When most people think about estate planning, they think about wills. However, there is so much more to estate planning than just wills. A qualified estate planning lawyer can help you create a comprehensive estate plan to meet your unique needs. Estate planning lawyers are important for anyone who wants to plan for their future. Here are six things to consider when choosing an estate planning lawyer:
- Fees- Make sure the lawyer you choose doesn’t overcharge you for their services.
- Expertise– Make sure the lawyer has experience in estate planning and understands your specific needs.
- Track record– Check out the lawyer’s track record before hiring them to ensure they have a good reputation.
- Trustworthiness– Does the lawyer seem like a trustworthy person? What about their office staff and other employees?
- Organization– Do they have an organized office with many filing systems and cabinets?
Can you reach the attorney easily?
Questions to ask estate planning lawyer: What do you need to know?
A lawyer specializing in this area can help you make the best decisions for you and your family. But what should you ask them? Here are some questions to get you started:
- What kind of estate planning do I need? There are various options available, and your lawyer can help you decide which is best for you.
- What happens if I don’t have an estate plan? The state will determine how your assets are distributed if you die without a will. It may not be what you would have wanted.
- What is trust, and do I need one? A trust can help protect your assets from creditors and lawsuits. It can also help ensure that your loved ones inherit what you want them to.
Types of estate planning lawyers: Which one is right for you?
When you are ready to start estate planning, one of the first decisions you must make is which type of lawyer to work with. There are many types of estate planning lawyers, and each has its area of focus. So, which one is right for you?
One option is a trust and estate lawyer. These attorneys typically deal with large estates and can help you plan for tax savings and how to distribute your assets after your death. They can also help you build trust for your children or other beneficiaries.
If you don’t have a large estate, you may want to consider working with a family lawyer instead. This type of attorney can help you create wills, living wills, and healthcare proxies. They can also advise you on how to protect your children in the event of death or incapacity.