So you feel more prepared and less intimidated
Talking to a lawyer can feel like walking into a test you didn’t study for.
You’re not sure what to ask. You don’t want to sound “dumb.” You don’t want to be sold.
Here’s the truth:
You’re interviewing us just as much as we’re learning about your situation.
To help your brain feel more in control (and less on defense), here’s a simple list of questions you can ask any estate or probate attorney, including us.
Use them as a script. Screenshot them. Bring them on your phone.
1. “Have you handled cases like mine before?”
Why your brain likes this:
You’re checking for pattern recognition. When someone has seen your type of situation many times, they’re more likely to spot problems early and guide you well.
Listen for:
- Specific examples (without sharing other clients’ private details)
- Comfort with the type of matter (planning vs. probate vs. disputes)
2. “What are my realistic options?”
Ask them to walk you through:
- Best‑case scenario
- Worst‑case scenario
- Most likely outcome
This gives your brain a clear map, rather than vague hope or fear.
Good answers are honest, specific, and avoid guarantees.
3. “If you were in my shoes, what would you want to understand before deciding?”
This question taps into empathy and experience.
A thoughtful attorney will highlight:
- Key tradeoffs
- Things that often surprise clients later
- Decisions that can’t easily be undone
4. “Who will I actually be working with and how will we communicate?”
You’re asking:
- Will I only meet you once and then be handed off?
- Will I have a direct point of contact?
- How do you update clients: email, calls, portal?
Your brain calms down when communication expectations are clear.
Feeling “left in the dark” is one of the biggest stress triggers in legal matters.
5. “How do fees and costs work for this kind of matter?”
You don’t have to be shy about this.
Ask:
- Is this hourly, flat fee, or something else?
- What does that include, and what might be extra?
- How do you keep clients updated on costs?
You’re looking for transparency and structure, not just a number.
6. “What are the biggest risks if I wait or do nothing?”
This question helps your brain weigh action vs. inaction.
A good attorney will tell you:
- Deadlines or statutes of limitation
- Situations where delay makes things more expensive or complicated
- Cases where waiting might be okay
7. “What will the first 30–60 days look like if I hire you?”
You want a short‑term roadmap, not just a speech.
Listen for:
- Concrete next steps
- Who does what (you vs. the firm)
- When you can expect updates
Your brain loves milestones. Knowing what happens in the first month lowers anxiety.
8. “What makes your approach different?”
This lets you see how they think about:
- Communication style
- Strategy (aggressive vs. measured)
- How they balance legal goals with family dynamics
You’ll feel it in your body when the answer aligns with what you want.
You’re not there to impress us, you’re there to protect yourself and your family.
You don’t need to use every question. Even asking 3–4 of them will:
- Shift your brain from “passenger” to “driver”
- Help you quickly sense whether this is someone you trust
- Make the meeting feel like a conversation, not an interrogation
You deserve an attorney who welcomes your questions and answers them clearly.
