Understanding Living Trust Attorney Costs

When families sit down at my office to discuss estate planning, one of the first questions they ask is about cost. It's a practical concern, and I'm always transparent about it. Most people can expect to invest between $1,000 and $4,000 for a professionally prepared living trust, though this range shifts based on your unique situation.

Creating a living trust isn't just about having documents—it's about having the right documents that actually accomplish what you need. While those $400 online trust services might seem tempting, they often lack the personalized guidance that ensures your trust works when your family needs it most. I've unfortunately seen too many families find costly mistakes in DIY trusts only when it's too late to fix them.

The attorney fees represent the main investment in your living trust, but here's the perspective that matters: probate can cost your heirs 5-10% of your estate's value. For a modest $500,000 estate, that's $25,000-$50,000 potentially saved by having a proper trust in place. Most attorneys, myself included, structure our services either as comprehensive flat-fee packages or hourly billing ($200-$500 per hour), with most clients preferring the predictability of flat fees.

I'm Marty Burbank, and as an estate planning attorney who's helped hundreds of families steer these waters, I understand the balance between managing living trust attorney costs and ensuring your assets are genuinely protected. My background in tax law and elder care has shown me that cutting corners often costs more in the long run, while thoughtful planning creates both peace of mind and financial savings for the families I serve.

Why a Living Trust Matters Before We Talk Money

Before diving deeper into costs, let's understand why a living trust might be worth your investment. A revocable living trust is a legal arrangement where you (the grantor) place assets into a trust managed by a trustee (often yourself while you're alive) for the benefit of your chosen beneficiaries.

Protection During Life and After

Unlike a will that only springs to life after you're gone, a living trust works hard for you while you're still here. This becomes incredibly valuable if you ever become incapacitated.

Take Jim and Betty's story, for instance. They thought their will had them covered until Alzheimer's entered their lives unexpectedly. Without a trust in place, they faced a costly and stressful conservatorship proceeding. Had they established a living trust with proper incapacity provisions, Jim could have seamlessly managed their affairs without courts getting involved in their private matters.

This isn't a rare scenario. With nursing home costs averaging around $8,000 monthly in California, families without proper planning often face heart-wrenching financial decisions during already emotional times. A properly structured trust creates a safety net that protects both your assets and your dignity.

Avoiding Probate Costs and Delays

Here in California, probate fees can take a substantial bite out of what you've worked so hard to build. These fees are calculated on your estate's gross value—without subtracting mortgages or other debts. On a $600,000 estate (which in today's Orange County housing market might be just a modest condo), probate fees can exceed $26,000.

California's statutory probate fees follow a tiered structure that quickly adds up:

• 4% of the first $100,000

• 3% of the next $100,000

• 2% of the next $800,000

• 1% of the next $9 million

• 0.5% of the next $15 million

Beyond the financial hit, probate typically keeps your loved ones waiting nine months to two years before they can access needed assets. I've seen families struggle to pay mortgages and other expenses while substantial assets sit frozen in probate. A properly funded trust sidesteps this entire process.

Privacy Protection and Control

When your estate goes through probate, it becomes an open book—literally. Court records make your assets, debts, and beneficiaries available to anyone curious enough to look. Want your neighbor knowing exactly what you left to each child? Probably not.

Living trust attorney costs might seem significant upfront, but they purchase priceless privacy protection for your family.

California does offer a small estate exemption for estates valued under $184,500, allowing simplified procedures. But let's be realistic—with today's real estate values, many California estates exceed this amount with just a primary residence. Even a modest home in Orange County often pushes estates well beyond this threshold.

As research from Investopedia confirms, "A revocable living trust can help avoid the public, costly, and time-consuming court procedures of probate... and maintain privacy in the settlement of your estate."

When we talk about living trust attorney cost, we're really discussing an investment that protects your privacy, saves substantial money in probate fees, provides for your care if you become incapacitated, and gives your loved ones immediate access to needed resources. That context matters deeply before we start talking dollars and cents.

Living Trust Attorney Cost: The Real Numbers

Now that we understand the value, let's break down what you can expect to pay for a living trust in Southern California.

Basic "Set-It-Up" Pricing & What You Get

For a basic living trust package in Orange County, expect to pay between $1,000-$2,000 for a single person and $1,200-$2,600 for a married couple. These aren't just arbitrary numbers—they reflect the comprehensive work needed to protect your legacy properly.

