How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Charge?

An estate planning lawyer does not charge a set fee. Sometimes, an attorney will only charge a flat rate for a basic package that includes a will, trust, and power of attorney. However, this can vary. Some attorneys don't offer these services, and others may ask for a partial retainer before starting work. It's best to ask about the fees before signing any contracts.

The fee for an estate planning lawyer is based on the number of documents he or she needs to create an estate plan. In more complicated cases, the fee will be higher due to the amount of time spent with the client. If you need a more basic plan, an estate planning attorney might recommend a more basic living trust. A lawyer may charge less if you need a more comprehensive plan.

An estate planning lawyer might offer a flat fee in addition to hourly rates. These flat fees are advantageous because they give clients certainty. Some flat fee agreements may include a specific number of meetings or the number of changes to important documents. Some lawyers will charge a flat rate based on the number of documents that you need. You may be charged a flat fee depending on what you need.

In some cases, estate planning attorneys charge based on the time they spend drafting your plan. You should expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $5,000, although this amount could be much more depending on the complexity of your situation. Some attorneys may require a retainer before beginning work. A retainer can cover the full cost of creating an estate plan. Retainers can be half or more of the original cost. Free consultations are offered by some firms.

A flat fee is the standard fee for estate planning and administration. An attorney may quote a single price for a simple will and a typical probate proceeding. You will need to select a flat-fee option if you are looking for an estate planning company. Most lawyers have a flat-fee plan, which means the fee will be the same whether you have a few or many questions.

An estate planning lawyer may charge an hourly rate or a flat fee. Flat fees are usually less expensive than hourly rates, but the more experience a lawyer has, the higher the fee. A flat fee can be a good option if you don't have a large estate, but an hourly rate can be a good deal for a simple will. However, it will be well worth the extra cost.