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. 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 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. A lawyer may charge less if you need a more comprehensive plan.

In addition to hourly rates, an estate planning lawyer may offer a flat fee. Flat fees offer clients certainty and are advantageous. 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.

In some cases, estate planning attorneys charge based on the time they spend drafting your plan. The average cost of an estate planning attorney's services is $200 to $5,000. However, this can vary depending on your specific situation. Some attorneys may require a retainer before beginning work. A retainer may cover all costs associated with creating an estate plan. Some retainers are half the cost or more. 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. If you hire an estate planning firm, you'll also need to choose a flat-fee option. 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. However, it will be well worth the extra cost.