Bowes, Petkovich & Palmer, LLC

  Initial Application: When pursuing  Social Security Disability (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits one first fills out the initial application.  This can be done in person, by phone, or online, and one should include medical records.  The finished application is then submitted to the Social Security Administration (SSA) who sends it to Disability Determination Services (DDS).  DDS then reviews your claim.  The determination process usually takes 3 to 6 months after which you will receive a determination letter from the SSA. Reconsideration: If your application is denied, you have 60 days to file a request for reconsideration with the SSA.  Hiring an experienced attorney at this step is very important.  He or she will be able to review your initial application and determine if any additional evidence needs to be presented or any information needs to be presented differently.  Your attorney will file th...

Navigating the choppy waters of child custody is one of the most complex and emotionally charged aspects of family law. For parents in Louisiana, understanding the concept of being the ' domiciliary parent ' is not just important—it can be pivotal in shaping the life of your child post-divorce or separation. In this post, you will delve into why domiciliary parent status is more than a legal technicality; it's a cornerstone for the well-being and upbringing of your child. Whether you're currently in the midst of a custody battle or just beginning to explore your rights, this post will provide an in-depth understanding of what it means to be the domiciliary parent in Louisiana's eyes, why it matters, and how you can proactively secure this status. Understanding Domiciliary Parent in Louisiana The term 'domiciliary parent' is central to Louisiana's child custody laws . It refers to the parent with whom the child primarily resides after the dissolutio...

Navigating the intricate legal landscape of estate planning and probate law can be a formidable task, especially when dealing with the complexities of estate administration. In the state of Louisiana, the small succession process stands as a beacon of simplicity and efficiency within the often-tangled web of estate procedures. As an estate planner or probate lawyer , understanding the nuances of Louisiana's small succession can significantly enhance your service offering and provide invaluable support for your clients. We will delve into the details of the Louisiana small succession process, revealing the advantages, potential pitfalls, and essential steps to facilitate a seamless estate settlement. With a clear understanding of this streamlined protocol, you can amplify your practice's efficiency and, most importantly, provide a level of service that harmonizes with the essence of the small succession – unburdening the estate transition. The Essence of Small Succession in...

Nurturing a child's well-being through the tides of separation and divorce hinges upon a comprehensive understanding of Louisiana's custody and visitation laws . For parents embarking on the challenging journey of redefining their family structure, legal intricacies can often be overwhelming. We aim to demystify the key aspects of Louisiana custody and visitation laws, equipping you with the knowledge required to make informed decisions — safeguarding your child's interests and fostering a harmonious co-parenting environment. The Bedrock of Parenting: An Overview of Louisiana Custody Law In Louisiana, custody speaks to the legal guardianship and responsibility of a child, encompassing not just physical care, but also the authority to make important decisions regarding the child's upbringing. This state upholds that the best interest of the child should be the paramount consideration in all custody determinations. The types of custody arrangements prevalent in Louisi...

Navigating the complexities of legal frameworks concerning medical decisions can be daunting, especially when those decisions involve your health and well-being. Louisiana residents, in particular, need to be well-informed about the role and impact of a Medical Power of Attorney (POA) within the state's specific legal context. Legal Framework in Louisiana Understanding the legal basis of a medical power of attorney in Louisiana is the first step. Medical POA, also known as a healthcare proxy or surrogate, is a legal document that designates someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to communicate. The laws in Louisiana establish specific requirements for creating a medical POA that every individual should be aware of. Louisiana’s medical POA is governed by Title XV, Sections 1281 through 1310 of the state's Revised Statutes, which outlines the conditions and limitations under which such powers may be exercised. Creating a Medical POA The cr...