Law Offices of David H. Trevett, PL Blog

Two Reasons Every Family Should Work With a Wills and Trusts Lawyer

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 20:17:23 GMT

Preparing for the future involves more than just financial savings; it requires a clear strategy for how your legacy will be handled. Many people put off estate planning because it feels like a task for another day, yet the peace of mind that comes with a solid plan is invaluable for any family. Navigating the complexities of state statutes and tax regulations can be daunting without professional guidance. By taking the time to establish your wishes now, you ensure that your loved ones are spared from unnecessary stress and legal complications during an already difficult time. Having a formal document in place provides a roadmap for those you leave behind, ensuring your final wishes are respected and your assets are distributed exactly as you intended.

1. Protecting Your Family From Legal Confusion

One of the most vital aspects of a comprehensive estate plan is designating who will care for your children if you are no longer able to do so. Without a legal document in place, a court may be forced to make these life-altering decisions based on standard state law rather than your personal preferences. A wills and trusts lawyer can help you draft a document that clearly outlines your choices for guardianship, ensuring your children remain with the people you trust most. This step is particularly important for parents of young children who want to provide a sense of stability and security. By formalizing these arrangements, you remove the guesswork for your relatives and provide a stable foundation for your family’s future. Professional legal assistance ensures that every detail is captured correctly so that your intent is never questioned.

2. Shielding Your Assets From Prolonged Probate

A significant concern for many families is the time and expense associated with settling an estate through the court system. Failing to have an updated plan can lead to long delays in the distribution of assets, which can cause financial strain for your beneficiaries. According to Caring.com, the share of Americans who have a will dropped to 24% in 2025, down from 33% in 2022. This trend suggests that more families are leaving their legacy vulnerable to the standard probate process, which can be both public and costly. Working with a wills and trusts lawyer allows you to explore options like living trusts, which can help your assets bypass probate entirely. This ensures that your heirs receive their inheritance more quickly and privately, preserving the maximum value of your estate for the next generation. Proper planning also helps to minimize the tax burden that your loved ones might otherwise face during the transition.

Ensuring that your estate is handled according to your wishes is a final gift you can give to your family. Whether you are just starting your career or looking toward retirement, it is never too early to protect what you have built with a formal legal strategy. At Law Offices of David H. Trevett, we are dedicated to helping families navigate these sensitive topics with compassion and legal expertise. Our team provides the personalized attention needed to create a plan that reflects your unique goals and values. Reach out to Law Offices of David H. Trevett today to learn more about how we can help you secure your family's future with a comprehensive estate plan. We are here to answer your questions and provide the guidance you need to move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

How to Find a Reliable Estate Planning Lawyer

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 13:57:05 GMT

Finding a reliable estate planning lawyer is an essential step for anyone looking to secure their financial future and protect their family. Whether you're creating a simple will or establishing complex trusts, a knowledgeable attorney can provide the guidance you need. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which lawyer will best suit your needs. This post will discuss key factors to consider when seeking an estate planning lawyer to ensure you make an informed decision.

Conduct Thorough Research

One of the first steps in finding a reliable estate planning lawyer is to conduct thorough research. Start by gathering recommendations from friends, family, or financial advisors who have had positive experiences with estate attorneys. Additionally, according to Zippia, 97% of home buyers search online for homes, suggesting that the internet can be a valuable resource. Online reviews and professional legal directories, such as the American Bar Association's find-a-lawyer tool, can provide insights into the reputation and expertise of potential candidates.

Consider Qualifications

Once you have a list of potential lawyers, it's crucial to narrow down your options by considering each candidate's qualifications and areas of specialization. Estate planning can involve various complex legal aspects, and you'll want to choose an attorney who is well-versed in the specific areas relevant to your needs, such as trusts, wills, or probate. Check their credentials to ensure they are licensed to practice law in your state and have a solid track record. Many lawyers offer an initial consultation that can help you gauge their expertise and determine if they're the right fit.

Consider the Communication Style

Another critical consideration is the lawyer's communication style and approachability. Estate planning involves discussing personal and potentially sensitive topics, so it is important that you feel comfortable communicating openly with your attorney. During the initial meetings, pay attention to how well the lawyer listens to your concerns and explains legal concepts. A good lawyer will take the time to ensure you understand your options and feel confident in the decisions being made on your behalf.

