How much does a lawyer charge to do a basic will and trust? -

I don t really have an estate, but I have a house car, savings, and 401k I would like to protect if something were to happen to me. I know who I want to be the executor of my estate. Should I use will software or will and attorney do it for a reasonable price?

It sounds like it should be relatively straightforward, so you may want to see about software. But, one thing you haven t addressed is if you have children, who will be their custodian if they are minors if you and your wife have passed. (Don t know if you are married or have children). My husband and I used a lawyer because we were unfamiliar with the specifics of estate law in NY. We had a very reputable firm do our will and livings wills for $650. I think there is alot to be said for having an actual practitioner advise you through the process, but the cost may run the gamut.

My bank did my trust for $150. It was a local bank. Check with yours. You can also do a simple will. You can buy business document software at most stores (Target, Walmart) for around $10 that will give you a will outline. Fill it out, print it, take to a notary public and get it notarized. Remember, your will can be written on toilet paper and, as long as it s notarized, it s legal.