Why Flat Fees?
Traditionally, attorneys charge fees based on the amount of time it takes to complete the work, and some of our legal matters are based on hourly billing. However, estate planning and informal probate administration is a unique field of law which does not readily lend itself to traditional hourly billing. We think it is important for our clients to know the monetary value of the services that we provide from the beginning. As a result, most of our estate planning and informal probate fees are a flat rate rather than based on an hourly fee. In order to customize your estate plan we must be able to discuss all of your needs without the limitation of hourly fees.
Benefits of Flat Fees:
- Our clients don’t need to worry about “how much time” we are putting into one of their most valuable investments. Instead, our clients understand we are providing them with quality work, regardless of the time it takes to ensure that their estate planning goals are met.
- Our clients know the total cost up front, which enables them to determine, prior to retaining our services, whether or not they can afford the services and to budget for the attorney fees and costs.
- Our clients are encouraged to communicate freely with us. Often in an hourly billing situation a client may hesitate to provide information because they understand that under each communication means additional charges.
- Our clients aren’t surprised by a large fee at the end of the process because fees are negotiated and agreed upon before any work begins.
How is the Flat Fee Determined?
On a case-by-case basis: Your needs and wishes are specific to your unique circumstances. After we discuss your concerns, without any time constraints that would occur because we won’t be watching the clock, we decide how your needs will best be met. The information we gather during our conversation gives us the tools to evaluate the scope of your needs and propose various strategies for protecting your loved ones.
Our fees include all of our time for the matter, as well as all anticipated costs. There are no hidden charges. In addition, our clients receive the peace of mind that they are receiving quality service, without time constraints.
When a client decides they are interested in beginning the process of protecting their loved ones and financial assets, we provide them a fee agreement which clearly provides a fixed fee rate.
Typically, our work begins after receiving a signed copy of the fee agreement and payment of the flat fee. This practice allows us to keep my flat fees lower for every client. Contact us today for the years of experience and dedication you need.