Dena Kraus

About Dena Kraus

Goal-oriented, highly motivated professional with a comprehensive background in legal support, top-level assistance and paralegal skills. Ability to facilitate multiple project demands while working under the pressure of time constraints. I am professional with expertise in collaborating with senior leadership, attorneys, judges, staff, and clients. Quickly masters new roles, responsibilities, technologies and situations. Known for my ability to balance multiple priorities under tight deadlines, I thrive in high-pressure environments while maintaining exceptional attention to detail. I am adept at collaborating with attorneys, senior leadership, judges, staff, and clients, and take pride in fostering efficiency and precision in every stage of the legal process.A fast learner who quickly adapts to new technologies, responsibilities, and challenges, I am committed to creating streamlined workflows and delivering exceptional support in all areas of estate and trust administration.

Experience

1. Senior Paralegal

   Mgd Law, Llc

   Mar 2020 — Present · St. Louis, MI, US

   As a dedicated Senior Paralegal with extensive experience in post-death administration, I provide critical support in guiding families, fiduciaries, and legal professionals through the complexities of probate and trust administration. My role bridges the legal, financial, and human elements of estate settlement with precision, compassion, and professionalism.I manage all aspects of estate and trust administration from initial intake through final distribution, including preparing probate pleadings, coordinating with courts and financial institutions, drafting trust-related documentation, and ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations. I specialize in preparing complex estate tax returns (Forms 706, 8971, 709) and related filings, supporting attorneys and CPAs in delivering timely, accurate reporting.With a deep understanding of legal procedures, tax requirements, and client service expectations, I ensure that each matter is handled with care, confidentiality, and attention to detail. I thrive in collaborative environments, partnering closely with attorneys, CPAs, financial advisors, and families to deliver smooth, informed outcomes during times of transition.

Education

• Lindenwood University

  Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Business Administration and Management, General

  2016

• Southwestern Illinois College

  Associate of Science - AS, Political Science and Government

  1991 — 1994

Skills

• Timeslips
• Litigation Preparation
• Legal Research
• Legal Documents
• Domestic Relations
• Casemap
• Trusts
• Delegation
• Hotdocs
• Asbestos Litigation
• Interrogatories
• Class Actions
• Document Review
• Prolaw
• Guardianship
• Organization Skills
• Problem Solving
• Team Leadership
• Legal Writing
• Litigation
• Communication
• Estate Administration
• Legal Assistants
• Efiling
• Pacer
• Docketing
• Litigation Support
• Personal Injury Litigation
• Estate Planning
• Motions
• Relationship Building
• Project Management
• Trial Director
• Notary Public
• Elder Law
• Personal Injury
• Wills
• E-File
• Trial Practice
• Subpoenas