How Much Does an Estate Planning Attorney Cost?

An attorney’s fees can often become a point of contention, fueling many lawyer jokes that, unfortunately, can sometimes be based in the truth. It is rare to find a law firm’s website or advertisement that clearly outlines fee structures, which can leave potential clients frustrated and uncertain.

At our firm, we generally charge a nominal fee for an initial consultation, followed by a clear explanation from our attorneys of the fees specific to each case.

READ MORE: How to Talk About Estate Planning

To put it in perspective, imagine sitting down at a restaurant, ordering a cheap drink, only to find that the menu doesn’t list the meal prices. Suddenly, you’re left wondering, “Can I afford this?” “Why is this menu in French?” “How much money is in my bank account?” 

Do some attorneys intentionally withhold their fees? Maybe, but that’s rare. The way attorneys bill depends on the case. For example, personal injury is often billed on a contingency basis, civil litigation typically charges by the hour, and estate planning, like we offer, tends to be a flat fee. We often receive questions like: 

• “How much do you charge for a Will?” 

• “What’s the cost for the bare minimum?” 

• “I don’t have many assets, so this should be cheap, right?” 

These are valid questions, and we understand the frustration when they’re met with answers that could be seen as vague or evasive. However, a straightforward quote can sometimes cause confusion. For example, if we quote a price for a simple Will before hearing all of the facts, the final cost might be significantly higher once the full estate plan is discussed. Conversely, quoting a client asking for three trusts might result in overestimating them for services they don’t need, causing them to walk away before a consultation even happens. 

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In the end, fee structures in law are complex and depend on the individual case. While we strive to provide transparency, it’s important to have a full conversation about your specific needs before settling on an exact price.