When it comes to putting together your estate plan, the best place to start is with an experienced and skilled estate planning attorney. These lawyers can ensure that your estate plan will be effective and enforceable. They can also help you draft documents such as wills and trusts that make your wishes clear to your loved ones.
What to Do Next
The first step in hiring a Chicago estate planning attorney is conducting your research. Ask friends and family for recommendations or look online to find an experienced and qualified professional. Then, schedule an initial consultation and provide your attorney with your financial information, the makeup of your family, and what types of documents you would like to have prepared.
It’s a good idea to choose an estate lawyer who you’re comfortable working with and who you think will be able to help you reach your goals. You may want to interview a few different attorneys and choose the one that suits you best.
You should also consider whether you need a specialist in certain areas of law. For instance, if you have a large real estate investment or you need assistance with long-term care planning, an estate planning attorney who specializes in those areas might be the right choice.
What to Expect From Your First Meeting With An Estate Planning Attorney
The best estate planning attorneys will spend the time needed to understand your situation and needs. They’ll explain the process and give you an outline of their recommendations for your plan. They’ll also work with you to ensure that your wishes are clearly communicated and that all your assets are protected.
They’ll ask you questions about your family and finances, as well as what types of assets you own, and they’ll take the time to answer all your queries. Once you’re satisfied with their answers, they’ll draft a plan for your estate and prepare the legal documents for you to sign.
A good estate planning attorney will make sure that your plan is drafted in accordance with state law. They’ll also make sure that your documents are enforceable and that they can be used in court if necessary.
It’s a good choice to hire an attorney who offers free consultations and will walk you through the costs involved with estate planning. You’ll then be able to compare prices from various lawyers and decide who is the most affordable.
The fees that an estate lawyer charges will depend on the type of service you need and where you live. Some attorneys will charge by the hour and others will offer flat rates.
You’ll also need to determine how much time the estate planning attorney will need to work with you. This can range from a few hours to a few days, depending on your needs.
When you’re selecting an estate planning attorney, it’s important to pick the one that fits your budget and can help you meet all of your goals. This can be difficult, but it’s possible to do so with the help of an estate planning attorney in Chicago Illinois.