Frequently Asked Questions

Bring all relevant estate planning and probate documents, including your will, living trust, power of attorney, and advance healthcare directive. You should also prepare a complete list of your assets (real estate, bank accounts, investments, retirement accounts) and liabilities, along with beneficiary information and key family details.

The probate process typically takes several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the estate, the number of assets involved, and whether there are any disputes among beneficiaries.

A retainer is an upfront payment made to secure a probate or estate planning attorney’s services, typically billed against as the work is completed during ongoing matters like probate administration or estate disputes. A flat fee, on the other hand, is a fixed cost for specific legal services, such as drafting a will, creating a trust, or preparing basic estate planning documents, with actual costs and expenses billed in addition to the flat fee. 

Hire a lawyer when legal consequences are significant, procedures are complex, or the other party has representation. DIY may work for minor matters, but minor matters sometimes grow into major matters and professional guidance protects your rights and prevents costly mistakes in disputes, contracts, or court filings.

Waiting too long to seek legal advice which often limits options and weakens cases. Early consultation preserves evidence, protects deadlines, and allows strategic planning before situations escalate or become harder to resolve favorably.