Whether you are looking to plan an estate for the first time, or need to make changes or updates to your current plans, it is important to hire the best Estate Planning Attorney in Chicago Illinois. The right attorney can help ensure that all of your wishes are met, while also helping you save money and avoid tax problems down the road.
Find a Reliable Attorney
It is a good idea to check with your state bar associations and other sources of legal referrals when hiring an attorney. This will help you find an experienced, local lawyer who specializes in estate planning, as laws differ from one state to another.
Your friends, family and professional colleagues can be an invaluable source of recommendations for attorneys. They can be trusted to know what type of service they received from a specific estate planning lawyer or law firm.
They may be able to tell you how much it costs, and whether or not it was worth it. In addition, you can contact your employer to see if they offer a legal plan benefit that can connect you with attorneys who have experience in your specific needs.
Get a Written Estimate of How Much It Will Cost You
An attorney’s fees can be expensive, but you should know up front what you will need to pay before signing on the dotted line. Many attorneys charge an hourly rate, while others offer a flat fee.
Interview the Attorney
The first step in finding an estate planning attorney is to speak with several prospects about your unique needs and preferences. You can do this via phone or in person. This is a great way to build rapport and decide whether the lawyer is the right fit for you.
During the interviews, you’ll be sharing sensitive information with the attorneys, so it’s important to choose someone who makes you feel comfortable. This is especially true if you are talking about your financial or medical situation and your final wishes.
Be sure to ask about the lawyer’s background, education, and experience in estate planning. An attorney with a strong practice in this area will be more likely to keep up with the latest estate planning trends and issues, which could help you avoid costly mistakes down the road.
Membership in an Organization
A lawyer who is part of an estate planning organization, such as WealthCounsel, is a good sign that the attorney is committed to staying up to date on the most recent developments in this field. The attorney will likely be involved in the ongoing training and networking that these organizations provide.
Look for an Experienced and Trusted Attorney
You should select an attorney with a strong track record in estate planning and a long list of satisfied clients. He or she should be familiar with all of the different types of estate planning documents, including wills, living trusts, advanced health care directives, powers of attorney and guardianships.