Filter by

star star star star star
17 Jun, 2022 by Olukayode aluko
Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Dec, 2020 by Jeremy davis
Strictly giving them a 1 star because they employ a lying politician in Larry Obhof. I wouldn't touch them with a 10 foot pole.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Nov, 2019 by Belinda russell
I love the view from their atrium!!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
17 Jun, 2022 by Olukayode aluko
Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Dec, 2020 by Jeremy davis
Strictly giving them a 1 star because they employ a lying politician in Larry Obhof. I wouldn't touch them with a 10 foot pole.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Nov, 2019 by Belinda russell
I love the view from their atrium!!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
17 Jun, 2022 by Olukayode aluko
Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Dec, 2020 by Jeremy davis
Strictly giving them a 1 star because they employ a lying politician in Larry Obhof. I wouldn't touch them with a 10 foot pole.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Nov, 2019 by Belinda russell
I love the view from their atrium!!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
01 Dec, 2023 by Jim murphy
Great Attorney & general good man who listens & understands!! Atty. Garris is a man You'd want in your corner!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Nov, 2023 by Aaron collins
This guy doesn't care about anyone but himself doesn't help with a damn thing and wouldn't give any information on the situation youd be better off trusting your family member with Bernie Madoff
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Mar, 2023 by Daryl johnson
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 Apr, 2024 by Jim lowry
Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Jul, 2022 by Gray pupon
Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Jul, 2021 by Tim ali
Very friendly staff! Very competent legal advice. David is very knowledgeable and very experienced.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
27 Jul, 2023 by Blue rose
Horrible. Won't return calls. Very unhelpful when they finally do answer.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Jul, 2023 by Josh abshire
Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Jul, 2022 by Darlene forbes
Very helpful
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Jul, 2024 by Gina ferraro
If you want someone to twist your own words, make up lies about you and lie under oath … then she’s the one.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Mar, 2024 by Heather sanchez
She's never really done work for me but when I called her she was more than willing to help and took the time to help me because there's certain cases she don't do anymore and she was still being very helpful I would definitely try her if I needed something else
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Dec, 2023 by Megan n
Better than NEOMED.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Jul, 2024 by Gina ferraro
If you want someone to twist your own words, make up lies about you and lie under oath … then she’s the one.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Mar, 2024 by Heather sanchez
She's never really done work for me but when I called her she was more than willing to help and took the time to help me because there's certain cases she don't do anymore and she was still being very helpful I would definitely try her if I needed something else
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Dec, 2023 by Megan n
Better than NEOMED.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Jul, 2022 by Mo pokeo
This lawyer will let you down. This is your warning to find someone else.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Sep, 2020 by Rebecca yates
Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2020 by John wetzel
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Jul, 2022 by Mo pokeo
This lawyer will let you down. This is your warning to find someone else.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Sep, 2020 by Rebecca yates
Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2020 by John wetzel
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
02 May, 2024 by Marilyn armstrong
He’s the best in my opinion.. ⭐️
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2022 by K s
Knowledgeable and on point. Worth every penny! Thank you
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2018 by Dontjudgeme1998
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
27 Feb, 2024 by Bee-safe security
Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Jan, 2024 by Mrs c
Think LONG and hard about the Attorney you want handling your last Will and Testament! This Company WILL nickel and dime you for every jot and tittle. Another minus is that you will wait at least 6 months before you see the bill. And now all I'm needing is a copy and they are telling me that I need permission from The Attorney before that can happen. Of course, the cost to get my copy or even my original must be a secret, as the secretary wouldn't give out that info.... is there a sliding scale for such things? Humm. Jk! Nevermind that we swear we said we wanted ours filed at the courthouse. Upon calling the courthouse we were informed that they are Not there. Is our circumstance unusual? Sure. But after spending 3 years of time, anguish and 2 trips to see the judge because an attorney tells you he keeps it in his safe and then years later, he says he's never had it, you begin to distrust most of them. Go ahead, ignore the point that 3 people were in the office when That Will was constructed. We're the liars, not the Lawyer. So while I'm getting in my form of therapy in venting, let me ask you, do you really want to take the chance for your loved ones to stand in line behind us, saying, " Dang, we wish " So and so" would have done this differently!"
