate administration and probate matters: grants, estate accounting, liaising with third parties and distribution. Advise on tax implications of estate planning and deceased estates, coordinate with tax advisers on testamentary trusts and succession issues. Act in estate disputes and will challenges (family provision claims, invalidity, executor removal) and guardianship/capacity proceedings (VCAT and courts). Provide trust advice and handle trust disputes: breach of trust, removal/replacement of trustees, production of trust documents and related litigation. Assist with digital asset management in estate planning and advising on emerging issues. Draft and negotiate estate and trust documentation, settlement agreements and court/tribunal applications. Supervise junior staff and support business development and client relationships. Skills & experience Admitted solicitor in Australia with ~2–5 years’ post-admission experience for Associate, or ~5–8 years for Senior Associate, with proven exposure to trusts, estates and estate disputes. Experience with probate/estate administration, family provision claims, trust litigation and estate planning tax issues highly desirable. Strong drafting, client advisory and advocacy skills; confident in tribunal and court processes. Commercial approach, empathy in sensitive matters and excellent client communication. Ability to manage multiple files, mentor junior team members and work collaboratively. Based in Melbourne or willing to relocate; eligible to work in Australia. Remuneration & benefits Competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience. Hybrid working arrangements and a values-driven boutique environment. Meaningful client contact, file ownership and professional development opportunities. How to apply Please forward your CV and a brief cover letter stating preferred level (Associate or Senior Associate) and current availability to the recruitment consultant managing this search: Niki@hookerheijden.com.au This search is confidential; employer details and a full briefing will be provided to shortlisted candidates. Details Apply Now
