what questions to ask at an probate attorney consultation

Here are some questions to ask at the consultation:

• What would the lawyer like to see in order to evaluate your situation?
• What problems does the lawyer foresee with your case?
• How would the lawyer go about handling your situation? What is the process?
• How long will it take to bring the matter to a conclusion?
• How would the lawyer charge for his or her services?

Full Answer

Why is it so important to hire a probate attorney?

Oct 07, 2020 · The term probate refers to various steps such as the verification process, the court where the issue is handled, and the distribution of the deceased’s assets. The process can get complicated at times, in which case a probate attorney can be a valuable asset. A state-licensed probate attorney serves as an advisor for the executor and ...

What are the main duties of a probate attorney?

Apr 24, 2019 · Ask your attorney how available they are for their clients. Some law firms have an answering service while some attorneys will provide their personal contact number for clients. Also, ask how they normally communicate with their clients. Even if there are no issues with probate, you'll still want to be kept informed of how the process is going.

Why do you need to hire a probate attorney?

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

Who should have a probate lawyer?

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 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...

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 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.

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.

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

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 an executor of a will also be a beneficiary?

When making a will, people often ask whether an executor can also be a beneficiary. The answer is yes, it's perfectly normal (and perfectly legal) to name the same person as an executor and a beneficiary in your will.Aug 11, 2021

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

Can a beneficiary ask to see estate accounts?

Generally speaking, the only people who are entitled to see Estate Accounts during Probate are the Residuary Beneficiaries of the Estate.Sep 11, 2019

Can one executor act without the other?

It isn't legally possible for one of the co-executors to act without the knowledge or approval of the others. Co-executors will need to work together to deal with the estate of the person who has died. If one of the executors wishes to act alone, they must first get the consent of the other executors.Jun 29, 2021