An experienced estate planning attorney is the key to a successful plan.
Estate planning can be challenging.
It is not easy to think about your own death, let alone disability.
It is even more difficult to discuss it.
Most people have a desire to protect and provide for their loved ones.
They simply do not know where to begin.
According to a recent The Legal Reader article titled “When Should I Start My Estate Planning?,” the best place to begin is by researching and reaching out to an experienced estate planning attorney.
Why is this an important step?
Laws are not always easy to understand.
You also have to plan for state and federal laws.
An experienced estate planning attorney is knowledgeable about relevant laws and how they impacts you and your loved ones.
With this knowledge, the attorney will be able to design an effective and efficient plan to meet your needs.
It is important to have protections in place for your loved ones in case you die unexpectedly or become incapacitated.
How should you evaluate an experienced estate planning attorney?
First, look consider credentials and testimonials.
Do your due diligence on the internet.
No one can hide on the internet.
What is the attorney's independent rating and does he or she have any client ratings and testimonials?
After you have done this, see if the attorney has a free initial consultation.
If yes, schedule a time to meet.
When you meet with the attorney be sure he or she meets the following standards.
The attorney listens to you, understands your needs, and is able to address them.
The attorney should clarify the options available to you for your unique circumstances.
He or she should be able to explain estate planning approaches in plain English.
The attorney should be able to draft, review, and modify any documents you need.
If these criteria are met, you likely are in good hands.
Estate planning is best navigated with the assistance of an experienced estate planning attorney.
Too much is at stake to DIY.
Reference: Legal Reader (June 23, 2020) “When Should I Start My Estate Planning?”
REMEMBER: “The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.”
This statement is required by rule of the Supreme Court of Missouri.