How to Find an Estate Planning Attorney

An Easy 3-Step Approach

1. Collect Names
Here are some common resources to help you identify estate planning attorneys in your area:

• References from friends, relatives and co-workers
• The American Bar Association's Internet lawyer referral service, www.abanet.org (Search for attorneys in your area and research firms or individual attorneys to identify which ones specialize in trusts and estates or wills and probate.)
• Recommendations from charities you trust, especially if you're considering making a gift to charity through your will or trust
• Referrals from a local bar association or estate planning council

Quick Tip
No one can help you minimize taxes and protect your assets like a qualified estate planning attorney can.

2. Acquire Information
Once you've compiled a list of possible contenders, research them to determine the following information:

• Experience and references
• How fees are charged, along with an estimate of costs
• Professional accomplishments
• The number of principals working in the office
• Office hours
• Areas of specialty
• Percentage of work devoted to estate planning
• Alliances with professionals in related fields that may be of help

3. Make Your Choice

	Read about how to prepare for your first meeting.

We would be happy to further help you with a referral for estate planning attorneys who work well with your unique situation. Just contact Tim Enstice at 757-962-8213 or plannedgiving@peta.org.