How Much Does a Will Cost in Louisiana?

If you or a loved one is considering creating a will in Louisiana, it is wise to be aware of the financial costs involved. The financial concern that many individuals feel is understandable. If you are wondering, “How much does a will cost in Louisiana?” it is crucial to speak with a Louisiana will lawyer who can guide you through all the necessary legal steps.

What Factors Affect The Cost of a Will in Louisiana?

When it comes to creating a will, the costs involved sometimes scare people away. 62% of millennials do not have a will in place. Whether you live in Shreveport or Baton Rouge, creating a will is vital to the protection of your future and your loved ones.

There are many factors that could affect the cost of creating a will in Louisiana. These factors include:

• Type of will. Not all wills are going to cost the same amount. Simple wills, which are typically straightforward documents that lay out how assets will be distributed, are likely less expensive. A more complex will that will also need to take tax planning into account is likely more expensive.
• Estate complexity. If you own a significant number of high-valued assets, such as a business or multiple properties, you will need to incorporate these factors into your will. This makes the document more complicated, meaning that it will cost a higher amount to establish. Additionally, the more assets you have, the more time it takes to select beneficiaries.
• Location. Your geographical location can affect the costs involved with creating a will. There are certain places in Louisiana where the cost to create a will will be higher than in others. In higher-cost areas, people tend to have more assets. This increases the time required to create a will, making it more expensive.

Why Creating a Will Is Important

Nearly 55% of Americans will pass on debt after they die. Without a will in place, these debts and your remaining assets will be distributed in a way that will likely not align with your personal wishes.

Creating a will in Louisiana ensures that control is given to you and no one else. You can determine who inherits your property and when, who manages the estate after your passing, and who will take care of any minor children.

No matter your age, health, or wealth status, creating a will is essential, and the safety of your future and your loved ones outweighs the potential costs involved.

What Is Succession?

In Louisiana, succession and probate are similar legal terms. This is the process that a person’s estate goes through after they die. This process normally happens for every estate, regardless of whether or not they have a will.

If someone dies with a will, it is called testate succession. Those who die without a will are subject to intestate succession. This means that the state is in charge of distributing assets based on inheritance law.

Many people prefer to have more control over the distribution of their assets, which makes creating a will important. They can also create tools like trusts to reduce the amount of assets that have to go through succession.

About Ezell Law Firm, LLC

For over 40 years, the team at Ezell Law Firm, LLC has been working to help protect the wishes of men and women across Louisiana when it comes to creating dependable and comprehensive estate plans. We know how to establish a will that protects you and your loved ones for years to come.

If you are trying to decide whether or not to create a will, we’re here to help. Let us review the details of your estate and help guide you on the right options for you and your family.

FAQs

How Often Should I Update My Will in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, you should update your will regularly. While it is helpful to review your will once every few years, it is especially important to update it after major events. New children, marriages, divorces, and new assets are all reasons to update your will. You may also wish to update a will if your wealth status changes before you pass away.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Will Lawyer?

How much it costs to hire a will lawyer in Louisiana is difficult to estimate. This is because every lawyer is different, along with their fee structure. Generally, the more complicated the will is, the more money it will take. The experience level of your attorney also factors into the cost. Some attorneys offer wills for a flat fee if they are straightforward.

What If a Loved One Dies Without a Will in Louisiana?

If a loved one passes away in Louisiana without a will, their estate will still need to undergo the complicated legal process known as probate. However, it will be subject to the inheritance laws of the state, meaning your wishes may not be carried out as you would have hoped. Nearly 68% of Americans do not have a will in place as of 2024.

What Is the Biggest Mistake You Can Make When Creating as Will?

When creating a will, the biggest mistake you can make is not hiring an attorney to assist you through this process. Without an attorney, you might create a will that does not stand up to future legal challenges. In these cases, someone might try to invalidate your will after your death and work to ensure your wishes are not carried out.

Hire a Will Lawyer Serving LA Residents

If you or someone you love has decided it is time to create a will in Louisiana, it is crucial that you hire a will lawyer who can guide you through the process. Trying to create a will alone can leave you vulnerable to hidden costs. An experienced lawyer can address these potential pitfalls.

At Ezell Law Firm, LLC, we are here to guide you through every step of the will creation process. Contact our office to schedule a consultation today.