How to Find a Fort Worth Wills Lawyer in 5 Simple Steps

Why Texas Wills Matter: Finding the Right Legal Help

Planning for the future can feel uncomfortable, but a properly drafted will is the simplest way to protect the people you love. If you die without a will in Texas—called “intestate”—state law, not you, decides who inherits. A qualified Fort Worth wills lawyer helps you avoid that outcome and keeps your family out of needless conflict.

What to look for in an attorney:

1. Board Certification – Choose a lawyer certified in Estate Planning and Probate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization; fewer than 10 % of Texas attorneys hold this credential.
2. Experience Level – Pick someone with substantial estate planning experience in Tarrant County.
3. Fee Structure – Typical costs run $1,000–$3,000 for a will-based plan and $4,000–$7,000 for a trust-based plan.
4. Focused Practice – Select a professional who concentrates mainly on wills and estate planning.
5. Personal Rapport – You should feel comfortable sharing sensitive family information with your lawyer.

Texas also requires an attorney to probate a will; you cannot do it yourself. Working with the right lawyer now can save your family time, money, and stress later.

When interviewing candidates, ask about their experience with the Tarrant County probate courts and their approach to explaining complex legal ideas in plain language. The best Fort Worth wills lawyer will tailor every document to your specific circumstances.

Related terms

• Fort Worth guardianship lawyer
• Fort Worth probate court

Step 1: Clarify Your Estate Planning Goals

Before picking up the phone to call a Fort Worth wills lawyer, take a moment to get clear on what you actually want to accomplish. Trust me, this little bit of homework will make your first meeting much more productive—and help you find an attorney who’s the right fit for your specific situation.

Start by creating a simple inventory of what you own. This doesn’t need to be fancy—just jot down your real estate (your home, any rental properties), financial accounts (checking, savings, retirement funds, investments), any business interests you might have, valuable personal items (vehicles, jewelry, family heirlooms), and don’t forget those digital assets (cryptocurrency, online accounts, intellectual property).

Now think about any special circumstances in your family that might affect your planning. Do you have minor children who’ll need guardians if something happens to you? Is there a family member with special needs who might benefit from a specialized trust? Own property in multiple states? Part of a blended family? Worried about potential family disputes after you’re gone? These are all important factors that will shape your estate plan.

“One of the biggest misconceptions I see is people not understanding how Texas community property laws affect their estate,” says Keith Morris of Texas Probate Attorney. “Many clients are surprised to learn that property acquired during marriage is generally owned equally by both spouses, while separate property includes things you owned before marriage or received as gifts or inheritances.”

This distinction matters tremendously when creating your will—it determines what you can freely give away and what your spouse may have rights to.

Decide Which Will You Need

Not all wills are created equal. Understanding the different types will help you have a more productive conversation with your Fort Worth wills lawyer:

A Simple Will handles the basics—distributing straightforward assets and naming guardians for minor children. It’s perfect if your situation isn’t complicated and your wishes are straightforward.

If you have a more complex situation—perhaps a blended family, business interests, or specific conditions for inheritances—you’ll likely need a Complex Will. These often include testamentary trusts that spring into action after your death.

Don’t confuse your regular will with a Living Will (which in Texas is formally called a Directive to Physicians). This important document spells out your medical care preferences if you become unable to communicate them yourself.

For those with trusts, a Pour-Over Will works as a safety net, ensuring that any assets you didn’t get around to transferring to your trust during your lifetime will automatically “pour over” into it when you pass away.

As one client recently told us after completing her will, “I sleep better at night knowing I’ve made things easier for my family if something happens to me.” With your goals clarified, you’re now ready to find the right legal professional to bring your plans to life.

Step 2: Short-List the Right Fort Worth Wills Lawyer Candidates

Now that you’ve clarified what you need, it’s time to find the right legal partner for your estate planning journey. Creating a shortlist of potential Fort Worth wills lawyers doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you know where to look.