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Apr, 2022 by Dawn dickerson
They are the most helpful, friendly, informative pleasant attorney and paralegal. They made me feel relaxed in stressful times and I would recommend them to everybody. Absolutely live working with them. Thank you Pay and Janet. 😁❤️
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
27 Feb, 2024 by Bee-safe security
Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Jan, 2024 by Mrs c
Think LONG and hard about the Attorney you want handling your last Will and Testament! This Company WILL nickel and dime you for every jot and tittle. Another minus is that you will wait at least 6 months before you see the bill. And now all I'm needing is a copy and they are telling me that I need permission from The Attorney before that can happen. Of course, the cost to get my copy or even my original must be a secret, as the secretary wouldn't give out that info.... is there a sliding scale for such things? Humm. Jk! Nevermind that we swear we said we wanted ours filed at the courthouse. Upon calling the courthouse we were informed that they are Not there. Is our circumstance unusual? Sure. But after spending 3 years of time, anguish and 2 trips to see the judge because an attorney tells you he keeps it in his safe and then years later, he says he's never had it, you begin to distrust most of them. Go ahead, ignore the point that 3 people were in the office when That Will was constructed. We're the liars, not the Lawyer. So while I'm getting in my form of therapy in venting, let me ask you, do you really want to take the chance for your loved ones to stand in line behind us, saying, " Dang, we wish " So and so" would have done this differently!"
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Apr, 2022 by Dawn dickerson
They are the most helpful, friendly, informative pleasant attorney and paralegal. They made me feel relaxed in stressful times and I would recommend them to everybody. Absolutely live working with them. Thank you Pay and Janet. 😁❤️
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Sep, 2024 by Latisha bazin
I paid them over 3 years ago. They have yet to do anything. I asked for a refund now their phone is disconnected. They have several law suits out due to this. I wish I had read the reviews before giving them my money. SCAM !
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
01 Sep, 2024 by Christin worthington
Best lawyer around.. caring understanding and knowledgeability. Get experience with Chris as our attorney
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Aug, 2024 by Douglas miley
I used to work for DGM&S before moving out of state in 2008 to join a family practice in West Virginia. During my time there I saw daily how hard the team works for its clients, always trying to help them through a bad time which was not wanted and certainly not expected. Since moving I have continued to keep in touch with many there and continue to consider them my friends. I have co-counseled cases with them and referred clients to them for help over the last 16 years. I will continue to do so because I believe they care, they work hard, they are fantastic lawyers, and the get amazing results on behalf of their clients.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Sep, 2024 by Latisha bazin
I paid them over 3 years ago. They have yet to do anything. I asked for a refund now their phone is disconnected. They have several law suits out due to this. I wish I had read the reviews before giving them my money. SCAM !
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
01 Sep, 2024 by Christin worthington
Best lawyer around.. caring understanding and knowledgeability. Get experience with Chris as our attorney
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Aug, 2024 by Douglas miley
I used to work for DGM&S before moving out of state in 2008 to join a family practice in West Virginia. During my time there I saw daily how hard the team works for its clients, always trying to help them through a bad time which was not wanted and certainly not expected. Since moving I have continued to keep in touch with many there and continue to consider them my friends. I have co-counseled cases with them and referred clients to them for help over the last 16 years. I will continue to do so because I believe they care, they work hard, they are fantastic lawyers, and the get amazing results on behalf of their clients.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
28 May, 2024 by Sara beech
Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Feb, 2024 by Corey thornton
Jim has helped me in so many ways I called around 5 or 6 different lawyers and when I got to hear from him and the time he took talking to me was awesome and I always go with my gut feeling he has gotten me out of trouble and made me a substantial amount of money
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Dec, 2023 by Cathy williams
