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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.

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.

How much does estate planning lawyer cost in Wilmington? See the price breakdown →

Our top picks

At a glance · three categories
★ Editor's Choice
96Score

Johnson Legal

★★★★★5.0(703 reviews)

With a perfect rating of 5 stars from 703 reviews, Johnson Legal is a standout in Wilmington's estate planning scene.

Read full review
Best Value
95Score

Four Pillars Law Firm

★★★★★5.0(191 reviews)

Four Pillars Law Firm also holds a 5-star rating on 191 reviews, with clients appreciating their clear communication and fair pricing.

Read full review
Most Reviewed
94Score

KEN NANCE LAW

★★★★★5.0(72 reviews)

KEN NANCE LAW also achieves a 5-star rating, albeit from 72 reviews.

Read full review

All 10, compared

Data as of June 13, 2026
BusinessVetted ScoreGoogle ratingReviewsBest for
1
Johnson Legal
Johnson Legal
Editor's Choice
96Score
5.0★★★★★
703Tailored estate planning services
2
95Score
5.0★★★★★
191Affordable estate planning services
3
KEN NANCE LAW
KEN NANCE LAW
Most Reviewed
94Score
5.0★★★★★
72First-time estate planners
4
88Score
4.8★★★★★
119Comprehensive estate planning
5
88Score
4.8★★★★★
101Collaborative estate planning
6
88Score
4.8★★★★★
82Specific estate planning needs
7
88Score
4.8★★★★★
68Clarity in estate planning
8
85Score
4.7★★★★★
40Personalized estate planning
9
83Score
4.6★★★★★
33Clients needing guidance in estate planning
10
80Score
4.3★★★★★
50Basic estate planning needs
Methodology

How we evaluated all 10 estate planning lawyers.

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.

Full reviews

The rankings · in order
1
★ Editor's Choice

Johnson Legal

★★★★★5.0(703 reviews)
96Score

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.

Pros

  • Highly rated by numerous clients
  • Personalized legal solutions
  • Experienced attorneys

Cons

  • Potentially longer wait times for appointments
  • Busy schedule may limit availability
Best forTailored estate planning services
Service areaWilmington, NC
Typical pricing$200 to $500 per hour
2
Best Value

Four Pillars Law Firm

★★★★★5.0(191 reviews)
95Score

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.

Pros

  • Transparent pricing structure
  • Excellent communication
  • Client-focused approach

Cons

  • Limited staff may slow response times
  • Fewer resources compared to larger firms
Best forAffordable estate planning services
Service areaWilmington, NC
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
3
Most Reviewed

KEN NANCE LAW

★★★★★5.0(72 reviews)
94Score

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.

Pros

  • Friendly and approachable staff
  • Expertise in estate planning
  • Good for first-time planners

Cons

  • Smaller review base
  • Limited services compared to larger firms
Best forFirst-time estate planners
Service areaWilmington, NC
Typical pricing$150 to $350 per hour
4

Salines-Mondello Law Firm, PC

★★★★★4.8(119 reviews)
88Score

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.

Pros

  • Attentive customer service
  • Expertise in estate issues
  • Solid reputation in the community

Cons

  • Occasional delays in communication
  • Limited office hours
Best forComprehensive estate planning
Service areaWilmington, NC
Typical pricing$200 to $450 per hour
5

Collins & Collins Law Offices, PLLC

★★★★★4.8(101 reviews)
88Score

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.

Pros

  • Thorough approach to planning
  • Supportive staff
  • Collaborative experience

Cons

  • May struggle with complex estates
  • Limited resources
Best forCollaborative estate planning
Service areaWilmington, NC
Typical pricing$180 to $400 per hour
6

David E. Anderson, PLLC

★★★★★4.8(82 reviews)
88Score

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.

Pros

  • Thorough and detail-oriented
  • Good for specific needs
  • Positive client feedback

Cons

  • Less personal touch
  • Limited availability
Best forSpecific estate planning needs
Service areaWilmington, NC
Typical pricing$200 to $450 per hour
7

Midtown Law

★★★★★4.8(68 reviews)
88Score

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.

Pros

  • Straightforward approach
  • Knowledgeable attorneys
  • Clear communication

Cons

  • Slower turnaround times
  • Limited staff
Best forClarity in estate planning
Service areaWilmington, NC
Typical pricing$180 to $400 per hour
8

Robert H Hochuli Jr

★★★★★4.7(40 reviews)
85Score

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.

Pros

  • Knowledgeable and responsive
  • Solid choice for estate planning
  • Personalized service

Cons

  • Smaller review base
  • Limited experience with complex cases
Best forPersonalized estate planning
Service areaWilmington, NC
Typical pricing$150 to $350 per hour
9

Seay Law Firm, PLLC

★★★★★4.6(33 reviews)
83Score

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
Service areaWilmington, NC
Typical pricing$150 to $300 per hour
10

Block Crouch Keeter Behm & Sayed, LLP

★★★★★4.3(50 reviews)
80Score

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.

Pros

  • Professional and detail-oriented
  • Good for basic estate planning
  • Positive client feedback

Cons

  • Lower rating
  • May not handle complex cases well
Best forBasic estate planning needs
Service areaWilmington, NC
Typical pricing$150 to $300 per hour
Before you book

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.