I always tell my clients to start with trusted sources. The State Bar of Texas website offers a searchable directory where you can filter attorneys by their practice area and location. This is particularly helpful if you’re looking for someone who specializes exclusively in estate planning rather than a general practitioner.

For those seeking the cream of the crop, check out the Texas Board of Legal Specialization listings. These attorneys have gone the extra mile to demonstrate their knowledge in estate planning and probate law—something that can make a significant difference in complex situations.

Don’t overlook the value of peer recognition. The Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists highlight attorneys who have earned the respect of their colleagues. For example, Jane Fowler is one such recognized attorney in the Fort Worth area with a strong track record in estate planning.

“Finding the right attorney is like finding a good family doctor,” shares Stacy Kelly of Texas Probate Attorney. “You want someone who not only knows their stuff but also truly listens to your concerns and speaks your language.”

Personal recommendations often lead to the best matches. Your financial advisor, accountant, or even friends who have recently completed their estate plans can point you toward attorneys they trust. These personal experiences can provide insights you won’t find in any online directory.

As you build your list, focus on attorneys who:

• Dedicate most of their practice to estate planning and probate
• Have substantial experience with Texas’s unique estate laws
• Know their way around Tarrant County probate courts
• Communicate in a way that makes you feel comfortable and informed

Using Online Ratings to Vet a Fort Worth Wills Lawyer

Online reviews can be goldmines of information when you’re evaluating potential Fort Worth wills lawyers. They offer windows into real client experiences that can help you avoid surprises down the road.

The “Super Lawyers” and “Rising Stars” designations aren’t just fancy titles—they represent serious peer recognition. Less than 5% of Texas attorneys receive the Super Lawyers rating, while Rising Stars highlights promising attorneys who are either under 40 or have been practicing for less than a decade.

When browsing Google reviews, look beyond the star ratings. Pay attention to comments about how attorneys explain complex concepts, their responsiveness to questions, and whether they deliver documents on time. These details reveal more about what it’s like to work with them than any rating alone.

One client recently shared: “Our attorney didn’t just fill in blanks on a template. She took the time to understand our blended family situation and created a plan that addressed potential conflicts we hadn’t even considered. She explained everything in plain English, not legalese.”

Client feedback often highlights the human side of legal services—something that matters tremendously when you’re discussing sensitive family matters. Look for attorneys whose clients mention feeling heard and respected throughout the process.

While online ratings provide valuable insights, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. The most beautifully reviewed attorney might not be the right fit for your specific situation. That’s why the next step—scheduling consultations—is so crucial to finding your perfect legal match.

Step 3: Verify Credentials & Board Certification for Your Fort Worth Wills Lawyer

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential attorneys, it’s time to dig deeper into their qualifications. This step is absolutely crucial—you wouldn’t trust your health to just any doctor, and you shouldn’t trust your family’s future to just any lawyer.

Board certification stands as the gold standard when evaluating a Fort Worth wills lawyer. The Texas Board of Legal Specialization certifies attorneys who have demonstrated special competence in Estate Planning and Probate Law, which requires:

• At least 5 years of practice experience with a minimum of 30% devoted to estate planning
• Completion of continuing legal education courses
• Passing a rigorous examination
• Peer reviews from other attorneys and judges

Here’s something that might surprise you: fewer than 10% of practicing attorneys in Texas hold board certification in any specialty area. Even more telling, less than 1% have achieved certification in Estate Planning and Probate Law since 1995. This makes board certification a powerful indicator that you’re working with someone who truly knows their stuff.

“When you choose a board-certified attorney, you’re not just getting someone who passed the bar exam,” says Keith Morris. “You’re getting someone who’s proven their knowledge in this specific area of law—knowledge that can help prevent costly mistakes and ensure your wishes are followed exactly as you intend.”