We have had to endure Jane Timonere twice in our family. Neither time was it as part of a trial nor was anyone charged with any crime. The first time was to question me as a potential juror. The second was at a hearing as the foster parent to her client's children. Nonetheless, it was like to being attacked by a honey- badger. She is one of those attorneys that wear viciousness and aggression as a badger of honor...she is their queen... and she is a disgrace to her profession.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
28 May, 2024 by Jen e.
Excellent law firm
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 May, 2024 by Quincetuna fowler
Navigating a divorce is a complex process, and finding the right attorney is crucial. Unfortunately, your experience with the attorney you hired did not meet your expectations. Despite seeking clarification and guidance, you were left feeling uninformed and unsupported. The attorney failed to sign essential paperwork and did not fulfill promises made at the end of your case, leaving you with unresolved issues and potential legal consequences. It is important to address these matters promptly by seeking a second opinion and documenting all communication. This experience highlights the importance of transparency and professionalism in legal services…. Please do not hire this attorney. It does not waste your headache or a waste of your money.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Apr, 2024 by Chris brown
Stay away from Rauser & Associates! Waste of your time and definitely your money. Took my money then asked about my income. After all this the kept my return for almost a month. After keeping 25% of it for doing nothing. The only reason I am leaving a bad review is because I called another law firm, and the first thing they asked about was my income and told me I made too much. That they couldn't help me and wouldn't waste my time. So if you have any other options I would not use this company. I wouldn't have given them a star but I couldn't leave the review unless I gave them one.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2024 by Bynum llc
Giving 2 stars for trying, keeping it professional we was not impressed had a young lawyer that came off as being careless with our case and money, came in to win and lost big I do believe the lawyer did not have the slightest basic understanding of our situation will definitely interview before payment in the future
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 May, 2024 by Tabitha ferrell
Joe Casavecchia is an AMAZING attorney! I cannot say enough good things about him! He is extremely well prepared and handles himself very professionally. I wish I could give him more stars. I'm so thankful to have found him. I live 2.5 hours away and he as always kept me informed of everything happening with my case. I would highly recommend him and TDH Law! Thank you so much, for everything!!! Edit: Joseph Casavecchia fought to the end and did a FANTASTIC JOB!!!! EXTREMELY IMPRESSED! My dad even thanked him and shook his hand, which says alot!!! He's way better than other OVERPRICED attorney's in Logan county! Thank you TDH!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Mar, 2024 by Joseph korte
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2024 by Bynum llc
Giving 2 stars for trying, keeping it professional we was not impressed had a young lawyer that came off as being careless with our case and money, came in to win and lost big I do believe the lawyer did not have the slightest basic understanding of our situation will definitely interview before payment in the future
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 May, 2024 by Tabitha ferrell
Joe Casavecchia is an AMAZING attorney! I cannot say enough good things about him! He is extremely well prepared and handles himself very professionally. I wish I could give him more stars. I'm so thankful to have found him. I live 2.5 hours away and he as always kept me informed of everything happening with my case. I would highly recommend him and TDH Law! Thank you so much, for everything!!! Edit: Joseph Casavecchia fought to the end and did a FANTASTIC JOB!!!! EXTREMELY IMPRESSED! My dad even thanked him and shook his hand, which says alot!!! He's way better than other OVERPRICED attorney's in Logan county! Thank you TDH!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Mar, 2024 by Joseph korte
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2024 by Bynum llc
Giving 2 stars for trying, keeping it professional we was not impressed had a young lawyer that came off as being careless with our case and money, came in to win and lost big I do believe the lawyer did not have the slightest basic understanding of our situation will definitely interview before payment in the future
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 May, 2024 by Tabitha ferrell
Joe Casavecchia is an AMAZING attorney! I cannot say enough good things about him! He is extremely well prepared and handles himself very professionally. I wish I could give him more stars. I'm so thankful to have found him. I live 2.5 hours away and he as always kept me informed of everything happening with my case. I would highly recommend him and TDH Law! Thank you so much, for everything!!! Edit: Joseph Casavecchia fought to the end and did a FANTASTIC JOB!!!! EXTREMELY IMPRESSED! My dad even thanked him and shook his hand, which says alot!!! He's way better than other OVERPRICED attorney's in Logan county! Thank you TDH!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Mar, 2024 by Joseph korte
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
28 Aug, 2024 by Friend of god & iron sharpens iron
Very snippy attitude on the phone. She is unaware concerning the nuances of Ohio law.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Apr, 2024 by Ashley bond
Mandy seems like she needs to find a new career path.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Mar, 2024 by Trina zabarsky
From my experience, Mandy was unfamiliar with the nuances of Ohio public law. She made a few mistakes that almost caused a really bad outcome, and became defensive when she was corrected. AVOID THIS ONE.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
28 Aug, 2024 by Friend of god & iron sharpens iron
Very snippy attitude on the phone. She is unaware concerning the nuances of Ohio law.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Apr, 2024 by Ashley bond
Mandy seems like she needs to find a new career path.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Mar, 2024 by Trina zabarsky
From my experience, Mandy was unfamiliar with the nuances of Ohio public law. She made a few mistakes that almost caused a really bad outcome, and became defensive when she was corrected. AVOID THIS ONE.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
12 Jul, 2024 by Travis turner
They were professional but unhelpful.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jun, 2024 by David thompson
Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Jun, 2024 by Heather
I was injured many years ago probably like 20yrs when I consulted with mr.beck his attention to my needs and my case was to this day has by far never been exceeded
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
12 Jul, 2024 by Travis turner
They were professional but unhelpful.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jun, 2024 by David thompson
Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Jun, 2024 by Heather
I was injured many years ago probably like 20yrs when I consulted with mr.beck his attention to my needs and my case was to this day has by far never been exceeded
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
17 Apr, 2024 by Debbie thrush
Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Dec, 2023 by Kathy nungester
Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Oct, 2023 by Marion baker
Very helpful straightforward the staff is very personable
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
17 Apr, 2024 by Debbie thrush
Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Dec, 2023 by Kathy nungester
Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Oct, 2023 by Marion baker
Very helpful straightforward the staff is very personable
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
01 Jun, 2023 by Richard blood
Very personable and knowledgeable.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Nov, 2022 by Barry ames
They dropped me mid case because I didn't give them more money...thank you!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Nov, 2022 by David a.j. sockett (andrew sockett)
Great Lawyer, affordable prices, very friendly.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
26 Mar, 2024 by Scott sneed
Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Mar, 2024 by Sharona
Professional staff. Very knowledgeable on the laws. I recommend it to anyone who needs a good attorney that is honest.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Aug, 2023 by Jessica reed
I had spoke with them regarding my situation and they want to go ahead and set up a consultation. I did ask if there is a fee with the consultation and she said yes 150$ my case a personal injury case and should be a contingency case. So I had said that they can cancel that appointment I'm not paying for a consultation. The lady started laughing so hard on the phone which is highly unprofessional. It helped me find an attorney who wants to get paid on the basis on contingency. I love attorney offices that have this attitude because they will not be getting my money.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
26 Mar, 2024 by Scott sneed
Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Mar, 2024 by Sharona
Professional staff. Very knowledgeable on the laws. I recommend it to anyone who needs a good attorney that is honest.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Aug, 2023 by Jessica reed
I had spoke with them regarding my situation and they want to go ahead and set up a consultation. I did ask if there is a fee with the consultation and she said yes 150$ my case a personal injury case and should be a contingency case. So I had said that they can cancel that appointment I'm not paying for a consultation. The lady started laughing so hard on the phone which is highly unprofessional. It helped me find an attorney who wants to get paid on the basis on contingency. I love attorney offices that have this attitude because they will not be getting my money.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2024 by Anne bentley
Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Apr, 2021 by Ken cottrill
Easily done family documents. Very pleasant.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Aug, 2020 by Martha flinn (marty)
Garry is wonderful and is very genuine. Great experience.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What an Estate Planning Lawyer Can Do for You

