The Answer is YES. Adults Need An Estate Plan.

At Oriol Law Firm, we believe estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or elderly. Estate plans are for everyone. Whether you're a young adult just starting out, a new parent, or a retiree enjoying your golden years, having an estate plan ensures that your wishes are honored, your loved ones are protected, and your legacy is preserved.

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What Is an Estate Plan?

Estate planning is the process of creating legal documents that dictate how your assets and responsibilities should be handled if you pass away or become incapacitated. 

Types of Estate Plans:

A Will outlines how your property should be distributed and names guardians for minor children.

A Durable Power of Attorney designates someone to manage your financial affairs if you're unable.

A Healthcare Directive (Living Will) spells out your medical preferences and appoints a healthcare agent.

Beneficiary Designations ensure assets like life insurance or retirement accounts go to the intended individuals.

While some people may benefit from establishing a trust for more complex needs, many Louisianans can start with these essential documents.

Estate Planning Matters, No Matter Your Age or Income

Far too often, estate planning is put off until later in life. Accidents, illness, and the unexpected don’t wait. Starting early gives you control, peace of mind, and the ability to protect the people and causes you care about.

Here’s why it’s so important:

Avoiding Intestacy Laws: Without a will, Louisiana's intestacy laws (Civil Code Article 880) decide how your property is divided. Usually your assets are divided in ways that don’t reflect your wishes.

Protecting Minor Children: If you’re a parent, a will is the only way to name a guardian for minor children. Having a valid will in place means the court will not be deciding on guardianship without your input.

Managing Incapacity: Powers of attorney and healthcare directives, governed by Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 9, Section 3851, allow you to choose who makes important decisions for you if you are unable to do so yourself. 

Reducing Family Conflict: While some people may benefit in limited circumstances from setting up a trust for their family, it’s not necessary for everyone. Instead, a valid, comprehensive will can serve as your legally binding plan, ensuring your affairs are managed according to your specific wishes. A clear plan helps prevent confusion, disputes, and delays during emotional times. 

When Should I Create an Estate Plan?

As soon as you turn 18, you should have an estate plan!

You might be thinking, why so young? Once you reach legal adulthood in Louisiana, you have the right to make decisions about your finances and healthcare. You have the ability to sign binding documents, including wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. 

Even if you don’t have significant assets yet, things like a checking account, a car, or even a digital presence (think online banking, social media, or cryptocurrency) can create complications if something happens and there’s no plan in place. More importantly, estate planning at a young age gives you a voice in situations where you might otherwise have none—such as who should handle your finances or speak on your behalf in a medical emergency.

If you have children, estate planning becomes even more critical. Naming a legal guardian in your will ensures your child is cared for by someone you trust. Without it, that decision would be left to the courts.

It’s also worth noting that while some people may benefit from additional tools like a trust (which can offer tax advantages and help bypass probate), they’re not essential for everyone. The most important step is simply putting an estate plan in place that meets Louisiana’s legal standards, like those outlined in Civil Code Articles 1570–1580 for wills and Title 9 for powers of attorney.

As you move through life’s stages—like graduating from college, getting married, buying a home, starting a family, or running a business—your estate plan should evolve, too. The first and most important step, however, is having a plan in place.

Debunking Common Estate Planning Myths

“I don’t have enough assets to need a will.”

Your estate includes everything you own, and even modest assets can create complications without a plan.

“I’m too young.”

Legal adulthood brings new responsibilities, and new opportunities to protect your future.

“It’s only about money.”

Estate planning is just as much about your values, your healthcare wishes, and the people who depend on you as it is about property.

Start Planning with Confidence

Estate planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Oriol Law Firm, we guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your documents are legally sound, personalized to your situation, and ready to grow with you.

Whether you’re starting fresh or updating an old will, now is the time to take control of your future. Schedule a consultation today, and let’s make sure your voice is heard for now and for generations to come.