A probate lawyer is a lawyer who receives special training in estate law. According to FindLaw, probate lawyers, often known as estate or trust lawyers, assist executors (or “administrators” if there is no will) in managing the probate process. They also help plan estates, such as creating wills or living trusts, providing advice on powers of attorney, and even functioning as executors or administrators.
It’s crucial to find probate lawyers specializing in estate law because they have the experience and understanding of this area of law to make the process as smooth as possible for you and your family. Here are some tips on how to find a quality probate attorney.
1) Ask Your Friends and Family for A Referral
If you do not know of a probate lawyer, try asking your friends and family. They may be able to provide you with the name of an attorney they have worked with in the past. A personal experience like this can provide invaluable information. However, remember that it’s often unprofessional for a lawyer to accept referrals from private sources.
2) Check Online
Try going online and checking for probate lawyers in your area. This is a good approach if you do not know anyone who could recommend an attorney. This method will also allow you to match several criteria: cost, location, experience, and qualifications. A probate attorney may specialize in a specific area of probate law like wills, estates, or trusts. It would be unwise to hire a lawyer who does not have experience in the field where you need assistance.
3) Find A Lawyer Who Has a Proven Record of Success
Hiring the wrong probate lawyer could be costly. This is particularly true if you hire someone inexperienced or not well-respected by colleagues and clients in the legal community. Therefore, finding an attorney who has had some success is vital. Ideally, you want someone whose past cases have been successful and whose clients have given them good reviews.
4) Check Out the Attorney’s Reviews Online
Another good strategy is to check out the attorney’s reviews online. If they have a website, check their available information and look at their “client reviews” or “testimonials.” If they do not have a website, a Google search may help find some information on the lawyer. Sometimes local bar associations will have a website that will be helpful. You can also use the state bar association’s website to search for probate lawyers.
5) Set Up an Initial Meeting
You should set up an initial meeting with the probate lawyer you’re interested in hiring. A good probate lawyer will gladly discuss their experience and qualifications with you, so take advantage of that opportunity. Ask questions about the attorney’s area of expertise and their experience at this meeting. You will also want to ask them about their services and how much they will cost you.
6) Be Realistic
Hiring a probate lawyer is a critical and sometimes difficult decision. A probate lawyer has a lot of responsibilities. These responsibilities include writing wills, administering and managing trusts, and preparing estate taxes. Taking the time to search for an attorney who can provide you with the services you need is essential because the outcome of your case will be partially based on the advice and counsel of your probate lawyer.
While many probate lawyers are in the market, not all are professional and experienced. Before hiring any professional, it’s always important to check the lawyer’s experience and qualifications. Always ask for records, testimonials, and check out the lawyer’s reviews online.
Are you looking for a quality probate lawyer to assist you in your estate planning or administering an estate? If so, contact Pinnacle Legacy Law today. We’re a professional probate law firm with experience in probate and estate administration. Let us help you with the legal aspects of your inheritance. We can help make the process go as smoothly and quickly as possible.