How to Find an Estate Planning Attorney

What do estate planning attorneys do?

Estate planning attorneys collaborate with their clients—and, on occasion, tax professionals and financial advisors—to develop a personalized estate plan that is tailored to the unique requirements of each client.

Your estate planning attorney may be able to help you with tasks the following, depending on your specific circumstances:

• Drafting a will or other estate planning documents 

• Beneficiaries Identification 

• Creating an enduring and/or limited power of attorney (POA) 

• Developing advanced healthcare directives and long-term care plans 

• Assisting you in identifying the most suitable form of trust for your requirements 

• Creating trusts to safeguard and transfer assets both before and after your death 

• Identifying methods to circumvent the probate procedure

How to find the right estate planning attorney

Start by stating the goals of your estate strategy. This will help you to decide what kind of lawyer you need.

Most people will want to find an estate planning lawyer who can help them build basic trusts, powers of attorney, and a will. Still, in some situations lawyers with particular areas of competence might be needed.

Once you have narrowed your list to the top few contenders, check their state bar registration status and then consider the chance of an interview. An attorney could charge for an interview or not. Whether your first encounter is in person or over video conference, be sure you have all the required information with you. 

Furthermore, create a list of questions you would want to ask possible lawyers, including the following:

• How long have you been practicing?

• Where were you educated?

• How will you communicate with me?

• What are the best ways to contact you?

• Will you be my point of contact, or will it be someone else, such as a paralegal?

• Will you send me updates about the status of my plan, or should I expect to take the initiative?

Remember, this interview is your chance to find an attorney who is the best fit for you. Trust your instincts and find a lawyer you're comfortable with.