​Frequently Asked Questions - Find answers and general information:

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Probate

• What is Probate?
• ​​For what reasons or what circumstances would you need to probate an estate?
• ​​​​What happens if there is no will naming an executor or administrator?
• ​Do I need an attorney?​
• ​If you have a will, is probate necessary?

Estate Planning

• What age should I begin thinking about a will?
• How often do I need to update my will or make changes?​​
• ​Do I need to name a specific guardian for my children? Will their guardian also be in control of finances left to them?
• What exactly is a living trust?

Small Estate (Summary) Administration

• What is the difference between formal probate and summary administration?​
• ​What is a small estate affidavit?
• ​With a small estate affidavit, who can sign it?
• ​What is the role of the person signing the affidavit in the estate division and affairs?​
• Are there times when a small estate affidavit should not, or cannot, be used?​​

Hiring a Lawyer

• ​What should I look for when considering hiring a lawyer?
• How should I find a lawyer?
• Is there normally a contract to sign when I hire a lawyer?
• What can I expect when I hire a lawyer?
• Do all attorneys cost about the same amount?

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Elder Law

• What is Elder Law?
• ​​At what point is a guardian necessary?
• ​How do I become a guardian, or appoint a guardian?
• ​​​If someone petitions the court for guardianship of a family member, and I am in disagreement, what can I do?
• What happens to my assets if I need long term health care services?

Small Business

• What do I need to start a business?
• What are some of the common types of business organizations?
• (Sole proprietorship, limited liability, partnership, corporation, general partnership, etc.)
• How do I know which type I should be?
• What are corporations, and are there different types?​

Real Estate

• Why do I need an attorney for a real estate transaction?
• ​Aren’t most real estate contracts pretty standard?
• ​What areas of real estate sales can an attorney assist me with?
• ​​If I have already entered into a contract, what are my options?
• ​Can a buyer and seller use the same attorney?

Attorneys Fees

• How do attorneys set their fees?
  
• Do attorneys have different ways to charge for their services?
  
• What do I do if I don’t think my attorney is doing a good job?
  
• ​Can I fire my attorney at any time?
• ​How do I file a complaint against an attorney?