Did you know that in order to become an attorney in the United States, one must first earn a bachelor's degree. They must then apply to and get accepted to a law school, where they will spend three to four years studying law, specifically. They then have to pass a bar exam in order to legally be allowed to practice in their state. It's no secret that lawyers are well-educated, and they can get the job done when you need them to. Rely on a general attorney for your legal and representation needs, and dig into this blog to learn more about the profession.
How To Locate The Right Estate Planning Attorney
Finding a good estate planning lawyer can be an important step in ensuring that your assets and property are distributed according to your wishes after your death. Here are some tips on how to find a good estate planning lawyer:
Ask for referrals
Talk to friends, family members, or other professionals, such as financial planners or accountants, for recommendations. You may also want to speak with other attorneys you use or have used in the path and get some recommendations. If someone you trust has had a good experience with an estate planning lawyer, they may be able to provide a reliable referral.
Check credentials
Look for a lawyer who specializes in estate planning and has experience in the area. Check their credentials, such as their education and bar admission, and whether they are a member of any professional organizations related to estate planning. Make sure that the lawyer has experience and training.
Check reviews and ratings
Look for online reviews and ratings of estate planning lawyers in your area. Websites like Avvo and Martindale-Hubbell can provide ratings and reviews from previous clients. Consider also checking Google reviews to learn what others thought about a given lawyer.
Schedule a consultation
Many lawyers offer a free consultation to discuss your needs and assess whether they are a good fit for your case. Use this opportunity to ask questions, such as about their experience in estate planning, their approach to working with clients, and their fees. This is a good opportunity to find out if the lawyer is a good match for your needs.
Consider their availability and communication
It is important to find a lawyer who is responsive and accessible to your needs. Make sure you are comfortable with their communication style and that they are willing to keep you informed throughout the estate planning process.
Consider their fees
It is important to consider the lawyer's fees and billing structure. Make sure you understand their fee structure upfront and that you are comfortable with the costs associated with their services. Know also what to expect in terms of the scope of work. A complete estate plan has several parts.
Trust your instincts
Ultimately, you want to find a lawyer who you feel comfortable with and who you trust to handle your estate planning needs. If something doesn't feel right, it may be best to keep looking for a lawyer who is a better fit for you.
Speak to an estate lawyer to learn more.