Wills & Trusts in Allen Parish

The Importance of a Will

A will, also called a testament, can provide instructions from the creator of the will, or testator, about how to distribute property. If you pass away without a will, your assets will be distributed according to Louisiana intestate law. Even though Louisiana has forced inheritance, you can provide your surviving spouse with usufruct, or control of property without ownership, of the forced inheritance portion of your estate. A valid will can also select a guardian to care for minor children and an executor to honor last wishes. By listening to your desires for the future, our attorneys can draft a valid will for you that will protect your family.

What is a trust?

A trust allows one person (the trustee) to hold property for another (the beneficiary). You can place both real and personal property in the trust, and can distribute it at the increments you choose. Trusts can help your property avoid probate and may reduce the chance of a dispute over your estate when you are gone. A trust may be a better way to leave property to individuals who do not handle money well, because you can select the distribution times and rules of the trust. If you are interested in providing property to your family as soon as possible when you pass, we can help you plan to keep your assets out of the probate process.

Create Valid Wills & Trusts with an Allen Parish Wills & Successions Attorney

Careful estate planning now can help you provide for your loved ones later. Louisiana has unique succession laws, including forced inheritance, which you need to take into consideration before creating wills and trusts. With more than 35 years of experience, Hebert Holmes & Bertrand is well-equipped to draft a will or trust to protect your family in Kinder, Allen Parish, and Southwest Louisiana. To learn more about your legal options, please do not hesitate to contact Hebert Holmes & Bertrand today!