You’ve scheduled your first attorney support call - congratulations on this huge step! This quick guide is here to help you feel prepared and confident going into the conversation. Below you’ll find some helpful questions to ask during your call, so you can get clarity where you need it and feel peace of mind knowing your plan is aligned with your wishes.
General Estate Planning Questions
Not sure where to begin? These questions can help you understand the basics of estate planning and get clarity on the documents you’ve completed, what else might be helpful, and how to ensure everything is finalized correctly.
Do I need to list every item I own?
Do I need any additional legal documents beyond this estate plan?
Do I need to have this document notarized or witnessed? How should I do that?
If I make changes to my estate plan, do I need to have it re-signed and re-notarized?
What do I do with my documents once they’re signed?
What does “per stirpes” mean?
Will this estate plan help me avoid probate?
Will this estate plan help me avoid taxes?
Trust-Specific Questions
If your estate plan includes a trust, this section covers key questions to ask about how it works, what protections it offers, and how your assets are handled within it.
What’s the difference between a revocable and irrevocable trust?
Does the trust offer any asset protection?
Are all my assets covered under this trust, or are there some that pass outside of it?
Can I have two trustees?
Funding the Trust
Setting up your trust is one step—but funding it is just as important. These questions can help you understand how to move your assets into the trust so it works the way it’s intended.
What does “fund my trust” mean, and how do I do it?
Do I have to put everything into the trust?
How do I transfer real estate or a business into the trust?
Do I have to change ownership of my accounts to the trust, or can I just list the trust as a beneficiary?
Do I need to sign my trust before funding it?
Can my real estate in other states be deeded to the same trust?
If You’re Married
Married couples have a few more options when it comes to structuring their estate plan. Use these questions to explore whether a joint or individual approach makes more sense for your situation.
Should we create a joint revocable trust or separate ones?
Should we transfer our business into a joint trust?
If You Have Children
If you’re a parent, these questions can help you make thoughtful decisions about how and when your children will receive their inheritance—and who will manage things on their behalf.
Can I name my children as successor trustees?
Your child must be 18 or older to act as your successor trustee.
What are the common ages that people choose for children to receive distributions?
Gain More Peace of Mind
Preparing for your attorney support call is one of the best things you can do to ensure your estate plan truly reflects your wishes. By asking the right questions, you can walk away with peace of mind and a plan you feel good about.
If you want even more clarity, personalized guidance, or need help navigating unique circumstances—like business ownership or complex family dynamics—Trust & Will’s Attorney Support offers one-on-one access to vetted estate planning attorneys. It’s expert advice, tailored to you.
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