Probate Administration: Closing a loved one’s estate
While appropriate estate planning can minimize issues after a family member's death, disputes may still come up during the probate process. Others who die without a will or proper estate plan often leave their families wondering what to do and how to effectively handle estate administration.
Stutes & Lavergne is experienced in handling the probate process for families wanting to close their loved ones' estates and transfer assets, either under the direction of wills or according to state law when there is no will.
The probate process is fairly straightforward and has simple objectives, regardless of whether your loved one had estate planninginstruments or not:
Determine and gather all assets, property, and debt of the estate;
Pay off all debts to creditors;
Smoothly transfer remaining assets and property to beneficiaries named in the will or beneficiaries determined by state law;
Complete business succession as outlined in the estate plan;
Provide for the care of minor children or dependent adult children according to tutorship or direction of the probate court; and
Resolve any trust disputes or will contests.
Stutes & Lavergne handles estate administration on behalf of the executor under the Louisiana succession process. We can also represent the estate in will contests or challenges to the terms or administration of a trust. Our attorneys also represent families with problems concerning tutorship for minor children, and assist with a decree of interdiction for a legally incompetent adult who needs protection.
We understand state and local tax law, federal death tax regulations, family business succession, and how to successfully navigate the probate process. Our attorneys also understand that every family and each situation is unique. We are committed to helping you effectively and efficiently close your family member's estate to help you avoid anxiety and stress in probate.
