Watson Successions Lawyer

Watson Successions Attorney

Many Watson residents appreciate the rural feel of the suburban area along the Amite River. The population is rapidly growing, and those moving to the area are often worried about what will happen to their new assets after they’re gone. These concerns can be addressed by a Watson successions lawyer.

Experienced Succession Attorneys in Watson, LA

It benefits everyone involved to go through succession as quickly and efficiently as possible. To simplify the succession process, consider working with Goode Tax and Estate Planning Law Group, LLC. We regularly work with families of deceased individuals to help them during moments of grief. With credentials including an LL.M. in taxation and board certification in estate administration, Carl S. Goode knows how to carry out successions with confidence.

What Is a Succession?

A succession is the process a deceased person’s estate goes through after they die. It’s meant to close out the estate by transferring their assets to creditors and beneficiaries.

Some estates qualify for a Small Succession Affidavit. This is a simpler process that can help move succession along. However, there are strict rules that dictate who qualifies for these affidavits.

Once the individual has died, the family has to submit their death certificate and an official court petition to open up their estate. If the deceased person had a will, you also need a copy of that.

After the estate is opened, a list is formed of all the assets and debts the deceased person has. Once all the debts are paid out, the rest of the assets are paid to the heirs.

Common Issues in a Succession

Succession can seem straightforward in certain scenarios, but issues that often come up during the process can complicate things. Common issues in a succession include:

• Multiple wills. Some people create wills multiple times during their lives, especially if they forgot that they already made a will. In other situations, people update their wills but do not destroy the old copy. If there are multiple wills, conflicts can develop over which will should be followed.
• Property issues. In most cases, an estate’s property is sold, and the proceeds are then given out to debtors and heirs. Issues can arise if a loved one is living in the house but does not want to move. This prevents it from being sold, leaving succession unfinished.
• Problems with the executor. An executor is a person who is appointed to oversee the succession. They make sure that all assets are included and that everyone is paid out. Some executors choose to abuse their power or do not complete their required duties. This can make the whole process much longer and more complex.
• Blended families. There are different rules for children of a divorced spouse. If the deceased person remarried, these children might not be entitled to as much property as they thought. This can apply to adopted children, stepchildren, and other unique family situations.
• Unsatisfied heirs. Some people are not mentioned in a will at all, even if they think they should have been. Even when others are named as heirs, they might believe that they should have received more assets. These individuals can formally challenge the will.

In Watson, 10% of residents are 65 or older. If you’re approaching this age range, you may benefit from a succession lawyer to discuss what might happen after your death.

Why Hire a Successions Lawyer?

Some successions are relatively simple and can be handled independently. However, many are complicated and can benefit from legal input.

Financial assets like multiple properties or businesses are difficult to deal with during succession, as well as property located in another state.

Louisiana has many rules about what a will needs to include for it to be valid. If the deceased did not create a valid will, there may be concerns about dividing the property in a legal way that also meets the wishes of the deceased.

All of these situations can be resolved more easily if an attorney is involved early in the process.

Why Choose Us?

At Goode Tax and Estate Planning Law Group, LLC, we know how it feels to lose a loved one. It can be a confusing time. Our goal is to make you feel more comfortable throughout the process and ensure you have a voice during succession.

FAQs

Do You Need a Will to Go Through Succession?

You do not need a will to go through succession. These are called intestate successions. In these situations, assets are divided based on Louisiana law. This means that it is generally recommended to create a will before death.

Where Do You Go to Start the Succession Process?

To start the succession process, you can go to the parish court of the person who died. If the decedent lived in Livingston Parish, you would go to the Livingston Parish Court. It can also help to go to a succession attorney. They can explain the process and give you more information on what your next steps should be.

How Do You Challenge a Succession in Louisiana?

Challenging a succession in Louisiana is usually done through an attorney. A lawyer can help you determine how to challenge it effectively. It might be necessary to appear in court to challenge the will. In these cases, an attorney can help create a strong case.

What Happens in a Succession if You Have Debts After Death?

If you have debts after death, these are paid before any assets are given out, regardless of whether or not you have a will. Creditors are notified and often expect to be paid out. Certain debts, like federal student loans, are not paid if the person dies. However, many other forms of debt are supposed to be paid before dividing any property.

Professional Assistance With Successions

In Watson, 95.1% of residents own their homes. These and other assets are typically passed down during succession. If you need guidance with the succession process of your loved one’s estate, schedule a consultation with Goode Tax and Estate Planning Law Group, LLC.