Like many Louisiana residents, you may have put off thinking about estate planning for a while. A sudden life event, such as the birth of a child or the death of a close loved one, may have you finally considering creating a plan of your own.
Though you may be ready to begin estate planning, you may feel hesitant to work with an attorney. Like many people, you may think that you could research and find the right tools yourself in order to create a plan that reflects your wishes. While you certainly do have DIY options, taking that route may not work in your best interests.
Why is DIY not the best option?
Though you may be able to find various legal forms online after a quick search, you may want to remember that the forms needed to create a valid estate plan vary from state to state. These differences could mean that you fill out a form yourself thinking it will cover your needs only for it not to apply to Louisiana residents. Unfortunately, if this happens, you may not know. The discovery could take place after your death, and your surviving loved ones may be left in a difficult spot.
Do you have a complicated estate?
It is also in your best interests to obtain help creating your estate plan if you have complex elements to your estate. You may not think that your situation has any significant factors that could make it more complicated, but if any of the following details apply, it can be tricky to create a solid estate plan on your own:
- You have a family member with special needs or a disability.
- You recently went through a divorce.
- You own property, such as real estate, in more than one state.
- You have entered into a second marriage.
- You have minor children.
- You own a business.
- Your spouse or another close family member recently passed away.
- You have a considerable amount of assets in your retirement accounts.
These examples are only a few of the many that could need extra attention when creating your estate plan. As a result, it may be worthwhile for you to consider enlisting the help of an attorney. Having legal help could allow you to fully understand your planning options, to ensure that you use the right forms and to include the right information for expressing your wishes.
