An estate attorney charges $250 to $700 per hour or $500 to $3,000 total on average, depending on the location, their experience level, and the services included.

A wills attorney charges a $100 to $120 flat fee to write a will for a simple estate. This is the most basic choice for people with fewer property and needs. Most wills go through probate court after death, which can be a lengthy and frustrating process.

Estate attorneys can help avoid probate by arranging a living trust for $1,500 to $3,000. A trust saves time and money in the long run if you plan on leaving money or property to loved ones.

An estate planning attorney specializes in arranging plans for assets in the event of your death. This includes:

• Writing wills
• Organizing trusts
• Arranging power of attorney
• Health care and elder care

Estate attorneys are often confused with real estate attorneys, but they are different fields of law. Estate attorneys manage your assets in preparation for death, while real estate attorneys help when buying or selling property.

If you are single, under 20 to 30 years old, or do not have any major assets, you probably don't need an estate attorney. Consider hiring an estate attorney if any of the following apply to you:

• You are married.
• You have one or more children.
• You own property.
• You have money you want to leave to someone.
• You want to plan funeral arrangements ahead of time.
• You want to name someone to make medical or financial choices if necessary.

To create an estate plan, work with an attorney to create a will or a living trust. Make a list of beneficiaries and choose a trusted person to be the trustee or executor of your will. Before meeting with an attorney, gather documents related to your assets, which may include:

• Real estate
• Stocks
• Bank accounts
• Life insurance policies
• Retirement accounts

Browse our list of attorneys, then:

• Get 3+ free estimates to compare.
• Examine reviews and cases on Thervo and Google.
• Choose an attorney who has passed the bar and has experience.
• Pick someone who is professional and makes you feel comfortable.
• Take into account the distance between their office and your home.
• Get a written estimate or contract before casework starts.
• Avoid making any large payments up front.

After asking questions, hire the best estate attorney in your area.

When searching for attorneys near you, consider the following questions:

• How long have you been practicing law?
• When did you pass the bar?
• How many similar cases have you worked on?
• How long does it take you to draw up a will?
• Based on my situation, would you recommend a will or a trust?
• Do you have set prices or hourly rates?
• Will you give me an estimate in writing?