What to look for in hiring an attorney.

[dcp227]

What is the name of your state Florida?

I have narrowed it down to 4 estate planning attorneys. What credentials should I be checking to make sure they are qualified. I will be doing quite a bit of planning with 3 generations involved, as well as a lifetime estate for my parents. It is a little complex as I will be and have been inheriting from numerous relatives and I want my husband and children to inherit but do not want his children to inherit but a small amount of what he may have acquired from me if I should pass first. Thanks so much in advance.

I did a search on the advertisements here and the closest attorney was 125 miles away.

 

[anteater]

Besides asking about experience, you could ask if they have any certifications/designations. And then do an internet search to try to determine how rigorous the work is to gain the certification/designation. There are some that sound impressive, but require little more than paying a couple grand and attending a one-day class.

I believe that the Certified Estate Planner (trademark) designation is generally highly regarded.

 

[Dandy Don]

Also look for the website for the Florida Bar Association to look up each attorney's name to make sure there are no serious complaints about them on record.