There is normally no cost for an initial consultation to discuss what may be in your best interest. At this meeting the individual may expect to receive all of the information necessary to plan their succession and the orderly disposition of their estate. We will discuss your personal situation and cover many questions you may have including: Forced heirship in Louisiana. How to determine and settle debts of an estate. Federal and State taxes on an estate. Inheriting Real Estate. How long it typically takes to settle an estate. Who can be appointed administrator or executor of an estate. Disposal of Personal Property and Estate Sales. How to get immediate access to bank accounts and other funds.
The person writing a last will is known as a Testator in that they have written a Testament and thus die Testate. The probate, and proper handling of this testament should be left in the hands of a professional who is familiar with the nuances of law and able to negotiate the hurdles to the advantage of the heirs.
The person who fails to write a Testament is considered to have died Intestate, or without benefit of a Will, and there are many rules and procedures for the disposition of this estate through the intestate succession laws of this state. Our office offers consultation and counseling both prior to death and afterwards to the heirs concerning the ramifications and implications of not having a Last Will and Testament.
LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT
The writing of your will usually requires an additional office visit after a brief editing and compilation process. It is advisable that a Living Will and a Medical Power of Attorney be completed in conjunction with the will. All of these options will be discussed at the time of your initial visit. Many couples choose to do joint wills
SUCCESSION AND ESTATE PRACTICE
Whether a Last Will and Testament has been confected, or the individual has died intestate the services of your selected attorney are generally necessary from the outset. James has focused his practice on resolving estate and succession issues and is highly regarded in this field.
When a loved one dies you should quickly get in touch with your attorney in order to avoid missteps that could prove to be costly and inappropriate.
James A Dukes, Estate Planning Attorney - Probate Attorney - Wills, Power of Attorney, Real Estate Attorney
