Interested in planning your family’s future, but not sure where to start? Have you been calling attorneys who give you a wide range of information they think is best – and not understanding if they’re offering what you need or if they are offering the best price?
You have come to the right place. Here are three key factors to understand when selecting an estate planning attorney.
1. Experience
There are plenty of law firms out there who have and will draft estate planning documents for anyone who asks. Experience is a must, because the process of drafting estate plans can be a long and challenging road. Having a proper guide who has traveled the path many times can make this a much easier and efficient process.
Here at Gallagher Krich, APC, we have been practicing estate planning for years. We know the ins and outs of estate planning. We know it is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Each estate plan we draft is tailored to each family’s specific needs and intentions. We would never oversell you on something your family may not need, and we will be there for you every step of the way.
Gallagher Krich has a proven process of obtaining the proper information we need, drafting the documents specifically tailored for you and your family, and executing the documents properly. Having done this many times over, we’re confident that our process and expertise will make obtaining an estate plan as easy as possible for you and your family.
2. Whether They Offer a Full Estate Plan or Just Pieces.
This is very important. Some firms will just offer certain pieces of an estate plan, not set up a full estate plan, because they are trying to limit the cost for you the consumer. In the end, this can be detrimental to you and your family.
Some firms may offer just a will or just a trust and not complete the remaining documents that are necessary in carrying out the purpose of an estate plan. As an attorney, I highly recommend that you do not fall for this. Each of the documents of an estate plan play a crucial role in the remaining documents.
At Gallagher Krich, we will never draft a partial estate plan. All of our documents are specifically tailored to build off each other to make sure you and your family are fully protected. If an accident were to occur or if you were to be incapacitated in the hospital, do you know what would happen to you? What if you need a lifesaving surgery, but cannot consent on your own — what do you do? Well, if you set up an estate plan with Gallagher Krich, you would have the proper documents in place to protect you under these circumstances. This peace of mind is priceless.
It is important to keep in mind that a few thousand dollars upfront can save your family tens of thousands of dollars and years of their time by avoiding probate court. That is why setting up and planning your family’s future is an investment, but one you reap the benefits of right away.
3. Long-Term Planning
Many families undertake the process of an estate plan early in life to protect themselves from anything happening. This is a great approach because it offers the most peace of mind. However, after a few years if you have more children, move homes, or acquire more property, you may need to update your estate plan. This is why choosing an attorney you know will be there for you in the long run is crucial.
Here at Gallagher Krich, we will be there for you in the long run. We constantly update our estate planning documents to be current and up-to-date with recent legislature. If something critical changes in the field, we let all our clients know. If you have any question about your estate plan or if it needs updating, we offer free consultations.
Following these three key factors when deciding on an estate planning attorney will make your experience a lot easier and beneficial for your family in the long run.
If you are interested in setting up an estate plan for you or your family, please give us a call for a free consultation at 858-926-5797. We’ll let you know our competitive rates and why we are confident we can help execute your goals in protecting you and your family.
