The estate planning process can be stressful. There are a lot of important decisions to make, regarding topics that can be hard to think about. As a result, it is important to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible. One of the best ways to do this is by choosing the right estate planning attorney. You will want to work with an experienced estate planning attorney who can walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have. Another good way to approach the process is by educating yourself on it. Going into it with an idea of what your estate plan may look like can make things a lot easier. Do you want to create a power of attorney? Are you interested in a healthcare directive? Have you thought about who will be put in charge of these things? One of the first steps of the estate planning process will be an initial consultation with your estate planning attorney. Read on for more information regarding the best way to prepare for your initial consultation.
What Should I Bring to my Initial Consultation with my Estate Planning Attorney?
There are many documents you may want to bring with you to your initial consultation. These documents can help give your attorney a better idea about you and your needs. Everyone has vastly different needs when it comes to estate planning. Your plan will depend upon your wishes, your finances, your family, and more. Some of the documents you should bring to the meeting include:
- Your financial statements (checking, savings, money market, brokerage, pension, IRA, etc.)
- Your most recent bank, investment, and retirement account statements
- The deed to your house
- Your previous estate planning documents, if you have any
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
- Divorce agreements
- Business agreements.
- Copies of your retirement plan
- Copies of your life insurance policy
- Contact information of your doctors
- Contact information for family members
- An unofficial list of the people you may want to list as trustees, executors, health care agents, etc.
- A list of your estate planning goals
- A list of any questions you have for your estate planning attorney
Not all of these documents will apply to you, so simply check out the list and determine which documents are relevant to your situation. If you have any questions regarding what documents you will need and how to access them, reach out to your estate planning attorney.
If you are ready to begin the estate planning process, contact our firm today.
Contact our Firm
If you or a loved one needs assistance creating an estate plan and wish to speak with an experienced attorney, contact the Law Office of Andres D. Gil, PLLC today.