Are You Ready to Plan Your Estate?

Planning your estate is something you probably don’t have any experience with, and it can be complex. An estate planning lawyer can answer your questions and take care of anything related to your estate. There are several things you can do to prepare for a consultation with an estate attorney.

Select Your Attorney

 Estate law is very complex and specialized. You’re going to be paying for services, and you’ll want to be confident that you choose the right lawyer for the job. Here are some things to consider:

•       Does the attorney have experience handling estates like yours?

•       Are you comfortable with the office team? The chances are that you’ll be speaking to the receptionist or other staff during the planning process, so it’s good to have a comfortable rapport with them. You should also find out how long it usually takes the office to return a phone call or email.

•       What is the lawyer's fee structure?  

•       Is a free consultation offered?

Before Your Initial Consultation

 Consultation appointments allow you and the attorney to ask questions and exchange information. Estate planning can be expensive, so it’s a good idea to take time to prepare for your first appointment. Everything you do so the attorney doesn’t have to saves you money. There are several documents you should take with you:

•       Most attorneys will ask you to fill out a questionnaire before your first appointment. Provide answers to all the questions for better accuracy and to save time during the consultation.

•       Bring copies of financial documents, such as bank statements, stock certificates, business ownership papers, life insurance policies, and real estate deeds.

•       If you already have a will, a power of attorney, or a trust, you should bring documentation to the consultation.

•       You should bring any contracts, including prenuptial agreements or divorce papers.

•       Prepare a list with contact information for your family members and possible estate executors or trustees.

•       Make a list of questions that you have for the attorney. You may want to ask about current estate tax laws, as they can be very confusing.

•       It’s a good idea to have a written set of goals for your estate planning. This can help you clarify things for yourself and provide a reference guide for your lawyer.

•       Don’t forget potential incoming sums of money you may want to deal with. For example, if you’ve recently been in an accident and have a personal injury claim, you may want to include any settlement you receive as part of your estate plan, as the lawyers at Cohen & Cohen explain.

Besides exchanging information, a consultation is your opportunity to interview the attorney to see if they’re a good fit for you.

Contact an Estate Planning Lawyer              

 Set up a consultation appointment with an estate planning attorney. They can provide more information and answer any questions you may have about their services, fees, or the estate planning process.