People believe that estate planning is only for rich people or estate planning comprises only wills and trusts. A less known fact is that an estate plan also includes the following:
- Will/trust.
- A durable power of attorney.
- Beneficiary designations.
- Letter of intent
- Healthcare power of attorney.
- Guardianship designations.
One must understand that it is essential to ensure that their assets and personal properties are handed over to someone they wish after their death. To ensure that your assets and properties are handed over to someone you want to, and your estate plan speaks what you want, you must get help from a Texas estate planning attorney. An experienced and knowledgeable attorney can lessen the burden and ensure that your estate plan speaks according to your wishes.
Another essential thing to consider while making an estate plan is to choose the right estate planning attorney. One wrong document or decision can make things difficult for your loved ones after you. It is essential to get a wise lawyer who can advise you and care for your wishes.
Qualities to look for in an estate planning attorney
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An attorney should be quick and efficient:
Time is essential in making an estate plan, especially if someone is nearing the end of their life. An efficient attorney can prepare your first draft in a few weeks and finalize your estate plan in 2-3 months. An attorney with many clients may not prioritize your plan and take 6-8 months to complete your estate plan. Therefore, it is advised to get an estimated time from your attorney before starting the process.
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Uses modern technologies to minimize the potential scope for errors:
Using modern technology streamlines much of the estate planners’ tasks and makes the process easier. It also reduces the chances of human errors.
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An attorney should guide their client in every step of the process:
You should hire a lawyer who ensures that you know every step of the process and has knowledge of every single document. Your attorney should ensure that you feel confident about your estate plan.
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Focuses on estate planning:
This is the most crucial aspect when searching for an estate attorney. Many attorneys who focus on other areas of law such as divorce or criminal law add estate planning to their expertise. However, it is essential to know attorneys who do not focus on estate planning are unaware of the ins and outs of an estate planning procedure. Contacting such attorneys can leave you with a weak half-crafted plan. The attorney you need for your estate planning should have received an estate planning certification.
