The death of a loved one is always difficult to handle. When planning for the funeral and probating the will, there are many decisions to make, which can be incredibly overwhelming when the deceased was your spouse or parent. However, you do not have to go through this process alone, and having proper legal representation is a tremendous weight to be lifted in this challenging time. If you are looking for probate lawyers near me, here are some things that you should consider before deciding who to hire.
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5 Tips for Probate Lawyers Near Me
Find a lawyer with several years of experience in probate law
It’s important to find a lawyer who has many years of experience in probate law. Many different legal issues can arise, and you need someone who knows what they’re doing. Ensure the lawyer you hire is qualified and has expertise in this area, not to mention several years of experience.
Make sure that the lawyer you’re considering has a good reputation
Just like any profession, you want to make sure that the lawyer you’re considering has a good reputation. You can do this by asking friends and family for recommendations or looking on reputable review sites like Yelp. Check out Google reviews, any social media pages, and the Better Business Bureau website for more insight.
Consider how frequently the lawyer will be working on the case
Did the deceased leave behind a complicated will, or are you planning on taking care of most of the legal work? If this is your first time working with probate lawyers near you, it’s best to find someone who is willing to take on a case with periodic updates.
Find out if their fees are negotiable
It is important to find out if the probate lawyer’s fees are negotiable. Most lawyers charge a flat fee for handling a will but they usually have a different fee for helping with probate. If you can’t afford a lawyer, you should consider looking for someone that offers a payment plan or negotiate their fees. You may want to start by asking them about any discounts or special programs they offer to help clients who can’t afford their services.
Ask about other services they offer
Not all probate lawyers are the same. Some offer a variety of services, including estate planning and tax preparation. So it’s important to ask about the full range of legal services they can provide. Probate law is complex, so make sure to find a lawyer who offers other services in addition to probates.
We Can Help
Working with an experienced inheritance lawyer has several essential benefits. A will can be especially frustrating if family disputes arise. But at Lewman Law, we’re here to help you every step of the way. We can take care of all the necessary documents and provide a free initial consultation. To speak with the Pleasanton estate attorney, contact us today at (925) 447-1250 or fill out an inquiry here.
About John Lewman
