LegalZoom is suitable for businesses seeking structured, pre-packaged formation services with guaranteed accuracy and a satisfaction guarantee. UpCounsel is better for those who need flexible, on-demand access to a network of vetted attorneys and potential cost savings, but requires more active involvement in attorney selection and project management.
| Attribute | LegalZoom Business Formation Service | UpCounsel Attorney Marketplace |
|---|---|---|
| Service Cost | Basic: $0 + state fees; Pro: $249 + state fees; Premium: $299 + state fees | UpCounsel is free to use for clients; attorneys pay a transaction fee. Attorneys on UpCounsel charge between $70 and $250 hourly. Partner-level lawyers can be found for $270 per hour. A 60-minute consultation is advertised at $99. UpCounsel clients save an average of 60% on legal services. |
| Formation Speed | 5-14 business days (standard); Expedited processing available for an additional fee ($99 for 1-day filing) | Not available |
| Legal Support Availability | Access to attorneys through Business Advisory Plan (monthly fee); Premium package includes attorney consultations | UpCounsel provides access to a network of attorneys for on-demand legal services. They connect businesses with experienced independent attorneys. |
| Attorney Access | Business Advisory Plan for legal advice; Premium package includes unlimited 30-minute attorney consultations on new legal topics | UpCounsel provides a marketplace where businesses can find and hire attorneys. The site suggests three to four lawyers based on a business owner's needs and budget. UpCounsel vets attorneys before they can bid on projects. UpCounsel's attorneys average 14 years of experience. |
| Registered Agent Services | $249 per year (includes document forwarding, compliance calendar, immediate notification for court summons) | Business registered agent services are offered. |
| Document Preparation Accuracy | Guaranteed error correction at no cost | UpCounsel has a 3-step review process for ensuring accurate and trusted content. They also offer streamlined document management with access to free storage and e-signature tools. |
| Customer Support Quality | Mixed reputation; some report helpful support, others report long response times or unhelpful email responses; available seven days a week | 24/7 support is advertised. |
| User Interface and Ease of Use | User-friendly website with step-by-step guidance | The platform is designed to allow lawyers and clients to connect and collaborate on documents. |
| Plan Customization Options | Customizable packages with additional legal and accounting services | UpCounsel offers concierge-level services to help business owners with attorney selection and engagement. |
| Additional Services Offered (e.g., EIN, Operating Agreement) | EIN registration, operating agreements, DBA filing, annual reports, trademark registration, and more | UpCounsel offers various services, including access to legal forms, legal planning, and local attorney listings. They also help with technology employees needing legal advice for stock options. Popular legal areas include agreements, business formation, patents, trademarks, immigration, general counsel, labor, and securities & finance. |
| Refund Policy | Satisfaction guarantee with refund policy (60 days); subscription services refunds within 30 days if unused; refunds may not be available once documents are submitted | UpCounsel offers a client refund if you're unhappy with an attorney's work. They will credit payments (up to $5,000) so you can hire someone else. |
| State Filing Fees Included | No | Not available |