As someone who tried LegalZoom last year to draft a living trust for my parents, I’ll admit—I was skeptical. Could an online form actually cover something that important? But to my surprise, it was quick, legally solid, and less intimidating than sitting in a lawyer’s office. That experience led me to explore other platforms, like Rocket Lawyer, and how they stack up in 2025.
Before I go any further, if you're still wondering whether online legal documents are actually valid in a courtroom, take a moment to read Are Online Legal Documents Recognized in Court?. It breaks down what makes a document enforceable, and when a DIY contract might fall short.
If you’re deciding between the two, this guide will help you figure out which legal service best fits your needs—whether you’re starting a business, writing a will, or just want peace of mind.
And if you're launching a nonprofit on a tight budget, check out our guide to Affordable Legal Document Options for Nonprofits.
Related: Using Online Tools to File a Living Will or Advance Directive can be a game-changer for those planning ahead without hiring a full-time attorney.
Want to know if it’s even possible to go fully DIY? Don’t miss our deep dive: Can I Make My Own Legal Documents Online in 2025?
LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer both offer online tools to create legal documents. But their business models differ. LegalZoom leans toward one-time users—think LLC paperwork or estate documents. Rocket Lawyer is more of a subscription-based platform with attorney access, ideal for ongoing legal needs.
LegalZoom is a solid choice if you only need a document or two. Maybe you're forming an LLC, writing your first will, or creating a power of attorney. You can pay per document, and there’s no subscription required. They also offer optional attorney support, which can be useful if you want professional eyes on your paperwork.
Want to skip legal platforms entirely? Learn What’s the Fastest Way to File an LLC Without a Lawyer?
That said, LegalZoom can get expensive if you need multiple forms or ongoing legal support. Still, its reputation, easy-to-use platform, and variety of services make it a go-to for people who want simple, guided help without monthly fees.
Before choosing any platform, it’s also worth understanding the risks of free legal templates, see our guide on Free vs Paid Legal Forms: What You Risk by Going Cheap.
If you're specifically comparing LegalZoom with Incfile for starting an LLC, don’t miss our breakdown: LegalZoom vs Incfile for Business Formation: Which Gives More Value?
Want to explore LegalZoom's full range of services? Check out [LegalZoom Services: What They Offer for Individuals and Businesses].
Looking specifically to draft a power of attorney? Here’s Where to Create a Legally Binding Power of Attorney Online.
Rocket Lawyer is ideal for users who expect to need more than one document—or want access to legal advice throughout the year. For a flat monthly fee (with a $1 trial available), you can create unlimited contracts, leases, agreements, and more. You also get access to licensed attorneys who can answer questions and even review documents.
This makes Rocket Lawyer especially attractive for small business owners, gig workers, and people dealing with multiple legal issues over time. Freelancers in particular can benefit from these platforms check out - check out How Gig Workers Can Use Online Legal Services to Protect Themselves and Legal Document Tools Every Freelancer Should Know to explore the best resources for contracts, NDAs, and protecting your work.
👉 Need more details? Read [What Services Does Rocket Lawyer Offer for Small Business Owners].
Learn how small businesses use Rocket Lawyer for compliance: How Small Businesses Use Rocket Lawyer for Compliance.
It really depends on your legal needs. If you're forming a company or just need one or two documents—LegalZoom might be your best bet. You pay once, get your document, and you're done. But if you’re managing multiple legal tasks, Rocket Lawyer’s monthly plan offers serious value, including attorney access and unlimited documents.
Trying to decide between a monthly legal plan and pay-per-document pricing? Our deep dive on Monthly Legal Plan vs Pay-Per-Document: Which Is Better for You breaks it all down so you can weigh cost, flexibility, and support based on your situation.
Still not sure? Try Rocket Lawyer’s $1 trial and see if the subscription model fits your workflow. Or stick with LegalZoom if you prefer to pay only when necessary.
While online legal services are powerful tools for many common needs, they are not a substitute for a traditional attorney in complex, contested, or unique legal situations. If your case involves litigation, requires specific negotiation, or deals with highly intricate legal structures, always seek personalized advice from a licensed lawyer.
Can I cancel Rocket Lawyer after one month?
Yes. You can try Rocket Lawyer for $1 and cancel before the monthly renewal. Many people use this to complete a few documents quickly.
Are LegalZoom’s documents recognized in all states?
Yes. LegalZoom provides state-specific legal documents that comply with current laws. You can also pay for legal review if needed.
Do either services let me speak to a real attorney?
Rocket Lawyer includes Q&A and consultation with licensed lawyers in its plan. LegalZoom offers attorney access, but usually as an extra charge.
Both LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer offer streamlined LLC formation services, making them popular choices among small business owners, though some first-time entrepreneurs also explore alternative platforms like Why Incfile Is Popular for First-Time Entrepreneurs for its low-cost and startup-friendly features.
Looking for a true DIY legal solution without subscriptions? Is Nolo Worth It for DIY Legal Contracts? explores how Nolo stacks up for one-off legal documents like wills, contracts, and power of attorney—perfect for self-starters who want simplicity and control.
👉 Still exploring? Dive deeper with these: