How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Charge?

There is no set fee for the services of an estate planning lawyer. Sometimes, an attorney will only charge a flat rate for a basic package that includes a will, trust, and power of attorney. This can change. 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. 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. An estate planning attorney may recommend a basic living trust if you require a simpler plan. If you're looking for a more detailed plan, a lawyer can charge a lower hourly rate.

In addition to hourly rates, an estate planning lawyer may offer a flat fee. 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. Some retainers are half the cost or more. Free consultations are offered by some firms.

Flat fees are the standard fee for estate administration and planning. An attorney might quote one price for a simple will or 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.