Traits You Should Look For In Probate Attorneys from Keystone Law Firm's blog

Probate attorneys assist a decedent’s executor in the probate process. They play an important role in ensuring the decedent’s estate is settled accordingly. Hence, one should look for certain traits and qualities before hiring one. 

Probate is the legal process of administrating and verifying the distribution of a decedent’s estate. This is typically conducted in the probate court where the decedent resided.

If the decedent has left a will, the probate court will determine if the will is valid. Also, the court shall verify if the decedent's beneficiaries are qualified.

If the decedent has not left a will, the probate court will apply the intestacy laws in distributing the assets.

A probate is important to ensure that the proper beneficiaries receive the right portion of the decedent’s estate.

In probate administration, the presence of a probate lawyer is required. A probate lawyer’s role is to help the executor and beneficiaries in the entire probate process.

Probate lawyers also help clients to ensure that the court will grant their clients’ wishes upon distribution. They also help with the important legal documents that the executor shall prepare.

Most importantly, a probate lawyer provides sound legal advice in cases where the beneficiaries and the executor disagree. A probate lawyer helps make the complicated probate process manageable for their clients.

Here are three of the most vital traits to look for in probate lawyers.

As mentioned, probate includes complex court procedures. Before hiring a probate lawyer, evaluate their knowledge of estate planning.

Ask about their history of handling cases similar to yours. You can also check past clients’ reviews on the Internet if there are any. Knowing the clients’ feedback will give you a general overview of how the lawyer handles such cases.

Lawyers typically have their focus practice area. It would be more beneficial to look for a lawyer who focuses on probate proceedings, as they are more knowledgeable and experienced in handling such cases.

Estate laws can be amended from time to time. Hence, it would be a good advantage to hire a lawyer who constantly updates their knowledge with regards to these changes.

Depending on its type, a probate administration can take up to a year. In this timeline, you and your probate lawyer must communicate openly.

Moreover, a probate lawyer should help you understand your case's legal terms and complex processes. They should also answer your questions as comprehensively as possible.

You can also tell your lawyer's level of interest in your case based on how they communicate with you. Observe if they are asking you questions regarding your matter. If they ask minimal to no questions, it can signify that they have only a small interest in your case.

Dealing with the probate process can be an emotional-draining experience for family members. Thus, a probate lawyer must know how to interact with them.

A good trait of a probate lawyer is knowing the proper timing of stepping into the decision process. Moreover, they can choose the right words to avoid adding to the family’s despair.

The probate process ensures that the correct beneficiaries will be honored in the distribution of the estate’s properties. A probate lawyer helps in the entire process.

Three of the most important traits to look for in a probate lawyer include a deep knowledge of estate planning, excellent communication skills, and a high level of empathy and sensitivity to clients.

If you need an experienced probate lawyer, visit Keystone Law Firm now.

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