Finding an Affordable Probate Attorney in Arkansas

There’s a common myth that probate is always incredibly expensive, stopping many families from seeking the help they need. The truth is, while there are costs, they are often more manageable than you expect. A crucial fact to know is that these fees are typically paid from the estate’s assets, not your own pocket. This guide is here to give you a clear, honest look at the real costs involved in settling an estate. We’ll explain the fee structure and provide practical steps for finding an affordable probate attorney in Arkansas to make the process smoother.

Key Takeaways

Probate Costs Are Paid by the Estate, Not You: In Arkansas, attorney fees are typically based on a statutory percentage of the estate’s value and are paid directly from its assets. This means you shouldn’t have to worry about paying legal bills out of your own pocket.
Organization Is Your Best Cost-Saving Tool: The most effective way to lower probate expenses is to be prepared. By gathering documents, creating a list of assets and debts, and communicating efficiently, you reduce your attorney’s billable hours and preserve more of the inheritance for the beneficiaries.
The Right Attorney Is an Investment in Peace of Mind: Look beyond the price tag when choosing legal help. An experienced probate attorney who communicates clearly and is transparent about fees will prevent costly mistakes and family disputes, saving you stress and money in the long run.

How Much Does a Probate Attorney Cost in Arkansas?

One of the first questions that comes to mind when facing probate is, “How much is this going to cost?” It’s a valid concern, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of losing a loved one. The good news is that attorney fees in Arkansas are more predictable than you might think. They aren’t just random numbers pulled out of a hat; they follow a specific structure set by the state, which means you can get a clear idea of the costs before you even begin.

Understanding how these fees work is the first step toward feeling more in control of the probate process. Instead of worrying about surprise bills or hourly rates that spiral out of control, you can focus on what matters most—honoring your loved one’s wishes and supporting your family. In this section, we’ll walk through exactly how attorneys charge for probate in Arkansas, what the average costs look like, and some common myths that can cause unnecessary anxiety. We’ll also cover other potential expenses to watch out for and, most importantly, how these costs are actually paid. It’s all about giving you the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.

How Attorneys Charge for Probate

In Arkansas, probate attorneys typically charge for their services on a percentage basis. This means their fee is directly tied to the total value of the estate’s assets. This approach is standardized across the state, which helps create a level of consistency no matter which attorney you choose. Instead of billing by the hour, which can be unpredictable and stressful, this structure connects the attorney’s fee to the amount of work and responsibility involved in managing the estate. It’s a straightforward system designed to be fair to both the attorney and the beneficiaries of the estate, giving you a clear financial picture from the start.

What’s the Average Cost?

So, what does that percentage look like in practice? Arkansas law sets a specific, tiered schedule for attorney fees in probate cases. It’s a sliding scale that decreases as the estate’s value increases, which is helpful for larger estates.

Here’s the general breakdown:

5% on the first $5,000
4% on the next $20,000
3% on the next $75,000
2.75% on the next $300,000
2.5% on the next $600,000
2% on any value above that amount

This statutory fee schedule provides a clear roadmap for the costs. While every estate is different, knowing these numbers can give you a solid estimate of the legal fees you can anticipate.

Common Myths About Probate Fees

A common myth that stops people from seeking help is the belief that hiring a probate lawyer is simply too expensive. While there is a cost involved, it’s often more manageable than you might think, especially when you consider the alternative. Trying to handle probate on your own can lead to costly mistakes, missed deadlines, and family disputes that drag the process out for months or even years. An experienced attorney prevents these issues, saving the estate money and time in the long run. You can find more answers to common questions in our probate FAQ to help clear up any other concerns.

Watch Out for Hidden Costs

While the attorney’s fee is the main expense, it’s not the only one. The probate process involves several other costs that you should be aware of so you can budget accordingly. These can include court filing fees, the cost of publishing legal notices in the newspaper, and fees for professional services like accountants or real estate appraisers. A good attorney will be upfront about these potential expenses from the very beginning. Our estate solutions are designed to help you manage these moving parts, ensuring there are no surprises and that every cost is properly handled throughout the process.

When and How You’ll Pay

Here’s a piece of information that brings a lot of relief: you typically don’t pay probate costs out of your own pocket. In most Arkansas probate cases, all the associated fees, including the attorney’s compensation, are paid directly from the estate’s assets. This means the funds are taken from the deceased person’s bank accounts or from the proceeds of selling estate property before anything is distributed to the heirs. You shouldn’t have to worry about coming up with cash upfront to hire the legal help you need. The estate settles its own expenses, which simplifies the financial burden on you and your family.

