Estate planning isn’t just a task for the wealthy or the elderly. Anyone who wishes to arrange their financial affairs and ensure their loved ones are taken care of after they’re gone should consider it. But, where does one start? Typically, with a estate planning attorney . However, selecting the right lawyer for this job is much like choosing an avocado at the store; it requires gently applying pressure to sense if you’ve got a good one!

First, let’s crack open the ‘whys’ of needing such a specialist. These professionals assist you in legal documentation–including wills, trusts, power of attorney, and healthcare directives–to prevent common pitfalls that could derail your wishes. They’re like the navigators of the high seas of your financial assets, steering you through rough legislative waters to bring your ship safely to port.

But before you hire someone, peel your eyes! Ask about their specific experience. Estate law varies widely and each state has its own nuances. You wouldn’t take a tour of New York City with a guide who specializes in the Grand Canyon, right? The attorney must be knowledgeable about the laws specific to your locale to effectively shepherd your estate planning process.

Speaking of nuances, an estate planning attorney doesn’t just fill out forms. They craft strategies that harmonize with your overall financial and personal goals. This could involve the magic of minimizing estate taxes or setting up a trust to benefit a spendthrift child in a way that does not discourage productive behavior. They can even help navigate family dynamics and ensure your final wishes are executed without family discord.

Now, here’s where the cheese gets binding. Discussing your own end-of-life affairs or potential incapacity is uncomfortable, but necessary. A seasoned estate planning attorney acts almost as a bartender–shaken by none of your stories and able to mix up the right cocktail of documents without spilling a drop. They provide a confidential ear and tailor your plan to fit your needs, whether you have a complex business structure, multiple properties, or simply want to maximally pass down your grandmother’s dearest quilts.

Here’s a little story: Once, a man went to an estate planner with a plan so tangled, it resembled last year’s forgotten Christmas lights. But instead of throwing it all out, the attorney unraveled each piece, addressed individual bulbs, and not only got it glowing but also syncing to the tune of the client’s favorite holiday songs.

When it’s time to pick your planning partner, don’t just go with the first name that pops up on your search engine. Seek recommendations, dig into reviews like a kid with a new toy, and question them as if you’re on a first date–because, essentially, you are setting up a relationship that will govern how your most personal affairs are handled.

Furthermore, your attorney should be a clear communicator–not someone who throws around legal jargon without making sure you’re following. If after a consultation you feel more puzzled than when you walked in, maybe they’re not the right fit. You want a lawyer who not only understands estate law but understands how to make it understandable for you.

Once you’ve settled on the right attorney, remember that your estate plan isn’t a ‘set it and forget it’ crockpot meal. Instead, it’s more like a sourdough starter, needing periodic attention and adjustments as your life and the laws change.