Finding a reliable estate planning lawyer involves carefully considering several factors including research, qualifications, and communication style. By seeking recommendations, evaluating qualifications, and assessing the compatibility of communication, you can find a lawyer who will effectively guide you through the estate planning process. Taking the time to choose the right attorney will provide peace of mind knowing that your legal matters are in capable hands. If you're looking for a reliable estate planning lawyer, contact the Law Offices of David H. Trevett today.

7 Questions to Ask Your Estate Planning Lawyer

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 14:23:56 GMT

Planning an estate can be a daunting and complex task, but it's an essential step to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes and your loved ones are taken care of after your passing. A crucial part of this process is working with an experienced estate planning lawyer who can guide you through the intricacies. Here are seven important questions to ask your estate planning lawyer to make sure you cover all your bases.

1. What Should Be Included in My Estate Plan?

Your estate plan should be comprehensive enough to address all aspects of your estate, including wills, trusts, power of attorney, and healthcare directives. An experienced estate planning lawyer can help you determine which documents are most suitable for your particular situation. Ensuring that your estate plan is thorough will provide peace of mind knowing that all details are taken into consideration.

2. How Will My Estate Be Taxed?

Taxation can significantly affect the value of your estate and your inheritance to your beneficiaries. It's essential to understand estate taxes, inheritance taxes, and gift taxes. By asking your lawyer about the taxation specific to your estate, you can explore strategies to minimize the tax burden on your heirs. This could include setting up trusts or charitable donations.

3. Who Will Be the Guardian of My Minor Children?

One of the most critical aspects of your estate plan if you have minor children is naming a legal guardian. According to Forbes, estate plans left to minors will allow you to name a legal guardian until they reach 18 years of age. This is a decision that should be made carefully and thoughtfully, as it will impact the well-being and upbringing of your children. Discussing this with your lawyer ensures that your children will be placed in the care of someone you trust.

4. What Happens if I Become Incapacitated?

Life is unpredictable, and there may come a time when you're unable to make decisions for yourself due to illness or incapacitation. Ask your estate planning lawyer about creating a durable power of attorney and a healthcare directive. These documents designate trusted individuals who can make financial and medical decisions on your behalf, ensuring your wishes are honored even if you cannot communicate them yourself.

5. How Often Should I Update My Estate Plan?

Life changes such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the death of a beneficiary can necessitate changes to your estate plan. It's important to ask your lawyer how often you should review and update your estate plan to ensure it remains current and relevant. The National Council on Aging recommends reviewing your estate plan every three to five years or whenever a significant life event occurs.

6. How Can I Protect My Estate From Potential Legal Challenges?

Estate plans can sometimes be contested by unhappy family members or other parties. To minimize the risk of legal disputes, it’s crucial to discuss strategies with your estate planning lawyer that can protect your estate from potential challenges. This may include clearly documenting your wishes, regularly updating your plan, and potentially including a no-contest clause in your will or trust. Your lawyer can offer advice on how to structure your estate plan to withstand potential legal scrutiny and reduce the likelihood of disputes.

7. What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Different Estate Planning Tools?

Estate planning involves various tools and strategies, such as wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Each tool has its own benefits and limitations. For example, a revocable living trust can help avoid probate and provide privacy, while a will is simpler but may require probate. It’s essential to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each option in the context of your specific situation. Your estate planning lawyer can provide detailed explanations and help you choose the most effective tools to meet your goals.

Asking these essential questions when working with an estate planning lawyer will help you create a solid estate plan that reflects your wishes and protects your loved ones. The guidance of a knowledgeable attorney is invaluable in navigating the complexities of estate planning. By addressing these critical aspects, you can have peace of mind knowing your affairs are in order. Reach out to the Law Offices of David H. Trevett, PL today to schedule an initial consultation and to learn more about estate planning!

Why Work With a Lawyer on Your Business Contract

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 12:13:42 GMT

Business contracts are a crucial part of doing business, whether it’s a contract for purchasing a new property or hiring a new freelancer. Working closely with a lawyer is essential when establishing contracts. You should also have a lawyer carefully review a business contract before you sign it. There are several reasons why most people consider this a necessity.

1. Help Avoid Scams

Scams are as real in the business world as in everyday life. People sell fake websites online to entice businesses to send them money, but there’s no website to be purchased. Many business owners search online for commercial properties and the real estate world is also full of scams. A professional lawyer can help you spot and avoid these. They have a keen eye for detail that can help them identify shady contracts.

2. Provide Legal Experience

Every state has its laws, especially regarding business. A professional lawyer with experience in business law will know local laws and regulations to ensure you comply with the law. A professional will ensure your business contract complies with local, state, and federal laws. If not, your contract may not hold up in court if someone breaches it. According to Clio, there are 1.3 million lawyers in the United States, so choosing the right one to match your needs is of utmost importance.

3. Offer Protection

A lawyer has the experience and knowledge to ensure you have a thorough contract, which is necessary to protect your business. For example, if you’re discussing formulas, marketing strategies, or product development with others, a solid contract ensures they can’t help the competition steal your ideas. Lawyers will give you an ironclad contract to serve your best interest.

4. Mitigate Risks

Every business contract comes with a certain level of risk. An experienced lawyer will work with you to help mitigate those risks. For example, they may advise you to include a non-compete agreement to protect intellectual property. You can also include confidentiality agreements or a dispute resolution plan in case of disagreements. The precision lawyers use when drafting contracts ensures everything is crystal clear.

We specialize in business law and always work in the best interests of our clients. A professional attorney can help you create a contract that meets your needs and protects your company. Contact the Law Offices of David H. Trevett, PL today to schedule a consultation.

6 Reasons Why You Need to Arrange Your Estate Planning Today

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 14:09:52 GMT

When you work hard your whole life, you don't want your assets to go into the wrong hands. Whether you leave behind a spouse, children, grandchildren, or best friend, planning your estate can ensure your designated assets go into the right hands. However, failure to spell things out legally may keep your estate in limbo or the target of a scam. Here are reasons to arrange a meeting with an estate planning lawyer today.

1. Name Beneficiaries

The most obvious reason to hire an estate planning lawyer is to specify who your heirs are. You may want to leave everything to your spouse, children, or grandchildren, or split things evenly. You can specify if you want one person to get the bulk of everything or if you want to designate it by percentages. Planning out your estate provides great flexibility in how you want to allocate your assets. If you don't plan this out while you're still alive, it’ll be left in the hands of the state to appoint your assets to whoever your state considers your next of kin.

2. Appoint a Trusted Manager

Upon your death or incapacitation, you need someone to ensure your assets go into the right hands. The executor is the person who manages your will upon your passing. It's their job to work with a probate attorney or estate lawyer to go through the legal process to prove your will is valid. They'll ensure that every beneficiary gets whatever is designated to them. The executor usually should be somebody who isn’t named as a direct heir in your will.

3. Take Care of Minors

Do you have any minor children? If so, estate plans left to them let you name a legal guardian until they become 18 years old, according to Forbes. Think of someone who you trust, whether it's an older sibling of theirs, a godparent, another relative, or a friend to manage their care and assets until they are old enough to handle it on their own.

4. Name a Power of Attorney

You may need to begin designating control of your estate before you pass away. In any event that you become incapacitated due to illness, coma, mental issues, or age-related memory loss, it's important to name a power of attorney. Your power of attorney can act on your behalf when you can no longer speak or act for yourself. This person is often allowed to make health-related decisions for you.

5. Reduce False Claims Upon Death

When someone dies, it can often create a major fight over money. Sometimes, that fight may happen among their heirs, but it may even happen with strangers looking to scam. It may even cause extended family members with no claim on the estate to come out of the woodwork. By having everything spelled out with a proper estate plan, you can prevent the likelihood of mishaps happening upon your death. Plus, if you utilize a trust instead of a will, the way your estate is handled will be more private.

6. Lower Inheritance Taxes

It would be a shame to see so much of your estate go away to taxes because of poor planning beforehand. Working with an estate planning lawyer can help you create solutions so that your beneficiaries can benefit from more of your assets and pay less inheritance taxes. One way to do so is by gifting money and assets to your heirs during your lifetime. Life insurance is another way to provide for heirs without major tax consequences, especially if you have an irrevocable life insurance trust. Look into annuities, which usually provide a death benefit to anyone you name as an heir. These beneficiaries may also receive tax-free withdrawals if you change an IRA to a Roth account.

As you can see, there are several reasons to use an estate planning lawyer. We've been awarded the Florida Legal Elite for our amazing representation of clients. To find out more about how we can help you make the most out of your estate, contact the Law Offices of David H. Trevett, PL today for a complimentary consultation. We look forward to working with you and helping you plan your estate. Get peace of mind when you work with our team.

Why You Need an Attorney to Review Your Real Estate Contract

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 13:19:36 GMT

It's no secret that the United States housing market is a booming one. According to Zippia, its full stock is worth about $43.4 trillion. If you’re going to be buying a new place, you want to be able to get the best value, along with ensuring that you handle everything correctly. You might be debating whether you want to use real estate attorneys for the process. Here are several reasons why you should do just that.

