“It is unwise to pay too much, but it is far worse to pay too little.  When you pay too much, you lose a little money – that is all.  When you pay too little you sometimes lose everything because the thing you bought was incapable of doing the thing you bought it to do.  The common law of business balance prohibits paying a little and getting a lot – it cannot be done.  If you deal with the lowest bidder, it is well to add something for the risk you run, and if you do that you will have enough to pay for something better.”
- John Ruskin, English Philosopher (1819-1900)


At Davis Schilken, PC, we believe that no two cases are alike. As such, our fees are different from case to case and can vary greatly depending on a number of factors.

Foundational and Advanced Estate Planning

Generally, our estate planning services are delivered on a fixed-fee basis. Our fees depend upon the type and complexity of the plan being developed, the assets you own, the extent of tax planning involved, and the planning options you choose to include.  Complex planning may include additional advanced planning strategies.  Remember, what you are paying for is our expertise, experience and counsel, not the printed document.

It is impossible to estimate a fee until we have an accurate picture of your personal and financial information, know your estate planning goals and objectives, and have an opportunity to discuss various estate planning alternatives with you.  After the initial consultation, our attorneys will quote a fixed price for your planning work. That fee is confirmed in writing in our fee agreement which also contains provisions about hiring us to avoid misunderstandings about the services and products being provided.

Asset Integration
(Funding, Titling, Beneficiary Designations)

We offer asset integration (funding) assistance to ensure that estate plans are properly funded.  Our Asset Integration fees are based on fixed, unit-rate pricing for each asset.  Our Asset Integration Specialists will review all assets with you and prepare an estimate of costs based upon the number and type of assets you would like us to fund.  While we recommend full funding, we are happy to fund as many or as few of your assets as you wish.

Business and Business Exit Planning

Business planning services are normally delivered on an hourly basis, but in instances where the scope of work is very clear; we will quote a flat fee.  Our fees depend upon the type, scope, and complexity of the work are quoted on a case by case basis.  Where possible we do also utilize a combination of hourly and flat fee pricing.

Probate and Estate Administration

Probate and Estate Administration work is typically billed on an hourly basis with a general retainer up front, and our clients pay all direct costs incurred.  The cost of probate and estate administration varies significantly based upon the circumstances of each case.

Getting Started:  Our Process

Estate Planning PIF
Business Exit Planning PIF
Estate Administration PIF
Pre-Nuptial PIF