As you get older, it’s essential to plan for your family’s financial future. You can enjoy peace of mind by doing so early, and an estate planning attorney can help. But how can you find a lawyer that fits your needs? This guide will break down some of the key ways to find potential attorneys and narrow down your options so you can start planning for your future right away.

4 Tips for Finding an Estate Planning Attorney 

1. Know Your Priorities

Before you start looking for an estate planning attorney, know what you’re looking for. You might have a certain budget that you need to stick to. If you own real property in multiple states, you will likely require the assistance of an attorney in each state. Understanding these details from the start will help you narrow down your options and find an attorney who can cover your needs. 

2. Ask for Recommendations 

One of the best ways to start your search is to ask your network for recommendations. You may have friends or family members who have already completed the estate planning process, so ask who they worked with. Your current attorney or financial advisor may be able to refer you to a trusted estate planning lawyer. A referral will help ensure you work with a reputable lawyer in your area. 

3. Focus on Specialty

When browsing potential attorneys’ websites, check their focus area. You can benefit from working with a lawyer who specializes in estate planning or is a fellow of the ACTEC.  ACTEC is a group of peer-elected trust and estate attorneys across the U.S. and abroad who must have more than 10 years of experience in the active practice of probate and trust law or estate planning. When looking at a large law firm, make sure they do a significant amount of estate planning work. By seeking an attorney who focuses on your planning needs, you can trust their expertise even more.

4. Schedule Several Meetings

While you can get an idea of a lawyer’s practice on their website or on the phone, an in-person meeting is a must. Schedule consultations with your top choices. Note whether the attorney makes you feel heard and comfortable. You want to trust a lawyer and feel at ease in their office since you will be working with them on one of the most important decisions of your life. 

Looking for an estate planning attorney in your area? The professionals at Ng & Niebling, LLLC in Honolulu, HI, have over 40 years of experience. Their services cover all areas, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and health care directives, as well as probate and conservatorship matters. From your first consultation, these lawyers will listen to your needs and guide you through the legal process. They also handle each case with compassion, as they know how sensitive planning for the future can be. To view a full list of their legal services, visit them online. You can also call (808) 732-7788 to schedule a free consultation.