They Can Make Sure the Contract Benefits You

Real estate contracts can have a lot of clauses. While many of these things are boilerplate, sometimes the other party will add things hoping that you won't look through them and just sign. While skimming a user agreement might work for joining a social media site or installing some software, this is a major thing in the world of real estate, and you want to make sure that you're not being taken advantage of. Have an experienced real estate lawyer read through it and see if anything stands out. They will be able to amend it so that it will benefit you by removing or editing some language in it.

They Can Prevent Regret From Either Party

There may be some terms in the contract that could cause regret for either the buyer or the seller. Once the contract has been signed, though, it's a legally binding document. There's nothing that can be changed, so it's important that everything in it is thoroughly vetted by a lawyer. Otherwise, you could find yourself dealing with some very unfavorable terms.

They Can Explain Terminology Clearly

Many states want real estate contracts to be written in the easiest possible way for everyone to be able to understand what's in them. The law being what it is, though, means that there can be some terms that are hard for the average person to grasp. That's what a lawyer is there for. They've studied this field, and they can explain everything that's in the contract so that there are no misunderstandings. They can even read it ahead of time and highlight some areas that might cause some difficulties.

They Can Act as an Escrow

This is true in Florida, which is where our firm is based, but it can vary by state. A Florida real estate lawyer could help the whole process by acting as the escrow. As a result, both parties can feel confident. Also, if there's a problem, then it can be easier to detach from the sale or the purchase with minimal fuss.

They Can Do Title Searches

This is an extremely important part of the sale process. A lawyer has to make sure that there's nothing outstanding on the property, like a lien or any other legal process. This can prevent a later discovery that could possibly derail the entire thing. This alone could make it worth investing in a real estate attorney.

They Can Give You Peace of Mind

The whole real estate process can be a nerve-wracking one. You want to have someone with you who can help you navigate the sometimes murky waters. That someone is an experienced real estate attorney. They can help ease the tension by explaining things and also standing up for you throughout everything, especially if they feel like the other side might be trying to take advantage of you. They are worthy allies.

Be sure to do your research before you hire anyone. Make sure that they are well-regarded in legal circles and that they have favorable reviews from previous clients. If they meet these criteria, then you can move ahead knowing that you're in good hands. Here at the Law Offices of David H. Trevett, PL, we're proud to be members of the Florida Bar, American Bar Association, and Orange County Bar Association.

As you can see, hiring real estate attorneys is the best path to ensure that your home purchase or sale goes through without a hitch. They are also equipped to handle any situation that causes a possible delay. Do you live in Florida and are looking for experienced, reputable real estate attorneys? Turn to our team at the Law Offices of David H. Trevett, PL. We have 15 years of experience and offer complimentary initial consultations.

How to Choose the Best Lawyer for You

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 12:50:56 GMT

When you're in need of legal services, your goal is to find the best possible attorney for you and your case. According to Clio, there are 1.3 million lawyers operating in the United States. How do you find the right one for you? Here are a few things you can do to feel confident in your choice.

Make Sure They Specialize in Your Type of Case

Different lawyers are specialized in specific legal fields. You want a lawyer who has the knowledge and experience you need to handle your case like it's their bread and butter. This is because they are going to possess a thorough knowledge of all the different rules and regulations when it comes to your case, and they can make it much easier to navigate the legal waters.

Make Sure They Have a Good Reputation

You want to have a lawyer who is well-respected in legal circles. They should have a reputation for standing up for their clients and going the extra mile to try to secure a good ruling. You can ask around and see what people are saying, or you can read reviews online to see what previous clients have to say. If you like what you see or hear, consider contacting that lawyer for a consultation.

Make Sure They Are Organized and Communicative

The last thing you want is for the lawyer representing you to be disorganized. They should be able to keep track of documentation, evidence, and more. Communication is also very important, and you should make sure that they respond to any phone calls or emails in a timely manner. Your attorney should be able to explain everything to you in a way that's easy to understand.

These are just a few of the things that you should keep in mind when you're looking for the best legal representation for you. It can take some extra work, but it can be worth it to be confident when you're sitting in the courtroom with them.

If you're in need of a Florida lawyer, the Law Offices of David H. Trevett, PL have you covered. We practice everything from business law to real estate to wills and trusts. Contact us today to have a complimentary same-day consultation at a firm that has been awarded Florida Legal Elite. We have 15 years of experience.

