One can always expect to drop some money when it comes to hiring a probate lawyer regarding their probate estate. Thankfully, we’re going to explain how one can go about hiring the correct probate estate lawyer for them, prepare their first meeting, make the most of the lawyer’s time, and three important questions they should ask the lawyer upon meeting. With this being said, here’s how you can find the probate estate lawyer who is right for you and your situation!
How To Save Money On Probate Estate Lawyers
Given how expensive a probate estate lawyer can be, it’s important to reduce the time that they may have to spend on your estate case. That’s right, even shaving off the need to send out an email can save one a few hundred dollars once everything is said and done. Other ways one can save money on a probate estate lawyer can include:
– Find the one that’s right for you – Make sure that the probate estate lawyer you’re looking at would work for you and the situation you have at hand. Making a quick shortlist of probate estate attorneys may help you do this since it will allow you to focus on what’s important. Feel free to ask colleagues and friends for referrals. Look up attorney listings in the local phone book. Read up on profiles of lawyers in your area online. Read reviews of attorneys on Yelp.
– Call their office – Since you have a pool of probate attorneys rounded out, it’s time to call them and get an idea of what they’re all about. For starters, ask them about their expertise and how often they deal with cases such as yours. You’ll need someone who is experienced with your needs, as other areas of expertise may not matter to your case. Then, you’ll want to ask them about their rates. Do they charge hourly? Do they have a flat rate? Is a retainer necessary for your case? What’s the price of a consultation? It might not be possible to get such information over the phone, but the questions are necessary so you can drum up an estimate.
Once you’ve covered these bases, listen to their tone. When you ask a question, do they leave you more confused or confident about your decision? Do you see yourself getting along with them for months at a time? Are they knowledgeable, efficient, and professional? If they’re checking off all of your boxes, it’s likely they’re work keeping around.
Brief Consultation Time
So now that you’ve held a conversation with your options, it’s time to schedule a light consultation with at least two to three probate lawyers. Sure, this may seem like a waste of funds and time, but finding the one that’s right for you will save you both in the long run. Making an informed decision is incredibly important for such a scenario. So yes, a little money here can save you a lot of money down the road.
Do Your Homework
Now that you’re happy with your consultations, do your homework and learn about your legal issue before you approach the probate attorney you liked the most. Since you’re approaching the attorney regarding your probate matters, figure out exactly what they do and what sections of the process you can take care of yourself. The more you understand about probate proceedings, the more precise you can be with your questions and how you approach it on your own. To do the research, feel free to search online on websites that have information for individuals who are not lawyers themselves.
The First Consultation
An attorney’s consultation may vary, as this depends on what the attorney prefers. Some may charge, as others may not charge. Some attorneys will request the consultation to take place over the phone, as others may want the consultation to take place in person. Some attorneys will generally speak about your case, as others will have no problem rolling up their sleeves and discuss your situation.
When you’re finally ready for your first consultation, you’ll need to be prepared to speak of your case. Although the lawyer may not want to know all of the details regarding your matter before paperwork is signed, you’ll need to come prepared if they ask you about your situation. In the event, the attorney requests that you fill out one of their intake forms, make sure that the questions are answered carefully. You won’t have to explain your entire case on the paper, but it would be to your advantage if you note the key points of your case on the form.
What To Ask Your Probate Attorney
Some of the most important questions to ask your probate attorney would be:
– What would the lawyer like to know of so they can correctly analyze your case?
– Does the lawyer foresee any issues that may arise from the case?
– What would the lawyer do to go about your issues? How would they assess your case?
– Does the attorney have an idea of how long it could take to bring your matter to a conclusion?
– How would you be charged for their service on your case?
– Would the lawyer you’re speaking with handle the case or would they pass it on to another member of their staff. If other staff members will work on the case, could you be introduced to them?
Considering the information above, there’s plenty of things one must do to weed out who would be the best probate attorney for their case. Sure, even once you narrow down options, you’ll have to ask the tough questions so that your money and time is being used in your best interests. Thankfully, you have an idea of what a probate estate does not include (and what questions to ask) at your first consultation. So if you have any further questions (or you’re looking for answers regarding your probate estate) feel free to contact us today!