Find the right wills and estates lawyer for a free consultation
Most Australian wills and estates firms offer a short, no‑obligation consultation to:
- understand your goals and urgency
- confirm if the firm can help (and any conflict checks)
- outline likely pathways and timeframes
- explain fee models (fixed fees, hourly rates or staged work)
- identify documents to gather for the next step
Important: A free consultation is usually a triage call, not full legal advice. If you need tailored advice or documents drafted, the lawyer will explain the scope and cost before work starts.
What’s normally included in a free consultation
Typical inclusions (10–20 minutes)
- brief issue check (will, probate, dispute, POA, estate planning)
- eligibility and time limits (e.g., contesting a will)
- recommended next step (documents, valuation, medical capacity evidence)
- indicative pricing and turnaround
- confirmation of required ID and engagement process
Usually not included
Detailed legal advice, document drafting, or review of a large brief. For these, firms often offer a fixed‑fee strategy session. This keeps costs predictable and ensures you get action-ready steps.
- full document drafting (wills, POA, EPG, trusts)
- complex dispute strategy or settlement offers
- comprehensive probate application preparation
Wills and estates lawyer costs in Australia
Fees vary by state, complexity and urgency. Many firms provide fixed fees for common work. Expect a clear quote after your free consultation.
| Service | Typical pricing |
|---|---|
| Simple will (single / couple) | $200–$600 / $350–$900 |
| Estate planning package (will + POA/EPG) | $800–$2,500+ |
| Probate or letters of administration | $1,800–$4,500+ plus filing and disbursements |
| Executor assistance (staged) | Fixed fee per stage or hourly |
| Will disputes / family provision | Hourly or fixed-fee stages; some deferred arrangements |
Ask about disbursements (probate filing fees, advertisements, court copies), timelines and whether work is urgent (e.g., capacity issues or limitation periods).
How to prepare for your free estates consultation
Bringing the right information to the first call helps the lawyer scope your matter quickly.
- Your goal (draft a will, apply for probate, contest a will, appoint attorney/guardian, executor help)
- Timeline and any deadlines (capacity concerns, limitation periods, settlement pressure)
- Key people (executors, attorneys, beneficiaries, next of kin)
- Assets and where they are held (home, bank accounts, superannuation, shares, overseas assets)
- Existing documents (current or previous will, enduring power of attorney/guardianship, trust deeds)
- For deceased estates: death certificate, original will, asset lists, liabilities, letters from institutions
Compare your options: free consult vs paid strategy
| Option | Best for | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Free consultation | New enquiries and scoping | Quick triage, pathway, likely costs and next steps |
| Fixed‑fee strategy session | When you need tailored advice fast | Detailed advice, action plan, document list and timelines |
| Full service engagement | Drafting, applications, negotiations or court | End‑to‑end management with clear scope and fees |
Not sure which you need? Start with the free call. If a deeper session is recommended, you’ll be told the fee up front.
Free consultation FAQ
What is usually included in a wills and estates lawyer free consultation?
A short triage call to confirm your issue, outline options, explain likely fees and timing, and flag documents to prepare. It helps you decide if and how to proceed.
Who qualifies for a free consultation?
Most new clients with will drafting, probate/administration, executor assistance, capacity planning or potential disputes. Complex litigated matters may go straight to a paid strategy session.
How much does a wills and estates lawyer cost?
Simple wills: $200–$600 (single) or $350–$900 (couple). Estate planning packages: $800–$2,500+. Probate/admin: $1,800–$4,500+ plus filing. Disputes are usually hourly or fixed‑fee stages.
How do I prepare for the first call?
Clarify your goals, list assets and key people, note deadlines, and have relevant documents ready (existing will, POA, death certificate, asset letters, medical capacity evidence).
Are there free or low‑cost alternatives?
Check community legal centres, Legal Aid (eligibility varies), public trustee services for simple wills, and court registries for probate form guidance.
Get a wills and estates lawyer free consultation
Use the form below to request a no‑obligation first call. We’ll connect you with an Australian wills and estates lawyer to discuss next steps, timeframes and fees.