What Factors Influence Probate Costs?

When you start looking into probate, one of the first questions you’ll likely have is, “How much is this going to cost?” The truth is, there’s no single price tag. The total cost of probate in Arkansas depends on a handful of key factors, which is why one estate might settle for a few thousand dollars while another requires significantly more. Understanding what drives these costs can help you prepare financially and know what to expect as you move forward. From the value of the assets to the time it takes to settle everything, each element plays a role in the final bill.

The Estate’s Size and Complexity

The bigger and more complicated an estate is, the more it generally costs to probate. Think of it this way: an estate with a single bank account and a paid-off car is much simpler to process than one with multiple real estate holdings, business interests, and a diverse investment portfolio. In Arkansas, attorney fees are often tied to the estate’s overall value. A more valuable estate usually means more work for the attorney to inventory assets, handle potential tax issues, and manage distributions. Our team specializes in handling complex estate solutions, especially those involving real estate, to help streamline this process.

How Much Time is Required

Time is money, and that’s especially true in probate. The more hours your attorney needs to dedicate to your case, the higher the fees will be. An estate’s complexity is a major factor here, but other issues can also extend the timeline. For example, if beneficiaries are disputing the will, or if it’s difficult to track down all the deceased person’s assets and debts, the process will take longer. A smooth, uncontested probate will always be more affordable than one filled with conflict and complications. Getting organized from the start can help your attorney work more efficiently, saving both time and money.

Where the Property is Located

You might be surprised to learn that the location of the property can influence probate costs. Each county in Arkansas can have slightly different court fees and local rules, which can affect the total expense. The situation gets more complex if the deceased owned property in another state. This often requires a separate probate process in that state, known as ancillary probate, which adds another layer of legal proceedings and costs. Having an expert who understands the nuances of Arkansas real estate law is crucial for managing these location-specific challenges effectively and keeping costs from spiraling.

Court and Filing Fees

Your attorney’s bill isn’t the only expense you’ll encounter. The probate process itself comes with administrative costs paid directly to the court. These are standard fees required to move the case through the legal system. Common court and filing fees include the initial cost to file the probate petition, fees for issuing legal notices to creditors in a local newspaper, and charges for certified copies of court documents. While these individual fees might seem small, they can add up. The good news is that these costs, along with attorney fees, are typically paid directly from the estate’s assets, not out of your own pocket.

Fees for Other Professionals

Sometimes, an attorney is just one piece of the puzzle. Depending on the estate’s assets, you may need to hire other experts to help settle everything properly. For instance, you might need a certified appraiser to determine the value of a home, antiques, or other valuable property. If the estate has complicated financial or tax issues, you may need to bring in an accountant. These professional fees are also considered administrative expenses and are paid by the estate. Our free concierge service can connect you with a network of trusted professionals, from real estate agents to appraisers, ensuring you have the right team in place.

What Am I Paying For? Services Included in Probate Fees

When you see the potential cost of probate, it’s natural to wonder what exactly you’re paying for. It’s not just for an attorney’s time; it’s for their expertise in handling a detailed legal process from start to finish. Think of it as hiring a project manager for the estate. They take on the complex tasks, handle the court system, and work to ensure every detail is handled correctly, which can be a huge relief during a stressful time. An attorney’s fee covers a wide range of essential services that are required to legally settle an estate in Arkansas, protecting you from liability and making sure everything is done by the book.

This fee isn’t just one single item. It’s a bundle of services designed to move the estate from its opening stages to its final closing. These services include everything from filing the initial petition with the court to making sure the final heir gets their inheritance. Your attorney will manage court filings, oversee the estate’s finances, communicate with family members, and resolve any issues that come up along the way. Understanding what these services are can help you see the value in hiring a professional and give you peace of mind that the process is in capable hands.

Filing Legal Documents

One of the most important services you’re paying for is the correct preparation and filing of all necessary legal paperwork. The probate process involves many formal legal steps, from the initial petition to open the estate to the final documents that close it. Your attorney will draft these documents, ensure they meet all of Arkansas’s specific requirements, and file them with the correct court within strict deadlines. This includes notifying creditors, getting court approval for certain actions, and creating a formal record of every transaction. This meticulous work is crucial because it protects you from legal issues down the line and keeps the process moving forward smoothly.

