Category: Estate Planning

Ever increasing life expectancies mean we get to spend more time with our loved ones, but it also means facing greater health problems as we age. One of the most challenging health issues for aging adults is dementia. Dementia is not a specific disease, but rather describes a group of symptoms that are associated...

There are several reasons that a will may prove invalid. It is important for testators to be aware of these pitfalls in order to avoid them. Improper Execution The State of Louisiana recognizes two types of wills. One is an olgographic will, which...

A thorough and complete estate plan must take into account a significant amount of information about your assets, your family, your property, and your wishes during and after your life.  When you make your first appointment with an estate planning attorney, ask the attorney or the paralegal if they can provide a written list...

Many grandparents who are financially stable love the idea of making gifts to their grandchildren. However, they are usually not aware of the many issues related to what many consider to be a simple gift. If you are considering making a significant gift to a grandchild, you should consult with a qualified attorney to...

In my world of estate planning, I am often asked by clients to provide any insights I can when they or a loved one are in need of placement in an assisted living facility. There are  numerous options, and the task in finding the right one can be quite daunting. I am excited to announce...

In spite of the vast amount of information that is currently available in the media and via the internet, many people still underestimate the importance of having an estate plan. Here's a look at the top five estate planning mistakes that...

When someone dies without a will, it is known as dying intestate.  In such cases, the Louisiana legislature has set forth the law that governs how the person's estate is administered. For people who leave behind large estates, unless they have established trusts or other tax avoidance protections, there may be a tremendous tax...

As an estate attorney, I am often asked how long does the probate procedure take. Simple question right. But the answer is not that simple, as the length of time it takes to distribute assets in an estate can vary widely depending upon the facts and the type of issues that are...

While being one of the most important aspects of your later stages in life, end of life legal planning is often the hardest to deal with. The issue is a mix of emotions, finance, and law – a combination that will bring anxiety to anyone. Nonetheless, being prepared for the unexpected, and eventually the...

When a person owns property in full ownership, all three principals of ownership rest in that person. Those principals are: 1) They have the right of possession; 2) the income derived from it 3) and the right to sell, lease, mortgage or otherwise transfer the property. Property in this context means any...