Skip to main content

How to Get Help With an Estate Plan

By Tanya Roth, Esq. on January 30, 2013 | Last updated on May 06, 2022

This post was updated on March 28, 2022

If you have the right tools, estate planning is something you can do on your own. Online resources like FindLaw's Legal Forms and Services may provide everything you need to create a solid estate plan.

Although it may make sense to touch base with a lawyer at some point, you can start the estate planning process by doing some research on your own.

Learn About Estate Planning Online

First, do an online search. FindLaw.com has many free resources available to help you learn about the laws of estate planning. Our Estate Planning Center offers simple explanations of complicated legal topics such as probate, trusts, living wills, and estate administration. You can also wade deeper into checking out your state's laws on estates and the probate process.

Use Templates As a Guide

If you decide to use an online estate planning form or template, it's wise to study their contents and use them as a guide in making your own estate plan. Through FindLaw's Legal Forms and Services, you can create a will, financial power of attorney, and health care directive and living will.

Of course, each person's estate is different, so it is important to find templates that can best fit your own exact needs. After you've developed your own estate plan, it might be beneficial to consult with an experienced estate planning lawyer who can review the plan and make suggestions.

Ask an Estate Planning Lawyer Questions

It may make sense to work with an estate planning attorney on your actual plan in some instances. People with more complex estates and those facing a potential estate tax bill will likely benefit from the strategies an experienced estate planning attorney can walk you through. If you are worried about someone trying to take advantage of you, it may also make sense to reach out to an attorney for help protecting your interests.

Lawyers are available to answer any of your questions about the estate planning process, and they can help you think through the possible effects of any decisions you make. You can search for an estate planning attorney using FindLaw's nationwide directory.

Copied to clipboard