Managing the Estate

A huge part of your attorney’s job is the day-to-day management of the estate’s assets and responsibilities. This is where their organizational skills really shine. They are responsible for creating a complete inventory of all assets—from bank accounts and investments to personal property and real estate—and getting them professionally appraised to determine their value. For many families, dealing with property is the most daunting part. Our team offers comprehensive estate solutions to help manage, sell, or distribute real estate, taking a significant weight off your shoulders and ensuring you get the best possible outcome for the property.

Distributing Assets to Heirs

The ultimate goal of probate is to transfer the deceased’s property to the rightful heirs and beneficiaries. Your attorney oversees this entire process to make sure it’s done legally and fairly. They will interpret the will’s instructions or, if there is no will, follow Arkansas succession laws to identify the correct beneficiaries. They handle the legal transfer of titles for vehicles and real estate and ensure that each person receives their designated inheritance. This formal process provides a clear and legally-binding conclusion, preventing future disputes among family members and giving everyone closure.

Settling Debts and Taxes

Before any assets can be distributed to heirs, all of the estate’s debts and taxes must be paid. An attorney manages this critical step by identifying all outstanding debts, from credit card bills to mortgages, and notifying creditors as required by law. They will verify the legitimacy of each claim and pay them using the estate’s funds. They also handle filing the deceased’s final income tax returns and any necessary estate tax returns. This service is vital because it ensures all financial obligations are met and protects beneficiaries from being held liable for unpaid debts in the future.

Communicating with Beneficiaries

During an emotional time, clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and reduce family conflict. A probate attorney often acts as the central point of contact for all beneficiaries, providing regular updates on the estate’s progress and answering questions in plain language. Having a neutral, professional third party manage these communications ensures everyone stays informed and helps manage expectations. An attorney can also help locate heirs who may be difficult to find. If you’re looking for legal counsel, our attorney information page can point you toward professionals who excel at keeping families in the loop throughout the process.

Where to Find Affordable Legal Help in Arkansas

Finding the right legal support for probate can feel like a huge hurdle, especially when you’re worried about the cost. The good news is that you have options. Whether you need full representation or just some guidance on the paperwork, there are resources across Arkansas designed to help you through this process without breaking the bank. Knowing where to look is the first step toward getting the affordable help you need.

My Arkansas Probate

Here at My Arkansas Probate, we know that legal fees can be a major source of stress. That’s why we want you to know that in Arkansas, probate costs, including attorney fees, are typically paid from the estate’s assets, not your own pocket. Our team specializes in the real estate side of probate, which is often the most complicated part. We offer a range of estate solutions, from connecting you with immediate cash buyers to providing a concierge service that links you with trusted attorneys and other professionals. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to begin, especially with a property involved, contacting our team is a great first step. We’re here to make the process faster and easier for you.

Arkansas Bar Association

The Arkansas Bar Association is a reliable starting point for finding a qualified probate attorney in your area. The association maintains a directory of licensed lawyers, and you can often filter by specialty, like “probate” or “estate planning.” This allows you to create a list of potential attorneys to research further. Keep in mind that many factors influence what a lawyer charges, including the complexity of the estate. Using the bar association’s resources lets you find a lawyer and compare their fee structures, helping you find someone whose services and costs align with your family’s needs and the estate’s value.

Local Legal Aid

If the cost of hiring an attorney feels completely out of reach, local legal aid organizations are an essential resource. These non-profits provide free or low-cost civil legal assistance to eligible, low-income Arkansans. For probate matters, they can offer crucial guidance, help you understand your rights, and assist with filling out necessary court documents. Organizations like the Center for Arkansas Legal Services serve communities across the state. Don’t let a lack of funds stop you from moving forward. Reaching out to a legal aid society can provide the support you need to handle the estate properly and protect your family’s interests during a difficult time.

Online Legal Services

In recent years, online legal services have become a popular and affordable alternative to traditional law firms. These platforms often provide estate planning and probate assistance for a flat fee, which can be significantly lower than a standard attorney’s hourly rate. They are particularly useful for more straightforward estates where you might just need help generating the correct legal documents or want occasional access to an attorney for specific questions. While this option requires you to be more hands-on, it can be a great way to manage costs while still getting the professional support you need to complete the probate process correctly and confidently.

