How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Charge?

There is no set fee for the services of an estate planning lawyer. In some cases, attorneys will only charge a flat fee for a basic package, including 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. Before signing any contracts, it is best to inquire about the fees.

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. If you're looking for a more detailed plan, a lawyer can charge a lower hourly rate.

An estate planning lawyer might offer a flat fee in addition to hourly rates. Flat fees offer clients certainty and are advantageous. Some flat fee agreements may include a specific number of meetings or the number of changes to important documents. Some attorneys will charge a flat fee based on how many of those documents you require. Depending on your needs, you may have a flat fee that includes everything you need to create an estate plan.

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. A retainer may be required by some attorneys before they begin 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. Flat fees are usually less expensive than hourly rates, but the more experience a lawyer has, the higher the fee. 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.