Probate is whereby the deceased person’s estate gets administered. It refers to a person with a will or dies testate’s estate administration. If you die without a will or intestate, they will have to undergo the administration procedure. The process of administration and probate is substantially the same. In both, the will identifies the beneficiaries of the estate in question.
If a person has no will, the beneficiaries are decided by state law. And that can lead to undesirable consequences. Either way, the estate must be opened by the court. The process may take nine months or more, depending on the complexity. That said, you must hire the ideal estate administration attorney for your case. The tips below will help you make a sound decision.
- Identify your specific needs.
Before deciding to hire an estate administration attorney, you need to list all your specific requirements. Outline your end goals and what you need to achieve.
Having this at the back of your mind will make it effortless to find the relevant estate administration attorney for your needs. For this reason, you need to outline your plans from scratch and figure out what you need help with.
Do you need to update or revise your existing plan? Do you need advice on how to reduce future tax liabilities? Do you need to set up a trust fund?
Whatever the case, having what you need at the back of your mind will help you settle for the ideal professional.
- Interview your prospects
Before hiring an estate administration attorney, you need to do your due diligence. Avoid settling for one just because they boast of the title of an estate administration attorney.
Have a list of those you’re eyeing, and take your time to interview them. The entire process does not have to be complicated or lengthy. But specific so you will avoid wasting time and resources.
Have a list of questions to ask so that you don’t get stuck during the conversation. Some of the things you need to find out include:
- How long they have been in estate administration practice
- Their mode and frequency of communication
- Number of successful cases handled
- Fees and rates
- Additional charges
- Certifications and qualifications
- What are their values?
You need to choose an estate administration attorney whose values align with what you’re looking for. They should have your best interests at heart and be determined to bring the best possible outcome for your case.
The ideal attorney understands how much effort it has taken to get where you are. And the sacrifices you have made to build your wealth. They also understand that your assets need adequate protection, the importance of your legacy, and ensuring that your loved ones enjoy the fruits of your lifelong efforts.
Always choose professionals whose values align with yours and have your best interests at heart.
Final thoughts
The tips discussed above will help you make the right choice with your estate administration attorney. If you’re still having trouble making the right decision, be sure to ask trusted family and friends for direction