Pro Bono Programs

Many attorneys believe in giving back to their communities and offer “pro bono” services, which means they provide their legal expertise for free. These services are typically reserved for individuals who cannot afford legal representation and might not qualify for legal aid for other reasons. While not every attorney has a pro bono program, it’s always worth asking. When you contact a law firm or look through attorney profiles on the bar association website, see if they mention pro bono work. For smaller estates where the legal needs are clear but funds are extremely limited, a compassionate attorney might be willing to offer their help to ensure the process is handled correctly.

How to Choose the Right Probate Attorney

Finding the right probate attorney can feel like a monumental task, especially when you’re already dealing with the loss of a loved one. This isn’t just about hiring someone with a law degree; it’s about finding a partner who understands Arkansas probate law, communicates clearly, and respects your family’s situation. The right attorney can make the process smoother, while the wrong one can add unnecessary stress and expense. Taking the time to carefully vet your options will pay off in the long run. Think of it as an investment in your peace of mind during a challenging time. Let’s walk through the key steps to making a confident choice.

Check Their Qualifications

First, confirm that any attorney you consider specializes in probate and estate law. While Arkansas law doesn’t always require an attorney for probate, their help is invaluable in complex situations, like when family members dispute the will or there are issues with estate property. A general practice lawyer might not have the specific knowledge needed. Look for an attorney who is a member of the Arkansas Bar Association and has a proven track record with probate cases. Our attorney information page can be a great starting point for finding professionals who are familiar with these specific challenges and can guide you effectively.

Weighing Experience Against Cost

The most expensive attorney isn’t always the best fit, and the cheapest might cost you more in the long run if they make mistakes. It’s about finding a balance. In Arkansas, attorneys may charge a flat fee, an hourly rate (typically $150 to $400), or a percentage of the estate’s value. An experienced attorney might have a higher hourly rate but could resolve your case more efficiently than a less experienced, cheaper one. Ask for a clear explanation of their fee structure during your initial consultation. This will help you understand the potential costs and find a solution that fits the estate’s budget.

Compare What’s Included

When an attorney gives you a quote, make sure you know exactly what it covers. Ask if the fee includes court filing costs, administrative expenses, and fees for other professionals like appraisers. In most cases, attorney fees and other probate costs are paid directly from the estate’s assets, not from your personal funds. Getting a detailed fee agreement in writing is essential to avoid surprises. Understanding the full scope of their estate solutions will help you compare different attorneys and see who offers the most comprehensive support for the price.

Key Questions to Ask Before You Hire

Your initial consultation is your chance to interview the attorney. Don’t be shy about asking direct questions to see if they’re the right fit. It’s also wise to review some common questions about the probate process beforehand so you feel more prepared.

Here are a few questions to get you started:

How many probate cases have you handled in this county?
Who will be my main point of contact at your firm?
How do you prefer to communicate, and how often will I receive updates?
Can you provide an estimated timeline for my case?
What potential complications do you see with this estate?

Their answers will reveal a lot about their experience, communication style, and approach to handling cases like yours.

Spotting the Red Flags

As you speak with potential attorneys, keep an eye out for warning signs. A major red flag is a lack of transparency about fees or a reluctance to put a fee agreement in writing. Be cautious if an attorney seems unfamiliar with the specifics of probate law or pressures you to make a quick decision. Another warning sign is poor communication; if they are difficult to reach or unclear in their explanations during the consultation, they will likely be the same way once you hire them. Trust your gut. You should feel comfortable and confident in the attorney you choose to represent the estate.

How to Lower Your Probate Costs

While probate comes with necessary expenses like court fees and attorney costs, the final bill isn’t set in stone. You have more control over the total cost than you might think. The key is to be proactive, organized, and an efficient partner to your legal counsel. The biggest drivers of high probate fees are often disorganization, delays, and estate complexity. By taking a few strategic steps before and during the process, you can significantly reduce the time your attorney spends on the case, which directly lowers your costs.

Think of it this way: every document you organize and every question you prepare in advance saves your attorney from billing for that time. These small efficiencies add up, preserving more of the estate’s value for the heirs. Whether you’re just starting or are already in the middle of the process, these tips can help you manage the expenses. Our team at My Arkansas Probate specializes in creating estate solutions that streamline these tasks, making the entire process faster and more affordable for your family.