A standard living trust package typically includes several essential documents working together as a complete system. You'll receive the revocable living trust document itself, a pour-over will (which captures any assets you might miss transferring to your trust), durable power of attorney for financial matters, advance healthcare directive, and HIPAA authorization. Many attorneys, including our team at OC Elder Law, will also include one property deed transfer in the basic package.

"We typically include all necessary powers of attorney and healthcare directives at no additional cost," I often explain to clients. "These documents work together as a system, and separating them often leaves dangerous gaps in protection."

You might encounter some additional small fees along the way. Notary services might be included or charged separately ($15-$50), and recording fees for deeds vary by county (approximately $50-$150 per property in Southern California). We've found many clients are surprised by what some firms charge extra for these essential documents that should be part of any complete plan.

Complex & High-Net-Worth Pricing—When Costs Jump

Life isn't always simple, and neither are some family situations. Certain circumstances justify higher fees due to the additional expertise and time required:

Blended families with children from prior marriages typically range from $2,900-$3,500 because these situations require special provisions to ensure everyone is protected fairly. High-net-worth estates between $6-10 million generally fall in the $3,500-$5,000+ range, while very high-net-worth estates over $10 million start around $3,900 and go up from there.

These higher fees reflect the complexity of handling multiple properties across different counties or states, business interests requiring special succession planning, or creating special needs trusts for dependent beneficiaries. Tax planning strategies for larger estates and asset protection provisions also require more sophisticated approaches.

I recently worked with a family with a special needs child, creating provisions ensuring their inheritance wouldn't disqualify them from essential government benefits. These specialized trusts require deeper expertise and customization—but the peace of mind they bring is immeasurable.

Hourly vs Flat Fee: Which Lowers Your Living Trust Attorney Cost?

When it comes to billing, most estate planning attorneys offer two models, each with its own advantages:

With a flat fee arrangement, you'll enjoy predictable total costs. This typically covers document preparation and a set number of revisions, though there may be limitations on complexity or consultation time. This approach eliminates the stress of watching the clock during our meetings and encourages you to ask important questions without worrying about additional charges.

Under an hourly rate structure (ranging from $200-$500 per hour in Southern California), your total cost depends on complexity and efficiency. This approach often works better for unusual situations requiring extensive customization.

As one attorney I know puts it: "Our fees are low because we don't require a lot of your time. We can communicate with you via phone calls and emails and are efficient with your time."

At OC Elder Law, we prefer transparent flat-fee arrangements for most clients. This approach feels more comfortable for families already navigating emotional decisions about their legacy, allowing us to focus on getting your plan right rather than watching the clock.

Six Drivers That Push Your Bill Up or Down

Understanding what impacts your living trust attorney cost helps you make informed decisions and potentially reduce unnecessary expenses.

1. Estate Size and Complexity

The more assets you have, the more work your attorney needs to do. It's like the difference between packing a weekend bag versus organizing a cross-country move. A simple estate with just a home and retirement accounts might be straightforward, but add rental properties, business interests, and diverse investments, and suddenly your attorney needs more time to ensure everything is properly protected.

"We often see clients surprised that their 'simple' estate isn't so simple after all," says Marty Burbank. "Once we start listing all their assets, they realize there's more to organize than they initially thought."

2. Asset Types

Not all assets are created equal when it comes to trust planning. Your attorney will spend considerably more time dealing with certain complex assets. Business interests like LLCs or corporations require special handling to ensure proper succession planning. Multiple properties, especially those in different states, need separate deed work and consideration of different state laws. Oil, gas, or mineral rights come with their own special documentation requirements.

I recently worked with a client who owned intellectual property rights that generated ongoing royalties. This required specialized provisions to ensure those income streams were properly managed and distributed after their passing – something a basic trust simply wouldn't address.

3. Geographic Location

Location matters tremendously in living trust attorney cost. Think of it like real estate itself – prices vary widely based on where you live! Here in Southern California, and particularly Orange County, rates typically run higher than the national average. This reflects our region's higher cost of living and property values.

A trust that might cost $1,000-$3,000 in Orange County could be $800-$2,500 in less expensive regions. This isn't about getting "the same thing cheaper" elsewhere – it reflects the different economic realities of various markets and the complexity of local property values.

4. Attorney Experience and Specialization

Just as you'd expect to pay more for a seasoned chef than a culinary student, experienced estate planning attorneys command higher rates – but often deliver greater value. A junior attorney might charge $200 per hour, while a specialist with decades of experience might charge $400-$500 hourly.

The premium pays for expertise that can actually save you money in the long run. More experienced attorneys typically make fewer mistakes requiring correction, provide more comprehensive planning, work more efficiently, and offer better tax planning strategies that can save your heirs thousands.

As one client told me, "I paid more for an experienced attorney, but they spotted three tax issues my previous advisor had missed completely. That saved me ten times what I paid in fees."

5. Funding Effort

Creating your trust document is only half the battle – you must also "fund" it by transferring assets into the trust. This crucial step is where many DIY trusts fail completely. Proper funding involves preparing and recording new deeds for real estate, changing beneficiary designations, retitling financial accounts, and transferring business interests.

Some attorneys include basic funding in their flat fee, while others charge separately. Typical costs include deed preparation ($150-$350 per property), recording fees ($50-$150 per county), and asset transfer assistance (often billed hourly). At OC Elder Law, we're transparent about which funding services are included in your package and which might incur additional fees.

6. Urgency and Timeline

Rush jobs almost always cost more, whether you're talking about dry cleaning or legal documents. Planning ahead allows for standard processing times and avoids premium fees for expedited service. I've seen living trust attorney costs increase by 25-50% when clients need everything completed within a week or two.

"I understand emergencies happen," notes Marty, "but whenever possible, giving your attorney adequate time leads to better results at lower costs. Estate planning shouldn't be rushed unless absolutely necessary."

Understanding these six factors helps you have more productive conversations with potential attorneys and better manage your expectations about costs. While price matters, the protection a properly crafted trust provides your family is invaluable.

Beyond Drafting: Hidden & Ongoing Expenses You Should Budget For

When planning your estate, it's easy to focus solely on the upfront living trust attorney cost. But creating your trust is just the first step in your estate planning journey. Let's talk about those additional expenses that often catch folks by surprise down the road.

Asset Transfer Fees

After your trust documents are signed, you'll need to actually move your assets into the trust—a process called "funding" that comes with its own price tag.

For your home and other properties, expect to pay around $290-$350 per property for deed preparation and recording. I remember one client who owned three rental properties in different counties and was surprised by the additional $900 in transfer fees. These aren't optional costs—an unfunded trust is like having a beautiful safe with nothing inside it.

Transferring vehicles into your trust will involve DMV fees that vary based on your state and the value of your vehicles. The good news is that financial accounts typically don't have transfer fees, though they do require paperwork and time to process.

Trust Administration and Maintenance

Your trust isn't a "set it and forget it" document. Life changes, laws change, and your trust needs to keep pace.

Annual reviews with your attorney typically cost between $500-$1,500, but they're worth every penny. These check-ups ensure your trust still reflects your wishes and complies with current laws. Think of it like preventive healthcare for your estate plan.

When life events happen—a new grandchild, a divorce, or purchasing significant assets—you'll need amendments to your trust. Minor changes usually run $250-$500. For major life overhauls, a restatement (essentially rewriting large portions of your trust) costs between $1,000-$2,000, which is still more economical than starting from scratch.

"Many clients don't realize that a trust is a living document that should evolve as your life changes," explains Marty Burbank. "Regular maintenance ensures your trust continues to serve its purpose as tax laws change and family circumstances evolve."

Trustee Fees

If you've named a professional to serve as your trustee after your passing or incapacity, their services come with ongoing costs:

Individual professional trustees typically charge 1-1.5% of trust assets annually. For a $500,000 estate, that's $5,000-$7,500 per year. Corporate trustees (banks and trust companies) generally charge higher rates of 1.5-2.5% annually.

These fees reflect the significant responsibility of managing, investing, and distributing your assets according to your wishes. While family members often serve as trustees without compensation, professional trustees bring expertise that can be invaluable for complex estates or when family dynamics are complicated.

The peace of mind that comes from knowing your affairs will be properly handled is worth budgeting for these ongoing expenses. After all, the real value of a well-maintained trust isn't just measured in dollars saved but in the security and clarity it provides your loved ones.

For a more detailed breakdown of what happens after your trust is established, visit our comprehensive guide on trust administration costs.

Attorney vs DIY vs Hybrid Services: What Really Saves Money?

When considering your options, it's important to understand the true costs and benefits of each approach.

DIY and Online Services

Those tempting online trust kits might advertise prices as low as $249, but don't be fooled. The real cost typically lands between $400-$1,000 once you add everything you actually need.

I met with a client last month who showed me his "bargain" online trust package. What started as a $249 base price quickly ballooned to over $900 when he added the essential power of attorney documents ($150), deed preparation ($350), and notarization services ($150). The advertised price was just the tip of the iceberg.

