Are there court costs for everyone involved in the same estate planning case? 5 Answers as of August 25, 2011

Generally, the only cost they would need to pay would be the Appearance Fee. Once that is paid, they would not need to pay any other court costs after that regardless of how many court dates they attend. They may incur other costs, though, depending on if they file claims, or subpoena records or witnesses.

The court costs are separate from attorney's fees. Whomever opened the estate (usually the person wanting to be the personal representative) was the person who paid the filing fee to the clerk of court. However, if all of you have your own attorney, you will be responsible for paying your attorney's fees. You should talk to your attorney about whether you can recover those fees (and any additional costs that you may have such as deposition costs, postage, copies, etc.) from the estate.

Not necessarily, but possibly. If the four are acting in concert and working together (each will need separate representation) they should be able to keep costs down. If everyone is acting alone and filing their own motions, etc., then they might possibly pay multiple costs.

In Georgia probate court costs are based on what is filed with the court, not on court appearances.

Attorney's fees are incurred by the estate's attorney each time that attorney goes to court. The cost is generally borne by the Estate. If a person is representing himself, then he or she would not incur attorneys fees but or her share of the estate may be equally diminished by the fees incurred by the Estate. This response is not intended to create an attorney client relationship. The response is solely intended to answer the question presented. Additional facts and issues are unknown to the responding attorney. Should you still have questions, legal assistance should be sought by making an appointment to meet with an attorney, rather than attempting to resolve the issue via e mail. This response is merely provided to give direction to assist you in the decision of whether you should contact an attorney or not.