Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New York

It's hard to say without knowing details about the estate, the kind of assets that are involved, and, most important, whether the proceeding will be contested or uncontested. If the estate is a modest one (in terms of the value of the assets), the proceeding is uncontested (meaning it is not challenged by anyone), the assets are readily capable of liquidation, and there are no complications, I would think that an attorney would probably not need to spend more than about 20 hours of time on the matter. However, any of the variables noted above (as well as a variety of other variables) can change the outlook as to cost.

Some attorneys (myself included) will often agree to wait for their fees until assets are brought into the estate.

Usually 3% of the gross estate plus court costs.

Both answers appear to be correct, but this is difficult to answer, as no one knows exactly how much time will be involved and what obsticles need be overcome. Whule the percentage fee might be correct, many attorneys charge by the hour, not a percentage. A good estimate, without knowing all of the details may be several thousand dollars, plus costs.