Selecting an attorney to handle your estate planning is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. This person will help protect your family, preserve your assets, and honor your wishes for generations. Our friends at Kravets Law Group discuss how the right attorney-client relationship makes estate planning more effective and less stressful. Finding an estate administration lawyer who understands your needs and communicates clearly can make all the difference in creating a plan that truly works.
We’ve compiled eleven practical tips to help you choose an attorney who’s the right fit for your family.
Verify Their Focus on Estate Planning
Some attorneys practice in many areas. Others concentrate primarily on estate planning. You want someone who dedicates substantial time to this field and stays current with changing laws and strategies.
Ask what percentage of their practice involves estate planning. Attorneys who focus at least 75% of their work on estates and trusts bring deeper knowledge and more refined skills to your planning.
Check Their Credentials and Experience
Years of practice matter in estate planning. Attorneys learn through real-world experience how plans actually work for families. According to the National Association of Estate Planners, specialized credentials like ACTEC membership indicate advanced knowledge and commitment to the field.
Look for attorneys who’ve practiced estate planning for at least five years and handled situations similar to yours.
Evaluate Their Communication Style
Estate planning involves complex legal concepts and deeply personal decisions. Your attorney should explain things in plain language without condescension. During initial meetings, notice whether they listen carefully or rush through standard presentations.
You need someone who answers questions thoroughly, returns calls promptly, and makes you feel comfortable discussing sensitive family and financial matters.
Understand Their Fee Structure
Transparent pricing prevents surprises. Some attorneys charge flat fees for standard planning packages. Others bill hourly. Many use hybrid approaches for complex situations.
Ask for detailed fee information upfront. Understand what’s included in quoted prices and what might cost extra. Clear pricing lets you budget appropriately and compare options fairly.
Assess Their Approach to Your Situation
Generic cookie-cutter plans rarely serve families well. Your attorney should ask detailed questions about your family structure, assets, concerns, and goals before recommending solutions.
Be wary of attorneys who immediately push specific products or approaches without understanding your unique circumstances. Good planning starts with listening, not selling.
Determine Their Availability for Future Needs
Estate planning isn’t a one-time event. Laws change. Your life evolves. You need an attorney who will be available for updates, questions, and future planning needs.
Ask about their approach to ongoing client relationships. Will they review your plan periodically? Can you call with questions? Do they provide estate administration services if your family needs probate help?
Review Client Testimonials and References
Online reviews provide insight into client experiences. Look for patterns in feedback about communication, responsiveness, knowledge, and results. Don’t expect perfect five-star ratings, but pay attention to how attorneys handle concerns.
Ask for references from clients with situations similar to yours. Speaking directly with past clients reveals information you won’t find elsewhere.
Consider Their Team and Resources
Complex estate planning often requires support staff, tax advisors, and financial planners. Solo practitioners have limitations compared to firms with teams of professionals.
Evaluate whether the attorney has access to resources your situation requires. Large estates, business succession, or special needs planning may demand collaborative approaches.
Trust Your Instincts About Compatibility
Estate planning involves sharing private information about family relationships, finances, health concerns, and end-of-life wishes. You need someone you trust and feel comfortable with.
If something feels off during initial meetings, keep looking. The technical skills matter, but so does personal compatibility. You’re entering a relationship that may last decades.
Verify Their Technology and Security Practices
Modern estate planning involves digital assets, electronic document storage, and secure communication. Your attorney should use current technology to protect your information and serve you efficiently.
Ask about:
- Secure client portals for document access
- Electronic signature capabilities
- Digital asset planning knowledge
- Data security and privacy protections
- Methods for secure communication
Compare Multiple Attorneys Before Deciding
Don’t hire the first attorney you meet. Schedule consultations with at least three candidates. Comparing approaches, personalities, and pricing helps you make informed decisions.
Take notes during meetings. Ask the same questions of each attorney. This consistency makes comparisons easier and reveals meaningful differences in knowledge, approach, and service.
Red Flags to Watch For
Some warning signs suggest you should keep searching:
- Pressure to sign documents immediately
- Reluctance to explain strategies clearly
- Dismissive attitudes toward your questions
- Vague or evasive answers about fees
- Lack of focus on your specific needs
Making Your Final Decision
Choosing your estate planning attorney is personal. The best candidate combines technical knowledge, relevant experience, clear communication, fair pricing, and genuine care for your family’s wellbeing.
Trust matters more in estate planning than almost any other legal field. You’re making decisions that will affect your family for generations. Take time to find someone who earns your confidence and demonstrates commitment to your goals. We invite you to meet with us to discuss your estate planning needs and experience our approach to client service, comprehensive planning, and lasting family protection.