There is a common misconception that estate planning is only necessary for those who have a ton of money or assets. In reality, almost anyone can benefit from working with an Estate Planning Attorney in Redlands CA. Those who are preparing to meet with their attorneys can read on to find some tips for making the most of their consultations to ensure that the process goes smoothly.
Be Honest
The goal of estate planning is to ensure that a person’s assets are distributed according to his or her wishes after death. To accomplish this goal, clients need to be honest and forthcoming not just about their financial situations but also about their family situations. If one of a client’s intended heirs is terrible with money, for example, or is preparing to marry someone less than trustworthy, there may be a need for some additional precautions.
Consider All Options
Complicating factors such as poor money management skills, drug problems, and other difficult family situations need to be taken into account. Attorneys can often offer sage advice about the best ways to handle these kinds of situations. Setting up a trust instead of leaving money outright to an heir who is underage is just one example of a better option that could leave the entire family in a better position.
Ask Questions
There are few financial questions that an Estate Planning Attorney in Redlands CA will not be equipped to answer. Don’t be afraid to ask what feel like unnecessary questions and don’t be afraid to communicate these questions by email or by phone, as it’s hard to remember all important questions at in-person consultations and meetings.
Gather Documents in Advance
While estate planning attorneys can help their clients gather necessary financial information, it will cost much more if they have to track down the information themselves. Make a point of gathering all relevant financial documents in advance to avoid unnecessary fees.
Choose the Right Lawyer
Clients should perform their due diligence and make sure they’re working with the right legal professionals. They should choose attorneys who have plenty of experience with estate planning, even if they have other lawyers that they typically turn to for other forms of legal advice. Visit us website to learn about one well-respected law firm that can help today. You can also visit them on Facebook.
