Seeking large law firm to prepare will

We're trying to get organized and finally do our wills. My previous dealings have been with a 3 person law firm, but my spouse wants a larger firm that is more likely to still exist 50 years from now.

Any recommendations?


We were NOT happy with Cole, Schotz. Possibly just the particular lawyer. PM if interested in further details.


Assuming a properly written will, why does the size of the law firm matter?


tjohn said:

Assuming a properly written will, why does the size of the law firm matter?

The law firm may hold on to an original copy of the will which can be obtained by the executor for probate (easier in NJ to have a will go through probate if it is an original document).  Law firm may be designated as executor if a friend or family member is not willing or able to take on this responsibility.


The size of a law firm is no indicator of whether it will be around in future years.

No matter the size of a law practice, they're supposed to make arrangements for any cases or files that they're still responsible for if the firm is winding down.

With a smaller firm, you're more likely to get better attention to your estate file than with a more corporate-sized firm.

By way of example, my later father's will was drafted by an attorney who was a solo practitioner at the time, and was probated by the attorney's son, who had joined and then taken over the practice.


nohero said:

The size of a law firm is no indicator of whether it will be around in future years.

No matter the size of a law practice, they're supposed to make arrangements for any cases or files that they're still responsible for if the firm is winding down.

With a smaller firm, you're more likely to get better attention to your estate file than with a more corporate-sized firm.

By way of example, my later father's will was drafted by an attorney who was a solo practitioner at the time, and was probated by the attorney's son, who had joined and then taken over the practice.

nohero has given you very good advice.


The reason law firms like to hold on to the original will is so that it will get hired "when the time comes."  My Trusts and Estates professor was very clear on this point.  The person whose will it is should have possession of it and let those close know where it is kept (prof actually said it should be on the fridge so no one can miss it). 

N.B.  Should not keep it in a safe deposit box as such may not be quickly accessible after death.


Lindabury McCormick, in Summit and Westfield (and Red Bank and Philadelphia and a couple other places, so I imagine it’s a decent-sized firm, and I know it’s been around a long time). Ask for John Blasi, and if he’s not taking new clients, ask for his personal recommendation for a colleague who is. 



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