The state's estate plan for a decedent dying without a will generally provides that the estate is to be distributed to the decedent's family. Rarely does the state's estate plan match the desired distribution plan of the decedent's. A will can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. The cost of a will depends upon many factors. Some of the factors include the complexity of the dispositive or distribution provisions, the time involved in counseling the client on the nature of the estate plan, and the time it takes to execute the will.
Some lawyers draft wills based on the time spent, but many others draft on a flat fee.
Don't hesitate to discuss the cost of the will in advance of the appointment or at the time of the initial appointment. Also, remember that price shopping may not always be the best approach to selecting an attorney to draft your will. Instead, interview the lawyer and feel comfortable that he or she can meet your needs, has the required expertise, and can provide value to your estate plan.