Even more concerning than the hidden costs is the substantial risk you take. Most online services include disclaimers admitting "their services are no substitute for a real lawyer." Without proper legal review, your DIY trust might:

• Fail to meet California's specific legal requirements

• Contain provisions that don't actually achieve your goals

• Miss valuable tax-saving opportunities

• Remain unfunded (making it essentially worthless)

As one client told me after attempting the DIY route: "I thought I was saving money until I realized I'd created a beautiful document that didn't actually protect anything I owned."

Hybrid Services

For those seeking middle ground, hybrid services offer documents prepared by paralegals under attorney supervision at lower costs. These typically save you 30-50% compared to traditional attorney fees.

These services work well for straightforward situations—perhaps a single person with minimal assets or a married couple with a simple estate plan. However, they often lack the personalized attention needed when dealing with blended families, business interests, or special needs planning.

One client aptly described her hybrid service experience: "It was fine for the basics, but when I asked about my rental property in Arizona, they just handed me a generic information sheet."

Attorney Services

Yes, attorney-drafted trusts cost more upfront. I won't sugarcoat that fact. But the living trust attorney cost often saves substantial money in the long run by:

• Avoiding probate fees (which typically run 5-10% of your estate's value)

• Minimizing estate and income taxes through strategic planning

• Preventing costly litigation due to document ambiguities

• Including proper incapacity planning custom to your situation

• Ensuring your trust is properly funded—the step most DIY trusts miss

There's also the peace of mind that comes from having malpractice coverage. If an attorney makes a mistake that costs your family money, you have recourse. With DIY solutions, you're entirely on your own.

The Real Cost Comparison

Let's look at a practical example for a $600,000 estate in California:

Even a small mistake in a DIY trust that results in partial probate can cost your family far more than professional assistance would have. I've seen families spend tens of thousands in probate fees to save a couple thousand on proper planning—a painful lesson learned too late.

For small estates under California's $184,500 threshold, simplified probate procedures may be available, as noted in research on small estates. However, with today's real estate values, most California homeowners exceed this limit with just their primary residence.

At OC Elder Law, we believe in providing value that exceeds our fees. Our approach ensures your trust accomplishes your specific goals while avoiding costly pitfalls. As one client recently told me, "It wasn't just about the documents—it was about finally understanding what we needed and why."

7 Proven Ways to Reduce Your Living Trust Attorney Cost

While quality legal work is an investment in your family's future, there are smart ways to manage your living trust attorney cost without sacrificing protection. At OC Elder Law, we believe in transparency about fees and helping clients find the best value.

1. Prepare Your Asset List in Advance

One of the most effective ways to reduce your living trust attorney cost is coming prepared to your first meeting. I've seen clients save hundreds in billable hours simply by organizing their information beforehand.

Bring a complete inventory of what you own: your home and any other real estate (with addresses and approximate values), bank accounts, investment portfolios, retirement funds, business interests, and any valuable personal property. Even rough estimates help us work more efficiently. This simple step can easily save 1-2 hours of attorney time, which translates to $200-$1,000 in savings.

2. Choose a Flat-Fee Arrangement

When discussing payment options with your attorney, consider pushing for a transparent flat fee rather than hourly billing. This approach eliminates the stress of watching the clock during consultations and prevents unexpected charges.

"I prefer offering flat fees to my clients," says Marty Burbank. "It creates a more relaxed atmosphere where clients feel comfortable asking important questions without worrying about the meter running."

3. Bundle Estate Planning Documents

Most attorneys, including our team at OC Elder Law, offer package discounts when you create multiple documents at once. Creating your trust alongside your pour-over will, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives as a bundle typically costs less than purchasing each document separately.

These documents work together as a system, and creating them simultaneously ensures they complement each other perfectly while saving you money.

4. Schedule Virtual Meetings

The pandemic normalized virtual consultations, and many attorneys now offer this option permanently—often at discounted rates. Virtual meetings save travel time and office overhead, which thoughtful attorneys pass along as savings.

As one attorney we work with noted, "We can communicate with you via phone calls and emails and are efficient with your time." This approach works particularly well for straightforward cases and review sessions.

5. Fund the Trust Yourself (Selectively)

Trust funding—transferring assets into your trust—is crucial but can be costly if your attorney handles everything. While some funding steps require legal expertise (like real estate transfers), you can often handle simpler tasks yourself.

Consider taking your trust document to your bank to retitle accounts, updating beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, or contacting investment firms with your trust information. Just be sure to discuss with your attorney which transfers you can safely handle and which require professional assistance.

