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How to Choose the Right Lawyer for Your Estate Plan

What Questions to Ask and Red Flags to Watch For

Work with Jerry? AL, FL or MS only

Summary:

  • Start by Interviewing Multiple Attorneys

    • Don’t settle after the first conversation.

    • Interview 2–3 lawyers to find someone you feel comfortable with and trust.


Key Questions to Ask a Prospective Estate Planning Lawyer

  1. Do You Specialize in Estate Planning—Especially Trusts?

    • Most lawyers don’t understand trusts unless they work with them regularly.

    • If you're considering a revocable trust, make sure the attorney has deep trust experience.

  2. What Experience Do You Have with Estate Tax Planning?

    • If your estate is large, ask about both federal and state estate tax expertise.

  3. How Do You Charge?

    • Flat fees are often better for estate planning than hourly billing.

    • You should know upfront what the total cost will be.

  4. What’s Your View on Revocable Trusts?

    • Red flag: If they say you don’t need a trust unless you have $13M+, they don’t understand trust law.

    • Revocable trusts are about avoiding probate, not just estate tax.

  5. What’s Your Process and Timeline?

    • Look for a lawyer who:

      • Gets everything done in 4–6 weeks

      • Provides drafts before your signing meeting

  6. What Do Your Online Reviews Say?

    • Check for consistently high ratings.

    • One or two poor reviews are normal—but overall feedback should be very positive.


Benchmark Tip:

  • If you own a home and have over $100,000 in assets, a revocable trust is worth considering.


Key Takeaway:

  • Choosing the right estate planning lawyer means finding someone with trust expertise, transparent pricing, and a proven process—plus great reviews and a personality that fits yours.


This video is for informational purposes only. As always please get professional help before making decision on how to protect your assets.

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