Planning for the future isn’t something that people do out of fun. The rat race of life and trying not to think about the “what happens when I’m gone” question compounds the process even further. But deep down, you probably know it’s important. You want your loved ones to be taken care of, your assets handled properly, and your wishes respected. Still, knowing all that doesn’t make the process any less intimidating.
The good news is that a good Los Angeles Estate Planning Lawyer can make this process seamless. However selecting the right lawyer isn’t just about picking a name off a list or going with whoever your cousin used. You need somebody who can help you shape the legacy you want to leave behind. Keep reading to learn how to find the best estate planning lawyer.
1. Know What You Need
Before you even start Googling “Trust Settlements Lawyer Near Me,” take a breath and figure out what exactly you need help with. Are you creating your first Last Will and Testament? Setting up a Revocable Living Trust? Or maybe you’re trying to figure out How to Set up a living trust for a family member who’s getting older. Whatever it is, being clear about your goals helps narrow down your search—and ensures you’re not wasting your time (or money) on the wrong expert.
Estate planning isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. Some lawyers specialize in high-net-worth estates, others work more with young families who are just starting to think about their future. There are also those who focus on elder law, which overlaps quite a bit with estate planning when it comes to things like Medicaid planning or long-term care.
So, take a moment. Think about your life, your assets, and what kind of support you’re looking for. Maybe you’re a parent who wants to ensure your kids are protected. Or maybe you’re single, without kids, but want to make sure your assets go to the causes you care about. Whatever your case, having a clear picture will give you the power to ask the right questions once you start interviewing lawyers.
2. Ask for Referrals (But Don’t Stop There)
Word of mouth is golden. If you’ve got friends, family, or even coworkers who’ve worked with an estate planning lawyer, don’t be shy—ask them about their experience. What did they like? What didn’t they like? Would they use that lawyer again? These are the kinds of insights you won’t get from a Google review.
Check out each lawyer’s website. Look at their practice areas. See if they mention things like Revocable Living Trust, or Trust Settlement. Read through their blog posts if they have any. Those can give you a feel for how they explain complicated topics. Do they speak in clear, understandable language? Or does everything sound like it came straight from a law textbook? You want someone who can translate legalese into plain English.
3. Pay Attention to Communication Style
This might sound like a small thing, but it’s actually huge. A good estate planning lawyer should be a good communicator. Not just in the sense that they can explain terms like Last Will and Testament or how to set up a living trust, but also in how they treat you during your interactions.
Do they listen when you talk? Or do they interrupt and try to rush you through your concerns? Are they patient when you ask questions—or do they act like you’re bothering them? These small signals say a lot. If someone doesn’t feel like a safe person to talk to, they’re probably not the right lawyer for you, even if they’ve got stellar credentials.
The Bottom Line
Finding a good estate planning lawyer doesn’t have to feel like a wild goose chase. Start by understanding your own needs, then look for someone who meets them—not just on paper, but in the way they communicate, guide, and support you. A great lawyer will stick with you for the long haul, guiding you through life’s twists and turns with expertise and empathy.