When it comes to changing or amending a living trust, many people fear racking up expensive attorneys' fees.
This week, estate planning attorney Carlena Tapella discusses when you need a lawyer's help.
QUESTION: We hired a lawyer to make our trust. Ever since, we've been living a nightmare. The trust has so many mistakes and is unusable. We asked the lawyer to correct the problems. Eventually we were "fired" by our lawyer, who said we should find another attorney to help us. We have tried, but nobody wants to revoke our trust or correct the mistakes. Where do we go from here? We are seniors and can't afford to throw money away, one lawyer at a time. (Of course, the attorney cashed our $1,000 check.) Help!
ANSWER: First, I am very sorry that you had to go through this experience. You spent money on an attorney and received work that is not to your satisfaction. I can certainly see why you are frustrated.
But I cannot recommend that you try correcting these mistakes on your own. You need the assistance of an attorney to ensure that it is done correctly.
I suggest talking to family or friends who have had trust work done and are satisfied with the services they received. Sometimes the best recommendation is from someone who has worked with a diligent, responsive attorney.
While undoubtedly important, cost should not be the primary factor in choosing an attorney. The old saying, "You get what you pay for," is often true. On the other hand, there is no need to pay thousands of dollars for a simple trust.
Finally, I suggest asking your attorney for a refund if the work accomplished was not satisfactory. You may not get anywhere, but it does not hurt to ask. Best of luck.
• Read more articles by CLAUDIA BUCK
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