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| Typical costs: | - For those with modest assets and only a few beneficiaries, it's possible to create a basic will without an attorney. Nolo Press gives free advice on when a no-frills will is enough, and sells books ($19-$32) or Quicken WillMaker Plus computer software ($50) to help you do it yourself. A number of online services such as LegalDocs.com provide basic forms for $10-$60, some with minimal assistance or review. However, using a one-size-fits-all form for a large or complicated estate might cause problems if not done correctly.
- Low-income folks who want legal guidance may be able to get free or low-cost assistance through their local legal aid group, student-run legal clinic or state bar association; the American Bar Association lists legal resources for each state.
- Creating a will can be included in a prepaid legal plan available through your employer, union, credit union or other organization for $70-$400 a year, usually paid in monthly installments for ongoing legal support.
- Attorneys' hourly rates range from $60-$300, but many lawyers charge a flat fee for a basic will, according to the American Bar Association. For example, a Maryland attorney charges $150 for a simple will leaving the entire estate to one or more persons, with no specific bequests, trust provisions or US estate planning language; the minimum fee for a complex will is $250, billed at $185/hour. A Seattle attorney charges $600 for a simple will; hourly rates are $225 for the attorney and $115/hour for a paralegal.
What should be included: | |
Shopping for a will: | - If you use a book, kit or online service, be sure it has up-to-date information for your state, since probate laws vary.
- Experts advise having a lawyer help draw up a will if you own a business, if your estate is worth more than $1 million or if you expect a challenge to the will from a disgruntled relative or anyone else. Shop around; ask several different attorneys for their fee schedules for wills. Contact your state licensing agency to be sure the attorney is licensed to practice law in your state.
- The American Bar Association links to legal resources by state, including free or low-cost legal help, regional bar associations, and referrals to local lawyers.
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Article updated January 2007 |
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Recent Posts |
| Posted by: a user in Shawnee Mission, KS. | Purchased: July, 2007 |
| Attorney or Product: Will & related documents | Complexity: |
| It is foolish to think that a lawyer can quote a fee for good documents that are tailored to your personal needs and situation without first meeting and talking with you. It is more foolish to think that it is smart or OK to fill out internet forms on your own. Lawyers spend a lot of time and money on education and practice to learn how to do things right and best for you. Be smart! |
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| Amount: $0.00 |
Harrasment & excessive charges
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| Posted by: Leelo in Fort Wayne, IN. | Purchased: 2008 |
| Attorney or Product: Aaron Black | Complexity: Modest |
In January, I contacted Mr. Black (referred) regarding a will or an estate. I had question at that time regarding a 1031 exchange in an estate plan. He got back with me two (2-3) months later. Said he did not have time to research it until now.
Mr. Black wanted me to make a decision based on what we had talked about in January. He made several calls to me, at work, wanting me to make a decision. I had still not made a decision as to who the beneficiaries were to be or whether I was going to have a will or estate.
I asked him what he was charging for the will/estate since I could not remember. He told me $650.00 for the will and $1125.00 for an estate.
When we scheduled the appointment for me to sign the will, he could not get into his office and had somebody bringing him the key so we could get in. He had also stated he now had a sign put in front of the building so I could find him. There was no sign and after waiting a few minutes, I suggested we sit on the bench.
When he read the first sentence, I became extremely upset. (I am making this will under no duress....) I told him I could not continue since I felt he had harassed me to the point of having to make a decision. He insisted we go further and I said I could not and got up to leave.
His paperwork had fallen to the side and another bill was enclosed for over $1200.00. He said that included the $598.00 he originally charged plus $650.00 for the will. |
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| Posted by: Leelo in Fort Wayne, IN. | Purchased: August, 2008 |
| Attorney or Product: Aaron Black | Complexity: Modest |
| A follow up to my previous post. In a meeting later, I explained my situation and how I felt. He must have felt the same, since he did lower the price from $1285.00 to $1085.00 If you have a problem with your will, it does pay to let the lawyer know about it so he can rectify the situation. He provided will, Health Power of Attorney, HIPAA Power of Attorney, Standard Power of Attorney and Living Will Declaration. |
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