Every estate plan SHOULD BE WRITTEN IN PLAIN ENGLISH AND DIVIDED INTO DEFINED SECTIONS SO THAT THE CLIENT CAN UNDERSTAND EVERYTHING IN ALL THE DOCUMENTS. The only exception to this rule is where a formula is used for tax computations, which is often the only way to insure that maximum advantage is taken of items unknown until death.

To avoid unnecessary legal expenses, we ask all new clients to bring the following to the first conference with us:

1. A writing setting forth what and how much should be paid to specified persons such as a spouse, children, relatives and friends; and who should be designated as the guardian and conservator for the children, pets, etc,
2. A list of family members, including parents, siblings, spouse, children, prior spouses, etc.;
3. A list of all assets and liabilities; and
4. Any other issues which the client wants to discuss concerning his or her estate plan.

Typically, this first conference takes about an hour. We discuss the client's background and review the information which the client provides to us. In addition, we will address how estate planning can be used to reach this particular client's estate planning goals and desires.

The fee for the first conference is set beforehand. At the first conference, the client is informed of the additional charges which would be required should the client ask us to prepare the estate planning documents.