fee for will was jacked up

[sue56]

I called a local attorney's office to ask about a simple will. Was told the cost would be $75 so I made an appointment for a SIMPLE WILL with my husband. Met with lawyer and answered her questions, but was never told that the questions she asked me were not for a simple will. Final bill was $525.

What can I do?

Also, she made a separate simple will for my husband and me and we thought we could have one together.

Please advise. Thanks.

 

[seniorjudge]

If you think you were overcharged, then tell the lawyer. If you are not satisfied, go to the fee dispute committee of the state bar.

(By the way, having a joint will is a very bad idea and an ethical attorney will not do one.)

 

[sue56]

Thank you so much for your speedy reply. I will speak first to the lawyer and see what she says. With any luck we will not need to go further. But...if we do, does the local bar association have anything to do with a matter like this?