Estate Planning

Wills, Trusts, & Powers of Attorney

Louisiana Estate Planning Lawyer

Planning for the future isn’t just about financial security; it’s about ensuring your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are protected. At Myles|Arnold, we understand the importance of estate planning in Louisiana. Our experienced attorneys will guide you through the process, creating a customized plan that reflects your wishes and safeguards your legacy.

Myles|Arnold provides estate planning services and advice involving:

  • Wills
  • Trusts
  • Living wills
  • Powers of attorney
  • Curatorships/Interdictions
  • Medicaid planning
  • And other estate planning and elder law services
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It’s Never to Late to Plan — Or Too Early

Many people do not like to think about old age and the possibility of incapacity. But time never stops and some day the reality of old age will be upon you. The sooner you start to plan for retirement and your later years, the better off you and your family will be.

Myles|Arnold can help you make the decisions needed to provide for nursing home care and the eventual transfer of your assets to your loved ones. We can draft a will, create trusts, and help you protect your assets. As your family and financial situations change, we can amend and adjust your estate planning documents — so that they continue to provide you with protection and peace of mind.

It’s never too late — or too early — to plan.

Interdictions and Powers of Attorney

A formal Interdiction may be needed when a person is no longer able to make decisions for himself or herself. But a court’s involvement in granting an interdiction can often be costly and complicated. There is an alternative to interdiction — the durable power of attorney. This can enable you to manage the affairs of the incapacitated person in a more efficient and cost-effective manner.

What is Estate Planning?

Estate planning law encompasses the legal strategies you can employ to manage and distribute your assets during your lifetime and after your passing. It involves creating documents like wills and trusts, designating beneficiaries, and minimizing potential tax burdens on your loved ones.  Failing to establish these documents will result in Louisiana law determining who gets your assets, and in what proportions, at your death.

Who is Included in an Estate Plan?

Your estate plan can consider a variety of individuals and entities:

  • Beneficiaries/Legatees: These are the people or organizations who will benefit from your assets according to your wishes.  It could be your children, spouse, other family members, or even charitable organizations.
  • Tutors (Guardians): In certain circumstances, you can designate someone to care for your minor children upon your death.
  • Executors/Trustees: These individuals or institutions will be responsible for managing your assets and carrying out the instructions outlined in your estate planning documents.
  • Testators/Settlors: You have control over how your assets should be distributed during your lifetime or after your death.

Our Estate Planning Services

Wills

A will is a fundamental document outlining your wishes for asset distribution after your passing. We will guide you through the process and ensure your will is legally sound.

Trusts

Trusts offer a variety of benefits, such as asset protection and minimizing probate costs. We will help you determine if a trust is right for you and establish the appropriate type.

Beneficiary Designations

Reviewing beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance policies is crucial. We will ensure your designations are accurate and reflect your wishes.

Medical Powers of Attorney

A medical power of attorney allows you to designate someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.  We will ensure your medical power of attorney allows your designee to act on your behalf.

Financial Powers of Attorney

A financial power of attorney allows you to designate someone to manage your financial affairs in case you become incapacitated. We will ensure your financial power of attorney is tailored to your specific needs.

Special Needs Trusts

Having loved ones with special needs requires attention to detail in estate planning for your family.  We will ensure your loved one’s eligibility for financial assistance is not jeopardized after your death.

Burial Instructions

Louisiana law allows you to dictate your wishes for burial including cremation, burial manner, and all other matters related to funeral services.

Living Wills/Advance Directives

This document allows you to express your wishes regarding medical treatment in end-of-life situations in case you are unable to communicate them yourself.

Acts of Donation

Sometimes disposing of property prior to death is desired for family members to build homes and plan for their own future.  We can help execute these plans during your lifetime.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring an Estate Planning Lawyer?

An experienced estate planning lawyer from Myles|Arnold and Leader Title Company can provide a multitude of benefits:

  • Personalized Guidance: We’ll tailor your estate plan to your unique circumstances and goals.
  • Legal Expertise: We ensure your documents are legally sound and enforceable.
  • Reduced Conflict: A clear and well-crafted estate plan can help minimize the risk of disputes among beneficiaries.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing your wishes will be respected and your loved ones are protected provides immense peace of mind.

If You Experience an Estate Planning Dispute, What Should You Do?

Estate planning disputes can arise due to missing or outdated documents, errors in beneficiary designations, or challenges to the validity of a will. If you suspect a violation:

  • Gather documentation: Collect copies of wills, trusts, and other relevant estate planning documents.
  • Consult us: Our attorneys can advise you on your legal options and represent you in court if necessary.
  • Mediation: In some cases, mediation can help resolve disputes between beneficiaries or family members instead of going to court

Let Us Help You Create a Secure Future for Your Loved Ones

Ready to start planning for the future? Reach out to us today to arrange a consultation with our seasoned estate planning attorneys and allow us to assist you in crafting a thorough estate plan that safeguards your legacy and cares for your family.

Together, let's ensure your loved ones are taken care of.

Schedule A Consultation