Partners in Planning™
Twenty-six
years of experience has taught that in a situation where
the attorney and the family have left the relationship building with
the trusted advisors and the attorney until after death or
disability, more difficulties, complications, and problems in
communication typically result.
As a logical
consequence of the commitment of our office to 'partner' with trusted
advisors, our office developed the Partners in Planning™ process
to develop a closer working relationship with other professions and
support services. In this way, we cannot only develop a
understanding and mutual respect for each others unique abilities,
but in addition develop closer working relationships, which enhance
the goals of our clients to achieve the 'peace of mind' that their
plan will work with the help of everyone involved.
While no
family advisor or company is required to participate in the Partners
in Planning™ process, most clients and advisors view this
developing opportunity as a positive and very beneficial step for
both themselves and their clients. As with any relationship,
the success of the Partners in Planning™ process is dependant on
two very important factors: 1.) Commitment of both time and effort,
2.) A genuine and honest desire to both understand as well as to be understood.
The Commitment
for Members
The
commitment to become a member in Partners in Planning™ requires
a minimum of three meeting stages in order to adequately lay
the foundation of a long tern relationship with individuals in
multidisciplinary fields.
The
first stage consists of a preliminary and initial meeting. This
is an opportunity for our office to understand and get to know the
advisor, their process, manner in which they conduct business,
market themselves, desire to be communicated with concerning clients,
discuss potential problems and conflicts in communication with the
advisors office and establish a desire or need to further develop and
deepen the relationship with advisors office and our office.
The second
stage, for our office is to then shift attention from the advisor's
office and process to our office, with the advisor having an
opportunity to understand our philosophy and approach to planning
with clients, as well as become acquainted with the education and
courses that we offer to clients and their families to better prepare
them for the planning process. This very often includes the
attendance of the Client Law School™ course, attended by both
clients and advisors, and for which the advisors receive three
continuing education credits.
The last
stage in the process consists of a third meeting and extended dialog
about how we will be able to combine the unique processes of the
advisor and our office, while working with common clients and
problems. We also explore common opportunities in estate
planning and the development of potentially new business for the
advisor and our office.
Being a
Partner in Planning does not in any way imply a financial commitment
or reward resulting from mutual referrals of clients. However,
it implies a commitment of professional integrity and a commitment
between the advisor and our office. It strives to achieve the
highest levels and standards of work excellence on behalf of the
client. Following the third meeting, a commitment is signed,
demonstrating these ideals. There is also discussion as to what
next step the advisor wishes to take in the further development of
the relationship.
How to become a "Partner"
If
you meet the above criteria and are interested in becoming a
"Partner in Planning", please contact our office and we
will be happy to accommodate you. We are constantly looking for
qualified professionals who offer superior service to recommend
to work with our clients.
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