Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about our legal and wealth management services
General Questions
What makes Atkins Legal unique?
We offer a comprehensive combination of legal expertise and wealth management services under one roof. This integrated approach allows us to create holistic wealth protection strategies that few other firms can provide, ensuring both legal security and financial growth for your assets.
How do I schedule a consultation?
You can schedule a consultation by calling our office directly at (719) 286-9216, using our online contact form, or emailing us at contact@atkinslegalllc.com. Initial consultations typically last 60 minutes and can be conducted in person, via video conference, or by phone.
Do you offer virtual consultations?
Yes, we offer secure video consultations for clients who prefer remote meetings. Our virtual consultations provide the same level of expertise and personal attention as our in-person meetings, with the added convenience of connecting from anywhere.
How do your legal and wealth management services work together?
Our legal and wealth management services are designed to work synergistically. For example, we can help you establish a trust (legal service) and then assist you in creating an investment strategy that aligns with your trust objectives (wealth management service). This integrated approach provides comprehensive wealth protection and simplifies management of your assets.
Client Portal Questions
What is the client portal?
Our secure client portal is a private online platform where clients can access their documents, view their investment information, communicate with our team, track progress on legal matters, and manage their account details. It provides 24/7 access to your information with bank-level security.
How do I access the client portal?
You can access the client portal by clicking the "Client Portal" link in the navigation menu of our website. You'll need your username and password to log in. If you're a new client, you'll receive portal access credentials after your initial consultation.
Is the client portal secure?
Yes, our client portal employs advanced encryption and security measures to protect your sensitive information. We use 256-bit SSL encryption, two-factor authentication, and regular security audits to ensure your data remains private and secure at all times.
What can I do through the client portal?
Through the client portal, you can view and download legal documents, check your investment portfolio status, schedule appointments, send secure messages to our team, pay invoices, and update your personal information.
Legal Services Questions
What types of estate planning documents do I need?
The essential estate planning documents typically include a will, revocable living trust, power of attorney, healthcare directive, and guardianship designations if you have minor children. However, each client's situation is unique, and we customize our recommendations based on your specific needs, goals, and family circumstances.
How often should I update my estate plan?
We recommend reviewing your estate plan every 3-5 years and after significant life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of children, major asset acquisition or sale, relocation to a different state, or changes in tax laws. Regular reviews ensure your plan remains aligned with your current wishes and circumstances.
What's the difference between a will and a trust?
A will takes effect only after death and goes through probate court, while a trust takes effect immediately upon creation and avoids probate. Trusts offer greater privacy, potentially faster asset distribution, and can include provisions for incapacity. Both have their place in comprehensive estate planning, and we often recommend using them together.
How do I protect my assets from potential creditors?
Asset protection strategies include establishing certain types of trusts, forming business entities like LLCs, maintaining appropriate insurance coverage, and implementing strategic investment approaches. We create customized asset protection plans based on your specific situation, risk exposure, and goals.
Wealth Management Questions
Why is comprehensive financial planning important?
Comprehensive financial planning provides a roadmap for achieving your financial goals while managing risks. It helps coordinate various aspects of your finances, including investments, retirement planning, tax strategies, and estate planning, ensuring they work together efficiently to build and preserve your wealth.
How do you develop investment strategies for clients?
We develop personalized investment strategies based on your financial goals, risk tolerance, time horizon, and overall financial situation. Our approach focuses on diversification, long-term growth, tax efficiency, and integration with your legal structures to create a comprehensive wealth management plan.
What retirement planning services do you offer?
Our retirement planning services include retirement income strategy development, Social Security optimization, pension analysis, retirement tax planning, healthcare planning, and estate coordination. We create comprehensive retirement plans that address both the accumulation and distribution phases of retirement.
How can your tax planning services help me?
Our tax planning services help minimize your tax burden through strategies like income timing, tax-efficient investing, retirement account optimization, estate tax planning, and charitable giving approaches. We work to align tax strategies with your investment and estate plans for a cohesive approach to wealth management.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help. Contact our team for personalized answers to your specific questions.