Helping You Plan for the Future with Trusted Will Preparation in Shreveport and Bossier
Planning Today to Protect Tomorrow
Having a properly drafted will is one of the most important gifts you can leave your loved ones. In Louisiana, the laws regarding wills and succession are unique, making it essential to work with an attorney who understands the nuances. Whether you are creating your first will or updating an existing one, Carl Franklin, Attorney at Law, offers personalized guidance to help ensure your wishes are honored and your family’s future is protected.
Why You Should Have a Will
Many people delay creating a will because they think they don’t have enough assets or believe it’s a task for the future. The truth is, every adult in Louisiana should have a will, no matter the size of their estate.
A will ensures your wishes are known, protects your loved ones from uncertainty, and helps avoid unnecessary legal complications.
Choose who will inherit your assets
Appoint a trusted executor to manage your estate
Reduce stress for surviving family members
What Happens If You Don’t Have a Will in Louisiana
If you pass away without a valid will, your estate is distributed under Louisiana’s intestacy laws. These laws follow strict formulas and may not reflect your personal relationships or wishes.
Property may pass to distant relatives, and the court — not you — decides who will care for minor children and manage your affairs.
Without clear instructions, your loved ones may face lengthy succession proceedings and unintended disputes.
How Carl Franklin Helps You Create a Will That Stands Up Over Time
Working with Carl Franklin means working with a trusted advisor who listens carefully and drafts documents built to last. Carl helps you:
Clarify your wishes for property distribution
Select trusted individuals for key roles (executors, guardians)
Meet Louisiana’s strict legal requirements for wills
Avoid common mistakes that could lead to future challenges
With Carl’s guidance, you can be confident that your will protects both your wishes and your family.
When to Update Your Will
Even if you already have a will, it’s important to update it when life changes. Significant events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, a major purchase, or a move to Louisiana can all impact how your estate should be handled.
Reviewing your will every few years helps ensure it continues to reflect your true intentions.
About Carl Franklin: Trusted Advisor for Estate Matters
Carl Franklin has been helping families throughout Northwest Louisiana protect what matters most for more than 35 years.
Clients appreciate his thoughtful approach, clear communication, and deep understanding of Louisiana succession law. When you choose Carl Franklin, you choose experience, integrity, and personal service tailored to your needs.
Serving Families Throughout North & Central Louisiana
Carl Franklin assists clients with successions across Caddo, Bossier, Webster, De Soto, Sabine, Red River, Lincoln, and Rapides parishes. If your loved one lived—or owned property—in one of these areas, we can represent your family locally or work with you remotely.
- Caddo Parish
- Bossier Parish
- Webster Parish
- De Soto Parish
- Sabine Parish
- Red River Parish
- Lincoln Parish
- Rapides Parish
- Natchitoches Parish
- Claiborne Parish
- Bienville Parish
- East Baton Rouge Parish
- Calcasieu Parish
Schedule a Consultation
Ready to create or update your will?
Call Carl Franklin, Attorney at Law, today.
Planning today brings peace of mind for tomorrow.
About Wills in Louisiana
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer to create a will in Louisiana?
While Louisiana does allow handwritten wills, an attorney ensures your will is legally valid and less vulnerable to disputes.
Can I change my will later?
Yes, your will can be amended or revoked at any time through proper legal procedures.
What happens if a will is improperly executed?
Mistakes in signing, witnessing, or drafting a will could lead to it being invalidated. Working with an experienced attorney helps avoid these risks.