What Do I Need To Prepare For The Initial Meeting?

What Should You Bring to Your Initial Estate Planning Meeting?

When it comes to preparing for your first estate planning meeting, the answer can vary depending on the attorney or firm you're working with. Some attorneys will ask you to fill out a questionnaire ahead of time. Others, like myself, take a different approach. I prefer to simply invite clients to come in with their questions and concerns, and I guide the conversation from there.

I take this approach because I find it more convenient for clients. It removes any barriers that might discourage someone from taking the first step. That said, there’s definitely value in a questionnaire for those who prefer to organize their thoughts beforehand. In some cases, it can lead to a more focused and productive meeting.

If you’re wondering what we typically discuss in an initial meeting, here are the three main questions I usually ask:

  1. Tell me about yourself and your family.

  2. At a high level, walk me through your assets and liabilities. What do you own and what do you owe?

  3. Do you have an idea of who you’d like to appoint for the key roles in your estate plan? That includes your successor trustee, financial power of attorney, health care power of attorney, and any backup choices.

You don’t need to have all the answers right away. The goal is simply to start the conversation and begin shaping the right plan for your needs.

Whether you're just starting to think about creating a plan or you're getting ready for your first meeting, I’m here to make the process clear and stress-free. Click the link below to schedule a call. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know and help you get started.

To learn 80% of what you need to know about estate planning in less than 30 minutes, check out my full-length video. It’s a quick and comprehensive guide to help you understand the basics and start taking steps to secure your future.

Next
Next

What Are the Steps Involved in the Estate Planning Process?