Before hiring an estate planning attorney, you should interview them to make sure they can provide the services you need and to determine if you will be comfortable working with the attorney and his legal team. Here are five questions to ask before hiring an estate planning attorney.
1. What is your experience?
What experience does the attorney have in the services you need? How long have they been in practice? Where did they attend law school? What states are they licensed to practice law in?
2. Do you have a free consultation?
Does the attorney offer a free consultation to explain their services and expertise? If so, what is covered in an initial consultation? If not, how much does an initial consultation cost?
3. Do you have a flat fee for your services?
Does the attorney charge a flat fee for each service, or do they charge by the hour? Are the rates in writing? How will you be charged if you want to make a change in the future?
4. Do you offer a guarantee?
Does the attorney guarantee the quality and results of his legal services? Will your money be refunded if you are not completely satisfied with their services?
5. Can you provide references?
Can the attorney provide you with names or testimonials from clients who have used their estate planning services? Referrals and recommendations are an important part of an attorney’s business, and an estate planning lawyer should be happy to provide you with non-confidential client testimonials.
It’s important to have a trusting relationship and good communication with your attorney. Do not be afraid to ask these questions before you hire a Lombard estate planning attorney to help with your legal needs. Asking these questions and hearing the answers that make you feel comfortable before you hire a lawyer to work on your wills, trusts, and estate will ensure you have peace of mind when planning for the future. Contact the experienced estate planning attorneys at Estate and Probate Legal Group today.