Social media is filled with individuals trying to find recommendations for every type of service, from finding an excellent doctor to an honest mechanic to a hairstylist who knows how to cut hair. We’ve all been there, trying desperately to find a good provider for whatever service we need. And the risk of working with the wrong one can be high. An inexperienced physician might misdiagnose your condition, an unscrupulous mechanic might charge for repairs you don’t need, or the stylist might do such a horrendous job you don’t want to go out into public without a hat!
I am an estate planning attorney with many years of experience, which is why I can provide the following five essential factors to consider when you select your estate planning attorney to ensure you receive the legal advice you need. Let’s face it, the risks are not insignificant if the one you choose fails you.
Let’s assume you’ve done what you can to develop a list of candidates, such as asking friends, family members, and colleagues for referrals. I think three is a good number. What factors should you consider when talking with them about becoming your estate planning attorney?
#1 Experience
I don’t mean to knock estate planning attorneys just starting out, so I won’t. I’ll just ask you a question: If you needed brain surgery, who would you be inclined to use – the surgeon just out of med school or the one with a decade or more under their belt? I feel the same way about estate planning attorneys. Experience can’t be bought or taught. You have to live it, client by client. Enough said.
#2 Focus
In your search, you may find a number of attorneys (and firms) that offer a range of legal services, from divorce to business to real estate to personal injury. Oh, and by the way, they also provide estate planning services. Again, turning to the medical field for comparison, let’s say you have a relatively rare condition that requires a variety of treatments, medications, and protocols. Who will you choose to help you with that? A general practitioner or a specialist who has been treating that condition successfully for other patients for years?
#3 Client Approach/Attitude/Service
This factor is more difficult to define and can vary widely based on the client’s expectations. Estate planning is personal, and you’ll want to feel comfortable discussing family and finances with your attorney. Only you can evaluate if that level of comfort exists or not. Moving on, you should expect (and receive) a level of service that ensures that your goals are discussed, your unique situation is clear, and your attorney understands your requirements and potential issues. Ideally, your attorney will demonstrate flexibility if needed; by all means, avoid “one-size-fits-all” attorneys. Your attorney should never talk down to you. You should feel comfortable asking if you don’t understand a legal term or process. You should expect and receive prompt replies to emails and phone calls. That is all basic, but I’m not sure it is for all estate planning attorneys. The best thing for you is to discuss your expectations with a potential attorney to ensure alignment.
#4 Credentials
It almost goes without saying, but it must be said. Check the attorney’s credentials, certifications, and memberships in professional organizations like the Ohio Bar Association and American Bar Association. Check online reviews and testimonials.
#5 Fees
Estate planning attorneys can charge flat fees, hourly rates, or have other billing structures. It’s important to understand the fee structure upfront, including additional costs. Look for transparency in pricing and a clear explanation of what is covered. An experienced attorney will provide a detailed estimate and be open about any additional charges that might come up during the planning process.
By carefully assessing these factors, you can select an estate planning attorney who will provide you with a personalized, effective plan that aligns with your wishes and supports your family’s financial security. If you would like to schedule a consultation to discuss updating or creating your estate plan, please call me at 513-399-7526 or go online to www.davidlefton.com for more information.