Debunking 5 Common Myths About Estate Planning

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 18:41:03 GMT

Have you taken the time to create a document regarding your estate? If the answer is no, then you're among the majority of Americans, especially if you think it's not worth your time. Regardless of the size of your estate, it's worth sitting down with a local estate planning lawyer, especially if you have some misconceptions about the process. Unfortunately, there are several myths circulating regarding estate planning, and this article will uncover some of them.

1. It's Only for Rich People

Many Americans are under the misconception that only a rich person should hire an estate planning lawyer. After all, when people hear the word estate, they likely think of lofty mansions and million-dollar trust funds. While those things can be included in an estate, those aren't the only requirements. Whether you earned a working-class or middle-class income, if you have assets remaining upon your death, you should designate an intended recipient for those assets. In other words, if you wish to provide for your spouse, children, grandchildren, a few nieces and nephews, and your best friend, you can specify all of these details in your estate planning document. Is there a church or charity that you supported during your life and wish to continue supporting with whatever is left in your estate? You can also specify an organization as a beneficiary.

2. You Can Only Name Adults as Direct Heirs

Do you want to leave your entire or majority of your estate to your children or grandchildren? If you want to ensure they're the main inheritor, but they're not of age, you can protect what they have by appointing a guardian. According to Forbes, you can name a legal guardian for any minor you leave your estate, and they will handle their business until they turn 18.

3. You Can Only Use a Will

Estate planning documents don't just stop at wills. Trust funds are an even better solution, especially if you want to keep the stipulations of your estate as private as possible. A will could be faster to draw up. However, it won't be nearly as fast for your heirs to benefit from. After all, a will must go through probate which can easily last a year or more. If you want your loved ones to benefit immediately or as soon as possible, you should create a trust that will have a trustee to manage the process. With property, you can begin transferring deeds to designated heirs while you're still alive.

4. Money Will Automatically Go to Your Next of Kin

Understand the inheritance rules based on your state. Note what the laws are regarding who is considered next of kin. In most cases, your next akin is your spouse, or it may automatically be your child. Some states split funds evenly between a surviving spouse and children when there is no will. To play it safe, you should specify who your exact beneficiaries are. Don't forget what can happen during a divorce. If you pass while still separated from a spouse, but the divorce hasn't been finalized, they may legally still be your next of kin. When you make any major life alterations, it's a good idea to immediately update your estate plan, whether it's a will, trust deeds, etc.

5. Debt Won't Matter When You Die

If you think your debt will disappear upon your death, you couldn't be more mistaken. In the case of a will, one of the main purposes of probate is to give creditors the chance to make a claim against your estate. None of your beneficiaries will receive a dime until all creditors get paid first. If you're worried about debt and how it can affect your family, you should discuss that immediately with an estate planning lawyer .

These are just some myths that people may have regarding planning an estate. An estate can never be too small to plan, especially if you want to take care of your family and friends upon your passing. After all, regardless of how small your house is or how few paintings you have, you don't want them to fall into the wrong hands. To learn more about estate planning and what options are best for you, contact Law Offices of David H. Trevett, PL today for a consultation.

7 Ways Real Estate Attorneys Can Help You

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 17:12:14 GMT

Buying a home is the American dream. Once you've made the decision to buy, you may be excited but also anxious. This can be an exciting time, but real estate transactions also come with a lot of legal and financial complexity. Don't go it alone. Connect with real estate attorneys to fully protect your interests. As your trusted advisor, here are some key ways they can help you navigate the process with ease.

1. Helping You Understand the Fine Print

Before you sign anything, real estate attorneys will review all documents carefully, explain them in simple terms, and identify any areas of concern. This includes purchase agreements, disclosures, inspection reports, title commitments, and HOA rules. Don't glaze over when presented with page after page of dense legalese! Your attorney will translate it all so you fully grasp every clause and properly weigh the risks. Lean on their expertise, so you know what you're getting into.

2. Advising You on Pricing and Offers

Determining the right listing price or purchase offer for a home can be tricky. Real estate attorneys have a pulse on market trends and what drives home values in your area. They can crunch numbers on comparable properties and recent sales, then provide seasoned guidance on pricing strategy. This prevents you from overpaying or listing too high or low. When you receive an offer, your attorney can also negotiate the strongest deal on your behalf, saving you money and headaches.

