As we specialize in estates, from estate planning to getting probate and guardianship orders to administering estates, we see the good, the bad and the ugly of estates work. Mistakes are made, sometimes by the lawyer who drafted the Will, sometimes by the executor or guardian and often these mistakes translate into big losses for the estate.
Not long ago in our law office in Stittsville (Ottawa), we were casually talking amongst ourselves about the biggest mistake that an executor can make. One of our team members jokingly replied ‘hiring the wrong lawyer’.
This got me to thinking that although it may not be the biggest mistake an executor can make, the choice of lawyer greatly affects how smoothly things go and how positive the experience is. It also led me to ponder just how difficult it can be for someone to choose a lawyer. Most of us only need a lawyer a handful of times in our lives. Possibly when we buy a home, have our Will and Powers of Attorney prepared, help with the estate of a loved one if we have been appointment executor and maybe a marriage contract or separation.
So, if you need to choose a lawyer and aren’t sure where to begin, here are my top three tips for choosing the right lawyer:
1. Hire the right lawyer for the job.
Is the lawyer you are thinking of hiring focused in the area of law that you need help with or are they a jack-of-all-trades? The law is complex and no one can be a master of all areas of law … there is simply too much to keep up with. Do your research and confirm that the lawyer specializes in the particular area of law that you need help with.
2. Ask friends and family for a referral.
Ask family and friends who they have used for a similar issue. Ask what they thought of the results they got. Also ask what the lawyer was like to work with. Did they communicate regularly and in a timely manner? Did they really listen and give advice and options rather than pushing for one option or another? Most people want a lawyer who sets out the options and an estimate of the cost of each so that the client decides what is best with the lawyer’s guidance.
3. Don’t focus solely on cost.
Don’t make the mistake of focusing solely on cost. An experienced lawyer whose rates may be higher can end up saving you money in the long-term because they know what can go wrong and can help avoid situations that could lead to expensive litigation.
Choosing a lawyer is a big decision. Take your time and don’t be afraid to ask questions. How a lawyer or their staff responds to such inquiries is a good indication of what they will be like to work with. Some upfront groundwork can go a long way in helping you choose the best lawyer for you and your situation and can save money and aggravation in the long run.
Reproduction of this blog is permitted if the author is credited. If you have questions or if you would like more information, please call us at 613 836-9915. This blog is not intended to be legal advice but contains general information. Please consult a lawyer or other professional to determine how the information in this blog might apply to you.
Blog posts pre-dated December 1, 2015 were originally published under Neff Law Office Professional Corporation.
