Common questions
Louisiana estate planning and elder law, in plain language
These answers are educational and Louisiana-specific. They are not legal advice for your particular situation, for that, Paul is a phone call away.
- What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?
- Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people 65 and older; it does not pay for long-term nursing home stays. Medicaid is a needs-based program that can pay for long-term nursing home care, but only if the applicant meets Louisiana's income and asset rules.
- Can a nursing home take my house?
- The nursing home itself doesn't take property. However, once someone qualifies for Medicaid, Louisiana's estate recovery rules may seek reimbursement from the estate after death. The Louisiana homestead is generally exempt during the applicant's lifetime, and planning can address recovery.
- What is the five-year lookback?
- When someone applies for Louisiana nursing home Medicaid, the state reviews the previous five years for gifts and below-market transfers. Those transfers can create a penalty period during which Medicaid will not pay for care.
- How much does a Louisiana succession cost?
- It depends on the size and complexity of the estate, whether there is a valid will, whether real estate is involved, and whether any issues are disputed. We provide a clear, written scope after reviewing the family's specific situation.
- Do we need a Louisiana attorney if the person lived in another state?
- If they owned property in Louisiana, almost certainly yes. Louisiana's civil law framework requires a succession filed in Louisiana for property located here, even when the primary estate is handled elsewhere.
- How quickly can Paul call back?
- Paul reviews every request personally and typically calls back the same business day. If your situation is urgent, calling 985-205-3660 is faster than the form.
Next step
Talk with Paul, on your terms.
Tell us a little about your situation. Paul personally reviews every request and calls back to see whether we're the right fit, no self-scheduling, no pressure.
What happens next
- 1. You share a few details in confidence.
- 2. Paul reviews personally, usually the same business day.
- 3. He calls back to see if the firm is the right fit before booking anything.