Probate Lawyers

Not always — property in trusts, joint accounts and accounts with beneficiaries can pass outside probate.

Simple estates may take months; complex or contested ones can take a year or more.

Not legally, but mistakes in do-it-yourself wills are common and can leave a family in probate disputes. A lawyer makes sure it's valid under your state's law.

The court process that settles a person's estate — confirming the will, paying debts and distributing property. A lawyer can often make it faster and cheaper.

Simple wills are often a flat fee; trusts and full plans cost more. Ask for a written quote for the documents you need.

Start with what you need help with above. That narrows the list to attorneys who practice that area. Then compare ratings and reviews, and talk to two or three before you decide.

It depends on the case. Criminal and family cases are often billed hourly or as a flat fee. Personal injury attorneys usually work on contingency — a share of what you recover, and nothing if you don't. Ask each attorney how they charge before you hire them.

Many do, especially in personal injury, criminal defense, bankruptcy and immigration. Ask when you call — a first meeting is the best way to see whether an attorney is a good fit.

Anything about your case: letters, court papers, contracts, police reports, photos, bills and a short timeline of what happened. The more the attorney sees, the better the advice.

Usually you need one licensed in the state where your case is. Federal matters like immigration, bankruptcy and patents can be different — ask the attorney.