Making a will is an important step in ensuring that your loved ones are taken care of after you’re gone. According to law offices like Marchese & Maynard, LLP, meeting with a lawyer for the first time can be daunting, especially if you don’t know what to expect. In this article, walk through how to prepare for your first meeting with a lawyer and read some tips on what to bring.
What to Bring to Your Meeting with the Lawyer
You will need to bring some things when you meet with the lawyer. These items will help the lawyer understand your situation and provide you with the best advice from Marchese & Maynard.
Your ID
You will need to bring a form of identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card.
A copy of your current will (if you have one)
If you already have a will, it is helpful to bring a copy to your meeting. This will help the lawyer understand your wishes and estate planning goals.
A list of your assets and debts
To make sure that all of your assets are accounted for in your will, you should list everything you own and any debts you may have.
A list of people you want to include in your will
This is perhaps the most crucial part of preparing for your meeting with the lawyer. You will need to list the people you want to include in your will and what you would like them to receive.
How to Discuss Your Will with the Lawyer
Once you have gathered all of the documents and information listed above, you are ready to meet with the lawyer. Here are some tips on how to discuss your will with the lawyer:
Be honest
The most important thing is, to be honest with the lawyer about your wishes and estate. This way, they can provide you with the best advice on achieving your goals.
Be clear
It is also vital that you be clear about what you want. The lawyer needs to know exactly who you want to include in your will and what you want them to receive.
Ask questions
Don’t be afraid to ask the lawyers like the law office of Marchese & Maynard any questions you may have. This is your meeting, and you should feel comfortable asking anything on your mind.
Questions You Should Ask the Lawyer
Meeting with a lawyer to discuss Estate Planning can be daunting. You may be unsure what to expect or what questions you should ask. Here are a few examples of questions you may want to ask during your meeting:
How much does it cost to make a will?
Different lawyers have different fees for will creation. Asking about the cost upfront helps you determine if the lawyer is within your budget.
What are the different types of wills?
There are many types of wills, from simple to complex. Discussing the different types with a lawyer helps you understand which one is right for your situation.
What are my options for estate planning?
Many options are available for estate planning, from trusts to beneficiary designations. A lawyer helps you understand the different options and will recommend the best course of action for your situation.
What happens if I don’t have a will?
Without a will, your assets will be distributed according to state law. This may not align with your wishes, so discussing your options with a lawyer is essential.
Documents You’ll Need for the Will-Making Process
After discussing your will with the lawyer, there are a few documents that Marchese & Maynard say you will need to sign to make it legal.
The first document is the will itself. This is the document that outlines your wishes and names your beneficiaries.
The second document is a power of attorney. This document gives someone else the legal authority to act on your behalf if you cannot do so yourself.
The third document is a living will. This document outlines your wishes regarding medical treatment if you cannot make those decisions yourself. These three documents must be signed and witnessed to be legally binding. However, it is vital to remember that wills can be changed so long as they are made per the legal requirements.
After Your Meeting with the Lawyer
After you have met with the lawyer and signed the necessary documents, you will need to take some time to think about your will and make sure that it is still what you want. You should review your will every few years or whenever there is a significant change in your life, such as getting married, having children, or buying a new house.
If you have any questions about your will or need to make any changes, you should contact your lawyer. It is essential to keep your will up-to-date to carry out your wishes after you die. Taking the time to review your will periodically will help ensure that your loved ones are taken care of according to your wishes.
Final Thoughts
Meeting with a lawyer to discuss your will is essential in estate planning. Being prepared for the meeting, knowing what to bring, and understanding what you want will help the process. Asking questions and being aware of the documents you’ll need to sign will also be helpful. Finally, remember to review your will periodically to make sure it is still accurate. Taking these steps will help ensure that your wishes are carried out after you die.
