Q: Help! My old lawyer retired, and now I don't know how to find someone to handle my legal affairs.

I know it's time for me to start doing estate planning, but I'm at a loss. The internet shows so many options that I don't know where to start.

How should I narrow down the search?

A: Your first question should be geared toward what type of law an attorney specializes in.

Find an attorney who knows the area of law relevant to you. There are different procedures and knowledge in every field, and you want a lawyer who can help you with what you need.

Ask attorneys about how they charge. Many lawyers charge a retainer for you to be their client, as well as an hourly fee for their labor.

Additionally, flat fees for particular services are especially common for estate planning. A given attorney will likely have a set rate for the standard documents.

If a lawyer you meet doesn't have an answer to one of these questions, pass on them. They may not be reliable, organized or specialized in a field relevant to you. — Emma, Doug's granddaughter

VET BILLS

Q: For 11 years, my dog has been a loyal companion and kept me from getting too lonely. Getting him after my husband passed was a lifesaver.

Now, though, his health is failing. He has always had ear infections and now seems miserable. I go to the vet whenever it flares up, but it doesn't seem to do anything.

I love my dog dearly, but I don't know if I can keep up with his veterinary bills. I feel guilty every time I leave the vet's office, even though I'm spending a fortune on animal care. I'm on a fixed income, and these unexpected bills seem to occur regularly.

I don't think it's time to put him down, but my dog seems miserable.

What can I do?

A: Have a frank conversation with your vet about your finances and your pet's outlook.

Outline your concerns and ask if there is a way to keep the bills down. A good vet will understand your perspective and work with you to design an ideal care plan.

Many vets can adjust your pet's treatment plan according to your needs.

The primary way they do this is through the handling of prescriptions. Look for another supplier such as an online retailer, like Chewy, or a wholesaler, like Costco, to save a tremendous amount of money. Buying medicine directly from the vet is expensive.

If your vet recommends an expensive series of tests or surgery, ask if there's an alternative option. There may or may not be, but it doesn't hurt to ask.

Remember, preventive care is the best medicine!

Instead of responding to flare-ups, try to figure out a preventive regime for your dog.

There's another conversation you need to have, even if you're dreading it. Ask your vet what signs to look for that indicate when you should consider putting your companion to sleep. You may enjoy your animal's company, but you don't want him to suffer.

Avoiding uncomfortable topics is doing your pet no good. To find the best solution, communicate honestly with those around you. — Doug

Doug Mayberry makes the most of life in a Southern California retirement community. Contact him at [email protected]. Emma, Doug's granddaughter, helps write this column. To find out more about Doug Mayberry and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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