Estate Lawyers Are Not All Equal Part 1 of 2

Good probate lawyers can help executors make better decisions. Are you handling an estate as executor? You cannot afford to have an inexperienced probate lawyer.

Finding the Right Estate/Probate Lawyer

Here are seven tips to help you. Begin by preparing a list of possible candidates from these sources.

1. Personal referrals. Your friend or neighbour may have had a positive experience with a probate lawyer. This is a good place to start. Do not, however, assume that your needs are identical. You may not get the same results.

2. Professional referrals. Your bank, financial planner or accountant usually has a list of lawyers he or she recommends.

3. The Law Society of Upper Canada. Law societies also can refer you to prominent lawyers or certified specialists. Lsuc.on.ca

4. Ask other lawyers. Call lawyers you know. Ask them for lawyers they recommend for probate and estate administration matters.

5. Estate seminars. Contact financial service groups in your neighborhood who hold public or private presentations. If you attend a meeting, you can personally meet and assess if a probate lawyer is suitable.

6. Internet searches. Check a lawyer’s website to review their qualifications and experience. Look for possible memberships and publications. This will also help you break the ice before your first meeting.

7. Advertising. www.yellowpages.ca and community ads may help you identify possible lawyers. Do not base your hiring decision solely on the size of an ad in the Yellow Pages.

Posted In: Estates, Probate On: July 22nd, 2010

“I want to thank Ed and his firm for getting me through a very difficult time. He was recommended to me by another lawyer and I am grateful for that recommendation. Ed kept me grounded, listened to me, counseled me and supported me. I do so appreciate that. And he is worth every penny. Thank you!” - Claudia R, Toronto

“Thank you for your professional advice and lawyering while I was planning my will, all accompanied with your patience and a sense of humour.” - Valerie G, Toronto

“Ed is a "straight shooter" who tells it like it is and helps you make the best possible decisions in your circumstances. I've personally seen the "magic" he can work in an estate and recommend him without reservation to anyone who wants an iron clad will or estate advice and management that saves money, frayed nerves and friendships.” - Jim R, Burlington

I have used Edward Olkovich for my own Will and I was the executor of my Brother-in-law’s will. My brother-in-law had a terminal illness and Edward had us devise his Will to minimize taxes and problems. Ed is located locally @ Jane and Bloor. He was very knowledgeable, friendly and thorough and has written many books on the subject. - Belinda M, Toronto

Ed is a thorough, responsive estates lawyer who I would recommend to anyone when needing a will or dealing with estate issues. - Eva S, Toronto

Dear Ed and “Team Olkovich” “Thank you for your knowledge, expertise and hard work to make our executor duties (almost) stress-free. Will miss the laughs and stories you tell so well. All our appreciation always!” - Pat, Dave & John, Toronto

Dear Ed, Thank you for all your wisdom and kindness throughout the process of settling Ann’s Estate. - Cheryl, Toronto

“The easiest professional I had to deal with to settle my parents’ needs was Ed. I told him what we needed. He was gracious with his advice and help - without delaying matters.” - Iain N., Toronto

“Magic! The guy knows magic!” - Steve G., Toronto

“In the land of estate law, Ed is King.” - Cheryl W., Toronto