Finding a Professional Estate Planning Attorney in Santa Rosa

A professional estate planning attorney in Santa Rosa is the type of lawyer who knows how to advise clients to get their affairs in order before they die or become mentally disabled. What exactly does this attorney do? Estate planning does not start and conclude with a last will and testament. The lawyer needs to devise a plan for mitigating or avoiding estate taxes and drafting living trusts, as well as work to make sure that your assets and life savings are safe from your beneficiaries’ creditors upon your demise. An estate attorney can also prepare health care directives and powers of attorney if you should ever become mentally incapacitated.

Which qualities should you look for in an attorney?

• Well-versed and up-to-date on laws: Your lawyer should have a full understanding of your state laws; otherwise, your estate plan might be deemed invalid by the court.
• Experienced and knowledgeable: A general practitioner might not have the necessary knowledge and experience to help you with unique financial and family situations. Therefore, you should look for someone who specializes in this field of law.
• Open and communicative: You should feel comfortable speaking to your lawyer about intimate and personal details. Doing so will ensure that the estate plans meet both your needs and expectations.

How much should you pay?

If you want your estate plan to be created, updated, and maintained by a lawyer who specializes in this field of practice, you need to be prepared to pay the appropriate legal fees. You will be paying for the expertise that the attorney has gained over the years. As the adage goes, “You get what you pay for.” Therefore, if you want a cheap lawyer, you should be prepared to receive cheap services. If the fees seem too good to be true, then you should re-evaluate them.

If you are looking for a trustworthy estate planning attorney in Santa Rosa, get in touch with Johnston & Associates Attorneys at Law at 707-200-1366. This law firm specializes in a number of disciplines, including real estate, business, construction, and trust administration.