For many in Philadelphia, making the decision to create an estate plan is the most difficult part of the entire process. From that point forward, the decisions that are made will be guided by an estate planning professional, which can take a great deal of the anxiety out of the process. Choosing the right attorney is essential to a positive outcome.
It should be noted that the attorney who is chosen will be given a great deal of very personal and private information concerning one’s finances, family structure and more. It is important to find an attorney with whom discussing such matters feels comfortable and natural. In the best case scenario, this is a professional relationship that will last for many years, so it is crucial to find the best possible fit from the outset.
Most people choose to schedule an initial consultation with a few attorneys before making a final decision. During this meeting, come prepared with a short list of questions and a basic idea of estate planning goals. Be sure to ask how long the process might take to complete and the combined cost of all services. Individuals should also be prepared to answer quite a few questions, as the best attorneys are just as interested in gathering information as in selling their services.
By taking the time to speak with a few candidates, Philadelphia residents can make strides toward finding a good fit with an estate planning attorney. As the process moves forward, many people are relieved to have taken a proactive approach toward these matters, and anticipate the day when they can rest assured that they have a solid estate plan in place. Many estate planning attorneys gain much of their new business from the referrals of existing clients, so be sure to share your experience with friends and family so that they can complete their own estate plans with a trusted professional.
Source: cattlenetwork.com, “Estate Planning: Choosing an attorney“, Heather Gessner, Aug. 19, 2015