Arguably one of the hardest steps of the estate planning process is scheduling an initial consultation. This is because many people struggle with facing the harsh reality that they must prepare for a time when they are no longer around. But once this first step is taken, many find comfort in receiving support from an estate planning lawyer. Without further ado, read on to discover what documents you should bring to your initial consultation with a seasoned Putnam County estate planning attorney at the Law Office of Andres D. Gil, PLLC.
What documents should I prepare for my initial consultation with an estate planning lawyer?
You may be entering your initial consultation thinking that your lawyer will kickstart your estate planning documents alongside you. While this may be true, you must still do some preparatory work beforehand. This is so that you and your lawyer can be as productive as possible in a single sitting. With that being said, you should prepare the following:
- A list of loved ones you wish to designate as the beneficiaries of your estate.
- A list of loved ones you wish to designate as the executors of your estate.
- Copies of your financial records and a list of assets you wish to pass down to your beneficiaries.
- Copies of any important contracts you have signed during your lifetime (i.e., prenuptial agreements, divorce agreements, etc).
What else should I bring?
Understandably so, you may be overwhelmed by the thought of establishing multiple estate planning documents, whether it be a will, trust, advanced healthcare directive, power of attorney, or otherwise. This is why it may be best to jot down a list of needs and goals you wish to be met in the creation of your estate plan. You must understand that every estate plan is different, as it molds to the unique circumstances of the testator.
In addition, it may be best to gather your thoughts and write down a list of questions beforehand. You must understand your lawyer will not think that any question is too simple or too frivolous to be answered. Further, you must trust that your lawyer will have your best interest in mind throughout your meetings. Examples of questions that you may prepare are as follows:
- What are the functions of certain estate planning documents?
- What are the tax consequences when establishing certain estate planning documents?
- How long will it take to establish certain estate planning documents?
- What documents should I prepare for our next meeting?
You must act fast when it comes to establishing your estate plan. So you should not wait too long before contacting a competent Putnam County estate planning attorney from the Law Office of Andres D. Gil, PLLC.