Writing an estate plan could be among the most helpful things a parent or grandparent could do to help their families. When someone passes away, the beneficiaries may receive that person’s assets as dictated in a will or trust. However, the children or grandchildren...
The Role Of A Realtor Vs. The Role Of An Attorney In A Real Estate Transaction
If you're involved in a real estate transaction in Louisiana, getting assistance from professionals in the space is essential. Two of the most important individuals you'll likely deal with include a realtor and real estate attorney. Understanding the difference in...
Who does a title search in a real estate transaction and why
Buying real estate in Louisiana is complicated in that the history of the property is not always known. There are several factors that could impact a real estate transaction, some of which are unknown to the owner or sales agent as well as the potential purchaser....
When a family member dies, what happens to their bank accounts?
In the immediate aftermath of the death of a loved one, there can be significant emotional upheaval and confusion. And these emotions can be even more complicated to process if you are attempting to access some of this person’s funds to pay for necessary funeral and...
Business succession planning is more important than you think
When you start a family business in Louisiana, you want it to last. But few businesses make it into the second or third generations. Only 30% of companies have a business succession plan in place for when their founder or leader passes. Making a business succession...
What happens when heirs feel upset over a will?
Heirs may have different ideas about "fair" when a will goes through probate in Louisiana. One relative might believe he/she is "owed" a set amount of money or possession of a particular heirloom. Although someone may feel a specific way, hurt feelings or entitlement...
Should people include lifetime giving in their estate?
Creating an estate plan is important for Louisiana residents. While the current federal estate tax exemption is quite high, the tax burden can still be an issue for some people. There are, however, a few ways that this can be addressed. What exactly is lifetime...
Why you should pay for estate planning advice
Ideally, you will craft your estate plan with the help of a Louisiana estate planning professional. This person may help you think about what you want your estate plan to do and what might happen if your goals change at some point in the future. Take a look at some of...
Never too young for estate planning in Louisiana
When you're in your 20s and 30s and just establishing a career path, it's easy to overlook estate planning. After all, most people live well beyond their early adulthood and have decades ahead of them during which such matters could be handled. But when car accidents,...
Tips for creating a business succession plan
If you own a business in Louisiana, it is important that you have a succession plan in place. This is true even if you don't think that you will be retiring or giving up control of the company anytime soon. Let's take a look at the process of creating a plan and how...