To protect your family’s financial security in the event of your untimely passing, you need to create a living will. And if you want to have a comprehensive document that covers everything, you need to find the right estate planning attorney to help you draft it. If you have never had to hire a lawyer, though, you may not necessarily know what to look for or even what to ask during the initial consultation.

What to Ask During Your Consultation

1. What Percentage of Your Practice Is Devoted to Estate Planning?

It can be convenient to hire a general practice firm for simple legal issues, but when it comes to specific estate planning needs, you should enlist to a law office that focuses solely on assisting clients with wills and trusts. By turning to a firm with limited practice areas, you can be sure they have the time and resources to stay up to date on all the precedents, proceedings, and regulations that affect their clients.

2. Who Would Be My Point of Contact?

When looking for an attorney, it is important to find someone who will be happy to take your calls and answer any questions you might have. If you decide to hire a particular lawyer based on the initial consultation, but then you are referred to a secretary or paralegal every time you call, it is a sign that their team is not giving you the attention you deserve—and you should not give them your business.

3. What Can I Expect in the Way of Legal Fees?

You may not be able to get a precise figure during the initial consultation because various factors affect your particular needs along the way. However, an attorney should be transparent about the firm’s fee structure. If they quote you a flat rate, it could be a sign that they will not give your documents the attention they deserve, and you should look elsewhere for quality legal counsel.

If you want to create a trust or update your current will after undergoing a major life transition, turn to Wills and Trusts Hawaii in Honolulu. Their legal team of seasoned estate planning lawyers will help you devise a comprehensive document that protects your family and reduces the chance of disputes during probate. Call (808) 792-8777 to schedule an appointment today.