6. Shop Multiple Quotes

Getting proposals from 2-3 reputable attorneys allows you to compare services and fees. However, be careful to compare apples to apples. One quote might seem lower but exclude crucial services like deed transfers or powers of attorney that another includes.

At OC Elder Law, we encourage potential clients to ask detailed questions about what's included in our flat-fee packages. We're confident our comprehensive approach offers excellent value when all factors are considered.

7. Opt for Annual Reviews Instead of Ad-Hoc Updates

Consider enrolling in a maintenance plan that includes regular reviews rather than making emergency amendments when life changes occur. These plans typically cost less in the long run and ensure your trust stays updated with changing laws and family circumstances.

Many clients don't realize that a living trust isn't a "set it and forget it" document. Regular maintenance ensures it continues serving its purpose as tax laws change and family situations evolve.

The goal isn't finding the cheapest option but the best value. A well-crafted trust from an experienced attorney might cost more upfront but can save your family thousands in probate costs and headaches down the road. At OC Elder Law, we're committed to providing that value while keeping our services as affordable as possible for Orange County families.

Questions to Ask Before You Hire a Trust Lawyer

Finding the right attorney for your living trust isn't just about comparing prices—it's about finding someone who understands your unique situation and provides real value. Before signing any agreement, have a heart-to-heart conversation with potential attorneys using these important questions.

About Experience and Expertise

Start by understanding who you'll be working with. An attorney who creates trusts day in and day out will likely be more efficient than someone who only occasionally handles estate planning.

"How many living trusts have you created in the past year?" This simple question reveals volumes about an attorney's focus and experience. At OC Elder Law, we've helped hundreds of families create personalized trusts, giving us insights into common pitfalls and solutions.

Ask about the percentage of their practice dedicated to estate planning. Some attorneys are generalists who handle everything from divorce to personal injury, while others (like our team) specialize in estate and elder law. Specialists often provide more targeted advice for the same fee.

If you have specific concerns—perhaps a blended family or a child with special needs—directly ask: "Are you familiar with handling special needs provisions in trusts?" Their answer will quickly reveal whether they have the specialized knowledge your situation requires.

About Fees and Services

Understanding the living trust attorney cost structure helps avoid surprise bills. Ask directly: "Do you charge a flat fee or hourly rate for living trusts?" Flat fees provide certainty, while hourly rates might be better for unusual situations.

"What exactly is included in your quoted fee?" Some attorneys quote a seemingly low price but then charge extra for "add-ons" that most people need. At OC Elder Law, we believe in transparent pricing that includes essential documents like powers of attorney and healthcare directives.

Property deed transfers often trip people up. Ask: "Are deed transfers included? If so, how many?" Some attorneys include one deed transfer but charge extra for additional properties. Others might not include any transfers, leaving you with an unfunded trust.

Changes happen in life, so understand the costs upfront: "What happens if I need changes after signing? What will that cost?" Some firms offer free minor amendments within the first year, while others charge for any change, no matter how small.

About Process and Timeline

Life is busy, and knowing the timeline helps you plan accordingly. Ask about their typical process from first meeting to completed documents. Most quality trusts take 2-8 weeks to complete, with several drafts and review sessions.

The funding process—transferring assets into your trust—is where many trusts fail. Ask how they handle this crucial step and what support they provide. Some attorneys simply hand you instructions, while others (like us) provide hands-on guidance to ensure your trust actually works when needed.

Understanding who you'll work with day-to-day matters too. Will you speak directly with the attorney, or will paralegals handle most communication? Neither approach is wrong, but you should know what to expect.

About Support and Updates

Estate planning isn't a one-and-done transaction—it's an ongoing relationship. Ask whether they offer annual reviews and what they cost. These check-ins ensure your plan stays current as laws and life circumstances change.

"How do you notify clients about relevant law changes?" Some firms send newsletters or emails about important updates, while others expect clients to reach out when they have questions.

Finally, consider continuity: "What happens if you retire or leave practice?" Established firms typically have succession plans to ensure client files transfer seamlessly to another qualified attorney.

For a deeper dive into what estate planning should cost and what you should expect to receive, visit our comprehensive estate planning cost guide.

At OC Elder Law, we welcome these questions. In fact, we encourage them! The more informed you are about the living trust attorney cost and process, the more confident you'll feel about your estate plan. After all, this isn't just paperwork—it's protection for everything you've worked for and everyone you love.

Frequently Asked Questions about Living Trust Attorney Cost

How long does an attorney-prepared living trust take?