Get Prepared Before You Start

The most impactful thing you can do to lower probate costs is to walk into your first attorney meeting prepared. Proactively planning and gathering information minimizes the initial discovery work your lawyer has to do. Before you even hire someone, try to collect as much information as you can about the deceased’s assets (property, bank accounts, investments) and debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans). Make a list of all known heirs and find their contact information. Having this foundation allows your attorney to get a clear picture of the estate from day one, reducing the billable hours spent on fact-finding. This preparation helps you make the most of your attorney’s expertise and sets a productive tone for the entire process.

Organize Your Documents

Once you’ve gathered your information, the next step is to organize the related paperwork. An attorney or their paralegal spending hours sifting through a box of random papers is a surefire way to increase your legal fees. Instead, create clearly labeled folders for essential documents like the original will, death certificate, property deeds, vehicle titles, recent bank and investment statements, and the last few years of tax returns. If you’re unsure what something is, our Probate FAQ & Glossary can help you identify key terms. Since probate costs are typically paid from the estate’s assets, every hour you save your attorney by being organized is more money that ultimately goes to the beneficiaries.

Manage the Timeline

The longer probate takes, the more it costs—it’s that simple. While some delays are unavoidable, you can prevent many of them by being responsive and proactive. Answer your attorney’s emails and phone calls promptly, and provide any requested information or documents as quickly as you can. Court-mandated deadlines are strict, and missing them can cause major setbacks that require extra legal work to fix. The duration of the probate process is a primary factor in the total expense, so staying on top of your responsibilities is a powerful cost-control measure. If you feel overwhelmed or are struggling to meet a deadline, don’t hesitate to contact us for guidance.

Simple Cost-Saving Tips

Beyond being organized and timely, there are other practical ways to keep costs down. Talk to your attorney about handling some of the simple administrative tasks yourself. With their approval, you might be able to mail notices to creditors, make photocopies, or deliver documents to the courthouse. Every task you take off your lawyer’s plate is a direct saving. You can also ask if it’s possible to pay certain small debts or close minor accounts outside of the formal probate process, which can simplify the estate. The goal is to reduce the estate’s complexity wherever possible, as this is a major factor in how much you’ll ultimately pay for legal services.

Work Efficiently with Your Attorney

Treat your relationship with your probate attorney as a partnership focused on a common goal. While hiring a lawyer involves costs, you can make it more affordable by communicating efficiently. Instead of sending multiple emails with one-off questions, try batching your non-urgent questions into a single, organized message. Before a phone call, jot down a list of topics you want to cover. This respects your attorney’s time and keeps your conversations focused and productive. Being clear, honest, and prepared for your meetings ensures you get the most value out of every billable minute. This collaborative approach is central to our estate solutions, where we work with you and your attorney to ensure a smooth and cost-effective process.

Helpful Arkansas Legal Resources

Beyond working with a dedicated service like My Arkansas Probate, several organizations in Arkansas offer support and information. Tapping into these resources can give you a clearer picture of your options and connect you with the legal assistance you need, sometimes at a lower cost. Think of these as additional tools in your toolkit as you handle the estate.

State Bar of Arkansas

The Arkansas Bar Association is an excellent starting point. It provides a public directory of attorneys, helping you find lawyers who specialize in probate law in your area. The Bar Association is committed to improving public access to legal services and can help you find qualified professionals. Some attorneys listed may even offer flexible payment options, like sliding scale fees based on income, so it’s always worth asking about their fee structure to find help that fits your budget.

Legal Aid Services

If the cost of a private attorney is a major concern, Legal Aid of Arkansas is a fantastic resource. It provides free legal services to low-income individuals and families for civil matters, including probate. By reaching out, you can determine if you qualify for their help based on income guidelines. This can be a lifeline for families who need to settle an estate but are worried about the financial strain of legal fees, ensuring everyone has access to support.

County-Specific Courts

Each county in Arkansas has its own circuit court for probate cases, and these courts are a source of valuable, local information. By visiting your county’s court website, you can often find probate forms, filing procedures, and fee schedules. You can find your local court through the Arkansas Judiciary website. This can also help you find attorneys familiar with the specific judges and procedures in your jurisdiction, which can make the process run more smoothly.

