Many people assume they do not need a will because they are not wealthy. They may own a modest home, a vehicle, a checking account, and ordinary personal belongings—but nothing they consider a substantial “estate.”…
Most Louisiana families do not need to be afraid of estate taxes. Beginning in 2026, the federal estate-and-gift-tax exclusion is $15 million per individual. That means a federal estate-tax return generally is not required unless…
An estate plan is more than a list of property and instructions about what should happen after your death. A complete plan should address who receives your property, who will carry out your wishes, and…
If you are trying to name a guardian for a child in Louisiana, the law uses terminology that may be unfamiliar. Louisiana generally calls the person appointed to care for a minor child a tutor,…
Divorce changes your family relationships, property ownership, and financial responsibilities. It should also trigger a complete review of your estate plan. Louisiana law automatically changes the effect of some provisions involving a former spouse, but…
For many people, a pet is an important member of the family. Yet pets are often overlooked when wills, trusts, and powers of attorney are prepared. A verbal promise from a friend or family member…
Talking to a parent about wills, finances, incapacity, and end-of-life wishes can be uncomfortable. Parents may view questions about their estate plan as intrusive, while adult children may worry that raising the subject will sound…
Estate planning is an important task, but it is also one that many people postpone. They may understand that their property will have to be transferred after death but assume they still have years to…
Many Louisiana successions proceed without a contested hearing. The heirs and legatees agree about who should inherit, the succession representative properly administers the property, and the court can address the required filings without resolving a…
Planning for future medical decisions is an important part of a complete Louisiana estate plan. If an illness or injury prevents you from communicating, the right documents can provide instructions about your care and identify…