Beyond certification, take time to verify:

• The attorney’s standing with the State Bar of Texas (are they in good standing with no disciplinary actions?)
• How many years they’ve focused on estate planning and probate
• Their experience handling situations similar to yours
• Their familiarity with Tarrant County probate courts specifically

Your will is too important to leave to chance or to someone without proven skills in this area.

Red Flags When Screening a Fort Worth Wills Lawyer

As you evaluate potential attorneys, watch for these warning signs that might suggest it’s time to continue your search:

No malpractice insurance should immediately raise eyebrows. Reputable attorneys carry professional liability insurance to protect their clients. If they don’t have it, ask why—their answer will tell you a lot.

Vague fee quotes can lead to unpleasant surprises down the road. A good Fort Worth wills lawyer will be upfront about costs. If they dance around fee questions or seem reluctant to provide specifics, proceed with caution.

Reliance on DIY forms rather than customized documents is another concern. As one Fort Worth attorney puts it, “Those one-size-fits-all templates might save time, but they often miss crucial details specific to your situation—and they certainly won’t provide any support to your family after you’re gone.”

Lack of specialization can be problematic too. An attorney who handles everything from criminal defense to divorce to personal injury might not have the depth of knowledge needed for effective estate planning. This area of law changes frequently and requires focused attention.

Poor communication during initial contact often foreshadows frustration later. If they’re hard to reach before you’ve hired them, imagine how difficult it might be when you have urgent questions about your will.

Pressuring tactics should never be part of the process. Be wary of attorneys who rush you to make decisions or push complex (and expensive) solutions without clear explanations of why they’re necessary for your specific situation.

Trust your instincts during these initial interactions. You’re not just hiring technical skills—you’re establishing a relationship with someone who will handle deeply personal family matters. The right Fort Worth wills lawyer will make you feel comfortable, heard, and confident about your estate planning decisions.

Step 4: Schedule and Prepare for Consultations

After identifying qualified candidates, schedule consultations with your top choices. Most Fort Worth wills lawyers offer initial consultations to discuss your needs and determine if they’re a good fit for your situation.

Think of this consultation as your opportunity to “interview” potential attorneys while they learn about your situation. To make these meetings truly productive, a bit of homework goes a long way.

Before your appointment, gather these important documents:

Your asset list should include everything you own—your home, cars, bank accounts, investments, family heirlooms, and even digital assets like cryptocurrency. Don’t worry about being perfectly organized; even a rough list helps your attorney understand the scope of your estate.

Information about your beneficiaries matters tremendously. Jot down the full names of everyone you wish to include in your will, their relationship to you, and any special circumstances (like a beneficiary with special needs or a complicated family situation).

Bring copies of any existing documents you have—old wills, powers of attorney, or medical directives. Even outdated documents give your attorney insight into your previous planning.

“The initial consultation is a two-way interview,” says Stacy Kelly. “While the attorney is assessing your needs, you should be evaluating whether they have the knowledge and communication style that makes you comfortable.”

Many Fort Worth wills lawyers provide questionnaires before your first meeting. Taking time to complete these thoroughly makes your consultation more efficient—and often saves you money by reducing the time needed to gather basic information.

Don’t worry if you don’t have everything perfectly prepared. A good attorney will guide you through what’s missing and help you complete your planning.

Questions to Ask a Fort Worth Wills Lawyer

When you sit down with a potential attorney, come armed with questions that reveal their experience and approach. This conversation isn’t just about legal knowledge—it’s about finding someone you trust with your family’s future.

“How much of your practice focuses on estate planning?” reveals whether you’re talking to a specialist or someone who only occasionally handles wills. Look for attorneys who dedicate a significant portion of their practice to estate planning.

Ask about their familiarity with Tarrant County probate courts. Local knowledge can make a huge difference when your will eventually goes through probate. An attorney who regularly works with these courts knows the judges, procedures, and potential pitfalls.

Fee structures vary widely among attorneys. Some charge flat fees for estate planning packages, while others bill hourly. Neither approach is inherently better, but you deserve clarity about what you’ll pay and what’s included.

