Dear Liz: Is there a specific website to research estate planning attorneys in Southern California? Our attorney has retired and I elected not to have my file transferred to her successor attorney. Our trust documents are only six years old and there have been no material changes to our financial situation or beneficiaries.
Answer: The internet is overloaded with lawyer directories of limited value. Either the sites themselves are questionable or they return so many options that choosing feels like an impossible task.
So the best way to find a good estate planning attorney is the old school way: word of mouth. If you have a CPA or other financial professional, ask who they recommend. Know any lawyers? Check with them. Friends, relatives and neighbors also may be able to offer referrals.
Once you have a few names, the internet becomes a bit more helpful. The state bar of California offers an attorney search function that allows you to confirm the attorney’s license status, education and any disciplinary history. The attorney’s website can also provide information about their background, experience and approach.
Since estate planning is a complex area, you’ll want an attorney who specializes rather than dabbles. Ideally, estate planning is their sole or primary focus, not an add-on to other areas of practice. For more complex needs, you can consider seeking out an attorney who is certified by the California State Bar as an estate planning, trust and probate law specialist. If you need help with issues around aging, such as Medicaid planning, long-term care or protection against exploitation, consider seeking the help of an elder law attorney. You can get referrals from the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys at www.naela.org.
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