An estate planning attorney can be a crucial part of any legal or financial plan. They can help you to create a will, trust or other plan that meets your specific needs and desires while also helping to minimize estate taxes.
It’s important to choose an estate planning attorney with a thorough understanding of the law. They will be able to answer your questions and explain your options clearly, without speaking in legalese that you may not understand.
You should interview several attorneys to find one you can work with for the long haul. Look at their references and talk to other clients they have worked with to get a feel for their style and personality.
Your estate planning attorney should be a professional who is committed to making sure you are well taken care of and that your wishes are respected during life and upon your death. They should also be prepared to address any questions or concerns you have at any time.
Some estate planning attorneys charge a flat fee, while others bill on an hourly basis. These fees vary depending on how much work they need to do and how many meetings they have with you.
During the initial meeting, ask your potential attorney to explain how their fees are calculated and how they calculate them. You should also get a clear idea of how many consultations they require and whether or not any additional services will be charged if needed.
If an estate planning attorney is billing on an hourly basis, they will likely require a retainer up front before they begin working on your case. This retainer will cover the cost of the initial consultation and any work performed up until then. They will also count the hours they’ve worked against that initial retainer and refund any unused funds or ask for an additional amount of money when the retainer is spent down.
The retainer is an important investment in your case because it helps to ensure that you’ll receive top-quality service from the estate attorney. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that the firm will be there to support you during the process and make sure everything is done as you have planned.
Your estate planning attorney should have extensive experience in estate planning and probate law. They should also be a member of a professional society and have passed a rigorous exam to become certified in that area of the law.
You should also consider how well your lawyer knows the laws in your state and whether they have a reputation for quality service. You can check for this by looking at reviews on their website or reading the credentials of past clients.
Lastly, be sure to ask about any fees for unforeseen issues that might pop up while your estate planning attorney is working on your case. This is especially important if you have children or other assets that could be subject to inheritance or estate tax.