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. These services may not be offered by all attorneys. Others may require a retainer to start work. It's best to ask about the fees before signing any contracts.

The fee for an estate planning lawyer is determined by the number of documents required to create an estate plan. The amount of time the lawyer spends with a client is deducted from the billable hours, so the cost will be higher in more complex cases. 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. Flat fee agreements can include a fixed number of meetings, or the number required to amend 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.

Estate planning attorneys may charge for the time spent drafting your plan in some cases. 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.

Flat fees are the standard fee for estate administration and planning. 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. A flat fee is usually cheaper than an hourly rate, but the more experience the lawyer has, the more likely he'll charge. If you have a small estate, a flat fee may be an option. However, an hourly rate is a good choice for simple wills. It will be worth the extra money, though.