Louisiana has some of the most complex inheritance laws in the United States. That has to do mainly with the competing European interests of France and Spain when the state was just a territory. But it remains the only state wherein there is forced heirship. However,...
Baton Rouge Legal Blog
Estate Planning
When to update your estate plan
If you have created your estate plan, then you have done more than most people. The truth is that some two-thirds of Americans don’t have one. However, that’s not the end of the story. A good estate plan reflects your current circumstances and wishes. It should not be...
Avoid these mistakes when choosing a will executor
Choosing the right executor for your will is crucial, as this person will be responsible for managing your estate and ensuring your final wishes are carried out. The role is significant, and it can be demanding. Making the wrong choice can lead to unnecessary stress...
How to update your estate plan after receiving an inheritance
Receiving a significant inheritance can change your financial situation. It's important to update your estate plan to reflect these changes. It is helpful to understand how to ensure your estate plan stays current and effective in Louisiana. Update your will Your will...
3 reasons most people don’t have estate plans
You may be surprised to learn that the average person doesn’t have an estate plan. After all, estate planning is incredibly important to everyone. But, in fact, roughly two-thirds of all individuals in the United States haven’t even made a plan. Why is this? There are...
Can a trust protect your estate from creditors?
One reason you create an estate plan is to ensure your assets are distributed to your heirs and legatees according to your wishes. However, without proper planning, your loved ones may receive less than you intended. The IRS, creditors and other entities may claim a...
3 factors to consider when choosing a special needs trust trustee
A special needs trust (SNT) can be a valuable tool for safeguarding the financial future of a loved one with disabilities. As such, the choice of a trustee for the SNT is crucial as it determines how effectively the trust assets will be managed and disbursed to meet...
Don’t overlook estate planning when you divorce
Divorcing will involve a lot of big changes. It’s also going to require a lot of time and effort. Thus it can be easy to overlook that you also need to update your estate plan to reflect your single-again status. An out-of-date estate plan can be problematic for you,...
Can you disinherit your child in Louisiana?
Some states are pretty flexible about allowing you to disinherit your adult children. They figure it is your money, so you can make the choices you wish. Louisiana is not one of those states, and it is rather specific about why a parent can disinherit their adult...
3 qualities an executor of an estate needs
Designating someone to execute your estate when you die is one of the things a comprehensive estate plan should achieve. The position carries a lot of responsibility, and making a poor choice now could cause problems for your loved ones later. Here are a few qualities...