Meeting with an estate planning attorney can feel like a big step — and it is. Whether you are updating an old will or starting from scratch, preparing ahead of time helps you make the most of the conversation. When you show up with clarity and intention, you leave with answers that make sense for you and a plan that actually fits your life.
Get clear on what you want to accomplish
Start by thinking through your goals — maybe you want to protect your home, pass assets to your kids or avoid the headaches of probate court. Or maybe you’re just tired of wondering what would happen if something unexpected came up. Once you know what you’re hoping to walk away with, it becomes easier to guide the conversation and get the kind of help that actually moves you forward.
Gather your important documents ahead of time
You don’t need to bring a perfect binder, just pull together what you have, which might mean an old will, bank or investment account summaries, life insurance policies, real estate deeds or even a handwritten list of your assets and debts. The goal is not to impress anyone; it’s to give your attorney enough context to spot any gaps, ask better questions and start building the right tools for your situation.
Write down your biggest questions or concerns
If you’ve been sitting on questions, now it is the time to bring them into the open. Are you unsure who should make decisions if you’re not able to? Not clear on how trusts work or whether you even need one? Write those concerns down before the meeting so you don’t forget them mid-conversation, especially if you tend to nod along when the details get overwhelming.
Set specific goals for the meeting
Having big-picture intentions is great, but you’ll also want to think about what “success” looks like for this first meeting. Do you want to understand your options, figure out how to protect a specific asset or leave with a plan for what to do next? Naming those expectations upfront gives your attorney a clearer direction and helps you leave with more than just information.
Your next step starts here
Now that you know how to prepare, the next step is simple: show up ready to ask, share and decide. An estate planning consultation isn’t just about documents — it’s also about clarity, confidence and making choices that reflect what matters most to you. So take your time, come prepared and know that it’s okay to ask for guidance as you go.