How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Charge?

An estate planning lawyer does not charge a set fee. 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. Before signing any contracts, it is best to inquire about the fees.

The fee for an estate planning lawyer is determined by the number of documents required 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.

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 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.

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 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 might quote one price for a simple will or 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. It will be worth the extra money, though.