Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Maryland
Appropriate fee for handling simple probate
A relative died and left entire estate to me. Relative knew the attorney, trusted. About 10 months ago, I inquired as to fee. Attorney stated "it won't be much". He included fee of $14,000 in expenses for estate of $570,000. I am aware of statute in Md defining limit as much higher. However I think fee is excessive for uncomplicated administration, one heir, noone contesting. Work involved transfer of house, 2 types stock, several CDs. Paid outsider for 1998 tax return. I wrote him to inform extremely high fee. I had signed off on the papers which included fee. Done deal.
I later asked for itemization; recognize he chg'd by percent of estate (about 2%). We are to "discuss". I would like 50% returned i.e. pay him $7,000. Met w/ him 1.5 hrs in Jan.'99 and 3 visits of 15 minutes afterward.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Appropriate fee for handling simple probate
Ask him for an itemized bill. This may explain the work he did. Did you sign a Fee Agreement when you hired him? If so, did it state his hourly rate. Talk to him...quietly. If you still feel you're right, call the local CountyBar Association & speak with the "Fee Arbitration Committee." Good luck...pls. let me know your results.
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