Don’t Let Cost Keep You from Creating Your Will and Protecting Your Legacy

Estate planning is an important part of securing your financial future and ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. Many feel reluctant to begin the estate planning process, but wills (and other estate planning documents) secure the legacy a person leaves after they pass.

Throughout the United States, more than half of the population reports that they do not have a will. As expected, this number is even lower in younger adults (18-34), suggesting a need for a crash course on estate planning.

In this guide, we’re going to cover the financial aspect of drafting a will. We’ll explore the cost of a will in Arizona, the factors that influence price, and why hiring an estate planning attorney is an excellent choice. 

How Much Does a Will Cost in Arizona? Average Pricing & Factors

The cost of a will can vary tremendously, depending largely on the contribution of legal staff, the level of experience, and the comprehensiveness of an estate plan.

Self-Drafted Wills

First, PayneLess Law believes that any valid will is better than no will at all. If you die without a Will, the government decides where and to whom your assets go. This process guarantees an expensive and time consuming probate proceeding involving the courts.

We believe it is always better to consult an attorney to assist  you in preparing a will, but Arizona law does allow for self-drafted wills. Specifically, if you handwrite your will and sign it, then you have just created a holographic will that is considered valid in Arizona pursuant to A.R.S. §14-2503 (a will is valid if the signature and the material provisions are in the handwriting of the person making the will).

Attorney-Drafted Wills

Payneless Law believes that every person should have the opportunity to organize their affairs with professional assistance, and this belief underlies our ultra-competitive rates.

In the state of Arizona, the flat fee range for standard estate planning services ranges from $300-$5,000. The range of values includes the time spent on estate planning, the experience of the attorney, and other factors. 

When possible, it’s best to avoid hourly rates. Attorneys can extend the estate planning process, taking advantage of the general public’s lack of knowledge around standard procedure. Flat fees stay the same, no matter how long it takes an attorney to create a complete estate plan. 

Additionally, attorney experience can influence cost, which is why we believe our estate planning services are offered at a superb rate. 

At Payneless Law, with over 30 years of experience, we want to offer top-tier legal services while remaining highly competitive in our pricing.

Estate Planning Packages

Estate planning is so much greater than the will. While a will is an essential part of estate planning, a thorough plan offers protection and flexibility with respect to wills, powers of attorney, and trusts. 

When combined, these elements create a holistic plan that address various aspects of life and legacy, ultimately reducing the risk of future disputes. 

Estate planning packages vary depending on complexity and marital status. For a basic plan, including a will, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, a person can expect to spend $800-$3,000 on average. However, if one or more trusts need to be set up, the cost will increase. 

The Importance of Hiring an Estate Planning Attorney in Arizona

Now that we’ve reviewed all of the options available for estate planning, let’s discuss the importance of hiring an estate planning attorney in Arizona. 

Aspects like experience, executor options, and tax implications show the value of legal assistance during the estate planning process.

Experience

Legal experience is invaluable when it comes to drafting a legally sound, error-free will that accurately reflects the drafter’s wishes. 

An individual may believe that their estate is simple to organize, but the process might be more complicated than anticipated. 

An attorney can handle all of the road bumps that are encountered. 

Executor Options

The executor of a will is responsible for managing the deceased’s estate. This can include verifying that debts are paid, distributing assets according to the instructions on the will, and more. 

This role can be time-consuming and frustrating, so hiring a professional executor or an attorney can offer a neutral view of the estate, as well as circumvent any stress during the process. 

Probate Avoidance Strategies

The presence of a will does not avoid probate, which is a legal process that occurs to validate a will and start the process of distribution of assets, similar to any vetting process.

To minimize or bypass probate-related duties, an attorney can combine a will with other tools, such as revocable living trusts, joint ownership documents, and others to have a seamless transfer process. 

PayneLess Law: Your Affordable Estate Planning Partner in Arizona

The financial aspect of estate planning dissuades people from beginning this important process, so let Payneless Law ease the cost burden. At Payneless Law, we are here to guide you through the estate planning process, and find a financial solution that works for you. 

Contact PayneLess Law at 480-914-4134 or schedule a consultation to learn how to plan for your future in Arizona today. We are ready to help ensure your wishes are honored and your interests are protected while caring for your current financial situation.