3. Smoothing the Closing Process

Few things are more nerve-wracking than finalizing a real estate transaction! Between title issues, inspection disputes, and paperwork delays, so much can go wrong at the last minute. Avoid closing catastrophes by having your attorney quarterback the entire process. They'll continually verify that documents are complete, funds are wired on time, the title is clear, and confirm that the lender's requirements are met. Leaning on this expertise means you can breeze through closing day without hiccups.

4. Catching Issues in the Fine Print

During property transfers, things often get missed or glossed over if you don't have an expert eye. Your attorney will meticulously comb through title commitments, purchase agreements, disclosures and other key documents to red flag any issues. This could be an undisclosed lien, sketchy zoning detail, boundary discrepancy, tax delinquency, restrictive bylaw, and so on. By spotting these early, your attorney can negotiate solutions in order for you to complete the transaction with full information and proper protections in place.

5. Guiding You on Tax Strategy

A home sale comes with major tax implications! Your attorney can steer you towards smart moves that minimize your tax liability. This includes advising on how and when to take ownership as a couple, navigating capital gains exclusions, installment sales, 1031 exchanges, estate planning tie-ins, and more. They stay up-to-date on the latest IRS rules and ensure all documentation is buttoned up. By relying on their tax savvy, you keep more profit in your pocket.

6. Resolving Disputes Diplomatically

Despite the best preparations, disputes can still emerge between buyers, sellers, agents, and lenders. When tensions rise, your even-keeled real estate attorneys are invaluable. They work to defuse conflict through calm negotiation and aim for win-win compromises. Having a lawyer in your corner prevents things from escalating towards lawsuits or blown deadlines over small disagreements. Count on your attorney's diplomacy to handle any bumps in the road while keeping your transaction on track.

7. Protecting Your Rights and Interests

Your rights and interests can sometimes get overlooked with so much going on. An experienced real estate attorney acts as your watchdog, ensuring your voice is heard and priorities are protected. They work to secure favorable terms for inspections, contingencies, closing dates, possession details, title insurance, disclosures, and more. If any provision seems harmful to you, they will swiftly flag it and push back. Having a specialist in your corner provides peace of mind that you won't sign off on a lopsided deal. Their assertiveness will allow you to proceed with your best interests accounted for across the board.

Take full advantage of your real estate attorney's legal expertise. They're your ally before, during, and after your property purchase or sale to answer questions, explain fine print, negotiate smooth closings, spot issues, minimize taxes, and resolve conflicts diplomatically. According to Zippia, 97% of home buyers search online when trying to find the right home. With their guidance, you can navigate these real estate transactions with greater ease, protection, and savings. If you're looking to purchase a new home, reach out to the Law Offices of David H. Trevett, PL to work with someone best suited to fit your needs.

4 Important Questions for Your Real Estate Attorney

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 07:30:57 GMT

Housing is big business. In fact, according to Zippia, the full stock of the United States housing industry is worth about $43.4 trillion. Whether you're buying or selling real estate, you want to ensure you have the best experts around you. That's why you should hire a real estate attorney. Here are some questions to ask these legal professionals.

1. What Experience Do You Have?

You want a real estate attorney with experience. When you're searching, first check how long they've practiced. During your consultation, ask them how many different real estate cases they've handled and what different problems they've encountered and solved. You want someone who'll be able to cut through the legal jargon and grant you the understanding you need to make an informed decision.

2. How Is Your Availability?

You're likely not the only client your real estate attorney is dealing with at the moment. With that said, you don't want a lawyer who is so busy they won't have time for you. Make sure you're clear on what their availability is. Your legal rep should always have time for communication, signing documents, and keeping you up to date on what's going on in the real estate process.

3. What Is Your Fee Structure?

Legal fees can add up, so you'll want to make sure you understand everything from a pricing standpoint. You don't want to be shocked at the first bill from your real estate attorney. Some attorneys may operate using a flat fee or charge by the hour. You should also inquire if any additional fees may be added, such as emergency hours or contract fees.

4. How Do You Prefer to Communicate?

Hire a lawyer whom you can regularly communicate with. After all, emergencies may arise and you may need to get in touch with them as soon as possible. As you'll be scheduling regular meetings, if this is important to you, you could prioritize law offices that correspond with you in the method you prefer. Ask the lawyer if they prefer to communicate by phone, e-mail, or video calls, or if all communication should be an in-person meeting.

There are many levels involved in dealing with real estate. That's why you should have a legal representative knowledgeable about the process. Whether you're buying or selling property, having an attorney on your side could make the process more efficient. For a real estate attorney you can trust, look no further than Law Offices of David H. Trevett, PL. We bring over 15 years of experience to every client. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.