Services
Estate attorneys & probate help
For the will, the court, and everything with a deadline.
A probate or estate-administration attorney guides the executor through validating the will, inventorying assets, notifying creditors, and distributing the estate. Small estates often qualify for simplified procedures that need little or no legal help — many states' courts publish DIY small-estate forms — while contested wills, real estate in multiple states, or business ownership genuinely need counsel. A one-hour consultation early can tell you which kind of estate you have.
When you’ll need them
Within the first month. Most probate deadlines run from the date of death or the will's filing, and certified death certificates are needed throughout.
What it typically costs
Typically $250–$500 per hour, flat fees for simple estates ($2,000–$6,000 is common), or a percentage of the estate in some states. Initial consultations are often free or low-cost.
Typical U.S. ranges, for orientation only — prices vary widely by region and provider. Always ask for an itemized price list.
Questions worth asking
- Does this estate qualify for the small-estate procedure in our state?
- Do you charge hourly, flat, or by percentage — and what's your estimate for this estate?
- What can the executor safely do themselves to keep fees down?
Related guides
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