attorney needed when forming an LLC in NY?

[Kim Vandermark]

Hi all. I'm wondering if anyone has experience using an online legal service to form an LLC in NY? My husband, son and I are just getting started in the REI world and would like to form an LLC. We met with an attorney this week who will charge $1000 for his part, plus we will have other fees (publication, filing fees, name search, delivery of paperwork to Albany, etc). While I respect the expertise and knowledge that professionals bring to their field, this is too much money for us as we are starting out; however, I don't want to be short-sighted and end up unprotected should we be sued down the road. Do the online sites offer comprehensive documents that protect assets and the people involved?

A large part of the expense is NY's publication requirement, so that makes me think that maybe we should file in a different state. However, if we plan to purchase property in NY (but not only NY), will we have to pay these fees once we buy a house here? 

 I would be grateful for any thoughts, experiences or advise.