When it comes time to plan for the later years of life many people put off the decision for much too long. The main purpose of sitting down to do what is usually called succession planning is to make sure one’s survivors are provided for in a way that supports a comfortable life after you’re gone.
Such things as housing and income and health care are just a few of the issues that must be prepared for so that the surviving family members can avoid unexpected or unplanned financial shortfalls.
It is best to seek a trust attorney in Atlanta to help with this type of planning. The fees are modest, especially when compared with the potential for oversights when dealing with the complicated issues of finances and property and health needs that extend into the distant future.
So the question is, “How do I find a good living trust attorney?” Let’s list a few of the tips that will help with this challenge.
1 – Check with friends and relatives and work mates. You’ll want to get at least three to five names of attorneys. It is vitally important that you are specifically seeking attorneys that specialize and have experience that has been largely focused on preparing Living Trusts.
It is important to know that attorneys, like doctors, specialize in specific practices. You wouldn’t seek out an eye surgeon to set a broken leg from a skiing accident. The same rule applies to attorneys. Pay attention.
2 – Now call or email a lawyer’s referral service. Request the names of at least three attorneys that specialize in living trusts.
3 – Once you have hopefully gathered at least five or so names you’ll want to do your pre-interview research.
Please make sure you don’t start calling to speak with your list of attorneys before you complete this step. A) Run each of the attorney’s names from your list through the Bar Association’s research files.
You’ll also use this research to determine the attorney’s behavioral records. In the unlikely event an attorney on your list has received even one admonishment, regardless of the nature; eliminate him or her from your list and move on to the next name.