The average inheritance that deceased parents and grandparents leave to heirs is $46,200. While this doesn’t sound like a lot, this amount could be a point of contention to the decedent’s beneficiaries. That’s why most people choose to plan their estates before passing on to the next world.
One of the most important decisions you’ll have to make when creating an estate plan is which estate planning law firm to work with. With so many law firms, it can be challenging to find the right one for your estate planning.
To help you out, we’ll be discussing a few factors you should keep in mind when choosing an estate planning law firm.
1. Your Specific Needs
Before you look for an estate planning lawyer, you first need to establish what you need from the lawyer.
Think about the intricacies of your estate and whether it has any complexities and special considerations. This will help narrow down the list of lawyers that can help you plan your estate.
2. The Law Firm’s Experience
Working with an inexperienced law firm will only work to your detriment. As a rule of thumb, look for a law firm with at least five years of experience planning estates. That way, you can ensure a seamless estate planning process and rest easy knowing your heirs’ future is secure.
3. The Attorney Fees
While costs shouldn’t be your primary consideration when picking an estate planning attorney, it’s still worth mentioning. Ensure you find an attorney that you can afford and not one that will run you dry.
However, this doesn’t mean you should hire the cheapest lawyer you can find. In most cases, you’ll end up getting what you pay for. Instead, find a law firm with reasonable rates, not too cheap or too expensive.
4. Reputation
You want a law firm that has made a name for itself in estate planning law. You can never go wrong with a reputable lawyer, but how can you tell whether you’re dealing with a reputable firm?
The easiest way to do so is to check reviews and testimonials online. These are first-hand accounts of previous clients’ experiences with the law firm. They’ll help you decide whether the law firm in question is worth your time and money.
Law firms like Bezaire Ledwitz and Associates are popular for their streamlined estate planning process. You can check it out and decide whether it’s right for you.
5. Their Attitude
Ensure you schedule an in-person meeting with the attorney before making your decision. Use this opportunity to learn about the lawyer’s attitude and demeanor. You’ll want an attorney that’s friendly and easy to talk to.
Also, take note of the lawyer’s professionalism and knowledge of estate planning. If the lawyer seems a bit sketchy, you’re better off finding another one. Ask a few questions and see how they respond; any fidgeting or hesitation is a red flag.
Find the Right Estate Planning Law Firm
Finding the right estate planning law firm for your estate will be a cakewalk with the information above. Ensure you do your due diligence to find the best people to help you plan your estate.
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