Hiring a Probate Lawyer? Avoid these Common Executor Mistakes

Don’t make the mistake of hiring a probate lawyer based on a low hourly rate.

Often, an experienced estate specialist is more efficient and familiar with your special circumstances.

If you hire an inexperienced probate lawyer, you may find that they are less efficient. You end up paying for them to learn what a specialist may already know.

If you are the executor, you want advice to deal with your executor duties. You do not want any painful surprises when the time comes to close the estate.

Typically, closing an estate can take place, 1 to 2 years after probate is obtained. By then you may regret the decision you made in hiring a lawyer because you did not get proper advice.

You must learn your legal obligations towards:

•   beneficiaries
•   creditors
•   how to obtain income tax clearances

Lawyers who have estate planning experience may not have any experience in administering an estate.

You want a lawyer you can trust. You need a probate lawyer who can walk you through the steps of opening and closing an estate.

Want to learn about your executor duties?

It’s designed to help you understand your responsibilities handling an estate. Learn what you need to do from start to finish.

Find out all of this in a 60-minute online webinar. You will get the benefit my experience as an estate specialist.

You’ll learn:

•   The executor mantra to keep you focused
•   The circle of 5 responsibilities and executor has
•   The list of duties you must perform
•   The 3 steps every executor must follow

Once you register, you’ll receive a downloadable study guide. It’s a PDF called, Executor Mantra – The Missing Handbook. You will want to review this before the webinar so you will be able to ask questions.

Posted In: Estates, Executors, Probate, Wills On: January 6th, 2011

“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