Planning for the future is important. One of the best ways to do this is by setting up an estate plan.
An estate plan ensures your assets go where you want them after you pass away. To create a solid estate plan, it’s a great idea to work with an estate planning attorney. But how do you choose the right one? Here are some tips to help you find the best estate planning attorney for your own unique needs.
1. Look for Relevant Experience
You need to find someone who has broad experience in estate planning. But I think it’s also beneficial to find an attorney who has a broad understanding of related fields.
Besides estate planning, I have over 30 years in commercial real estate law. This knowledge gives me a unique perspective to estate planning, especially for clients with significant real estate assets. It means I can help you manage your assets more effectively. You’ll get a well-rounded approach to planning your future.
2. Check Their Focus
Make sure the attorney knows estate planning well. I mainly focus on commercial real estate, but I also handle estate planning. I work with experts to give you the best solutions. This way, you get a complete plan, especially if you own a lot of property.
Having experience in both areas helps me see the bigger picture. I understand how real estate fits into your estate plan. This means I can help you protect your property and make sure everything goes to the right people. You get a solid plan that covers all your needs.
3. Read Reviews
Check what other clients say about the attorney. Reviews and testimonials can tell you what it’s like to work with them. Look for reviews on the attorney’s website, Google, or legal sites like Avvo. These reviews give you a sense of how the attorney treats clients and handles cases.
Good reviews usually mean the attorney is trustworthy and competent. If many people are happy with their work, it’s a good sign you will be too. Positive feedback from past clients shows that the attorney knows what they are doing and can help you with your needs.
4. Ask About Their Process
Different attorneys work in different ways. It’s important to know how an attorney will handle your case.
Ask the attorney about their process for making an estate plan. Do they give free consultations? How do they talk to their clients? How long does it take to finish an estate plan?
Also ask questions like, do they explain things clearly? Do they listen to your concerns? Do they keep you updated? It’s important to feel comfortable and confident with your attorney.
Knowing these details helps you decide if the attorney is right for you. At The Stejkowski Law Firm, LLC, I make things simple and clear. My goal is to make sure you understand every step and feel good about your plan. By understanding their process, you can pick the attorney who will best meet your needs.
I give a free first consultation, so you can see if we’re a good fit. I also keep communication open and honest throughout the process.
5. Consider Their Communication Style
It’s important to work with an attorney who communicates clearly and effectively. During your first meeting, see how the attorney explains things. Do they use simple words or confusing legal terms? You need someone who can make complex legal ideas easy to understand.
A good attorney should make you feel comfortable and informed. They should take the time to explain things in a way that makes sense to you. If you can’t follow what they’re saying, they might not be the right fit.
Above all, make sure you understand. Insist on simple language and clear explanations. Your goal is to make the legal process easy for you. You should always feel confident about your decisions and fully understand your plan.
6. Compare Fees
Attorneys charge different fees for their services. Some charge a flat fee for estate planning, while others charge by the hour. It’s a good idea to get an estimate of the total cost and compare it with other attorneys.
Look for an attorney who is clear about their fees. Ask questions to understand what is included in the cost. Make sure you get good value for your money. Knowing the cost upfront helps you plan better and avoid stress.
You don’t want to choose an attorney just because they are cheap. But it’s also important to find someone who gives good value for their services.
With flat fees for estate planning, you know the cost upfront, giving you peace of mind. You won’t have to worry about unexpected charges or hourly rates piling up. You want excellent service at a fair price, so you can get the estate plan you need without any surprises.
Next, let’s talk about trust. It’s crucial to feel comfortable and confident with your attorney. Trust your instincts during the initial consultation.
If the attorney listens to your concerns and answers your questions clearly, it’s a good sign. You want someone who is genuinely interested in helping you. You should feel supported and confident in your estate planning decisions. Trust is key to a successful attorney-client relationship.
7. Trust Your Instincts
Finally, trust your instincts. During your consultation, think about how comfortable you feel with the attorney.
Do they listen to your concerns? Do they seem genuinely interested in you? Choosing an attorney is a personal decision, and it’s important to work with someone you trust.
Pay attention to how the attorney makes you feel. If they listen carefully and answer your questions, that’s a good sign. You want an attorney who cares about your needs and wants to help you.
Choosing the right attorney can make a huge difference. Trust your gut feeling and choose someone who makes you feel comfortable and understood. Your attorney should be a partner in helping you secure your future.
Conclusion
Choosing the right estate planning attorney is a big step. You want to be sure you and your loved ones are taken care of. You should look at the attorney’s experience, areas of practice, reviews, process, communication style, fees, and trust your own instincts. This will help you find an attorney who can create a good and effective estate plan for you.
At The Stejkowski Law Firm, LLC, I have experience and offer clear, flat-fee pricing. This means you get personalized service without any surprises. Take your time, do your research, and choose someone who understands your needs and can give you the best advice.
If you have any questions or need help with estate planning, contact me at stejlaw.com. I’m here to help you secure your future.
