Probate Avoidance in New Orleans

Valuable Tools for Avoiding Successions

Succession is the process of settling a deceased person's estate and distributing the property after debts and taxes have been paid. This process is known as probate in other states. Since succession can be a lengthy and costly process, some of our clients wish to spare their loved ones the hassle and expense of succession. Does all property go through succession? Not necessarily, some types of property are not considered part of your succession in Louisiana; therefore, by arranging your assets methodically, they can automatically transfer to your beneficiaries without the need for succession or probate. The following assets are not subject to succession:

• Any property that is paid directly to a named beneficiary; for example, an IRA or 401(K), or annuity.
• Life insurance policies with beneficiary designations.
• Property held in a revocable living trust.
• Payable-on-death bank accounts.
• Transfer-on-death registration for securities.

If you die owning a piece of real estate in your name alone, succession will be required when you die. If you want to avoid probate or succession when you pass away, you need to ensure that all of your assets are titled in your revocable living trust before your death, and that you properly designate beneficiaries for your life insurance, IRAs, 401(k) plans, and annuities.

If you have further questions about avoiding probate or succession in Jefferson Parish, contact our firm to arrange a consultation with one of our experienced estate planning attorneys!

Why Brown Weimer LLC?

• We have over 30 years of combined experience handling estate planning and successions.
• We can represent clients during every phase of the estate litigation process.
• We have extensive courtroom and trial experience.
• We carefully listen to our clients and subsequently establish an individualized plan tailored to meet the client's individual needs, goals and desires.
• We gladly offer free consultations to all prospective clients.

Read our common questions page to learn more about estate planning and successions!