Mistakes to Avoid When Looking for Best Law Firms For Trusts And Estates: A Guide

 Finding the right law firm is a task, especially when it is a matter of money and property. You just cannot blindly trust anyone. You need to make sure that the management of your wealth and finances is in the right hands. 

What does a Law Firm for Trusts and Estates do?

When your loved one dies, the assets or money they left behind are distributed to their heirs and beneficiaries. However, it needs to be planned well in advance so that everything is clear between the beneficiaries. The trust and estate lawyer, also known as a probate lawyer, helps the client understand how everything regarding the property is covered and how it will be valued, disturbed, and taxed after your death. Their other services include accountants, asset protection trusts, families, family offices, and other asset holders against financial institutions against probate, tax, and business issues. 

It is very important to look for probate law firms that are experienced and whom you can trust to manage all your financial issues smartly. 

Here are some of the mistakes that you should avoid while in the search process.

Don’t limit your search to Geography

When looking for probate law firms, do not just limit your search to local surroundings. The options will be very limited. So, expand your horizons. Many law firms have websites, and they offer free consultation on call. So, better not limit your chances of landing a good law firm due to geographical issues.

Do not rely on Internet Directories

Surely, the process of searching for the right law firm is a tough job, so many people begin with the easiest internet search which is Estate Law Firms Near Me. It helps to some extent, but you cannot completely rely on it. The reason is that most of those contacts are like Yellow Pages ads, in which the lawyer has paid a hefty amount to be listed in that directory. Most of the time they are just random lawyer, so may not even specialize in estate and trust law. You need to understand that he may not be good that is why he needs to promote himself by paying money.  It is best to rely on third-party sites verified. It means that they are not paid and are genuine. 

Does the Law Firm Specialize in Trust and Estate Planning?

The Estate And Asset Protection Law Firm will be able to work in your best interest if they know, what they are doing. For that, you need to have a law firm by your side that specializes in trust and estate planning. The thing is that many law firms practice crime and family cases, they may even offer you services at lesser prices, but that will not work in your favor. They will have less experience and lesser knowledge of laws regarding estate planning. They may have a lesser idea regarding future planning and the problems that the client may face down the road if proper planning is not done.

Don’t get carried away 

Do not get blinded by the slogans and aggressive marketing stunts done by law firms to attract clients. ‘ We care for you or ‘We help you protect your assets’ are completely meaningless slogans as it only means they are trying hard to sell. A good law firm does not do it.

Not asking about the lawyer’s qualifications

You are hiring a lawyer from a law firm and paying them a hefty fee. It is only fair that you clear your doubts and ask them about their qualification and insurance. What is their qualification? Do they have a COP (Certificate of Practice)? What is their success rate in estate planning cases? It will give you a clear view of the layer achievements and whether you are in the right hands. 

Here is a List of questions that you can direct toward the estate planning lawyer you are considering hiring:

Where did you get your law degree? 

How long have you been in practice?

How should we communicate? 

How can I get in touch with you?

Who will be my point of contact at your office? 

How will I receive updates regarding my plan? Should I take the initiative, or will you (or someone at your office) provide me with regular feedback?

What are your fees and rates? Do you charge a flat fee or hourly? 

Are there any additional charges I should expect that are outside your rate? 

What, if any, certifications do you hold? 

Conclusion:

Estate planning seems hard, but it does not have to be. With all these points mentioned above, now you have the right process and information in your hand. So, avoid mistakes and get the Best Law Firms For Trusts And Estates for better management of your assets.