questions to ask when hiring a probate attorney

by Gage Herzog 4 min read

Sample questions include:

  • How long have you been a probate attorney?
  • Do you have experience working with the probate court that will oversee the deceased's estate?
  • What kinds of probate-related services do you offer?
  • Can you walk me through the steps of the probate process? How long does each step take?
  • How much do you charge for your services? ...

Full Answer

How do I choose the best probate attorney?

Oct 07, 2020 · Asking your probate attorney about their experiences and whether or not they have dealt with a case like yours can increase your confidence significantly. With more than 50 years of serving Coral Springs, our experience includes a variety of cases in several practice areas – including probate.

Should I hire a probate lawyer?

The questions to ask a probate attorney can be categorized as substantial, expertise, and financial. SUBSTANTIVE QUESTIONS TO ASK A PROBATE ATTORNEY. First, it’s always important to ask questions about the probate proceeding. Do I need to go through probate? In New York, if the decedent had no property, no court proceeding is required.

How to find the right probate lawyer?

Questions to Ask a Probate Attorney Before hiring a probate attorney, you should be sure that you have some questions in mind. The probate process can take anywhere from six months to a year, depending on the size of the estate. Because of this, it's important to know how long the process should take before

What are good questions to ask an attorney?

Mar 25, 2019 · Hiring a probate lawyer can be a scary process for you, especially since you are not only new to the situation, but you do not know how to distinguish a good lawyer from a bad one. Fortunately, with a little bit of knowledge, the Internet, and handy questions, you can narrow down your search and find an attorney who has your best interests in mind.

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What questions are asked at a probate hearing?

These are:Do I Need Probate if the Deceased Left a Will?I Don't Want to Administer the Estate – Do I Have To?What Happens if We Can't Agree on Who Should Apply for Probate?Is There a Deadline for Administering the Estate?I Can't Find the Will – What Should I Do?Feb 4, 2019

What does an executor have to disclose to beneficiaries?

One of the Executor's duties is to inform all next of kin and beneficiaries of: The deceased's death; The appointment of themselves as an Executor/Administrator; Their inheritance – be it a specific item, cash sum or share of the estate.

Does an executor have to show accounting to beneficiaries?

To summarize, the executor does not automatically have to disclose accounting to beneficiaries. However, if the beneficiaries request this information from the executor, it is the executor's responsibility to provide it. In most cases, the executor will provide informal accounting to the beneficiaries.Dec 24, 2021

What are some good questions to ask an attorney?

In Order to Move Forward With Any Lawyer, First Ask These Ten QuestionsHow Long Have You Practiced Law? ... What Types of Cases Do You Manage? ... Who's Your Typical Client? ... How Many Similar Cases Have You Taken On? ... What Kind of Special Training or Knowledge You Have Outside Your Law Degree? ... What Are Your Fees and Costs?More items...

Can beneficiaries demand to see deceased bank statements?

Some times beneficiaries want to see more detailed documents such as a Deceased's bank statement or pension documentation. Strictly speaking a beneficiary has no entitlement as of right to such documentation and it is your discretion as Executor whether or not to disclose it. The nature of the beneficiary's interest.Jun 19, 2019

Can an executor refuses to pay beneficiary?

If an executor/administrator is refusing to pay you your inheritance, you may have grounds to have them removed or replaced. However, there may very well be legitimate reasons for the delay. Particularly, during the ongoing Covid-19 crisis.May 18, 2020

How long does an executor have to distribute assets?

Once they have realised the assets of the estate (which in itself can take some time), usually executors and administrators are advised not to make a distribution to the beneficiaries for at least six months, or better still, ten months.Mar 4, 2021

Can I get a copy of a will if I am a beneficiary?

All beneficiaries named in a will are entitled to receive a copy of it so they can understand what they'll be receiving from the estate and when they'll be receiving it. 4 If any beneficiary is a minor, his natural or legal guardian should be given a copy of the will on his behalf.

Can an executor override a beneficiary?

Ways an Executor Cannot Override a Beneficiary An executor cannot change beneficiaries' inheritances or withhold their inheritances unless the will has expressly granted them the authority to do so. The executor also cannot stray from the terms of the will or their fiduciary duty.May 12, 2021

How do I prepare for an attorney interview?

If you are interviewing virtually, all of these tips apply.Do your research. Lawyers are known for being good researchers. ... Be presentable and dress your best. ... Come prepared to ask questions. ... Be personable and show enthusiasm. ... Be genuine. ... Promptly send a thank-you note.Oct 28, 2020

How do lawyers ask questions?

0:165:25How to ask questions like a lawyer - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe first secret is that what we're doing we're not really asking questions what we're doing isMoreThe first secret is that what we're doing we're not really asking questions what we're doing is making statements. That sound like questions and those are statements that the witness.

How do you answer a law question in an interview?

Below are some common legal interview questions—plus suggestions on how to approach them.Tell me a little about yourself. ... What attracted you to our firm/organization? ... Can you describe a challenge or conflict you have faced at work and how you overcame it? ... What is your biggest weakness? ... Do you have any questions for us?Mar 20, 2021