How Long Does the Estate Planning Process Usually Take?

One of the most common questions clients ask is how long the estate planning process typically takes. In my practice, I aim to have your estate plan signed and finalized within four weeks of our initial meeting. That timeline allows for drafting, reviewing, revising, and signing your documents in a focused but reasonable timeframe.

That said, every client’s situation is different. Some people may need more time to carefully read through their documents or consult with family members. One important factor that can impact the process is how quickly you review your draft documents and get back to your attorney with questions or requested changes. If those steps are delayed, the overall timeline can stretch out accordingly.

There are also times when urgent situations arise. For example, I’ve had clients call me after receiving news of a serious health condition, needing their estate plan completed before an upcoming surgery. In those cases, we move quickly and prioritize based on the circumstances. Similarly, clients sometimes realize just before an international trip that they need to update their estate plan—or that they don't have one at all. When that happens, we do everything we can to meet the deadline.

While four weeks is my goal under typical circumstances, the process can be expedited or extended depending on your needs and timeline. The key is communication and responsiveness. When we're aligned and proactive, the process runs smoothly—even when life throws in a few surprises.

If you’ve been wondering how long it actually takes to get an estate plan in place, the answer is: it depends. But with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to take forever. I help families create thoughtful, legally sound estate plans with clear timelines and support along the way. Whether you’re planning ahead or facing a tight deadline, I’ll work with you to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible.

If you're ready to get started or just want to understand what to expect, click the link below to schedule a call. I’m always happy to help!

To learn 80% of what you need to know about estate planning in less than 30 minutes, check out my full-length video. It’s a quick and comprehensive guide to help you understand the basics and start taking steps to secure your future.