Best Family Law Attorneys in Monroe, LA

Although adultery is an independent ground for divorce that could exempt the spouse from the separation period, it generally does not give the agrieved spouse any additional rights with regard to alimony, child support, or property division rights. However, the adulterous spouse would generally be prohibited from receiving alimony.

Although working things out is nearly always a good idea and more cost effective than fighting it out, in most circumstances a court order is required to make any agreement enforceable. Most judges require a personal appearance and agreement on the record, among other reason, to make sure that the spouses have not agreed under duress and in fact understand the consequences of their agreement.

A divorcing couple should never attempt to hire a single attorney to represent them in a divorce or other family law proceeding. It is unethical for an attorney to represent both spouses because he would have a conflict of interest.

If you are over 55 years old, you should explore elder law planning. The younger you are, the more likely you are to qualify for long-term care insurance, which when included in an elder law plan, can often be more economical in the long run and can increase your quality of life as you enter your golden years. If you are over the age of 60, then it is more important that you seek the planning and advice of an elder law attorney, as often some of your options may no longer be available.

In many instances there are advantages in making a will. Some of these are: (1) Subject to certain limitations, you can dispose of your property as you see fit. (2) You can appoint an executor and an attorney of your own choosing who will handle your estate; (3) You can plan the distribution of your estate so as to get the maximum tax benefits. (4) You can, in many instances, lessen the costs of settling your estate. (5) Property that will be inherited by young people or other persons not competent to handle the property can be placed in trust for them. (6) You can name a person to take care of your minor children if your spouse does not survive you.