Estate FAQs

For estate planning, we use a flat fee, by the document, approach. The flat fee varies, based on the complexity of the document being prepared. For other services, we may offer an hourly rate for services, and there may be a different hourly rate depending on the level and experience of our managing and associate attorneys assigned to your case. After the initial consultation, our Office requires all clients to sign a Fee Agreement with you that spells out exactly how you will be charged for our time, and we review that thoroughly with you before commencing any legal work on your matter.

Generally, we provide a first draft of your estate plan within two to three weeks of engagement, then it is up to you to review and suggest edits. Most estate plans are completed within 30-45 days. However, the Law Office of Patricia E. Tichenor, P.L.L.C. can expedite your estate plan if necessary (rush fees will apply).

Estate Planning involves the determination, during a person’s life, of the disposal of their assets after they die, and the vehicles that ensure legal transfer.

Many people postpone estate planning because they assume death is far off. But you never know when your time is up, so you must plan for the worst-case scenario. By the time they enter their mid-20s, most people have begun to accumulate assets or start families. To truly protect your loved ones and your estate, the Law Office of Patricia E. Tichenor, P.L.L.C. recommends creating your original estate plan at this time. Also, if you have not updated your estate plan in more than five years, we recommend a review.