Creating a living trust isn't something that happens overnight, but the peace of mind is worth the wait. Most attorney-prepared trusts take about 2-8 weeks from start to finish, following a predictable pattern:

First comes your initial consultation, typically lasting 1-2 hours. This is where we get to know you and your family's unique situation. Then there's the document preparation phase, which usually takes 1-3 weeks as your attorney crafts documents custom to your specific needs.

Once drafted, you'll have 1-2 weeks to review everything and request any changes. After that, we'll schedule a signing appointment (about an hour) where everything gets notarized and made official.

The final phase—and one that's absolutely crucial—is funding your trust, which can take 2-6 weeks as assets are transferred into the trust's name.

"At OC Elder Law, we prioritize thoroughness over speed," explains Marty Burbank. "A trust that's rushed but improperly funded or missing key provisions won't serve your family when they need it most."

While rush services are available if you're in a hurry, they typically come with additional fees. This is one area where cutting corners to save time might cost your family later.

Is paying an attorney worth it if I have a "simple" estate?

I hear this question often, and I understand the hesitation. When you're looking at living trust attorney costs and thinking "my situation is straightforward," it's tempting to go the DIY route.

But here's what I've learned after years in estate planning: what seems simple rarely is. That "simple" family home might have complex title issues. Blended families create inherent conflicts that need careful navigation. If you have minor beneficiaries, special provisions are necessary. Retirement accounts have their own set of rules for trust designation. Even small businesses need thoughtful succession planning.

One client recently told me, "I just have a house and some savings accounts—nothing complicated." During our conversation, we finded potential tax issues that would have cost her children tens of thousands of dollars had they gone unaddressed.

Even for truly straightforward estates, working with an attorney provides:

• Confidence that everything is done correctly

• Clear instructions for funding your trust

• Answers to questions you didn't know you needed to ask

• Support for your successor trustee when they step into that role

The modest investment in professional guidance often saves families significant money, stress, and potential conflict down the road.

Can I switch attorneys later without paying twice?

Absolutely! Your trust documents belong to you, not your attorney. If you ever need to switch legal representation, you can take your documents to any attorney you choose.

That said, there are some practical considerations. Your new attorney will need to review your existing documents to understand what you have in place, which will incur some cost. However, most attorneys (including us at OC Elder Law) charge reduced fees for reviewing and updating existing trusts compared to creating new ones from scratch.

Making amendments to an existing trust is typically much less expensive than starting over with entirely new documents. It's like renovating a room in your house instead of rebuilding the whole structure.

If you do decide to switch attorneys, be sure to request:

Original documents or certified copies - These have legal weight that photocopies don't.

Electronic copies of all documents - Having digital backups provides extra security.

Notes about unique provisions - Understanding why certain unusual provisions were included helps your new attorney maintain your original intent.

Many of our clients have come to us after working with other attorneys, and we've been able to build on their existing foundation rather than starting over—saving them both time and money while improving their estate plan.

Conclusion

Creating a living trust is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your legacy and provide for your loved ones. While living trust attorney costs vary based on your situation and location, the investment typically pays for itself many times over by avoiding probate, minimizing taxes, and preventing family conflict.

At OC Elder Law, we believe that protecting your family's future shouldn't break the bank. That's why we offer transparent, flat-fee pricing for most estate planning services. We've seen how families breathe easier knowing their affairs are properly organized—it's about more than documents; it's about peace of mind.

When clients come to our Fullerton office, they often express concern about costs. What they find is that our compassionate approach focuses on creating plans that work for their unique family situation while keeping expenses reasonable. As Marty often tells clients, "The most expensive estate plan is the one that doesn't work when your family needs it."

The true value of a living trust isn't measured by its upfront cost, but by the protection it provides down the road. A properly drafted and funded trust typically saves your heirs the 5-10% of your estate that would otherwise disappear into probate costs—for many families, that's tens of thousands of dollars staying where it belongs: with your loved ones.

We'd love to sit down with you to discuss your specific needs and give you a clear picture of what your living trust will cost. No surprises, no hidden fees—just straightforward guidance from people who genuinely care about your family's future. Our experienced team serves clients throughout Orange County, providing a steady hand through every step of the estate planning process.

To learn more about our comprehensive estate planning services, visit our estate planning page or call us today to schedule your consultation.

The relief that comes from knowing your affairs are in order and your loved ones are protected is truly priceless. Let us help you achieve that feeling with a properly prepared living trust—because your family deserves nothing less than a seamless transition during life's most challenging moments.