Choosing the right estate planning attorney is one of the most important decisions you can make for the future of your family. This guide explains what to look for, how to prepare, and what questions to ask so you can feel confident in your choice. The attorneys at Burt Blee cover estate planning and trust planning to help you move forward with clarity.
Why the Right Attorney Matters
A strong attorney client relationship sets the foundation for a plan that reflects your wishes and protects the people you care about. Working with experienced professionals like the Burt Blee team can make the entire process clearer, more organized, and easier to navigate.
Burt Blee does more than prepare documents. We guide you through financial considerations, family dynamics, tax issues, long term goals, and practical steps that shape the future of your estate.
Step One: Clarify Your Needs Before Meeting with an Attorney
Before reaching out, take time to identify the goals that matter most. This helps guide the conversation and ensure your unique situation is matched with the correct estate planning tools, such as:
- Deciding whether a traditional will suffices or whether it is more appropriate to establish a trust to provide more detailed guidance related to
- Care for children and other loved ones;
- Avoid conflicts;
- Manage unique assets like farms and lake homes;
- Planning for disability or long term care
- Managing blended family concerns
- Addressing business succession matters
- Updating estate planning documents based on changes in family dynamics and personal wishes that reflect updated wishes
When you know what you want to accomplish, it becomes easier for your attorney to craft the correct plan for you.
Step Two: Research Attorneys with Focused Experience
Not all legal professionals handle the same types of matters. Our estate planning attorneys consistently work with clients to meet their estate planning needs.
Burt Blee’s Attorneys Offer:
- A clear background in all kinds of estate planning, estate administration, and elder law
- Experience with complex planning including long-term care planning or wealth planning
- Understanding of tax issues
- Familiarity with family matters such as guardianship or blended households
- A history of guiding clients through trust planning and estate planning
Step Three: Communication and Process
You should feel comfortable asking questions and discussing concerns. Our attorneys explain complex topics in a way that makes sense.
Signs of a Clear Communication Style:
- Direct answers without confusing language
- A step-by-step overview of the planning process
- Transparent expectations for timeline and costs
- Willingness to revisit your plan as life changes
An attorney who communicates well will make estate planning administration more manageable and less stressful.
Step Four: Review the Range of Services Offered
One advantage of selecting a strong attorney is their ability to support every stage of your plan. This allows your documents to work together and prevents overlooked issues.
Key Services to Look For:
- Estate planning
- Creation and review of trusts
- Complete trust planning tailored to long term goals
- Planning for incapacity or medical directives
- Guidance on asset protection
- Support for family discussions that involve sensitive topics
A complete service approach ensures your plan works as intended, not only today but well into the future.
Step Five: Consider Long Term Support
Estate planning is not a one-time decision. As families grow, assets shift, and laws change, your documents need adjustments.
When you select an attorney, choose someone who you will feel comfortable returning to for ongoing review and updates to ensure your plan remains effective and continues to reflect your intentions.
Step Six: Trust Your Instincts
The attorney you choose should not only be knowledgeable but also someone you feel comfortable working with. Our goal is for you to leave the meeting with a clear sense of direction and confidence in their ability to guide you.
Fort Wayne Estate Planning Attorneys
Selecting the right estate planning attorney plays a key role in protecting your assets and ensuring your wishes are carried out. By defining your goals, reviewing experience, and understanding approach, you can make informed decisions about estate planning and trust planning.
If you are ready to move forward or need help understanding which type of planning fits your situation, Burt Blee is here to help.
The information contained in this document is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice, and is not intended to, nor does it, create an attorney - client relationship. No reader should act or refrain from acting on the basis of this content without seeking advice from a qualified attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction. Reliance on any information herein is solely at your own risk. For guidance tailored to your specific circumstances, consult a qualified legal professional.
