Q: What do I need to provide before the preliminary consultation?
Answer:
You will either need to provide a summary of assets from your financial adviser or complete a form on your assets, liabilities & income. The consultation fee is also due prior to the meeting.
Q: What happens after we meet?
After we meet, you’ll receive a Proposal with recommended documents & a fee estimate. Here’s an example of a Proposal. For explanations of the various documents, see Estate Planning and Advanced Estate Planning.
Q: What happens next in the process?
Answer:
- Let’s get your planning done! You’ll e-sign an engagement letter confirming the work I will do and the fees. You’ll also pay a retainer online so we can get started ASAP.
- Next, you’ll complete a Family Tree Form, tailored to your unique family constellation.
- We’ll have a second consultation. We’ll discuss who is the best choice for each role in your estate plan (e.g., executor, guardian, health care agent) and finalize your asset distribution plan.
Q: Is there anything else I’ll need to do before you can prepare my documents?
Answer:
You’ll contact the people you wish to name for each role in your estate plan to confirm they’ll accept the responsibility. You’ll provide me with their contact information, and any other outstanding information.
Q: What is the document preparation process?
Answer:
- I will draft your estate planning documents to protect you and your family.
- You will review the documents and note down any questions or concerns.
Q: Will I have a chance to ask questions?
Answer:
Absolutely! We can meet virtually or in person, or use email or a phone call to answer your questions.
Q: What are the final steps?
Answer:
- I will make any necessary edits and obtain your final approval. Then we’ll set a date for executing the documents.
- I’ll guide you through each document’s signing, notarizing, and/or witnessing. We can meet in my Manhattan or Long Island office. We can also meet in your home if you provide witnesses.
- You’ll receive clear instructions on how to maintain original documents. We’ll discuss the legal advantage of your attorney retaining the original Will.
- You’ll receive digital copies of all documents.