How to Choose the Right Estate Planning Attorney
Choosing an estate planning attorney is more than checking a box. It is about selecting someone who will help you make some of the most personal, long-lasting decisions of your life. The right attorney does more than fill out forms. They ask the right questions, listen carefully, and help you build a plan that works — not just on paper, but in reality.
At Fletcher Estate Planning, we believe every client deserves clarity, guidance, and confidence throughout the process. Below are key steps to help you choose an attorney who fits your goals and circumstances.
1. Start by Clarifying What You Need
Before scheduling any consultations, take a step back and think through what you want your estate plan to accomplish. Are you trying to minimize taxes? Protect a family business? Provide for minor children or dependents with special needs? Do you just need basic documents, or are you looking for a long-term strategy?
Write it down. The more specific you can be about what matters to you, the easier it will be to recognize when an attorney is equipped to handle it.
2. Ask People You Trust
Referrals still matter. Friends, family, financial advisors, and accountants can often point you to attorneys they have worked with directly. These recommendations carry weight because they come from real experience.
You can also check state bar directories or organizations like the American Bar Association. Many maintain public listings of attorneys sorted by practice area and location.
3. Review Their Background and Focus
Once you have a few names, take time to look into each one. You are looking for more than a law degree.
- Are they licensed in your state?
- Do they focus on estate planning, or is it just one of many areas they cover?
- How long have they been doing this kind of work?
- Do they have experience with cases that resemble yours — blended families, out-of-state property, special needs planning, or business succession?
A few minutes of research can save hours of wasted time down the road.
4. Meet Them and Ask Real Questions
Many attorneys offer a brief consultation. Use that time wisely. This is your opportunity to ask specific questions, not just about their experience, but also about how they work.
- How do they keep clients informed?
- Do they offer flat fees or hourly billing?
- What happens after the documents are signed?
- Will they coordinate with your financial advisor or CPA if needed?
More importantly, take note of how they respond. Do they speak in plain language or legal jargon? Do they listen carefully, or rush through your concerns?
5. Pay Attention to Communication
This part often gets overlooked. Estate planning is not a one-day transaction. You need someone who communicates clearly, answers your questions promptly, and makes you feel like your concerns matter.
If they are hard to reach before you become a client, they are unlikely to be more responsive later.
6. Consider Their Availability
Some attorneys take on too many clients and stretch themselves thin. You want someone who has the capacity to give your plan the attention it needs. Ask about their current workload and typical turnaround times. Responsiveness is not a bonus. It is essential.
7. Read What Others Have Said
Client testimonials and online reviews can offer helpful context. Look for consistent themes — good or bad. Are people satisfied with the process? Do they feel heard? Was the attorney thorough, or did things feel rushed?
No single review should sway your decision, but patterns in feedback can be revealing.
8. Trust Your Gut
All the credentials in the world cannot replace comfort and trust. If something feels off, it probably is. If you feel confident, respected, and well-informed during your initial conversation, that is a good sign. This is a relationship, not just a service. Choose someone whose approach makes sense to you.
Final Thoughts
Hiring the right estate planning attorney is not just about protecting your assets. It is about making sure your wishes are carried out, your loved ones are provided for, and your plan actually works. With the right attorney, the process can feel thoughtful, manageable, and even empowering.
At Fletcher Estate Planning, we work with clients at all stages of life. Whether you are planning for the first time or updating an old set of documents, our goal is simple — to help you build a plan that fits, lasts, and gives you peace of mind.
Ready to get started? Reach out today to schedule a consultation.