When it comes to navigating the world of legal services, many individuals and small business owners are turning to online platforms for convenience and affordability. Among the most well-known options is LegalZoom, a service that promises to make legal processes simpler and more accessible. Founded in 2001, LegalZoom has quickly become a popular choice for people looking to form a business, create legal documents, or access attorney support without having to pay hefty lawyer fees.
But like any service, LegalZoom has its strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re starting a business, creating a will, or seeking trademark protection, it’s crucial to understand exactly what LegalZoom offers, how much it costs, and how it compares to other similar services. With its wide array of offerings, LegalZoom can be a valuable resource for many, but it’s not always the best fit for everyone.
In this detailed review, we’ll break down everything you need to know about LegalZoom. From its wide range of services, including business formation, document preparation, and legal advice, to its pricing and customer support, we’ll explore the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.
LegalZoom’s appeal is clear—its ease of use, streamlined processes, and the flexibility to access a variety of legal services online have made it a go-to choice for many individuals and small businesses. Its platform allows users to easily access legal documents, form an LLC, get legal advice, and more, all without stepping into a lawyer’s office.
However, some potential drawbacks could make you think twice. The pricing structure might seem steep compared to other similar services, especially when you consider additional upsells and add-on fees. Additionally, while it offers access to a network of attorneys, some customers have expressed concerns about the quality of service and long wait times for support.
Ultimately, LegalZoom has become a popular choice for those who want to take care of their legal needs in a quick, straightforward, and cost-effective manner, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before jumping in. Let’s dive deeper into the specifics of LegalZoom’s services, pricing, and customer feedback to help you determine if it’s the right fit for you.
Pros
- Comprehensive Service Offerings: LegalZoom provides a broad spectrum of legal services, including business formation, estate planning, intellectual property protection, and more.
- User-Friendly Platform: The website is designed to be intuitive, making it easy for users to navigate and access services.
- Attorney Access: Through its Business Advisory Plan, LegalZoom offers ongoing access to a network of vetted attorneys for less than $50 per month .
- Satisfaction Guarantee: LegalZoom offers a 60-day satisfaction guarantee, providing a refund (minus state filing fees) if you’re not satisfied with their services .
Cons
- Higher Pricing: LegalZoom’s services tend to be more expensive compared to some competitors, which may not justify the cost for all users .
- Additional Fees: Some users have reported unexpected charges and upselling tactics, leading to frustration .
- Customer Support Issues: There are mixed reviews regarding customer service, with some users experiencing delays and unhelpful responses .
Table of Contents
- What Is LegalZoom?
- How LegalZoom Works
- What Sets LegalZoom Apart
- LegalZoom Services
- LegalZoom Pricing and Plans
- Getting Started With LegalZoom
- LegalZoom Customer Service and Support
- LegalZoom Additional Services Worth Noting
- LegalZoom Alternatives and How They Compare
- Who Is LegalZoom Best For?
- Our Expert Take
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is LegalZoom?
LegalZoom is an online legal service provider that aims to make legal processes more accessible, affordable, and convenient for individuals and small businesses. Founded in 2001, LegalZoom has quickly established itself as a trusted brand in the legal tech industry. With a goal of democratizing legal services, it offers a wide range of solutions, from creating legal documents to forming businesses and protecting intellectual property.
Unlike traditional law firms where clients often have to pay high hourly rates, LegalZoom offers affordable flat-fee services, allowing users to handle many legal tasks without stepping foot into an office. This has made it a popular choice for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and individuals seeking legal help but looking to avoid the expense and complexity of hiring a full-time attorney.
LegalZoom’s platform simplifies the process of getting legal work done by offering easy-to-use templates and tools. These services cover a variety of legal needs, including business formation, trademark registration, estate planning, legal document preparation, and more.
Users can fill out online forms to create customized legal documents such as LLC formation documents, wills, and contracts. LegalZoom also provides a suite of subscription-based services, such as ongoing access to a network of attorneys and registered agent services, which can help businesses stay compliant with state regulations.
One of the standout features of LegalZoom is its ability to cater to both individuals and businesses. For individuals, it’s a go-to solution for creating estate planning documents, such as wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. For businesses, LegalZoom offers services like LLC formation, obtaining an EIN (Employer Identification Number), drafting operating agreements, and handling business compliance matters.
Another key feature is the access to professional legal advice through its subscription-based plans. For example, users can get consultations with licensed attorneys who are part of LegalZoom’s network. This can be invaluable for those who need legal guidance but don’t want to pay high retainer fees.
In summary, LegalZoom is an online platform designed to provide affordable and accessible legal services to individuals and businesses. With its easy-to-use tools and comprehensive range of services, it aims to make legal help available to anyone, regardless of their legal expertise or budget.
How LegalZoom Works
LegalZoom operates through its website, where users can select the services they need. The process typically involves:
- Selecting a Service: Choose from a range of legal services offered on the platform.
- Providing Information: Fill out necessary forms or questionnaires related to the selected service.
- Processing: LegalZoom processes the information and prepares the required documents.
- Delivery: Receive the completed documents digitally or via mail, depending on the service.
