Hiring an attorney for your estate planning is vital. This litigation involves planning how your assets will be managed and distributed after your incapacitation or death. However, you must know that not all lawyers are honest or transparent.
Choosing an inexperienced lawyer can have severe consequences for your plan. In this article, we will help you choose the right attorney by outlining six essential things to consider when hiring estate planning attorneys. Choosing the right lawyer will help you meet your needs and secure your legacy for future generations. Let us delve in.
The period the lawyer has been practicing in the areas of trusts, probate, and estate planning
Estate planning experience is a significant factor when hiring a lawyer for your estate plan. Put measures in place to inquire from the attorney about their experience handling such matters. An experienced estate planning attorney is likely to be competent and trustworthy. Such a lawyer will give you high-quality service.
The cost of your estate plan
It is essential to compare lawyer fees before you consider hiring an attorney. In the process, determine if an upfront fee is required. In law, this fee is called a retainer. It will help you to hire an attorney that meets your budget.
The percentage of practice devoted to this area of law
Knowing the length of time the attorney has spent on estate planning, probate, and trusts is crucial. The years of practice may not matter in this factor; all that matters are the resources devoted to these areas of the law. Ensure that your attorney is privy to the current estate planning laws so that they give you the service you deserve.
The knowledge and interest of the lawyer in your situation
Ensure you are on the same page with your attorney. If there are factors that may complicate your estate planning process, you must hire an attorney who is a specialist in your situation to ensure your needs are well taken care of.
The comprehensibility of the attorney and their clarity in explaining the law
The process of estate planning is quite complicated. You must hire an estate planning attorney who is easy to understand and can explain the different areas of the law, unlike one who speaks in legal jargon. Lawyers who communicate clearly will confirm their knowledge about current laws surrounding estate planning and will save you the time of making changes to your plan.
Take your time and engage your preferred attorney in a conversation to help you see if they are a good match for you.
The availability of a written fee agreement and whether the attorney is friendly and easy to talk to
The written fee agreement is a document that is essential for any contract you may hire a lawyer for. The contract will bring to light the fees and compensation you will incur, the work, and other issues involved. This document will prevent money disputes between you and your lawyer.
In addition, you must find an attorney who is friendly and easy to talk to. Feeling comfortable with your attorney is a factor that you must address. Put in measures to learn more about your attorney’s personality and customer service by researching their reviews and references.
In conclusion, hiring a lawyer for estate planning is essential and cannot be underrated. Consider the lawyer’s experience, credentials, communication skills, fees, availability, and compatibility. Do your due diligence to get an attorney to guide and support you in creating a firm estate plan that reflects your wishes and protects your assets.
Note that estate planning is not only about preparing for the future but also about securing the present.
Read Also: What Questions Should I Ask the Best Attorney Before Hiring Them?
