Legal preparation guide
Estate-planning documents to discuss with counsel
Use this general preparation guide to organize questions for counsel. It is not a substitute for legal advice about a specific matter or jurisdiction.
Preparation points to discuss with counsel
A useful first conversation starts with the objective, the people involved, the general timeline, and a list of relevant documents. Keep confidential and sensitive details out of public or unconfirmed intake channels.
Discussion checklist
Use these points to prepare questions for counsel in the relevant jurisdiction.
- List existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and health directives.
- Gather a high-level property and account inventory without sending sensitive details through an intake form.
- Review beneficiary designations and ownership arrangements with the appropriate professionals.
- Identify proposed decision-makers and practical alternates.
- Note major family, property, business, or jurisdiction changes.