"How much is a simple will?" The question from the telephone earpiece was politely asked, but missed the point. While price is important, legal services are not interchangeable commodities. A will from one attorney is not the same as a will from another attorney – all wills are not created equal.

This writer has spent a career fixing documents drafted by other attorneys. Worse, our offices have served clients who have been harmed by fundamental errors in the estate plans of loved ones who have died.

While any attorney can make mistakes – after all, attorneys are human, too – no one can maximize effectiveness in all fields. If your surgeon also worked in a car repair garage and a tailor’s shop, you might justifiably be concerned that he or she might not be keeping up with the most current techniques and information in the field. The same might be true of an attorney who is a "jack of all trades."

After determining that your prospective attorney is qualified, find out whether you "get along" with him or her. Different professionals have different bedside manners, to borrow a phrase, and what pleases others might not please you. Try to meet with your attorney to determine whether the relationship is a "fit." Referrals from friends who know you can be helpful in this regard.

Any businessperson can be tempted to see you as simply a potential means of income rather than as an individual who has been entrusted into his or her care, someone for him or her to serve and to be a steward of your trust. A healthy professional relationship, based on mutual respect and dignity, is vital in dealing with someone who has access to your most confidential and privileged information, entrusted with the fulfillment of your dreams.

Your attorney should give you a clear explanation of how and why you are being charged. Make sure you understand the complete picture – what documents or services are usual and customary, what the cost will be or how the costs will be computed. In the estate planning market, for example, make sure your fee estimate includes wills or trusts as needed (for minor children, for example), powers of attorney, and medical directives. Too often the quoted fee is only for part of the plan or services needed, and the final fee is much higher than the quoted fee.

When you meet with your prospective attorney, does he or she treat you properly, or does he or she condescend or patronize you? Many attorneys fall prey to the temptation to use high-sounding phrases to establish superiority. An attorney who does not respect you will not serve you well. You are the boss. Your attorney works for you. The attorney who forgets this is not worthy of the fee.

Most attorneys are competent, personable and professional. Make sure that your prospective legal counsel meets your unique needs.