Estate planning isn’t usually something that people look forward to, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal. With the help of a Probate Lawyer in Gig Harbor Wa, clients can ensure that all of their affairs are in order and their wishes will be carried out appropriately at the time of their death.
Understandably, many new clients experience anxiety about getting started. This article will offer some insight into what to expect at an initial consultation with a probate lawyer to help alleviate those fears.
Reviewing the Process
The consultation will likely start with a detailed discussion of what probate entails. Generally speaking, probate is a term that refers to the legal process of distributing assets according to a decedent’s will. Those who want to do some extra preparation can get started by reviewing available information online but they should make a point of writing down any questions they may have since there’s really no replacing the expert advice of a lawyer.
Answering Questions
Clients should expect to offer a detailed view of their estates’ assets and overall value. Their lawyers will likely ask them questions about vehicles, bank accounts, and other assets that could be subject to probate and may recommend alternatives to probate such as establishing a living trust. In order to advise his or her client, a Probate Lawyer in Gig Harbor Wa will need to have a good idea of the size of the estate as well as the direct wishes of the estate planner.
Providing Documents
There are a few different documents that may be required throughout the estate planning process. Collecting as many of them as possible prior to the initial consultation can help to expedite this process. If the client has an existing will, he or she should bring it to the consultation along with the past few years of income tax returns, bank statements, deeds, insurance policies, and any paperwork pertaining to outstanding financial obligations.
Discounted Rate
Initial consultations are often provided at discounted rates, which can help to alleviate some of the stress that estate planners may be experiencing regarding retaining a lawyer. It will still require a small monetary investment, but that investment will be money well spent.
