You probably know that an estate plan is way more than will.
In fact, it takes several documents & preparations, all working together, to create a successful estate plan for you and your loved ones.
As a Louisiana estate planning lawyer, I help my clients find ways to take care of their loved ones and future generations.
It’s important to me to make Louisiana estate planning as simple as possible.
You can create a last will and testament, sign a power of attorney, and even write down your final wishes.
But, if you don’t approach your estate plan with a big picture strategy, you might just miss the mark when it comes to creating the best estate plan for you and your family.
The first step of any estate plan is knowing you have to put one in place. So, since you’re here, you’ve already done the first (and probably the most important) step.
An estate plan is a dedicated collection of documents that offers a plan of action for what happens to you and your property when you die.
Meaning, it’s your best bet in preparing for the unknown.
There are 12 more steps that you can use to outline your approach when beginning the estate planning process.
This is the plan I use in my Louisiana estate planning practice. It’s how I guide all of my clients to create an estate plan that matches their goals. We account for and organize your assets so that you’ll be as prepared as possible for what’s to come.
Start collecting and organizing all the moving parts that come together to form your estate plan.
Note that these 12 steps are general guideposts to provide general information about Louisiana estate planning.
While it is possible to do your own estate planning, it’s important to understand that a well-prepared plan involves your focused attention and some critical thinking about you and your future.
So, while this post does not contain any legal advice, it can help you decide whether or not working with an estate planning lawyer is right for you.
A Successful Estate Plan in 12 easy steps
Make sure your family is as protected as possible by your estate plan.
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Estate planning goals
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Create a comprehensive inventory
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Power of attorney
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Living Will
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Designate beneficiaries
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Select your executor
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Estate planning taxes
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Prepare estate planning documents
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Nonprobate property
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Final wishes and funerary instructions
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Estate planning and life insurance
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Discuss your estate plan with your loved ones
