Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New York
Attorney Probate Fees
For New York, specifically Ostego County, NY: What is a fair flat attorney fee for an estate between $200K-500K? What is the range of possible fees charged in this area? My understanding is that there is set standard, only what the Surrogate Court deems ''reasonable.'' I have seen a literal flat fee (one percentange) & I have seen a sliding scale percentage.
Thank you.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Attorney Probate Fees
We don't have a fee schedule in New York; it's prohibited.
Size doesn't always count in setting the fee; complexity and nature of assets is taken into consideration.
Generally the starting point is an executors commission which is set by statute.
From there you can negotiate either a flat rate or one based on time.
One bit of advice; be careful of a low baller.
Re: Attorney Probate Fees
Five to seven % plus court fees is not unusual. The complexity of the probate must be considered.
Good luck.