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Asking the following questions can help you assess the qualifications, experience, and compatibility of an estate attorney to ensure they are the right fit for your needs.

  • How long have you been practicing estate law?
  • What percentage of your practice is devoted to estate planning and probate?
  • Are you licensed to practice law in this state?
  • Are you a member of any relevant professional associations or estate planning organizations?
  • Do you specialize in estate planning, probate, or both?
  • Have you handled cases similar to mine before?
  • What is your approach to estate planning and probate?
  • How do you tailor your services to meet the needs of each client?
  • How do you prefer to communicate with clients (email, phone, in-person)?
  • How responsive are you to client inquiries and concerns?
  • What are your fee structures (hourly rates, flat fees, retainer)?
  • Are there any additional costs or expenses I should be aware of?
  • Do you have any conflicts of interest that could affect your ability to represent me?
  • How do you handle conflicts of interest if they arise during the representation?
  • Can you provide references from past clients?
  • Do you have testimonials or reviews available online?
  • How accessible are you for meetings and consultations?
  • Do you have office locations convenient for me?
  • Do you work alone, or do you have a team to assist with my case?
  • Who will be my primary point of contact throughout the process?
  • How often will you update me on the progress of my case?
  • What kind of reporting can I expect regarding the status of my estate planning documents or probate proceedings?
  • What strategies do you recommend for minimizing estate taxes and avoiding probate?
  • How do you approach estate planning to ensure my wishes are accurately reflected in legal documents?
  • What happens to my estate plan or probate case in the event of your retirement or incapacity?
  • Do you have a succession plan in place for your practice?
  • Do you utilize any specific technologies or software for estate planning and probate management?
  • How do you ensure the security and confidentiality of client information?
  • Do I feel comfortable discussing personal and financial matters with you?
  • Do I trust your expertise and judgment in handling my estate planning or probate needs?

Leave Your Heirs The Gift Of Organization With a CLEAR Kit

Did you know?

The average estate takes 570 hours to administer.

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