Finding a Trusts Attorney: What To Watch For

If you are looking to get your financial situation in order, a trusts attorney could be the best hire you could possibly make. If you have substantial holdings, it is imperative you get a fiduciary to watch over your finances and make sure you have the resources and make the moves that will help you to grow your wealth. The tax implications for doing it the wrong way can and will cost you much more than hiring even the best lawyer. This can have ramifications not only for you, but for your family and heirs. Since you don’t want your hard earned money going to the government in a larger sum than it needs to, hiring a good lawyer should be your primary objective. Here are some things to watch out for as you decide who to retain.

If you haven’t had much experience hiring lawyers, looking for a trusts attorney can be a bit intimidating. This is why you should have an idea of what you’re getting into before you ever step foot in the first office. Make some calls. Find some good prospects and get them on the phone. Find out what will be happening when you make the trip down to their office. This can help you prepare and it can also save you some time. If all you get is a recording, you’re probably dealing with a very busy firm that may or may not have personal time to give to you and your needs. If you can’t get anyone on the phone when you’re a potential client, can you really expect to get personal attention after you’ve become a paying client? Highly unlikely.

Don’t be afraid to let your potential trusts attorney know how little you know about the whole process. If you’ve done a decent job in your prescreening process, you won’t have to worry about someone taking advantage of your ignorance. Lawyers understand that the average person doesn’t have a law degree and doesn’t know much about probate, real estate, or financial planning. They should be there to educate and inform, just as they are there to make recommendations and represent you. This isn’t like walking into a random mechanic shop and being afraid to let on how little you know about your own engine. Be upfront about the fact that you need help and you should be able to find the right person to fill in the blanks.

If you aren’t sure where to start on your search, try the state board. They won’t be able to make recommendations, but they can give you a list of lawyers that may work as your new trusts attorney. Start with that list, make inquiries, and do your research. You should be able to come to a decision that will benefit you financially.