Quick answer: Rhode Island does not set probate attorney fees by statute. Attorneys typically bill $250–$450 per hour, or a flat $2,500–$7,500 for an uncontested estate. For a $400,000 estate, expect roughly $5,000–$15,000 in total attorney fees for a standard, uncontested probate. Estimate the whole picture in the Rhode Island probate cost calculator.
No fixed schedule
No statutory percentage: unlike the executor's "just compensation" standard under § 33-14-8, Rhode Island has no statute at all governing the probate attorney's fee. It's negotiated between the client and the attorney, subject to ordinary professional-conduct reasonableness rules.
How Rhode Island probate lawyers bill
- Hourly — commonly $250–$450 per hour; simple estates often run 20–40 billable hours.
- Flat fee — $2,500–$7,500 for an uncontested estate with no real estate disputes.
- Percentage of estate value — less common, typically 3%–7% of the gross estate, usually reserved for larger estates.
Facing probate in Rhode Island?
Talk to a Rhode Island attorneyA local probate attorney can review your estate — many offer a free consultation.
Questions to ask before hiring
- Do you bill hourly, flat, or as a percentage — and what's your estimate for an estate like mine?
- Which municipal probate court will handle this estate, and what does that court typically approve?
- Can this estate use the $15,000 small estate procedure?
- Does the estate approach the $1.84 million Rhode Island estate tax exemption, and if so, can you help coordinate the Form RI-706 filing (required regardless of size)?
Ways to reduce legal fees
- Small estate procedure — personal property up to $15,000, usually far less attorney time.
- Handle non-legal tasks yourself — gathering statements, contacting creditors, and inventorying assets doesn't require an attorney.
- Stay organized — a clean inventory cuts billable hours.