Before meeting with an estate planning attorney, consider what you want your plan to accomplish. You may want to discuss who should receive property, who should manage financial or health decisions if you cannot, and who should care for minor children.
Gather existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, health care documents, and beneficiary designations, if available. A general list of assets and liabilities can help guide the conversation; do not send account numbers or original documents through a public inquiry form.
Tell the attorney about significant family circumstances, property in more than one state or country, a business, or prior marriages. These details may affect the questions the attorney asks and the documents that may be appropriate.
This article is a general preparation guide, not legal advice. Estate planning depends on individual facts and applicable law. A consultation is needed to discuss your particular goals.