Best Probate Lawyers in Lafayette

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Lafayette, Louisiana?

  The non-emergency number of the Lafayette Police Department is 337-291-8600.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Lafayette, Louisiana?

  Copies of incident reports can be obtained by submitting a request letter. You may visit the station or mail the record request to their address:

  Lafayette Police Department Attn: Records Section 900 E. University Ave P.O. Box 4308 Lafayette, LA 70502

• Which court in Lafayette handles probate?

  The Fifteenth Judicial District Court is the parish court with jurisdiction over probate matters in Lafayette. The courthouse's address is 800 South Buchanan St, Lafayette, LA 70501. Due to the volume of cases responded to by the probate division, applicants are strongly encouraged to phone the probate clerk's office at 337-232-8211 to schedule an appointment for their visit.

• When do you have to go through probate in Lafayette?

  The following situations call for probate in Lafayette:

  • The will was poorly written;
  • The decedent did not leave a will;
  • The assets have a value greater than $125,000;
  • There have been contentions over the fair division among certain assets;
  • There are disputes over the rightful heir;
  • The heir or beneficiary is still a minor.

• How will you file for probate in Lafayette if the decedent owns multiple properties all across the state?

  The probate must be filed in the parish court where the decedent resided at the time of his death, regardless of how many estates the decedent possessed throughout the state. For instance, the decedent's permanent residence is in Lafayette. Moreover, the petitioner will be responsible for preparing relevant documents and having them approved by the judge to sign a court order called Judgment of Possession. This legal document will enable the heirs to formally take possession of the properties to which they are entitled.

• Is there a deadline for contesting a will after it is admitted to probate in Lafayette?

  Yes, there is. Even after the will is already admitted for probate, you have over five years to file a contest to the succession petition with the court in Lafayette. Once the court receives your petition, it will set a trial date to investigate your claims, weigh the evidence, and issue a ruling. To ensure your rights to inheritance are protected, you may require the assistance of a reliable probate attorney.

• Are there qualifications a Lafayette executor or representative of a will must have to handle the probate process?

  Yes. A Lafayette executor or representative of a will is qualified to handle probate processes from initiation to distribution of assets, as long as that person is:

  • Over the age of 18;
  • Mentally competent;
  • Has not been a convicted felon;
  • A resident of the state;
  • Acting on behalf of a corporation, authorized to perform the duties as succession executor or representative;
  • Has a good moral character record.