Baton Rouge Probate Lawyer

When a loved one dies, the family is often left to deal with the transfer of assets and debts from their estate. Some people have an estate plan in place before they die, allowing for smoother estate administration. Depending on the size of the estate and whether or not the decedent had a will, it may have to go through the probate process, which is known as succession in Louisiana. A Baton Rouge probate lawyer from The Baringer Law Firm, LLC, can help you understand the legalities.

Your attorney can help you with the nuances of Louisiana’s probate laws, explain your legal options, and help you navigate the process to ensure your family can access the assets that were left for them promptly. The Baringer Law Firm, LLC, has assisted numerous families in the Baton Rouge area and can support yours during this time, too.

What Is Probate in Louisiana?

Probate is formally known as succession in Louisiana and refers to the process of transferring a decedent’s assets and debts. Succession isn’t always required after someone dies. Whether an estate goes through the process can depend on its size and whether the deceased had a will.

For example, if a decedent has an estate that is less than $125,000, you can complete the transfer of the estate by filing a small succession affidavit even if they didn’t have a will. If the decedent’s estate is valued over $125,000, it’s likely to go through the probate process even with a will in place.

It’s important to note that any money the decedent still owed when they passed also must be distributed amongst eligible beneficiaries. Approximately 55 percent of Americans say they are likely to pass on debt of at least $5,000 when they die. It’s important to understand how all facets of the estate process work.

A recent survey indicated that only 32 percent of adults in the United States have a will. Without one, you can expect assets and debts to be distributed based on Louisiana’s inheritance laws. It’s also crucial to determine if the deceased named an executor for their will, as this person will have specific legal duties to fulfill. Whether or not your loved one had any type of estate plan in place, there are a few steps you can take to make the succession process go as smoothly as possible:

• Inventory all the decedent’s assets and debts
• Locate any of their estate planning documents
• Hire a probate lawyer to help you through the process

Local Baton Rouge Probate Lawyers

The Baringer Law Firm, LLC, has nearly 40 years of experience aiding individuals and businesses alike. Whether you need help with administering a loved one’s estate, understanding a business succession plan, or anything in between, you can count on a member of our qualified team to be there for you.

When you work with an experienced attorney from The Baringer Law Firm, LLC, you can expect compassionate guidance, error minimization, and efficient resolution of disputes for your peace of mind. Our team is familiar with the local court systems in Baton Rouge and the surrounding areas. In Baton Rouge, succession is generally handled by the 19th Judicial District Court in East Baton Rouge Parish. This court is located at 300 North Blvd, Suite 2501, Baton Rouge, LA 70802.

FAQs

Do I Need to Hire a Probate Lawyer to Go Through the Process in Baton Rouge?

You’re not required to hire a probate lawyer to deal with an estate in Baton Rouge, but it’s highly recommended that you do seek legal counsel. Louisiana’s probate laws are complicated and differ significantly from those in much of the rest of the country.

A Baton Rouge probate lawyer can ensure you’re doing everything correctly the first time around to avoid delays and distribute assets as smoothly as possible. They can also help if any disputes arise along the way.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Probate Lawyer in Baton Rouge?

The cost of working with a Baton Rouge probate lawyer depends on the complexity of your probate case and the services you require from your attorney. When you hire a probate lawyer, you can ask for general legal advice or rely on them to represent you throughout your case. You can schedule an initial appointment to determine if they’re a good fit before committing to work with them.

How Long Does Succession Take in Baton Rouge?

The succession process can take any amount of time depending on the size and complexity of the estate. Disputes among heirs are a common reason for delays in the succession process, but even uncontested probate cases with minimal assets can take time without the right legal guidance. It’s wise to hire a probate lawyer to help keep you on track throughout the process.

Is Succession Always Necessary in Louisiana?

It’s not always necessary for an estate to go through succession in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Succession is a bit different than the probate process used by many other states. In Louisiana, you can expect an estate to go through succession if the decedent did not have a will or if the estate is valued over $125,000. A Baton Rouge probate attorney can discuss all your options with you.

What Should I Look for in a Baton Rouge Probate Attorney?

When selecting a Baton Rouge probate attorney, prioritize local experience in Louisiana successions, as laws differ from those in other states. Experience in wills, trusts, and estate administration ensures efficient filings and avoids delays. Check client reviews on Avvo or Yelp for compassionate service, and verify credentials via the Louisiana State Bar Association. Schedule a free consultation to assess fees and aim for transparent, cost-effective guidance.

Hire a Probate Lawyer to Help With Your Case in Baton Rouge

The Baringer Law Firm, LLC, brings nearly four decades of estate planning experience to the table that we’re ready to put to work for you. Whether you need help administering an estate or are actively facing probate litigation, we’re here to help. Contact the office to set up an appointment and discuss your situation in more detail today.