Timeline expectations help you plan. Most will drafting takes between two and six weeks from initial consultation to document signing. If an attorney promises same-day service or says it will take months, consider that a potential red flag.

Discuss how future updates work. Life changes—marriages, divorces, births, and deaths all might require adjustments to your will. Understanding the process and costs for future updates prevents surprises later.

Clarify who will handle your case day-to-day. Will you work directly with the attorney you’re meeting, or will a paralegal or associate be your main contact? Either can work well, but you should know what to expect.

One Fort Worth client shared: “The attorney I ultimately chose spent over an hour answering all my questions without making me feel rushed. That level of attention during the consultation reflected the personalized service I received throughout the process.”

Creating your will is just the beginning of your estate planning journey. A good Fort Worth wills lawyer becomes a trusted advisor who helps you adapt your plan as life changes. For more information about essential documents like powers of attorney, visit our guide on Power of Attorney & Estate Planning Lawyer in Fort Worth.

Step 5: Compare Fees, Fit, and Finalize Engagement

After completing your consultations, it’s time to compare your options and make a final decision on which Fort Worth wills lawyer to hire.

When comparing attorneys, consider these factors:

1. Fees and value: In Fort Worth, expect to pay approximately $1,000-$3,000 for a will-based estate plan and $4,000-$7,000 for a trust-based plan. However, the cheapest option isn’t always the best value. Consider what services are included in the quoted fee.
2. Personal connection: Estate planning involves discussing sensitive family matters and personal wishes. Choose an attorney with whom you feel comfortable sharing these details.
3. Communication style: Did the attorney explain complex concepts clearly? Were they responsive to your questions? This indicates how future interactions will likely proceed.
4. Approach to estate planning: Some attorneys take a more collaborative approach, while others may be more directive. Consider which style works best for you.
5. Additional services: Does the attorney offer related services you might need, such as assistance with probate or trust administration after your death?

Many Fort Worth estate planning attorneys offer flat-fee packages that include:

• Initial consultation
• Document drafting (will, powers of attorney, advance directives)
• Review meetings
• Final document signing
• Some level of future updates or amendments

“We believe in transparent, flat-fee pricing for estate planning,” says Keith Morris. “This approach eliminates surprise bills and ensures clients receive all the documents they need for a comprehensive estate plan.”

Signing the Engagement Letter with Your Fort Worth Wills Lawyer

Once you’ve selected an attorney, you’ll formalize the relationship by signing an engagement letter or retainer agreement. This document outlines:

• Scope of work: Exactly which documents will be prepared and services provided
• Fee structure: The cost for services and when payment is due
• Timeline: Expected completion dates for drafts and final documents
• Communication expectations: How and when you’ll communicate with your attorney
• Document storage: Whether the attorney will maintain copies of your signed documents
• Future updates: The process and costs for making changes to your estate plan

Some attorneys offer a “Lawyer for Life” or similar program that provides unlimited updates to your estate planning documents for a flat annual fee. This can be valuable as your life circumstances change.

The engagement process typically includes:

1. Signing the engagement letter and paying any required retainer
2. Completing a detailed questionnaire about your assets and wishes
3. Meeting with your attorney to discuss your completed questionnaire
4. Reviewing draft documents
5. Final signing meeting with proper witnesses and notarization

“The document signing is a critical step,” explains Stacy Kelly. “Texas has specific requirements for will execution, including witnesses and notarization. Your attorney will ensure all legal formalities are observed to create a valid will.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Fort Worth Wills Lawyer

How much does a Fort Worth wills lawyer charge?

When budgeting for estate planning in Tarrant County, it helps to understand the typical fee structure. Most Fort Worth wills lawyers offer clear, flat-fee packages rather than the anxiety-inducing hourly billing that many people fear.

For a simple will package including basic powers of attorney and medical directives, expect to invest between $1,000-$1,500. If your situation calls for a more comprehensive approach with additional protections, fees typically range from $2,000-$3,000.

