When someone dies, the process of transferring ownership of the decedent's property is succession. The specific steps depend on whether the decedent died with or without a will. When there is a will, it is a testate succession, and the successors are legatees instead...
Estate Planning
The importance of an advance directive
An advance directive gives others directions as to what medical care and life-sustaining treatments you would want in the event you are in a state of incapacitation. An advance directive is beneficial in that you are in control of your healthcare even when you are...
What late-in-life parents should know about estate planning
You had always wanted to have children. Now, you have that wish, and it so happens that are in your early 50s. Some people may think that this is late for you to have children because many people your age become grandparents rather than parents. But, to you, this was...
Why is a handwritten will a bad idea?
The idea happens a lot in movies and TV shows. A character who seems to be on their deathbed or anticipates a dangerous situation pulls out a pen and paper and jots down a will. While olographic, or handwritten, wills are valid in Louisana, trying to create a will at...
What’s the difference between testate and intestate succession?
Upon an individual’s death, estate and probate law determines the distribution of the individual’s assets. When a valid will is in place, the process is a testate inheritance. An intestate estate is the result when the death occurs without a will. There is a...
Understanding the importance of elder law planning
The purpose of elder law is to aid seniors in enjoying secure and independent golden years. This may involve different kinds of planning. As someone concerned about caring for your elderly parents in the coming years, you may wonder what type of planning you need to...
Why are taxes important when it comes to estate planning?
One of the primary goals of estate planning is to minimize the effect of taxes. Taxes can significantly reduce the amount of your estate that you can pass to your heirs. Estate planning can help ensure that your heirs receive as much of your estate as possible....
Consider creating a long-term care plan for your older years
No one wants to consider becoming too fragile to remain independent. This is why many leave loved ones unprepared for assuming the role of caregiver. Exploring long-term care planning options now prepares your family for that time when you can no longer administer to...
What executors should know about probate in Louisiana
Fulfilling the role of the executor to a friend or family member’s estate is a monumental task in both importance and difficulty. Knowing the expectations and responsibilities is important if you want to handle the probate process as effectively as possible. An...
Tax planning in your Louisiana estate
After passing away in Louisiana, your estate is distributed among your beneficiaries based on the terms of your will after going through a probate process. This process comes at a cost; for example, you will have to pay fees for the probate process, your trustee, and...