Estate Planning

Most people assume that when someone passes away, their estate goes to children, a spouse, or other close relatives. But what happens when no immediate family exists? In Louisiana, a state with unique succession laws, the answer follows a clear order. Understanding how property is distributed when there are no heirs can help families prepare…

Dealing with the loss of a loved one is never easy, and navigating the legal process that follows can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, Louisiana law provides a streamlined procedure for managing smaller estates, referred to as a small succession affidavit. This tool can help surviving family members avoid formal probate and transfer property quickly and affordably—if…

Creating an estate plan is one of the most crucial steps you can take to safeguard your legacy and ensure the well-being of your loved ones. However, it’s not a one-time task. Life changes—some expected, others sudden—and your estate plan should evolve accordingly. So, how often should you update your Louisiana estate plan? Most people…

When a loved one passes away, one of the first legal questions that often arises is whether their estate must go through succession, Louisiana’s version of probate. However, the answer depends on a variety of factors, including the value of the estate, the types of assets involved, and how those assets were titled. While many…

Organizing your estate is one of the most considerate actions you can do for your loved ones. A significant part of that process is choosing the right person to serve as your executor, also known in Louisiana as the “personal representative” or “administrator.” After you pass away, this individual will fulfill your wishes, ensuring your…

Planning for the future can be a daunting task, and when it comes to estate planning, understanding the costs involved can add another layer of uncertainty. Whether you’re thinking about creating a Last Will and Testament, establishing a trust, or putting together a thorough estate plan, one big question often arises: How much is this…

Estate planning for seniors involves carefully organizing and managing personal assets and affairs to ensure their distribution aligns with individual goals and needs. This planning process includes creating various legal documents, such as a Last Will and Testament, trusts, and durable power of attorney forms, which facilitate smooth asset transfers and authorize decision-making in the…

Individuals with straightforward estates may not need complex estate plans. Often, a simple Last Will and Testament can meet people’s needs and shield the estate from intestacy, which occurs when someone dies without a valid Will. However, a basic Will may not adequately address the complexities of larger or more diverse estates. Consequently, for many…

A revocable living trust is a legal tool designed to help you manage your assets while alive and decide how they will be shared after you die. You create this trust during your lifetime, allowing you to keep control over your assets. This means you can change, add to, or even cancel the trust whenever…