While the law is the same, all estate planning attorneys have different expertise, styles and personality. Finding an attorney to assist you is not difficult, but there are a few items you should consider.
1. Conduct A Search
Ask trusted friends and co-workers who they use, if they got the results they were looking for, and if it was easy to work with the attorney. Conduct an internet search to gather several potential names, and check out their reviews online.
2. Check Them Out Online
Check each attorney’s web presence to insure they have the skills and expertise you are looking for. Is the attorney licensed and board certified by the State Bar of Arizona? Review the State Bar of Arizona’s website to make sure the attorney carries malpractice insurance and does not have any prior or pending complaints.
3. Interview Potential Attorneys
Call each attorney and ask them some questions. Does the attorney respond timely? Are you comfortable speaking with them? Will the attorney meet with you free of charge to insure a good fit? What is the attorney’s hourly rate? Are you willing to divulge your most confidential information to them? Will the attorney be the person to work with you or will an associate or paralegal be your primary point contact? If you are not satisfied with the responses, that attorney would not be a good candidate to represent you.
Be very wary of the attorney who requests conflict waivers for commissions earned on ancillary products or services, such as insurance, accounting or financial planning. Sometimes the estate planning is simply a marketing technique to sell other products.
If you are interested in discussing your estate planning needs with us, please call us at (480) 281-1512 or fill out the form to the right.