Monroe Estate Planning Attorney & Successions Counsel

Plan Today for Tomorrow’s Peace

Watson, McMillin & Street helps families create practical plans for what matters most. Working with a Monroe estate planning attorney means your will, trusts, and powers of attorney reflect Louisiana law and your goals. Our team guides clients across Northeast LA—Monroe, West Monroe, Ruston, Bastrop, and Sterlington—through sensitive decisions with clarity and confidentiality.

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Our Estate Planning Services

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Wills & Basic Estate Planning

Custom wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives to direct property, name guardians, and authorize trusted agents.

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Trusts & Asset Protection

Revocable living trusts, special needs planning, spendthrift protections, and strategies to manage assets for loved ones.

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Successions (Probate Administration)

We assist executors and families with Louisiana successions—opening the estate, marshaling assets, resolving debts, and distributing property.

Why Estate Planning Matters

A clear plan spares your family uncertainty, ensures your wishes are followed, and provides practical instructions for health decisions and finances. Estate planning isn’t only for the wealthy—if you own a home near Bayou Desiard, have savings, or care for dependents, a basic will and powers of attorney are essential.

Louisiana Succession Process

In Louisiana, the court process is called succession. If there’s a valid will, the court recognizes it and appoints an executor to distribute assets. If there’s no will, state intestacy law determines heirs—often involving community property rules for spouses and children. Our team prepares the pleadings, handles court filings, and coordinates with title professionals if real estate needs to transfer.

  • Do wills have to be notarized in Louisiana?

    A notarial will follows specific formalities including witnesses and an attestation clause; we’ll ensure it meets statutory requirements. (Louisiana also recognizes certain olographic wills written, dated, and signed by the testator.)

  • What happens if I die without a will?

    Louisiana’s intestacy rules decide who inherits; a will lets you choose beneficiaries, name an executor, and plan for minors.

  • How long does a succession take?

    Simple, uncontested matters may resolve in a few months; complex estates with property in multiple parishes take longer.

  • Can a trust avoid succession?

    Assets properly titled into a revocable living trust can pass outside the court process. We’ll help determine whether a trust fits your goals.

  • How much does it cost to get a will in Monroe?

    Costs vary based on complexity; we provide clear estimates after learning about your needs.

Protect Your Family’s Future

Whether you’re writing your first will, updating an old plan, or handling a loved one’s succession, Watson, McMillin & Street is ready to help. Call 318-322-9700 or email info@wmhllp.com to schedule a confidential consultation in Monroe or virtually across Northeast Louisiana.