Estate Planning Lawyer · Wilmington, NC/Updated June 13, 2026
The 10 Best Estate Planning Lawyers in Wilmington, NC
Wilmington's estate planning market is competitive, with a mix of highly-rated firms and smaller practices. Here's how to find the right fit for your needs.
MHMaya Hendricks · Home Services Editor Updated June 13, 2026 · Next review July 2026
Editorially independent10 companies evaluated
cover story
★ Editor's ChoiceJohnson Legal
96Score
Latest update · June 13, 2026: Initial ranking published. 10 Wilmington-metro estate planning lawyer businesses evaluated, top 10 ranked by Vetted Score.
Wilmington's estate planning landscape offers a diverse array of options, with a notable concentration of highly-rated lawyers. With 10 evaluated providers, the market is competitive, featuring both established leaders and promising smaller firms.
To create this list, we analyzed thousands of reviews and ratings to identify the best estate planning lawyers in the area. Our scoring system ranks them transparently, ensuring you can make an informed choice without bias.
10estate planning lawyers evaluated in Wilmington
4.78average rating across the field
1.5Kcustomer reviews analyzed
Cityvetted analysis of public Google review data, updated June 13, 2026.
We evaluated the estate planning lawyers in Wilmington based on their Vetted Scores, which reflect customer satisfaction and quality of service. Each business was assessed using real customer reviews, and no firm paid for placement in our rankings.
Our methodology is updated monthly to reflect any changes in ratings or new reviews. This commitment to accuracy means you can trust that our rankings are current and reliable.
The Vetted Score: six weighted factors
Customer sentiment25%
Rating quality20%
Review volume & velocity20%
Website trust signals15%
Service breadth10%
Business longevity10%
Sentiment is measured by AI analysis of review text, recency-weighted, with verified-pattern checks to discount suspicious review bursts.
With a perfect rating of 5 stars from 703 reviews, Johnson Legal is a standout in Wilmington's estate planning scene. Clients frequently commend the firm's thoroughness and personalized service, making it ideal for those seeking tailored legal solutions. However, the high volume of clients may lead to longer wait times for appointments.
Four Pillars Law Firm also holds a 5-star rating on 191 reviews, with clients appreciating their clear communication and fair pricing. This firm is best suited for individuals looking for value without sacrificing quality. However, some clients noted that their limited staff may affect response times. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is affordable estate planning services. It serves Wilmington, NC, with $150 to $400 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited staff may slow response times and fewer resources compared to larger firms.
KEN NANCE LAW also achieves a 5-star rating, albeit from 72 reviews. Clients often highlight the firm's approachable nature and expertise in estate planning. This firm is particularly beneficial for first-time estate planners. However, its smaller review base makes it a bit less proven than the top two contenders. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is first-time estate planners. It serves Wilmington, NC, with $150 to $350 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are smaller review base and limited services compared to larger firms.
Salines-Mondello Law Firm, PC holds a strong 4.8-star rating from 119 reviews. Clients appreciate their attentive service and expertise in estate issues. This firm is a solid choice for those needing comprehensive estate plans. On the downside, a few clients mentioned occasional delays in communication. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is comprehensive estate planning. It serves Wilmington, NC, with $200 to $450 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are occasional delays in communication and limited office hours.
Collins & Collins Law Offices, PLLC also has a 4.8-star rating from 101 reviews. Clients commend their thorough approach to estate planning and the supportive nature of their staff. This firm is a good option for clients looking for a collaborative experience. However, they may not handle complex estates as effectively as larger firms.
David E. Anderson, PLLC has earned a 4.8-star rating with 82 reviews. Clients often note the firm's thoroughness and attention to detail in estate planning. This firm is suitable for clients with specific needs. However, some clients have reported a less personal touch compared to smaller firms. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is specific estate planning needs. It serves Wilmington, NC, with $200 to $450 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are less personal touch and limited availability.
Midtown Law scores 4.8 stars from 68 reviews. Clients appreciate their straightforward approach and knowledgeable attorneys, making it a good fit for those seeking clarity in estate planning. However, a few clients have mentioned slower turnaround times for document preparation. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is clarity in estate planning. It serves Wilmington, NC, with $180 to $400 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are slower turnaround times and limited staff.
Robert H Hochuli Jr has a 4.7-star rating from 40 reviews. Clients note his knowledge and responsiveness, which makes him a solid choice for estate planning. However, the smaller review base suggests a less established reputation compared to others on the list. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is personalized estate planning. It serves Wilmington, NC, with $150 to $350 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are smaller review base and limited experience with complex cases.
Seay Law Firm, PLLC maintains a 4.6-star rating from 33 reviews. Clients appreciate the firm's friendly demeanor and willingness to explain complex legal concepts. This firm is good for clients who may feel overwhelmed by the estate planning process. However, fewer reviews may indicate a less proven track record. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is clients needing guidance in estate planning. It serves Wilmington, NC, with $150 to $300 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are fewer reviews and less established reputation.
Pros
Friendly and approachable
Willing to explain complex concepts
Good for overwhelmed clients
Cons
Fewer reviews
Less established reputation
Best forClients needing guidance in estate planning
Block Crouch Keeter Behm & Sayed, LLP has a 4.3-star rating from 50 reviews. Clients often highlight their professionalism and attention to detail. This firm may be a reasonable choice for basic estate planning needs. However, the lower rating suggests they may not be the best fit for more complex situations.
How to choose an estate planning lawyer in Wilmington
Choosing the right estate planning lawyer involves considering several local factors. Here's what to keep in mind.
Assess their experience and specialties
Look for lawyers who specialize in estate planning, as this ensures they are well-versed in the complexities of local laws.
Check their service area and availability
Ensure the lawyer serves your specific area in Wilmington and can respond promptly to your needs.
Read client reviews and testimonials
Take time to read reviews to gauge client satisfaction and understand how each lawyer handles cases.
What it costs
What estate planning lawyers cost in Wilmington
Understanding the pricing structure for estate planning services can help you budget effectively. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.
Basic Will Preparation$300 to $600 for straightforward wills, depending on complexity.
Trust Creation$1,000 to $2,500 for setting up a trust, which includes various legal documents.
Comprehensive Estate Planning$2,500 to $5,000 for a full suite of estate planning services, including wills, trusts, and tax strategies.
Hourly Consultations$150 to $400 per hour for consultations, depending on the lawyer's experience and reputation.
Frequently asked questions
How much does estate planning cost in Wilmington?
Estate planning services in Wilmington typically range from $300 to $1,500, depending on the complexity of your needs and the attorney's experience.
What should I look for in an estate planning lawyer?
You should seek an estate planning lawyer with a strong reputation, extensive experience, and positive client reviews. Consider their specialty in areas relevant to your situation.
How often is this ranking updated?
We re-run the full analysis monthly with fresh review data. Last updated June 13, 2026.
Our verdict
For most Wilmington residents: <strong>Johnson Legal</strong>
If you need comprehensive estate planning with a stellar reputation, Johnson Legal is your best option. For clients seeking personalized service and a strong track record, Four Pillars Law Firm is an excellent choice. If you prefer a smaller firm where you might receive more individualized attention, consider KEN NANCE LAW, which has also received high praise.