What Sets LegalZoom Apart
Pros
- Comprehensive Legal Services: LegalZoom offers a wide range of services beyond business formation, including estate planning and intellectual property protection.
- Attorney Access: Through its Business Advisory Plan, users can access a network of vetted attorneys for ongoing legal advice .
Cons
- Higher Pricing: The cost of services may be higher compared to some competitors, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious users .
- Additional Fees: Some users have reported unexpected charges and upselling tactics, leading to frustration .
LegalZoom Services
LegalZoom offers a variety of services to cater to different legal needs:
Online Document Preparation
LegalZoom provides templates and tools to help users prepare various legal documents, such as wills, contracts, and agreements.
Business Formation
Users can form LLCs, corporations, and other business entities through LegalZoom’s platform, with assistance in filing necessary documents.
Operating Agreement
LegalZoom offers customizable operating agreements for LLCs, outlining the management structure and operating procedures.
Digital Welcome Packet
Upon forming a business, users receive a digital welcome packet containing essential documents and information to get started.
Articles of Organization
LegalZoom assists in preparing and filing Articles of Organization, a crucial document for LLC formation.
Customizable Website
Some packages include a free customizable website powered by Wix to help businesses establish an online presence.
Document Storage
LegalZoom provides secure storage for important legal documents, ensuring easy access when needed.
Legal Forms
Users can access a library of legal forms for various purposes, including business and personal needs.
Legal Advice
Through its Business Advisory Plan, LegalZoom offers ongoing access to a network of vetted attorneys for legal advice .
Registered Agent Services
LegalZoom offers registered agent services to receive legal documents on behalf of businesses.
LegalZoom Pricing and Plans
LegalZoom offers tiered pricing plans to cater to different needs:
LegalZoom Tiered Pricing and Plans [Compared]
| Plan | Price (Excl. State Fees) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $0 + state fees | LLC formation, name check, digital welcome packet, customizable website |
| Pro | $249 + state fees | Basic features + operating agreement, EIN, access to legal documents |
| Premium | $299 + state fees | Pro features + attorney consultations, unlimited document revisions |
Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary based on state-specific fees.
Getting Started With LegalZoom
To get started with LegalZoom:
- Visit the Website: Go to LegalZoom.com.
- Select a Service: Choose the legal service you need.
- Provide Information: Complete the necessary forms or questionnaires.
- Review and Submit: Review your information and submit your request.
- Receive Documents: Receive your completed documents digitally or via mail.
LegalZoom Customer Service and Support
LegalZoom offers customer support through various channels:
- Phone Support: Available for Pro and Premium plan users.
- Email Support: Accessible through the website.
- Chat Support: Available for all users.
While some users report positive experiences, others have noted delays and unhelpful responses .
LegalZoom Additional Services Worth Noting
- Estate Planning: LegalZoom offers services to create wills, trusts, and other estate planning documents.
- Intellectual Property Protection: Users can register trademarks, copyrights, and patents.
- Legal Document Review: LegalZoom provides reviews of legal documents to ensure accuracy and compliance.
LegalZoom Alternatives and How They Compare
LegalZoom vs. Bizee (formerly Incfile)
- Pricing: Bizee offers lower starting prices for LLC formation.
- Services: Both provide similar services, but Bizee may offer more streamlined options.
- Customer Support: Bizee has received positive reviews for customer service.
LegalZoom vs. ZenBusiness
- Pricing: ZenBusiness offers competitive pricing with additional features.
- Services: Both provide comprehensive business formation services.
- Customer Support: ZenBusiness has a reputation for responsive customer support.
LegalZoom vs. Rocket Lawyer
- Pricing: Rocket Lawyer offers subscription-based pricing for ongoing legal services.
- Services: Both provide a wide range of legal services, including document preparation and attorney access.
- Customer Support: Rocket Lawyer offers 30-minute consultations with attorneys for members.
Who Is LegalZoom Best For?
LegalZoom is best suited for:
- Small Business Owners: Those seeking a one-stop shop for legal services.
- Individuals: Looking for affordable and accessible estate planning options.
- Entrepreneurs: Needing assistance with business formation and compliance.
Our Expert Take
LegalZoom offers a comprehensive suite of legal services with the convenience of an online platform. While its pricing may be higher than some competitors, the range of services and access to attorney support can provide value for those with ongoing legal needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is LegalZoom legitimate?
Yes, LegalZoom is a legitimate company that has been providing legal services since 2001.
Does LegalZoom offer refunds?
Yes, LegalZoom offers a 60-day satisfaction guarantee, providing a refund minus state filing fees if you’re not satisfied with their services.
Can I form an LLC with LegalZoom?
Yes, LegalZoom offers LLC formation services, including filing necessary documents and providing essential resources.
Does LegalZoom provide attorney consultations?
Yes, through its Business Advisory Plan, LegalZoom offers access to a network of vetted attorneys for ongoing legal advice.
Are there any hidden fees with LegalZoom?
A5: Some users have reported unexpected charges and upselling tactics, so it’s essential to review all services and fees before purchasing.