What kind of lawyer does wills?

Thumbtack Editors
Answered

No one likes talking about death, but it’s better than leaving your children or siblings to sort out your estate. A clearly planned will can make the time of mourning easier for everyone. An estate attorney will develop a legal will, create trusts on your behalf, and ensure the proper execution of your estate after you pass away.  

Family attorneys and estate attorneys, also called probate and wills attorneys, can each prepare wills. The type of lawyer best suited to prepare your will depends on your situation. Most family attorneys provide services to prepare basic wills, including bequeathing property and personal items to family or naming a guardian for minor children. However, estate attorneys specialize in preparing wills in more complex situations. Consider hiring an estate attorney if you:

  • Have a large number of assets, especially those subject to estate taxes
  • Want to create a trust, such as allowing a spouse to live in your home until he or she dies and then leaving it to your children, or set up long-term care for a beneficiary
  • Have an ownership stake in a business
  • Expect someone to contest your will
  • Want to disinherit your spouse

Ready to hire an Estate Attorney?

You never pay to use Thumbtack: Get cost estimates, contact pros, and even book the job—all for no cost.