Digital tools have made it easier than ever for individuals to manage their own finances. But the estate-planning process is one area where professional guidance is paramount.
"Complex estates require sophisticated estate-planning strategies," says Austin Jarvis, director of estate, trust, and high-net-worth tax at the Schwab Center for Financial Research. "Whether you have a large estate, own a business, or want to provide for an heir with disabilities, only an estate-planning attorney will have the knowledge and expertise to tailor your plan to your specific needs."
Of course, working with an attorney can be costly. Fortunately, there are ways to expedite the process and keep expenses to a minimum: