Estate planning is not the same as probate. Estate planning involves compiling a financial plan that constitutes mostly a will that will manage your estate after death. On the other hand, probate is all about making a trust or will enforceable in a court. Whether you want to draft a will, trust, or want to plan how your estate will be administered, it is important to seek the services of a lawyer qualified in the field. An estate planning and probate attorney has the knowledge to help handle your probate or help you in your estate planning. However, not all attorneys in the field will do a good job. It is best if you check some essential aspects before engaging one. Below are the key factors you should look at before choosing an estate planning and probate attorney.
The first thing to look into is the legitimacy of the estate planning and probate attorney. You want to ensure that the estate planning and probate attorney is authentic and has your best interest at heart. It is best to therefore check their authenticity. Check and confirm they have the legal consent to operate. They should have a valid license. With a valid license, you are sure the estate planning and probate attorney follows the rules and regulations as required and legally exist. Go ahead to ensure the relevant boards in the same field accredit their services. By this, you will be certain they have a good record and are trustworthy.
In the second place, you want to ensure that the estate planning and probate attorney has the relevant qualification. Check the educational background of the estate planning and probate attorney. By which you should ensure they have certificates attesting that they attended reputable law college and have the right skills to be a lawyer. Besides, they must have specialized skills when it comes to probate and estate planning.
Also, check the period the estate planning and probate attorney has been handling probate and estate planning. This will help you know how knowledgeable they are in the same field. An estate planning and probate attorney that has been in the same field for a while have a better understanding when it comes to probate and estate planning. They are in a better position to therefore provide the best services. They will use their knowledge and connections to ensure your will is done. Opt for an estate planning and probate attorney that has been in the same field for at least a decade.
It is best if you check the reputation of the estate planning and probate attorney. How is the attorney perceived in the same field? Check with the past clients they have served. If the estate planning and probate attorney has references, ensure you contact them. You can also find the reviews on the estate planning and probate attorney’s website. A reliable estate planning and probate attorney is the one with positive feedback. In conclusion, considering the factors mentioned above before choosing will help you ensure you make the right decision.