How Much Does an Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?

By Jay S. Yu, Esq., Yu & Yu Law, Fullerton, California · Last reviewed October 2026

At Yu & Yu Law, a complete estate plan starts at $2,500 for an individual and $3,000 for a married couple, as a flat fee quoted in writing before any work begins. Larger or more complex estates are quoted at the free design session.

Let’s be honest: no one wants to think about estate planning. But if you’re reading this, you’re probably trying to do the responsible thing: protect your family and your assets, and make sure things are handled the right way when the time comes.

One of the most common questions I get at Yu & Yu Law is: “How much is this going to cost me?” Here is the plain-English answer, and what you’re really paying for.

What Does an Estate Planning Fee Pay For?

Estate planning isn’t just about creating a will. It’s about building a plan that reflects your wishes, protects your loved ones, and avoids unnecessary headaches like probate, taxes, or family drama. A complete plan typically includes:

• A living trust

• A pour-over will

• A durable power of attorney for finances

• An advance healthcare directive

• Guardian nominations for minor children

• Trust funding guidance

How Much Does a Complete Estate Plan Cost at Yu & Yu Law?

I offer one complete plan at a flat fee: the Complete Estate Plan, starting at $2,500 for an individual and $3,000 for a married couple. Your fee is quoted in writing before any work begins. The Complete Estate Plan includes:

• Revocable living trust

• Pour-over will

• Durable power of attorney

• Advance healthcare directive

• The trust deed for your home, if you own real estate

• Funding guidance for your accounts

• Calls and emails with me while we prepare your plan

• A free design session

Business owners, families with multiple properties, and estates that need tax planning are quoted individually at the design session, also before any work begins. Help beyond the plan itself, such as hands-on trust funding or more involved matters, is handled separately, and I will always discuss it with you before that work starts. See the full details on my pricing page.

What Can Move a Plan Into a Custom Quote?

Most families fit the Complete Estate Plan. A few things can call for a larger plan:

• Complexity: business interests, several properties, or property in more than one state

• Family structure: blended families or a beneficiary with special needs may require extra planning

• Goals: estate tax planning or protecting heirs from mismanaging an inheritance may need more layers

Is an Estate Plan Worth the Cost?

It’s tempting to go the DIY route or download a cheap will online. But I’ve seen the fallout from bad planning: family fights, long delays in probate, unexpected taxes, and even assets ending up with the wrong people.

A well-crafted estate plan gives you peace of mind. You’ll know your wishes will be honored and your family won’t be left with a legal mess. Read my post “Do I Need an Estate Plan.”

How Do I Get a Quote?

Your flat fee is confirmed at a free design session, before any work begins. No pressure, just real answers.

See pricing / Schedule your free design session

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently and there is no guarantee that the information in this article will be applicable or correct when you read this. You should consult with an attorney to discuss your specific situation. This article discusses California law; Jay S. Yu is licensed to practice in California.