Estate planning is a step most adults should take early in life. Having a will and updating it as your circumstances change ensures your wishes will be carried out after your passing. If you’re ready to start this process, here are a few tips to help you work smoothly with your attorney.

How to Complete the Estate Planning Process

1. Know When to Start

Many individuals put off estate planning because they mistakenly believe this process is for older people or those in poor health. However, you should begin as soon as you have dependents or you accumulate significant assets, including a home or a retirement fund.

2. Know What to Look For

When seeking legal advice on your estate, look for an attorney who is communicative, thorough, and detail-oriented to ensure all your paperwork is in order. To learn about an attorney’s reputation, get a recommendation from someone you trust or read reviews online.

3. ​​​​​​​Bring All Your Documents

Make sure you’re prepared to meet with your lawyer by gathering all your relevant documents, including bank statements, titles, and deeds. This will help provide a firm foundation for your decision making.

​​​​​​​4. Be Honest

Your lawyer is there to help you, and the information you share is protected by attorney-client privilege. Be forthcoming about your assets, your debts, and any legal or financial issues that might affect your estate.

5. ​​​​​​​Ask Questions

As you ask questions, you help you lawyer identify issues with your estate that might otherwise be overlooked. Additionally, it educates you more, which leads to informed decisions regarding your assets.

For help with planning your estate or with family, business, and employment law, get in touch with Oregon’s Stayton Law. Dedicated attorney Jennifer L. Tiger offers efficient, effective legal advice to meet a wide range of needs. For questions, contact her today at (503) 769-7741 or learn more about the practice online.