Keating Law Blog

Preparing for an estate planning consultation helps you make informed decisions and gives your attorney the details they need to create a plan that fits your goals. Before your meeting, gather information about your finances, family structure, and long-term wishes so you can have a focused and productive conversation.

What Information Should You Bring to Your Consultation?

When you meet with an estate planning attorney, it helps to bring a clear snapshot of your financial and personal circumstances. You do not need perfect organization, but having the basics ready will help the attorney understand what tools may fit your situation.

Key financial documents include:

• Bank account statements

• Retirement accounts such as 401(k)s, IRAs, and pensions

• Brokerage and investment records

• Life insurance policies

• Recent tax returns

Asset information to prepare:

• Real estate deeds or property addresses

• Vehicle titles

• Business ownership interests

• High-value personal property such as jewelry, collectibles, and equipment

Debts and obligations to list:

• Mortgages

• Personal loans

• Credit card balances

• Child support or alimony orders

If you have an existing will, trust, power of attorney, or healthcare directive, bring those as well. They help the attorney understand what may need updates or replacement.

Clarifying Your Goals and Wishes Before the Meeting

Thinking through your personal goals will make the consultation more productive. Ask yourself:

• Who should inherit your property?

• Are there family dynamics the attorney should know about?

• Do you want to name guardians for children?

• Who should make medical or financial decisions if you become unable to do so?

• Are there charities you want to support?

You do not need every answer right away. The attorney will guide you, but having a general idea helps shape the conversation.

Questions to Ask Your Estate Planning Attorney

Your consultation is also a chance for you to learn whether the attorney is the right fit. Prepare questions that help you understand their approach and the types of matters they handle.

Helpful questions include:

• What types of estate planning matters do you regularly handle?

• How often do you draft wills, trusts, and powers of attorney?

• What are the common issues you see for families with situations like mine?

• How long does the process take from consultation to completed documents?

• How do you charge for drafting documents or providing ongoing help?

• What information should I provide after this meeting?

Pay attention to how clearly they explain things. If you feel comfortable asking follow-up questions and getting straightforward answers, it may be a good match.

How to Assess the Attorney’s Experience and Approach

You want an attorney who understands estate planning tools and how they apply in Michigan. During the consultation, consider the following:

• Do they explain the differences between wills and trusts in a way that makes sense?

• Do they ask about your family structure, financial picture, and long-term goals?

• Do they discuss Michigan-specific rules on marital property, probate, and tax considerations?

• Do they offer options rather than pushing one solution?

• Do they show an understanding of issues that commonly arise in blended families, high-asset estates, young families, or aging clients?

The goal is to find someone who listens carefully and provides guidance tailored to your situation.

Understanding Your Role After the Consultation

Once you choose an attorney, you may need to provide more documents or confirm decisions. The attorney may ask you to:

• Finalize beneficiary choices

• Gather full account numbers and balances

• Provide property valuations

• Review drafts of your will, trust, or powers of attorney

• Choose personal representatives or trustees

Being responsive and organized helps you complete your estate plan more quickly.

Preparing Emotionally and Logistically

Estate planning involves personal and sometimes difficult topics. It can help to:

• Tell your spouse or partner about the meeting, so you both know what to expect

• Think about long-term care or medical preferences

• Consider how you want to communicate your wishes to loved ones

These conversations do not need to happen all at once, but taking time to reflect before your consultation will make the process smoother.

Start Building a Plan That Reflects Your Goals

When you prepare ahead of time, your estate planning consultation becomes a clear starting point for long-term decision-making. You will have a better sense of your options, and your attorney will have the information needed to build a plan that works for you.