Trust & Estate Planning Special Counsel

Company: Direct Counsel
Location: Madison
Posted on: February 15, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Direct Counsel is seeking a Trust & Estate Planning Special Counsel to join a prestigious Am Law firm in Madison, Wisconsin . This is a full-time, non-partner-track position within the firm’s Estate Planning Practice Group. The role will support attorneys in sophisticated estate planning and administration matters, providing comprehensive counsel to high-net-worth individuals, business owners, and charitable organizations. Key Responsibilities: Draft complex estate planning and business succession documents Prepare sophisticated charitable giving instruments Advise clients on income, gift, estate, and generation-skipping tax planning strategies Assist with probate proceedings for taxable and non-taxable estates Prepare and process federal gift and estate tax returns Support tax-exempt organization planning matters Qualifications: 1–3 years of estate planning experience Strong foundation in estate, trust, and tax law, including fiduciary and gift tax concepts Experience drafting complex estate and succession planning documents Excellent written, verbal, and organizational skills JD from an ABA-accredited law school Active bar admission in at least one U.S. jurisdiction (ability to obtain Wisconsin admission required) Compensation: $150,000 – $180,000 annually, depending on experience and other job-related factors. Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k); disability and life insurance; adoption assistance; and dependent backup care. If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity, please contact Direct Counsel for a confidential discussion.

Keywords: Direct Counsel, Elgin , Trust & Estate Planning Special Counsel, Legal , Madison, Illinois