2 steps you can take to protect your California will from disputes
A will is one of the most important legal documents you can create. By drafting and signing a will, you are not only taking control of your legacy but you are also potentially safeguarding your loved ones’ futures. But your will can also become the subject of costly legal battles. Obviously, the last thing you...
2 steps you can take to protect your California will from disputes Continue reading…When should you modify a child custody order?
When parents who share a child divorce, the court will issue a custody decree. However, child custody is never cast in stone. Changes to the child custody and visitation order can be made when necessary. However, you may not petition the court for custody modification simply because you’re unhappy with the current ruling. The reasons for modification...
When should you modify a child custody order? Continue reading…Talk to your parents about estate planning
No one wants to think about losing their parents, no matter what age they are. Estate planning can be a sensitive subject and a difficult one to bring up — especially if your parents are reluctant to discuss the issue or feel overwhelmed by the prospect. While an uncomfortable conversation to have, it’s a necessary...
Talk to your parents about estate planning Continue reading…2 common reasons for succession litigation
When someone takes the time to create an estate plan, they likely expect that their family members will abide by their final wishes. However, a significant number of estates in Louisiana end up litigated in court. Succession litigation involves someone asking the courts to intervene because of a perceived issue with their estate. Obviously, there...
2 common reasons for succession litigation Continue reading…Options if your ex is behind on child support
Let’s face it, being a single parent is no easy feat. Even if the other parent is paying child support, raising children in a one-income household can be incredibly difficult. And if those payments cease, covering those necessities can be a tall order. A child support order, like any other court order, is binding. If...
Options if your ex is behind on child support Continue reading…Why do people establish trusts when they already have a will?
A will is a legal document that outlines what happens to a person’s estate after they pass away. A trust is much like a will. It helps determine where assets are distributed after someone dies. Initially, you may believe that a will is better than a trust. After all, it seems like a trust only...
Why do people establish trusts when they already have a will? Continue reading…When should you modify a child support agreement?
If you and your ex-spouse have kids, you will take care of them through child support. In Louisiana, the Child Support Enforcement section of the Department of Children & Family Service (DCFS) administers child support services. The state follows certain guidelines to determine how parents will pay child support based on their income. However, in some situations, you may...
When should you modify a child support agreement? Continue reading…Is your ex alienating you from your child?
If you choose to file for divorce, that process will mark the end of the romantic relationship between you and your spouse. If you have a child, however, your relationship will never end in specific ways. Raising a child in two separate households can be a very stressful experience, especially if you are not getting...
Is your ex alienating you from your child? Continue reading…4 reasons to have a prenuptial agreement
Everything may seem perfect with your relationship when you are thinking of tying the knot. The idea that you may have a fallout one day may not once cross your mind, and a prenuptial agreement may be the last thing on your mind. However, it’s better to be safe than sorry. A prenup can help...
4 reasons to have a prenuptial agreement Continue reading…Am I responsible for my parent’s debt as their executor?
Handling succession court when your parents die is a big responsibility. They may have specifically named you in their estate planning documents as the person they wanted to settle their affairs, or you may have assumed the role through the courts. In either scenario, it will be your responsibility to settle their affairs and distribute...
Am I responsible for my parent’s debt as their executor? Continue reading…Advice for the divorce conversation
If you’ve decided that you want a divorce, you eventually have to have a divorce conversation with your spouse. This can be a very difficult talk, and it sets the stage for how the divorce will proceed, so it is very important. In order to help this go smoothly for you, below are a few tips that...
Advice for the divorce conversation Continue reading…Is your marriage really at an end?
Many people consider divorce at this time of year. Yet how can you tell if it is just the holiday stress you are dealing with or if things really have reached the end? Here are some ways you can help yourself to decide and then move forward if you are sure: Think back to other...
Is your marriage really at an end? Continue reading…