Wills and estate planning lawyer: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What wills and estate planning lawyer is

A wills and estate planning lawyer provides information about wills, trusts, powers of attorney and directives, and may draft documents. People look for one after a marriage, birth, purchase of a home or any life change that makes them want a plan for their affairs. General information only, not legal advice.

Signs you need it

  • You have children and have not named who would care for them
  • You own a home or other property and have no will or trust
  • You have documents that are old and no longer match your family or property
  • You want someone you trust to handle your finances or health decisions if you cannot
  • You own property in more than one state
  • A family member has a disability and you want to plan for their care

What the pro does

  • Meet to learn about your family, property and wishes
  • Explain, in general terms, the differences among wills, trusts and other documents
  • Draft the documents you choose, such as a will, power of attorney and health care directive
  • Review how accounts and property are titled so documents work together
  • Supervise signing in the way your state requires
  • Explain where to keep the documents and when to review them

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • The number and type of documents needed
  • Whether a trust is part of the plan
  • The size and variety of your property
  • Whether there are blended families, minor children or a family member with special needs
  • Whether property is in more than one state
  • Whether a business is involved
  • Whether you are updating existing documents

What a written quote should spell out

  • The documents included in the package
  • Whether the fee is flat or hourly
  • What is included in the signing meeting
  • Whether updates are covered later
  • What you must do yourself, such as retitling accounts

Questions to ask before you hire

  • Which documents would you discuss for someone in my situation?
  • How do you coordinate beneficiary forms with my will or trust?
  • How should I store the signed documents?
  • What happens if I move to another state?
  • When should I review my plan?
  • Who will supervise the signing?

Red flags

  • A seller who pushes one product, such as a trust, for everyone without asking about your situation
  • Pressure to sign at a free dinner or seminar
  • Documents sent without any explanation
  • Promises that the plan avoids all taxes or fees

What you can do yourself

You can list your property, accounts and the people you want to name, and gather deeds, policy and account statements. Online forms exist, but they may not fit your state or family. Speak with a licensed attorney for minor children, blended families, a business, property in more than one state or a family member with special needs. Tax questions belong with a CPA or enrolled agent.

Licenses and permits

Estate planning lawyers must be licensed attorneys in good standing. Check the license with the state bar.

Wills and estate planning lawyer questions

Do I need a trust or just a will?

It depends on your situation. A licensed attorney can explain the differences.

Do I need to update my plan?

Life changes such as marriage, a birth or a move are good times to review it.

Do beneficiary forms matter?

Yes. Some accounts pass by beneficiary forms regardless of what a will says, so they should be checked together.

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