Choosing the right estate planning lawyer may be one of the most important decisions you make for yourself and your family. Estate planning is not just about creating documents—it’s about creating a roadmap for your future and ensuring your loved ones are cared for when it matters most.
But not all estate planning attorneys are the same. Some firms take a cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all approach, while others truly partner with you to build a plan that works in the real world.
Below, our friends from Eastside Estate Planning discuss what to look for when choosing an estate planning attorney:
Practical, Customized Advice
A good estate planning lawyer does more than draft wills and trusts. They take the time to understand your family, your assets, and your goals, then offer practical advice that fits your situation. Whether that means protecting a child’s inheritance, planning for a blended family, or making sure your spouse is financially secure, the right attorney will create a plan that works for you—not just on paper, but in practice.
Coordination Beyond The Documents
Estate planning isn’t just about what’s written in your trust or will. Beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance must align with your overall plan. If they don’t, your assets may end up in the wrong hands—regardless of what your trust says. The right lawyer will help you coordinate all these moving parts so your plan truly works.
Hands-On Help With Funding Your Trust
A trust is only as good as the assets inside it. Too many people walk out of big law firms with a beautifully bound trust that was never actually funded. That means assets are still in their personal name and the estate will end up in probate anyway.
A strong estate planning attorney will guide you through re-titling accounts, transferring property, and updating deeds so your plan accomplishes what you intended—like avoiding probate.
Knowledge Of Estate Taxes And Complex Situations
While not everyone faces estate taxes, the rules are always changing. An attorney who stays up to date can help minimize tax burdens and anticipate future issues. More importantly, they’ll know how to address difficult family situations, business ownership, or unique asset types with workable, real-world solutions.
Availability And Personal Attention
Estate planning is not a one-time transaction. Life changes—marriages, divorces, grandchildren, new homes—and your plan should change with it. Look for an attorney who is available to update your plan, answer your questions, and give you peace of mind when new challenges arise.
Equally important, make sure your attorney isn’t running an assembly line where every step is outsourced. A personal connection and clear communication matter. You want someone who knows your family and your plan—not just a file number.
Traits That Set The Best Apart
Beyond technical knowledge, the right estate planning lawyer will also:
- Listen deeply to your concerns and goals rather than rushing to a form.
- Explain your options clearly without legal jargon.
- Plan for the long-term, not just today’s needs.
- Offer flat-fee pricing so you know the cost upfront without surprises.
- Provide education so you understand how your plan works and what steps to take next.
The Bottom Line
Estate planning is too important to leave to chance—or to a lawyer who treats you like just another form to fill out. The right estate planning lawyer will walk with you every step of the way, helping you design, implement, and maintain a plan that truly protects your loved ones and your legacy.