Senior Associate or Counsel / Trust & Estate Litigation Attorney
Hoge Fenton, a distinguished multi-service law firm, headquartered in downtown San Jose, is seeking a Senior Associate or Counsel level attorney to join its Trust & Estate Litigation Group.
This is a leadership role for an experienced litigator with 8 or more years of trust and estate litigation experience who is ready to drive case strategy, cultivate client relationships, and help shape the direction and culture of a growing practice group. The ideal candidate will bring a strong track record of handling complex trust and estate matters, a commitment to business development, and a genuine passion for mentoring the next generation of attorneys.
Key Responsibilities
Drive case strategy and lead high-stakes, complex trust and estate litigation matters from inception through resolution.
Cultivate and deepen client relationships, serving as a trusted advisor and primary point of contact for key clients.
Contribute to business development initiatives and the continued growth of the Trust & Estate Litigation practice.
Supervise and manage associates on active matters, including delegation and oversight of case work.
Provide hands-on mentoring, training, feedback, and performance guidance to develop associates' litigation skills.
Help shape the direction and culture of the Trust & Estate Litigation Group.
Represent senior citizens and their families in financial elder abuse litigation.
Represent trustees, executors, administrators, and beneficiaries in trust and probate litigation, including:
Will and trust contests based on lack of capacity, undue influence, or fraud.
Negligent management of assets.
Failure to account or inadequate accounting.
Co-trustee disputes.
Removal and surcharge actions.
Breach of fiduciary duty (lack of impartiality, self-dealing, and secret profits).
Requirements
Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
Active membership in the State Bar of California (in good standing).
8+ years of trust and estate litigation experience.
Demonstrated leadership in case management, client development, and associate supervision.
Strong analytical, negotiation, consulting, and communication skills.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
Excellent reputation for integrity and collegiality among both bench and bar.
Location
This position may be based in any of the firm's offices: Silicon Valley (Downtown San Jose), Tri-Valley (Pleasanton), or Peninsula (San Mateo). Travel between offices may be required.
Compensation
$225,000 to $275,000 base salary, depending on experience, qualifications, and skill set.
Recruiter Notice
Unsolicited resumes from search firms will not be considered, and no fees will be paid for candidates submitted without a prior written agreement.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Hoge Fenton has a strong commitment to diversity. The firm strives to recruit and retain a workforce that welcomes and supports the interests of women, families, and individuals of all ages, races, creeds, religions, colors, national origins, ethnicities, sexual orientations, gender identities/gender expressions, disabilities, or military and veteran statuses. The environment is collegial, collaborative, flexible, and supportive. Hoge Fenton is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Why Hoge Fenton
Hoge Fenton is a well-established, highly respected multi-service law firm offering a supportive, flexible, and collaborative environment where attorneys build long-term careers handling high-quality, impactful matters. The firm maintains a deep commitment to diversity, inclusion, and professional development, providing resources and mentorship that empower attorneys at every stage of their careers.
