Questions to Consider When Selecting an Estate Planning Attorney
We know that selecting an estate planning attorney is an important and personal decision. The following questions are some that you may want to consider asking when selecting the estate planning attorney that you will work with on this important endeavor.
How long has the attorney been practicing law?
Is the attorney a Legal Specialist? Does the attorney focus solely in this area of the law?
Has the attorney handled trust administration or probate matters? Do they understand how to administer the estate plans they are creating?
How do they ensure that your documents are up to date and current with relevant California laws?
Do they assist you with funding your trust? What does that process entail?
How will they educate you and plan for your unique family situation?
How will you know that your plan is going to achieve your objectives and work when you need it most?
How in-depth is the planning that will be done? Will your plan anticipate multiple contingencies and be flexible in the event of changes in the future?
How will you know that your plan will be all-inclusive?
How does your retirement strategy fit with your trust and how is that evaluated by the professionals that you hire to advise you?
What is their fee structure? And what is included for this fee?
How much will it cost to make changes to your plan?
What kind of technology does their law firm use? (i.e., secure portal, electronic copies, text messages)