An estate planning lawyer helps individuals plan for the management and distribution of their assets after death or during incapacitation. Their services involve drafting important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Estate planning attorneys work to ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes, minimize tax liabilities, and avoid probate court. They also help clients plan for potential long-term care needs and protect their estate from being diminished by healthcare costs.

By working with an estate planning lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and that your estate will be managed efficiently and according to your desires.

When Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?

Hiring an estate planning lawyer is beneficial in many situations, especially when you want to ensure that your assets are handled properly after death. Common reasons to hire an estate planning lawyer include:

  • Drafting a will: If you want to clearly define how your assets will be distributed after death, an attorney can draft a legally sound will.
  • Creating a trust: For those looking to avoid probate or provide for loved ones over time, setting up a trust can help manage the distribution of assets.
  • Planning for incapacity: An estate lawyer can help draft powers of attorney and healthcare directives so that your financial and medical decisions are made by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.
  • Minimizing estate taxes: If your estate is large, a lawyer can help create strategies to reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes.
  • Special circumstances: If you have minor children, blended families, or complex assets like businesses, an estate planning lawyer can create tailored solutions.
  • Guardianship or conservatorship: If you want to designate guardians for minor children or ensure proper care for incapacitated adults, an attorney can help.

Hiring an estate planning lawyer is especially important if your estate is complex or if you want to ensure that your wishes are properly followed.

What Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Do?

An estate planning lawyer provides a range of services designed to help you organize your affairs and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. They can:

  • Draft wills and trusts: Creating legally binding documents that dictate how your assets will be distributed and managed.
  • Create powers of attorney and healthcare directives: Appointing someone to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
  • Minimize taxes: Developing strategies to reduce estate taxes, gift taxes, and other financial liabilities for your heirs.
  • Help avoid probate: Structuring your estate plan to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your beneficiaries.
  • Advise on long-term care planning: Helping you plan for potential healthcare needs in the future, including Medicaid planning and protecting assets from being depleted by nursing home costs.
  • Assist with beneficiary designations: Ensuring that life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial instruments are correctly designated.
  • Handle probate and estate administration: If a loved one has passed away, an estate planning lawyer can help guide you through the probate process or act as an executor.

How Are Estate Planning Lawyers Paid?

Estate planning lawyers typically charge for their services in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of your estate and the type of services you need. Common payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: Many estate planning services, such as drafting a will or trust, are charged on a flat-fee basis. The fee covers all work related to preparing the document.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex planning, such as estate tax strategy or trust administration, lawyers may charge by the hour. Rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Retainer: Some lawyers require a retainer for more complex cases, such as ongoing trust management or estate administration. The retainer is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.

It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to avoid unexpected costs.

How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer depends on the complexity of your estate and the services you require. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Simple wills or powers of attorney: A straightforward will or power of attorney may cost between $300 and $1,500, depending on your location and the lawyer’s experience.
  • Trust creation: Establishing a trust, such as a living trust or revocable trust, can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your assets and estate planning needs.
  • Comprehensive estate planning packages: Some lawyers offer packages that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, which may range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the estate’s complexity.
  • Hourly rates: For ongoing services like estate administration or tax planning, lawyers may charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience.

Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure the services fit within your budget.

Top Questions to Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer

Before hiring an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  1. What is your experience with estate planning?
    Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience drafting wills, creating trusts, and handling other estate planning services.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or by the hour and ask for a detailed estimate of costs.
  3. What strategies do you recommend for my estate?
    A good lawyer should be able to explain the best strategies for minimizing taxes, avoiding probate, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes.
  4. How often should I update my estate plan?
    Ask how frequently you should revisit your estate plan, especially if your financial situation or family dynamics change.
  5. Do you offer ongoing support or updates?
    Some lawyers provide periodic reviews or updates to ensure your estate plan stays current with changes in your circumstances or the law.
  6. How will you help my beneficiaries if something happens to me?
    Ensure the lawyer is willing to guide your heirs through the estate administration process or help manage your trust after you’re gone.

How to Check the Credibility of an Estate Planning Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a credible estate planning lawyer, follow these steps:

  • Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for estate planning certifications: Some lawyers are certified as estate planning specialists, which indicates they have extensive knowledge in this area of law.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews on sites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and client satisfaction.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from previous clients who can speak to their expertise and client service.
  • Check for membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) or the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) often have a strong reputation in the field.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first meeting with an estate planning lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • List of assets and liabilities: Provide a detailed inventory of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, investments, and personal property, as well as any debts you may have.
  • List of beneficiaries: Be ready to discuss who you want to receive your assets and in what proportions. This includes naming guardians for minor children if applicable.
  • Existing estate documents: Bring copies of any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other relevant estate planning documents.
  • Questions about your estate goals: Write down your goals, such as avoiding probate, reducing taxes, or setting up charitable donations, so your lawyer can tailor a plan to meet your needs.
  • Information on medical and financial decision-makers: Be prepared to discuss who you want to appoint for healthcare and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.

By being well-prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and begin building a comprehensive estate plan that meets your needs and protects your loved ones.

Scroll to top