Families with more complex needs might benefit from a trust-based estate plan, which generally runs $4,000-$7,000. While this represents a larger investment, it often provides significant long-term benefits for your loved ones.

“We believe in transparent pricing,” says Keith Morris of Texas Probate Attorney. “Our clients receive a detailed fee agreement that outlines exactly what documents will be prepared and what support is included, with no hidden costs.”

During your consultation, don’t hesitate to ask for a clear breakdown of what’s included in any quoted fee. A good attorney will happily explain their pricing structure without making you feel uncomfortable.

How long will drafting a will in Fort Worth take?

Creating your will isn’t an overnight process, but it shouldn’t drag on forever either. Most Fort Worth wills lawyers complete the entire process within 3-6 weeks, following this general timeline:

Your journey begins with an initial consultation lasting 1-2 hours, where you’ll discuss your goals and family situation. The next 1-2 weeks involve gathering information – this timeline largely depends on how quickly you provide the necessary details about your assets and wishes.

Once your attorney has everything needed, document drafting typically takes 1-2 weeks, followed by another 1-2 weeks for review and any necessary revisions. The process concludes with a final signing meeting of about an hour, where everything is properly witnessed and notarized.

This timeline can flex based on your estate’s complexity, how promptly you provide information, and your attorney’s current workload. Stacy Kelly notes, “In emergency situations, we can expedite the process. We once helped a client facing immediate surgery get their power of attorney and trust documents completed within days.”

How often should I update my Texas will?

Think of your will as a living document that grows and changes alongside your life. Your estate plan isn’t a “set it and forget it” arrangement – it needs regular check-ups to ensure it still reflects your wishes.

You should review your will whenever you experience significant life changes. Marriage or divorce fundamentally alters your family structure and typically necessitates updates. The birth or adoption of children or grandchildren might change how you want your assets distributed. The death of a named beneficiary or executor requires immediate attention to ensure your will remains functional.

Other important triggers include substantial changes in your financial situation, moving to a different state (as laws vary significantly), or changes in tax laws that might affect your estate. Even without these specific events, it’s wise to review your documents every 3-5 years.

Minor updates can often be handled through a codicil (an amendment to your existing will), while major life changes might call for drafting an entirely new document. Your Fort Worth wills lawyer can advise which approach makes the most sense for your situation.

As one client shared after updating their will following the birth of a grandchild: “I sleep better knowing my estate plan reflects my current family. The peace of mind is worth the small investment in keeping it current.”

Conclusion

Finding the right Fort Worth wills lawyer is a crucial step in securing your legacy and protecting your loved ones. By following the five steps outlined in this guide—clarifying your goals, creating a shortlist of qualified candidates, verifying credentials, preparing for consultations, and comparing options before making your final decision—you can find an attorney who will create an estate plan custom to your unique needs.

A properly drafted will provides peace of mind knowing that:

• Your assets will be distributed according to your wishes
• Your minor children will have guardians of your choosing
• The probate process will be as efficient as possible
• The risk of family disputes will be minimized

At Texas Probate Attorney, Keith Morris and Stacy Kelly bring over 40 years of combined experience to help Fort Worth residents create comprehensive estate plans. We understand that each client’s situation is unique, and we take pride in providing personalized attention and clear guidance through the estate planning process.

“Estate planning isn’t just about distributing assets—it’s about creating a legacy and protecting the people you love,” says Keith Morris. “We’re honored to help our clients achieve peace of mind knowing their affairs are in order.”

In Texas, you cannot probate a will without an attorney. Working with a qualified Fort Worth wills lawyer now can save your loved ones significant time, expense, and stress later. Don’t leave your legacy to chance—take the first step today by scheduling a consultation with an experienced estate planning attorney.

For more information about resolving estate disputes or navigating the probate process in Fort Worth, visit our website or contact our office to schedule a consultation.