Estate Planning Attorney in Allen Parish

The Importance of Estate Planning

Estate planning can help you distribute your property the way you choose. Estate planning tools, including wills and trusts, allow you to select your future beneficiaries and determine the assets you would like to leave them. The state of Louisiana requires forced heirship, but you can provide your surviving spouse with usufruct over the property, which will allow him or her to use the property without owning it. Additionally, you can give your loved ones assets under the terms of a trust and distribute them as you wish. If you have minor children, you can name a guardian to care for them. You can also choose an executor to honor your last wishes. With more than 35 years of experience, the Allen Parish wills & successions attorneys at Hebert Holmes & Bertrand are well-equipped to draft a comprehensive estate plan for you and your family.

What happens without a will or trust?

If you pass on without an estate plan, your probate property will be distributed according to Louisiana intestate law. Your children are the main beneficiaries under Louisiana probate law. Your portion of community property, or property accumulated during your marriage, will be distributed to your children with usufruct to your surviving spouse. Your children will also receive all of your separate property.

If you leave behind a spouse and have no children, he or she will inherit your separate property if you leave no descendants, siblings, nieces, nephews, or parents. Your surviving spouse will also be entitled to all of your community property. If none of your relatives survive you, your property will pass to the state of Louisiana.

Draft an Estate Plan with Hebert Holmes & Bertrand

If you are interested in providing for your loved ones after you are no longer physically able, it may be in your best interests to obtain the assistance of an Allen Parish wills & successions attorney. We strive to provide clients with the personal service they deserve when creating wills and trusts. Every client has a unique family, assets, and wishes for the future, and our legal team works to address their needs with comprehensive estate plans. If you would like to obtain more information about estate planning, we encourage you to read our Estate Planning FAQ page, or to learn more about your legal options, complete a case evaluation today!