A good estate planning attorney can help you set up the legal documents that protect your family’s future, whether it’s a will and trust, durable power of attorney, letter of intent or guardianship designation. However, not all attorneys are created equal, and you’ll want to choose one with a thorough understanding of all aspects of estate planning law.
This includes drafting a comprehensive plan, maximizing your wealth transfer goals, protecting your assets and minimizing taxes. It also encompasses coordinating with other professionals such as financial planners and accountants. Additionally, an experienced attorney can help you understand the complexities of managing trust assets and estate tax.
In choosing an estate planning attorney, individuals should focus on their reputation in the field and their level of experience. They should also ask the attorney if they have any special certifications in this area of law. It is important to find out how the attorney stays current with changes in state and federal laws that impact the estate planning process.
Ideally, estate planning attorneys will have several years of specialized training and experience. They should also be able to provide references from previous clients. In addition, individuals should consider the size of the firm and whether it has a team of attorneys. Finally, it is important to find out what fees the attorney charges for their services.
As an example, an estate planning attorney may charge a flat fee of $1,200 to $3,500 for a will package. However, this will vary by location and the attorney’s expertise.
According to Zimmet, it is essential to find an attorney who will answer your questions in a way that you fully understand them. They should also welcome your concerns and make you feel comfortable. If they do not, you should look for another attorney.
When you’re searching for an estate planning attorney, it’s helpful to start with referrals from friends and family. These individuals will be able to tell you their personal experiences with the attorney and provide recommendations based on their own needs. Additionally, you can ask your employer if they offer a legal plan benefit, which can connect you with an attorney for a monthly fee. Click here to contact the best estate planning attorney.
Once you’ve found a potential estate planning attorney, be sure to interview them. During this initial consultation, they should discuss your wants and needs, assets, and family situation in order to create an effective estate plan for you. Additionally, they should be able to answer your questions regarding state and federal laws that pertain to wills and trusts. Lastly, they should be able to describe the tools that they use for estate planning and how these tools can be used to accomplish your specific goals. You should also ask the attorney how frequently they recommend that you review your plan to ensure it reflects your changing circumstances. Finally, be sure to ask about the cost of creating and implementing your estate plan. This will give you an idea of the amount of time and money that you will need to spend on your estate planning project.