Finding the Right Estate and Trust Attorney for Estate Administration
Finding the Right Estate and Trust Attorney for Estate Administration
Finding the right professional to guide you through the often-complex process of estate administration is crucial. Estate and trust attorneys specialize in this field, providing much-needed legal expertise. Whether you're looking for an attorney to shepherd you from start to finish or just to help with specific aspects of the process, knowing where to start your search and how to make an informed choice is key.
Where to Look for an Estate and Trust Attorney
Your search for a trustworthy estate and trust attorney can be initiated through a variety of resources, each offering unique benefits. Here are some of the most reliable:
Search Engines: A simple search engine query can yield numerous results. However, ensure you're specific with your keywords to filter relevant results, like including your location or specific needs.
Martindale-Hubbell: This resource provides a comprehensive directory of attorneys, including peer and client reviews. Here, you can search for estate and trust attorneys in your area and view their ratings.
Local County and State Bar Associations: These organizations can be a valuable resource as they often maintain directories of their member attorneys, which should include estate and trust attorneys.
Personal References: Sometimes, the best way to find a trusted professional is through a recommendation from someone you trust. Friends, family, or coworkers may have used an estate attorney and can share their experiences.
Referrals from Other Professionals: Professionals such as accountants or investment advisors often work closely with attorneys and can provide reliable recommendations.
After identifying potential attorneys, you should verify their credentials. This can usually be done via the attorney's website or through your state's licensing and oversight agency for attorneys. One such resource is the Board of Bar Overseers where you can also check for any discplinary action against the attorney.
Interviewing Prospective Attorneys
Once you've shortlisted potential attorneys, the next step is to interview them. This is an opportunity to gauge their experience, working style, and suitability for your needs. Here are some questions you may want to ask:
1. How much experience do you have with administering trusts and estates?
2. Who will actually perform the work – you or a paralegal under your supervision?
3. How do you prefer to communicate with clients?
Their responses should give you a clear understanding of their expertise and whether they align with your expectations.
Understanding Payment Options
There are two common payment structures in estate administration - the hourly fee and the flat fee.
Hourly Fee: In this setup, the attorney charges you for each hour (or portion thereof) that they work on your case. The rate can vary depending on the attorney's experience, the complexity of the work, and the region in which you live. Attorneys who have paralegals or legal secretaries working for them may be able to offload a portion of the work to them. Their billing hourly rates are typically lower.
Flat Fee: Here, the attorney charges a fixed fee for a particular service. It is usually calculated based on the percentage of the value of the estate. This is often a common method for small to medium-sized estates, because the probate court and the IRS must approve the fees if an estate tax return is file. However, it's important to clarify upfront what the flat fee includes and excludes.
Selecting an estate and trust attorney to administer an estate is a critical decision that demands thorough research, careful thought, and a clear understanding of your needs. By utilizing the right resources, interviewing potential candidates, and understanding their fee structures, you can find an attorney that will make the estate administration process as smooth and straightforward as possible.
Notes: Articles on this website are for information purposes only. They do not provide legal advice. The information might not reflect the latest updates.