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Estate Planning Attorney Cost Guide

Legal Services

Estate planning lawyer for wills, trusts, power of attorney, and healthcare directives. Protect your assets and ensure your wishes are carried out.

📊Showing National Average Pricing

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Basic

Simple will and basic estate documents

$1,000
$500 - $1,500

Typical Scope:

  • ✓Last will & testament
  • ✓Healthcare power of attorney
  • ✓Financial power of attorney
  • ✓Living will/advance directive
  • ✓Single person or couple
  • ✓Straightforward estate
Standard

Revocable living trust with complete estate plan

$2,750
$1,500 - $4,000

Typical Scope:

  • ✓Revocable living trust
  • ✓Pour-over will included
  • ✓All power of attorney docs
  • ✓Asset funding guidance
  • ✓Beneficiary designations
  • ✓Moderate complexity estate
Premium

Complex estate planning with tax strategies and trusts

$7,000
$4,000 - $10,000

Typical Scope:

  • ✓Irrevocable trusts (multiple)
  • ✓Tax minimization strategies
  • ✓Business succession planning
  • ✓Charitable giving structures
  • ✓Generation-skipping provisions
  • ✓High-net-worth comprehensive plan

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do legal services cost?

Legal fees average $2,500. Attorney hourly rates range $150-$500+. Simple documents (wills) cost $300-$1,000. Complex cases (divorce, business) run $3,000-$15,000+. Many offer free consultations and payment plans.

What's the difference between attorney fee structures?

Hourly: pay for time spent ($150-$500/hr). Flat fee: set price for specific service (wills, contracts). Contingency: attorney takes 33-40% of settlement (personal injury). Retainer: upfront payment for ongoing services. Choose based on case type and budget.

Do I really need a lawyer for this?

Yes for: criminal charges, divorce with assets/children, business formation, real estate transactions, estate planning with significant assets. Maybe for: simple contracts, small claims, traffic tickets. Use online legal services for simple documents to save money.

How do I choose the right attorney?

Look for specialists in your issue area. Check state bar licensing and disciplinary history. Read reviews and ask for references. Schedule consultations with 2-3 attorneys. Assess communication style, fee structure, and experience with similar cases.

What should I bring to my first attorney meeting?

All relevant documents (contracts, correspondence, court papers), timeline of events, list of questions, financial information if relevant. Be honest and thorough - attorney-client privilege protects your communications. Take notes on advice and next steps.

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