Choosing the right attorney during the probate process can make a big difference in how smoothly everything moves forward. When a family is settling an estate, there’s a lot to think about—and finding someone who is a good fit for your situation is important. Taking time to ask the right questions up front can save time, reduce stress, and help you feel more prepared for what lies ahead.
How Much Experience Does The Attorney Have With Probate Work?
Before working with a probate attorney, it’s helpful to ask how long they’ve been handling estate cases. While every case is different, a lawyer who regularly works on probate matters will be more familiar with the legal steps involved. This can give you a better idea of how they work and what you can expect.
What Types Of Probate Cases Has The Attorney Handled?
Not all probate matters look the same. Some involve simple estates, while others include business interests, multiple properties, or family disputes. It’s a good idea to ask what types of cases the attorney typically handles. This helps you understand whether they’ve worked with situations similar to yours.
Can The Attorney Explain The Process Clearly?
A good attorney should be able to walk you through what the probate process generally looks like in your state. This isn’t about getting every detail in one conversation—but you’ll want to know how they approach things, what steps are involved, and how they typically communicate with clients throughout.
How Does The Attorney Handle Communication And Updates?
We’ve found that clear and timely communication matters a lot during estate administration. It’s useful to ask how the attorney stays in touch with clients and how often you can expect updates. Knowing how responsive they are upfront can prevent confusion down the road.
Who Will Be Working On The Case?
In some law offices, the attorney you meet at the first consultation may not be the one managing the day-to-day tasks. Ask who will be working on your case and whether you’ll be communicating with the attorney directly or through support staff. This helps you know who to contact when questions come up.
How Often Does The Attorney Appear In Probate Court?
Since probate involves filing documents with the court and attending hearings, it’s helpful to ask about the attorney’s experience in probate court. While not every estate involves a contested matter, it’s still good to know whether they regularly appear in court on behalf of clients.
What Is The Expected Timeline For The Process?
While every estate moves at its own pace, you can still ask for a general idea of how long the process might take. A probate lawyer should be able to give you a rough estimate based on the size and structure of the estate.
How Are Fees And Costs Structured?
Ask how fees are billed—whether hourly, flat fee, or a percentage of the estate. You should also ask if there are additional costs for filing fees or outside services. This helps you get a clear understanding of what to budget.
How Does The Attorney Handle Delays Or Disagreements?
It’s worth asking how the attorney typically handles situations where delays or disputes arise. While no one can predict every challenge, their answer will give you a sense of how they approach problem-solving and communicate through issues.
Are Client References Or Reviews Available?
If you’re still deciding, it can help to look at client reviews or ask whether the attorney can share feedback from past clients. While privacy must be respected, most attorneys can offer general references or point you toward independent reviews.
At Marty Martin Bankruptcy Law, we understand how important it is to choose a legal professional you feel confident working with. Whether you’re dealing with a simple estate or one that requires more time and attention, we’re here to support you through each step. If you’re looking for a reliable Oklahoma City, OK probate lawyer, we’re available to discuss how we can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get answers to your questions.