Online Self-Help Centers

To understand the probate process better, online self-help centers are incredibly useful. The Arkansas Judiciary offers an online self-help center with guides, FAQs, and document templates. While these resources don’t replace an attorney’s advice, they can help you get organized and feel more prepared. Understanding the basic steps can save you time and money by allowing you to handle preliminary tasks and have more productive conversations with your lawyer.

How to Make Your Final Decision

You’ve done the research and narrowed down your list of potential attorneys. Now it’s time to choose the one who will guide you through the probate process. Making the right choice comes down to a few final, practical steps. This isn’t just about finding the cheapest option; it’s about finding the best value and the right partner for your family’s specific situation. By evaluating quotes, understanding the fine print, and setting clear expectations, you can move forward with confidence.

Evaluate Multiple Quotes

The first step in making a smart financial decision is to gather and compare several quotes. Don’t just look at the final number; see what services are included. In Arkansas, attorney fees can range from around $150 to $400 per hour, but they might also charge a flat fee or a percentage of the estate’s value. Having multiple quotes gives you a clear picture of the market rate and helps you identify what’s fair. This comparison allows you to find an attorney whose fee structure aligns with your budget and the complexity of your estate. Our team can provide attorney information to help you get started.

Understand the Fee Agreement

Before you sign anything, make sure you completely understand how you’ll be charged. Arkansas often uses a percentage-based system for attorney fees in probate, meaning the cost is tied to the estate’s total value. Ask for a written fee agreement that clearly outlines the fee structure, what services are covered, and when payments are due. Are there separate charges for things like court filing fees or postage? Getting clarity on these details upfront prevents surprises down the road. If you have questions about what to expect, our Probate FAQ page is a great resource for demystifying common terms and processes.

Negotiate the Terms

Don’t be afraid to discuss the fees. While an attorney’s hourly rate might be firm, you may be able to negotiate other terms. The final cost depends on many factors, including the estate’s complexity and the specific services you need. You could, for example, ask about handling some of the simpler administrative tasks yourself to reduce the attorney’s billable hours. You can also discuss the payment schedule to find a plan that works for you. A willingness to have an open conversation about costs is a sign of a good potential partnership. Being proactive can lead to a more manageable and predictable financial arrangement.

Set Clear Expectations from the Start

A successful attorney-client relationship is built on clear communication. From your very first meeting, be upfront about your expectations for the process. Discuss how often you’ll receive updates, the best way to communicate, and the estimated timeline for the probate case. The complexity of the estate, especially when real estate is involved, is a primary factor that affects the overall cost and duration. By having this conversation early, you ensure everyone is on the same page. If you need help with estate property matters, you can always contact us for specialized assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay the attorney’s fees with my own money? This is a common worry, but you can relax. In Arkansas, all probate costs, including the attorney’s compensation, are paid directly from the estate’s assets. This means the funds are taken from the deceased’s bank accounts or from the proceeds of selling estate property, like a house. You should not have to pay for these legal services out of your own pocket.

Is hiring a probate attorney really worth the cost? While it’s tempting to try and save money by handling probate yourself, an experienced attorney often saves the estate more money in the long run. They prevent costly mistakes, ensure all deadlines are met, and manage complex issues like debts and taxes. Think of them as a project manager for the estate who keeps the process on track and helps prevent family disputes, which can be emotionally and financially draining.

What’s the biggest factor that makes probate more expensive? The single biggest driver of higher probate costs is complexity, which often stems from disorganization. An estate with clear records, a straightforward will, and cooperative heirs will always be less expensive to settle than one with missing documents, significant debts, or family disagreements. The more time an attorney has to spend tracking down assets or mediating disputes, the higher the final cost will be.

What happens if the estate doesn’t have enough cash to cover the attorney’s fees? This is a very common situation, especially when the main asset in the estate is a piece of real estate. In these cases, the property is typically sold to generate the funds needed to pay the attorney, court fees, and any outstanding debts. The remaining proceeds are then distributed to the heirs. Our team specializes in these exact situations, helping families manage the sale of a property to cover expenses and settle the estate.

Are the attorney fees set in stone, or can they be negotiated? While Arkansas has a statutory fee schedule that provides a guideline, you can always have a conversation about the costs. For very simple, uncontested estates, some attorneys may be open to a flat fee instead of the percentage-based model. You can also discuss handling some of the minor administrative tasks yourself to reduce billable hours. The key is to have an open and honest discussion about fees during your initial consultation.