In part 1, I gave you ways to find the right estate/probate lawyer. Now what do you do with your list?
Make sure you do your homework. Compare the list of possible candidates. The names of two or three lawyers may surface who work in your neighborhood. Now you’re ready to start with the next step.
Invest some time in interviewing a number of candidates to ensure you can work with them.
You can use the telephone or email to narrow down your choices by asking questions. Here’s a list of possible questions you can ask an estate lawyer:
- Will you personally meet with me to discuss my needs?
- Do you spend 30% or more of your time handling estates?
- How long have you handled estates?
- How long does the process take?
- Do you have an information package or website?
Make sure you feel comfortable talking with your lawyer. Communication skills are important. If this is lacking, you cannot get the advice you need.
Remember this: the lawyer who prepared the will may have no probate experience.
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Good probate lawyers can help executors make better decisions. Are you handling an estate as executor? You cannot afford to have an inexperienced probate lawyer.
Finding the Right Estate/Probate Lawyer
Here are seven tips to help you. Begin by preparing a list of possible candidates from these sources.
1. Personal referrals. Your friend or neighbour may have had a positive experience with a probate lawyer. This is a good place to start. Do not, however, assume that your needs are identical. You may not get the same results.
2. Professional referrals. Your bank, financial planner or accountant usually has a list of lawyers he or she recommends.
3. The Law Society of Upper Canada. Law societies also can refer you to prominent lawyers or certified specialists. Lsuc.on.ca
4. Ask other lawyers. Call lawyers you know. Ask them for lawyers they recommend for probate and estate administration matters.
5. Estate seminars. Contact financial service groups in your neighborhood who hold public or private presentations. If you attend a meeting, you can personally meet and assess if a probate lawyer is suitable.
6. Internet searches. Check a lawyer’s website to review their qualifications and experience. Look for possible memberships and publications. This will also help you break the ice before your first meeting.
7. Advertising. www.yellowpages.ca and community ads may help you identify possible lawyers. Do not base your hiring decision solely on the size of an ad in the Yellow Pages.
Watch my 1 minute Executor Kung Fu video.
In part two, I’ll cover what to do with your list of candidates.
Executor Kung Fu Book
Certified Specialist in Estates & Trusts Law
