An Estate planning attorney is a lawyer who specializes in the federal and state laws regarding estates, trusts and probate. These professionals can review your situation and help you create a plan that aligns with your wishes. A good starting point is to have a clear understanding of your goals, such as how you want to pass on your assets and what you want to happen with your children. This information will be useful to your attorney as they begin drafting your documents.
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It is also important to consider whether you have any special needs or concerns, such as if you are part of a blended family or have disabled beneficiaries who require government benefits. This can affect how your estate is handled and how you choose to transfer assets outside of probate. It may also be a good idea to have a power of attorney in place, which gives someone you choose the authority to act on your behalf.
Choosing an estate planning attorney can be daunting, but it is essential to take the time to find one that meets your needs. You can get started by asking friends who they recommend or searching online. The attorney’s website should list their practice areas and qualifications, as well as how long they have been in business. An experienced estate planning attorney will likely have prepared many documents and will know how to navigate any potential challenges from the courts or Internal Revenue Service.