What Is The Cost Of A Probate Attorney In Arizona?
Brad: The affordability hurdle in Arizona probate is a significant concern, with many people avoiding it due to perceived high costs, separate from estate planning. This raises the question of the typical expense involved in hiring a competent attorney for probate in Arizona, specifically what the low-end, average, and high costs might be. This cost factor can be so prohibitive that individuals sometimes cannot afford probate, leading to situations where later on, multiple generations of unprobated estates need to be addressed, creating even more complex legal issues.
Elizabeth: Probate attorney fees in Arizona differ, and while some prefer hourly billing due to the unpredictable nature of probate, I often use a mixed fee schedule. For straightforward probates, I typically charge a $2,500 flat fee along with a $1,000 retainer for potential additional services such as life estate deeds, disclaimer deeds, or complex creditor issues, which are discussed with the client beforehand. However, formal probates and trust administrations are usually billed hourly due to the variable levels of client support required, ensuring fair compensation while also assuring clients of potential refunds for unused time. Despite these variables, straightforward probates without significant complications can often be handled affordably.