Shreveport Wills Lawyer

Shreveport Wills Attorney

Planning for the future might not always feel urgent, but making sure your loved ones are protected after your passing is one of the most important things you can do. At The Berg Law Firm, we understand that creating a will and navigating Louisiana’s estate laws can be daunting, which is why our Shreveport wills lawyer are here to guide you through the process, offering tailored solutions that can give you peace of mind.

Understanding the Importance of a Will in Shreveport

A will is more than just a document; it lays out your intentions and provides clarity and direction for your loved ones after you’ve passed away. In Shreveport, the process of transferring a deceased person’s estate is known as succession. This process involves the court intervening to be sure that all debts are settled and that your assets are distributed to the rightful heirs.

That said, despite the significance of having a will in place, only 46% of Americans have one, with only 24% of Americans having any kind of end-of-life plan in place.

Steps to Creating a Valid Will in Shreveport

Drafting a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family while making sure your wishes are honored. Louisiana has specific legal requirements that must be met for a will to be valid, and any mistakes can lead to unnecessary challenges in court, including the possibility that it could be declared invalid.

Understanding these requirements can help you create a legally enforceable document that provides clarity and security for your loved ones, and they are:

• Written document: Oral wills are not recognized, which means the will must be in writing.
• Testator’s capacity: You must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind to create a valid will.
• Signature requirements: The will should be signed by you and, in certain cases, by two competent witnesses.
• Clear intention:. The document must explicitly state your intentions when it comes to asset distribution.

Because Shreveport has strict requirements for validity, working with an experienced Shreveport Wills attorney can help prevent costly mistakes. The Berg Law Firm is here to guide you through each step. We’re ready to make sure your will is legally sound and that it protects those who matter most.

The Succession Process in Shreveport

Without a valid will, your estate falls under Louisiana’s intestate succession laws, which may not align with your personal desires. This process can be categorized into two primary types, and they are:

• Testate succession: This occurs when the deceased leaves a valid will outlining the distribution of their estate, which allows the court to oversee the distribution.
• Intestate succession: When there’s no will, assets are doled out to the surviving spouse and children, but if there aren’t any, assets could then go to parents, siblings, grandparents, or even to the state.

Without a will in place, succession can become lengthy and costly, leading to potential disputes among heirs, so whether you’re planning or handling a loved one’s estate, The Berg Law Firm is here to help you take the first step and get your intentions down on paper.

Why Choose The Berg Law Firm as Your Shreveport Wills Lawyer?

Rooted in Louisiana, The Berg Law Firm has a firm foothold in Caddo Parish. With a depth of local knowledge, we’ve built a solid reputation in the Caddo Parish Civil Court, allowing us to navigate the process with an edge over the competition. Our comprehensive services include:

• Personalized consultations: We take the time to understand your goals and concerns, crafting a will that aligns with your wishes.
• Experienced guidance: Navigating Louisiana’s succession laws can be complex. Our proven track record ensures that your estate plan complies with all legal requirements, minimizing potential disputes.
• Comprehensive estate planning: Beyond drafting wills, we assist with trusts, powers of attorney, and other essential documents to safeguard your legacy.

At The Berg Law Firm, we recognize that each client’s situation is unique, and our approach is tailored to address individual needs, which lets us make sure your will reflects your specific circumstances and aspirations.

FAQs About Shreveport Will Laws

Q: What Happens if I Move After Writing My Will in Shreveport?

A: If you move, your will may still be valid, but it’s important to check if it complies with the laws of your new state. Some states have different rules regarding witnesses, notarization, and forced heirship. It’s wise to have an attorney in Shreveport review your will after relocating, especially if you relocate to or from Shreveport to or from another state, to make sure it remains enforceable under your new state’s laws.

Q: Can I Disinherit a Child in Louisiana?

A: Louisiana has forced heirship laws, which means you can’t fully disinherit a minor child or any child, no matter their age if they’re permanently disabled. However, you can limit what they receive in certain circumstances. If your children don’t qualify as forced heirs, you can legally exclude them from your will, but it must be done clearly and correctly.

Q: Does My Will Cover Digital Assets Like Social Media Accounts and Cryptocurrency?

A: Your will can cover your digital assets only if you explicitly include them. Louisiana law doesn’t automatically address digital assets, so you must specify who will manage your online accounts, cryptocurrency, and digital property. Without clear instructions, your family may struggle to access or transfer these assets. Consider appointing a digital executor in your estate plan to handle these matters efficiently.

Q: Can I Include Burial Instructions in My Will?

A: You can include burial instructions in your will. Keep in mind, though, that a will isn’t a good place for burial instructions. Wills are often read after funeral arrangements have been made, which means your wishes might not be followed in time. Instead, it’s better to create a separate funeral directive and discuss your preferences with loved ones. You can also appoint someone in an advance directive to handle these decisions.

Contact Our Experienced Shreveport Wills Lawyer

Creating a will is more than just distributing assets. It’s about ensuring your loved ones are cared for and that your wishes are honored. Whether you need assistance drafting a will, validating a will, or navigating succession, The Berg Law Firm is here to provide clear, reliable guidance. Contact us today to speak with a member of our team about how we can help meet your estate planning needs in Shreveport.