Louisiana Succession Litigation Lawyer
Succession Litigation Attorney in Louisiana
When a loved one passes away, the last thing you want to think about is the lengthy court proceedings that may follow. Unfortunately, many Louisiana residents face legal complications and disputes while trying to move through the grieving process. Whether you’ve lost a parent or a spouse, a dedicated and compassionate Louisiana succession litigation lawyer from Field Law can support and guide you through your case.
Seek Proven Succession Litigation Support You Can Trust From Field Law
At Field Law, we understand just how hard it is to lose someone you love. When you work with lead attorney Morgan Field, you aren’t just another case, but an individual who deserves care and protection during a challenging time. When disputes arise regarding your loved one’s estate, Small Business Planning matters, or business, you need someone you can trust to swiftly resolve the issues so you can focus on healing through your grief.
Understanding Succession in Louisiana
In Louisiana, what most states refer to as “probate” is known as succession. When a person passes away in Louisiana, regardless of whether they have a valid will, their estate must go through the succession process to validate how their property and assets are to be passed on. At Field Law, we can help families through the following succession processes or litigation issues:
- Successions Without Administration. This process is relatively straightforward and tends to be free of any conflict between beneficiaries, challenges by creditors, or other outside difficulties. Succession without administration can move quickly and be more cost-effective than other methods, but having an attorney on hand is still a wise decision to make certain that your rights and your loved one’s estate are protected.
- Successions With Administration. When the administration process arises in a succession case in Louisiana, it means that the decedent has left behind issues that need to be handled by the estate administrator or succession representative. This can include the need to liquidate assets to pay off estate debts.
- Intestate Successions. Roughly 66% of Americans do not have a will. When an individual dies without a valid will in Louisiana, their estate will undergo an intestate succession. Any estate assets will be inherited by certain individuals according to state law.
- Succession Disputes. Not every succession case moves smoothly. When a legal claim or dispute arises, you need an attorney present to defend your interests and your loved one’s estate.
Common Disputes and Claims in Succession Litigation in Louisiana
At Field Law, we can help you pursue litigation or defend against a claim that has been filed by another party during the succession process. Common claims seen during Louisiana succession cases include:
- Disputes regarding the rights of beneficiaries
- Breach of fiduciary duty allegations
- Will contests
- Disputes claiming the will was created under fraud of undue influence
- Petitions to remove a trustee or succession representative
One study released recently demonstrated that 58% of individuals experience family disputes, including Estate Contests and Disputes, when a proper estate plan is not involved in a succession case. In Louisiana, if a succession litigation issue drags out, it can drain the estate’s assets and lead to nothing being left when the case is closed. This makes it crucial that you retain skilled legal representation that can protect your rights and your deceased loved one’s interests.
Why You Should Hire a Succession Litigation Lawyer From Field Law
The team at Field Law has spent years supporting Louisiana families after the death of a loved one and guiding them through the steps of succession. Our succession litigation services prioritize the unique needs of each client and their estate, making certain their loved one’s interests are at the forefront of the case. When disputes arise during succession, you can trust our team to advocate for your rights, resolve issues quickly, and protect your loved one’s estate.
FAQs
How Do You Find the Right Lawyer for Succession Litigation in Louisiana?
Not every attorney focuses their practice on succession issues, even if they have litigation experience. Because of this, it is crucial that you hire an attorney who has knowledge of Louisiana’s complex succession laws and is qualified in both estate planning and litigation. You need an attorney who can help you create an effective legal strategy to navigate your succession case and protect the estate involved.
Is It Important to File for Succession on Time in Louisiana?
Yes, a succession must be filed on time in Louisiana. Delays in the opening of a succession case can cause unnecessary stress and legal strain that could be otherwise avoided if swift action is taken. Banks will typically freeze all involved assets until a succession representative is appointed. At the same time, mortgage or loan obligations will continue to build up, calling for emergency legal orders if delays in succession continue.
When Can a Will Be Contested in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, a will can be contested under certain circumstances, mainly when there are grounds present that call into question the validity of the will or the intentions of the testator. A will may be called into dispute if it fails to meet the basic requirements of the law, if any suspicion arises that the will is a forgery, if the testator signed the will because of fraud or mistake, or if claims arise that the will was revoked.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Experienced Succession Litigation Lawyer in Louisiana?
The amount it might cost to hire an experienced succession litigation lawyer in Louisiana will ultimately depend on the nature of your case. If disputes arise between individuals involved in the case, then your attorney’s fees will likely increase, as more time and services are required to settle your case. It’s smart to address all potential fees and pricing concerns during your initial consultation to make sure you understand the costs you may incur.
Hire a Succession Litigation Lawyer Serving Louisiana Families Today
When you hire a compassionate succession litigation lawyer from Field Law, you can trust that a dedicated legal advocate will walk by your side as you navigate complex succession proceedings. Our extensive legal knowledge, estate planning skills, and litigation experience allow our team to resolve succession issues with confidence. Contact our offices today to learn about our Louisiana succession litigation services.
