7 Ways to Find an Estate Attorney

Congratulations. You've finally decided to set up an appointment with an estate attorney to get your basic package of legal documents created. Problem is, you don't know an estate attorney.

Here are some ideas that can help you identify a pool of candidates with whom to speak (unless you live in a small town with only one practicing estate attorney). I use the term "pool of candidates" because it's only natural that you want the right blend of personality, style, specialty area and experience to suit your needs. While this list is not exhaustive, it should allow you to identify a few names:

1) Speak with your financial advisor or accountant. They will often have network of professional connections and can provide you a referral.
2) Talk to your friends, relatives and other trusted parties. Ask for recommendations and references as to why they thought a particular estate attorney was good.
3) Review your employee benefits or speak with your HR representative. Pre-paid legal assistance plans are popping up in worksites all across the country. They may offer discounts.
4) Check with your bank. Your bank or credit union may have a relationship with an estate attorney, which again could translate into savings.
5) Review the benefits offered through your life insurance policy. Some forward-thinking insurance companies like MetLife have begun to make estate attorneys available to group policy holders at a discounted rate.
6) Visit your local Chamber of Commerce website.
7) Last, but not least, the obvious -- do an online search. You can do a Google search for estate attorneys in your city or visit an attorney referral site like Lawyers.com.

Once you identify a pool of 3 to 5 candidates, it'll be time to conduct some interviews. It is perfectly fine and acceptable to have a phone call or meet in person with the estate attorney with whom you're contemplating a relationship.

Why? Remember, the concept of one-and-done estate planning is old hat. Plan to be working with this professional over your lifetime to regularly review (every two years) and make relevant updates to your legal documents.

In our next posting, we'll address how to prepare for your interview and what questions to ask.