What Type of Attorney Handles Wills and Trusts?
If you’re thinking about writing a will or creating a trust, getting an attorney involved would be helpful. But you already know that – you’re here to find out what type of lawyer to see.
Estate planning attorneys in Dallas, Texas, specialize in the creation of wills, trusts, advanced healthcare directives and other essential legal documents. As such, whether you’re giving thought to protecting your assets, arranging guardianship for minor children, minimizing wealth transfer taxes or ensuring the well-being of loved ones who depend on your income, working with an estate lawyer is sure to simplify the process. With their advice, you’ll be able to make informed decisions about your legal and financial affairs. And, you’ll have peace of mind in knowing that your interests are being safeguarded.
But do you really need to hire a lawyer with specialized knowledge in estate planning for a will or trust? And how do you find the right estate planning attorney among the many serving the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex area? Read on for answers.
The Expertise of an Estate Planning Attorney
Much like how a family doctor can handle a wide range of medical matters, some general practice lawyers can draft simple wills and trusts. However, depending on the size of your estate and the complexity of your situation, going with a general practitioner may not be in your best interest.
If you can list all your possessions and designate a specific beneficiary for each one, a general practice lawyer can probably write your will. They might also be capable of crafting a simple trust, one that only distributes current income. Bear in mind, though, that revisions may become necessary as time passes, and making changes often requires the expertise of an estate planning attorney.
In addition, while a general practice lawyer may possess a working knowledge of the federal and Texas state laws that relate to estate plans, this might not be sufficient to achieve your goals. Attorneys who specialize in the creation of estate plans have a holistic understanding of legal strategies to ensure proper asset distribution, minimize tax burdens and mitigate family disputes. That being the case, teaming up with a Dallas estate planning attorney would certainly be wise if:
You need to protect your children’s future.
You have complicated family dynamics.
You own a home or other substantial assets.
You need to create a business succession plan.
You want to leave an inheritance to a minor.
You have adult dependents with special needs.
You own property not in the state of Texas.
You are concerned about estate taxes.
You want to name charities in your will or trust.
No matter your life situation, targeted estate planning provides security for your beneficiaries and ensures that your estate is managed and distributed as you wish. General practice lawyers might have a good grasp of wills and trusts, but for the majority of Dallas residents, the assistance of an experienced estate planning attorney is invaluable.
Finding an Estate Planning Attorney You Can Trust
Without question, the lawyer you choose to assist with your estate plan should have in-depth knowledge of the relevant federal and Texas state laws. Years of experience is also essential, and as we’ve already indicated, the primary area of focus of the attorney you hire should be estate planning.
When considering the lawyers in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex area who meet those qualifications, compatibility is important. You will be relying on this individual to oversee your end-of-life arrangements, so you want an estate planning attorney you can trust. To find the right legal professional, try the following:
Asking People You Trust for Recommendations
Family members, close friends, neighbors and co-workers may have worked with an estate planning attorney in the past, and if they had a positive experience, you will have confidence in that lawyer’s skill.
Get Names of Attorneys from the State Bar of Texas
If no one you know is able to recommend a local legal professional, use the advanced search tool on the website of the State Bar of Texas to find qualified estate lawyers serving the Dallas, Texas, area.
Check Law Firm Websites and Online References
Reading online reviews and testimonials about the attorneys you are considering can provide you with significant insight, and by visiting their websites, you can learn about each one’s approach to estate planning.
Schedule a Consultation to Discuss Your Estate Plan
Many legal professionals offer free, no-obligation consultations, and after meeting with a Dallas estate planning attorney, you should know if they seem honest, trustworthy and capable of helping you map out your legacy.
Contact Schultz and Kellar Today
Now that you know what type of attorney handles wills and trusts, you need a trusted partner to secure your legacy. The legal professionals at Schulz and Kellar, PLLC, can support you every step of the way. You can count on us for clear, straightforward advice, and we will treat your estate plan with the utmost sensitivity and discretion. For a free, no-obligation consultation with an estate planning attorney of excellent character in Dallas, Texas, contact our law office today.
