The probate process is complicated. You need a good probate attorney to handle all the legal issues involved. In case you or anyone you know needs a probate attorney, here are some of the questions you need to ask before hiring one:
How dedicated are you in practicing probate law?
A lot of lawyers don’t have just one specialization in law. Some also take on other practices like environmental, criminal, civil, or others. It’s crucial that the one you hire has a deep understanding of that area.
They should have expertise in estate laws so they can understand what needs to get done. Also, beware if they have other practices because it can compromise their focus on your case. Ask them if there are other ways you can gather more information about them. If they answer “Yes, you can learn more about us from other people who have sought our services” that shows that they have confidence in their work.
How many years of experience have you had?
You don’t have to rule out younger attorneys completely, but you could be in better hands with someone who has years of experience. Before hiring someone who’s been an attorney for 25 years, make sure they have significant experience regarding probate law as well.
You can go to law firms that have a good reputation. They usually employ the best attorneys they can find to uphold the standard that their firm prides itself for. You could also ask the people you know if they know any reputable probate attorneys.
Have you handled similar cases?
Years of experience is essential because it has sharpened their skills when it comes to probate processes. However, it’s much better if they have handled cases that are the same or similar to yours.
Some cases are simple enough while some are complicated and involve a lot of issues. Estate laws also differ in every state or country, make sure that they have experience and are legal to practice probate law in that area. It will save you a lot of time if you hire someone who has already handled a similar case.
What potential issues will I encounter?
If you do find someone who has handled a similar case, then they can give you a definite answer to this question. Maybe there are problems with the documentation. Perhaps you won’t get anything at all because of the debt of the person leaving you the property.
Depending on the situation, they may be able to tell you some of the issue that may arise during your case. This way, you can anticipate these problems and take proper actions.
How long will this probate process take?
The time frame in which they’ll close the case is essential. An estimate is enough since they can’t give you an exact date. The estimated time should cover all the issues that may arise during the process.
An experienced probate attorney orange county helps you plan what happens to your property when you die, as they can probate wills and act as your probate court estate representative.
What are your fees?
Hiring a probate attorney may cost you a lot more than what you initially expected. Ask them these questions regarding payments:
- How much do you charge for initial planning sessions? These sessions are vital because this is where you’ll learn what might happen during the probate process.
- Do you charge flat fees or by the hour? – This needs to be clearly stated. Sometimes you might pay more even after you paid a flat fee because of some minor changes in the case.
- Will the fees include updates on the estate plan? – When you acquire an estate, it doesn’t end there. You may have a family of your own. You’ll grow old, and maybe you would like to sell the property or leave it to your children. Ask your probate attorney whether the cost covers updating the estate plan or if that’s a different payment.
How will we communicate?
Ask them how you may get in touch with them whenever you have questions regarding the case. Some firms may have policies about inquiries while some are just hard to communicate with.
It could be frustrating on your part if you wait for days on end for your questions to be answered. If the one you’re interviewing is hesitant to answer this question, then they may not be a good fit. Better find someone who can at least assure you about this.
Losing a loved one is already tough enough as it is. So, when you hire a probate attorney, make sure to ask these questions so that the probate process doesn’t add to your burden.
