A well-formulated will or trust can be a lifesaver in the event of your death. A will or trust can be an essential document to ensure that your assets make it to the right place.
How can you prepare your estate to ensure that your business is taken care of in case of your death? The first thing you must do is find a good estate planning attorney who can draw up the documents.
There are a few questions you can ask attorneys for wills and trusts to determine if they are a good candidate for the job. Keep reading for five essential questions you should ask your potential attorney.
1. What Types of Estate Planning Services Do You Offer?
The attorney should be experienced in preparing and executing wills and trusts, as well as other estate planning documents like medical powers of attorney, financial powers of attorney, and living wills. Find out if they have experience and expertise in tax planning, asset protection, and trust and estate administration.
Also, ask what types of assets they can assist with, such as real estate, businesses, and investments. Inquire about any specialized estate planning services they provide, such as Medicaid and Long-Term Care planning.
2. How Do You Charge for Your Services?
It’s vital to ask your estate planning lawyer how they charge for their services before hiring them. Ensure you understand what you’ll be paying for and if it’s within your budget. Start by asking how much they charge for their services.
Some accept flat fees, while others charge hourly rates. Your attorney should provide you with an estimate. Make sure to ask if there are any other costs beyond the hourly rate or flat fee.
3. Can You Provide References From Previous Clients?
You need to request references from current and former clients. Make sure to check them out before choosing an attorney. For reference on how to find an estate planner, you can check the top law firm in your area. Ask about word-of-mouth referrals and inquire about what type of communication you will have with the attorney.
4. How Do You Stay Current With Changes in Estate Law?
It’s essential to make sure the lawyer is up to date on any changes to the estate law. Estate law is constantly evolving, so you want to make sure any lawyer you hire is staying current on these changes. Staying current with changes in estate law requires diligently staying up-to-date to ensure that clients get the best service. This is an important aspect to discuss with your attorney when deciding who will handle your estate plan.
5. How Long Will It Take To Create an Estate Plan?
The estate planning process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the complexity and size of the estate. When hiring an attorney, be sure to inquire about the timeline on how to create a trust. It’s important to ask the attorney to estimate the time needed to review your circumstances and create a plan that meets your needs.
Ask These Questions Before Hiring Attorneys for Wills and Trusts
Finding the right attorneys for wills and trusts is important. By asking the right questions during your search, you can be sure you’ve chosen the right estate planning attorney for your goals and wishes.
Consider the questions above and reach out to a few attorneys to determine who best fits your needs. So don’t delay; start looking for the right attorney today!
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