It is common for individuals to want to take care of their family, particularly their children, by ensuring that they have everything they require even after their passing. However, while it can be overwhelming to consider estate planning, it is a vital step in securing your family’s future. Fortunately, you do not have to go through this process alone. When you work with an experienced estate planning attorney in Northern Virginia, these lawyers can guide you through the process and create a plan that is suitable for you and your loved ones. But before you meet with these legal professionals, it is important to be prepared.
Understand Your Goals When It Comes to Estate Planning
Before you meet with an estate planning lawyer, you need to understand your goals when it comes to estate planning. For instance:
- Are you looking to provide financial support for your family members with a disability?
- Are you looking to prepare health care directives to let your loved ones know what your wishes are in terms of medical care?
- Are you looking to shelter assets from taxation?
- Are you worried your assets may get delayed in the probate process?
- Are you looking to have someone help you pay your bills or handle your finances if you become incapacitated?
- Are you looking to ensure your minor children will be taken care of if something should happen to you?
Bring With You the Appropriate Documents
When meeting with the estate planning attorney for the first time, you want to bring with you certain documents, including the following:
- A list of beneficiaries
- An executors list
- Financial records
- Divorce agreements
- Prenuptial agreements
Presenting these documents to an attorney can offer them more information regarding your needs and goals and help them determine what other details may be needed to create the estate plan you require.
Questions To Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer
When you meet with these attorneys, you want to also ask them questions that can help you make well-informed decisions regarding your estate plan. Some questions to consider include the following:
- What type of estate planning services do you offer?
- How much do you charge for your services?
- How long have you been practicing estate planning?
- How does the estate planning process work?
- Do you have experience with my specific situation?
- Will you be able to update my plan if my life situation changes?
- How long will it take to create an estate plan in Northern Virginia?
Contact Ardent Guardian Today
If you are in Northern Virginia and want more information about estate planning or are looking to create your own estate plan, contact Ardent Guardian today by calling us at 703-592-6774.
Our team is well-equipped and prepared to assist you with the probate process in Northern Virginia. We are dedicated to providing personalized representation to our clients and ensuring that their issues are efficiently and effectively resolved. We listen carefully to your questions, provide the support and answers you need, and keep you informed throughout the entire process. Our commitment to our clients is our top priority.
