Why is the initial interview so critical in estate planning?

First, it is a time for us to get to know one another and decide if we want to do business together. I’ve had more than a few clients that shopped attorneys and decided on us for a variety of reasons. Trust and comfort are important in the estate planning process.

Second, the meeting is an opportunity to get your goals out on the table and dive deeper into each one. That helps the planner decide which type of plan is the best in your situation. For each goal, different facts and information will be gathered.

Finally, you get an opportunity to get all your questions answered and get rid of any myths or misconceptions you have about estate planning. For example, I’ve had people think the state gets their belongings if they don’t have a will. While the state does have a plan already created for your stuff, the state doesn’t get it.

At the end of the interview, the planner knows your goals and can make a decision of what type of plan you need and you and the planner will feel comfortable working with each other.