If you’re thinking of hiring an estate planning attorney, you need to consider several factors. The first thing to look for is the lawyer’s experience. It’s important to find a lawyer who is willing to answer your questions and who is willing to explain the process to you. In addition, you should look for experience and specialization.
Experience
When choosing an estate planning attorney, you need to find someone experienced in this field. A competent attorney will help you navigate the process and explain tasks in a language you can understand. The attorney should also make you feel comfortable with the process. Finally, the attorney should be able to guide you through the legal jargon, so you can feel confident that everything will be done according to your wishes.
The estate planning questionnaire should ask a client about their life experiences. For example, asking questions about difficult times in the client’s life may be necessary. It is also important to understand the personality types of different clients. For example, some clients are extremely guarded, while others are more open. It would help if you had an estate planner who deals with these different personalities.
To find a reliable estate planners Mission Viejo, CA ask for referrals from people you know. For example, a CPA or financial advisor may also be able to provide a referral for a qualified estate planning attorney. Also, consider speaking with former clients to see if they are satisfied with the advisor.
Cost
The cost of a reliable estate planner may vary depending on the complexity of your estate and the number of documents you need to prepare. You may be charged an hourly rate for their services, or they may charge you a flat fee. For instance, an estate lawyer may charge less per hour for a smaller estate, while larger estates require more customized work. Another factor in the cost of an estate planner is the area of expertise.
Most lawyers offer free consultations. These consultations can be conducted in person or by phone. This consultation aims to determine the scope of your estate planning needs. Because estate planning is so complex, the process usually requires more than one 30-minute meeting. However, some lawyers offer free initial consultations. If this is the case, be sure to negotiate the cost upfront. Also, ensure you understand what your lawyer will charge per hour.
To compare rates, you should contact several law firms in your area. It would be best if you interviewed at least three of them before settling on one. Some websites and firms list rates online. However, it is difficult to compare prices based on price alone.
Specializations
The services of a reliable estate planner are not limited to drafting wills and trusts. They also handle money and insurance. They should have a solid understanding of the law and be familiar with recent developments. Those who specialize in this area are also better able to recognize problems and potential problems in an estate plan.
There are several certifications available for estate planners, including the Accredited Estate Planner (AEP) certification, which requires a degree in estate planning and five related courses. They also need to receive varying amounts of continuing education each year.
Specializations in estate planning are important, especially because the field is highly competitive. The best advisors have the right experience and knowledge to engineer transactions that stand up to authority. In addition, some estate planners have law or advanced degrees, which add to their credibility and competence.