Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What process do you follow in providing advice to a client?

We believe strongly that sound estate and financial planning must begin with proper, up-to-date estate planning documents.  If the client has documents, they are reviewed for potential problems.  However, if the client does not have appropriate documents, then we work together to develop the estate planning documents necessary to protect the family's future.  Too often, people exert all of their efforts on accumulating financial assets and completely ignore how taxes can wipe out a significant portion of the family's wealth, particularly when it is passed to the next generation.  Sound estate planning addresses this shortcoming.

2. I see that Mr. Doherty is a Certified Financial Planner™.  Does he prepare financial plans and if so, what does a financial plan cover?

He does prepare written financial plans and the requirements imposed by the College for Financial Planning in formulating a competent financial plan are rigorously followed.  Every financial plan explores the six basic areas of a person's financial circumstances: financial position; protection planning; investment planning; tax planning; retirement planning; and estate planning.

3. Does the firm sell investment products? If not, how is it compensated?

The Doherty Professional Association does not sell investment products.  We charge a fee for all our services, whether the assignment involves estate planning, financial planning or other specific legal matters.  Some clients wish to proceed on the basis of an hourly rate, and some prefer to have a fixed fee for services established at the beginning of the relationship.  Once we understand the extent and complexity of the client's situation, we usually are able to quote a fixed fee.

4. Isn't it better to simply have a financial planner get a commission on products I buy?

Again, the Doherty Professional Association does not sell investment products.  However, if you have faced this situation at another firm, the question to ask is "Better for whom?"  If the so-called advisor is offering planning or advisory services "for free," he or she won't receive any compensation unless you buy something.  If you find yourself in such an arrangement, you will almost certainly be the recipient of "advice" to buy many products and services which the planner has available. These products may -- or may not -- improve your financial circumstances, but they are certain to improve the financial circumstances of the person selling them.  Keep that in mind.

5. If I want to get started, what's the first step?

Our firm has designed two simple documents to get you started easily.  One is the Estate Questionnaire, designed to be used in estate planning situations.  The other is the Financial Questionnaire, designed to be used in financial planning situations. However, most clients should complete both forms, as having more information assists us in making initial observations.  But, having said that, do not get bogged down by providing exceptionally detailed facts and figures.  At the initial review stage, we stress that the questionnaires should be done from memory.  When the time comes for additional information, we will ask for it.  Once we have reviewed your completed questionnaire(s), we will offer observations on what you should consider doing, and if you decide to let us help you, what the fee will be.  Simply click on the contact links in this paragraph and print out the form(s).  Complete them and forward them to our office.

If your concern is legal representation in areas other than estate planning, collect your thoughts and put a call in to the office on the toll-free line, 877-362-7526.  Mr. Doherty will be happy to discuss your circumstances. 

Our policy is to offer an initial consultation on a complimentary basis to individuals or businesses considering hiring Mr. Doherty.  Review of your completed questionnaire(s) and/or a conference is part of the initial consultation.