Lawyer wants $7,500 to start from scratch on my self‑drafted multi‑entity dynasty plan. Texas
I’m in Texas. Over the last several months I’ve designed and drafted a complete multi‑entity estate plan for myself. It includes:
· A revocable living trust declared as a 300‑year dynasty trust (Iron & Indigo Trust)
· A pour‑over will
· An irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) with a Crummey compliance manual
· An irrevocable asset protection trust (IAPT)
· A Wyoming LLC operating agreement with charging order protection, directed trustee provisions, and a patent defense fund
· Durable power of attorney, medical POA, directive to physicians, HIPAA
· A prenuptial agreement template and a shareholder agreement framework
I’ve done extensive research. The documents address the Texas Property Code § 112.038 no‑contest carve‑out, the § 114.0031 directed trustee statute, the Wyoming charging order exclusivity under Wyo. Stat. § 17‑29‑503, and the I.R.C. § 2514 lapse‑vs‑release distinction for the Crummey forms. I’ve verified compliance with the Texas Estates Code execution formalities (two disinterested witnesses, self‑proving affidavit). I know the documents need final review before I sign.
I spoke with an estate planning attorney today. He didn’t look at my documents. He told me he wants to start from scratch and quoted $7,500. I respect that his standard process is to draft everything himself, but that’s not what I’m looking for.
My questions:
- Why would a lawyer insist on starting from scratch rather than reviewing what I’ve already built?
- Is it reasonable to expect to find an attorney who will do a limited‑scope review of pre‑drafted documents for a flat fee?
- Can anyone recommend a estate planning attorney who is open to reviewing self‑drafted documents and advising on execution, rather than replacing them entirely?
I’m looking for a flat‑fee, limited‑scope engagement: review my documents, identify any errors or gaps, advise me on proper execution and funding. I’m not asking an attorney to put their name on the line for a plan they didn’t design. I just want a second set of professional eyes before I sign.
Thanks in advance.
Update: I am removing the Wyoming altogether and getting a lawyer.