When Is Succession Required in Louisiana?

Death can devastate a family, especially if it was unexpected. Each member needs time to grieve and process their emotions. There will be moments of tears, reminiscing, despair, and somewhere in all that, the nagging reminder that there are legal aspects that need attention. Handling the decedent’s affairs is one aspect that needs to be done as soon as possible to ensure bills are paid and property is transferred. This can be difficult when your grief is still fresh from your loss. Utilizing the services of an experienced succession attorney in Bossier City can help. They understand the Louisiana laws and emotions that can drive decisions, and they can help guide you through the process.

Knowing When a Louisiana Succession May be Necessary

It may seem challenging to know when to go through the succession process. In general, there are two questions you can ask that will aid you in understanding your next steps:

  1. Are there assets that must pass through succession? Not all property owned by the decedent must go through the succession process. For example, retirement accounts with named beneficiaries will generally pass outside of succession. Other property under the No Succession Needed category include life insurance policies, some bank accounts, property owned as joint tenancy, and revocable trusts. All other assets are subject to the laws of succession. Your Bossier City attorney can guide you through this process.
  2. Are there specific circumstances where other options apply? In some particular cases, you may have alternative choices. For example, an affidavit may be used for very small estates, transferring motor vehicles, and transferring bank accounts and last wages to a surviving spouse. Talking with a succession attorney will help in knowing the necessary steps you need to take if these situations apply.

Steps to Help You Decide If Succession Is Necessary

You can make the process run smoother when you take these steps:

  1. Locate the will. If an original will exists, you need to find it. Sometimes, there is only a notarial or holographic will available. The estate is considered intestate and will pass according to Louisiana’s intestacy laws when there is no will.
  2. Make a list of anyone who may need to be included in the process. This list should be comprised of potential heirs, debtors, and people or organizations included in the will. You will also want to write down any potential heirs outside of the will.
  3. List of all known assets and debts. The decedent’s estate comprises all assets owned and all debts at the time of death. Include personal property, financial accounts, real estate, mortgages, loans, and other obligations.
  4. Contact a succession attorney. A lawyer who specializes in succession can help you determine if you need to go through the process and can guide you.

Utilize the Experience of a Succession Attorney in Bossier City

Put your loved one’s affairs in order properly after they pass when you seek out the services of David L. White and his team. He understands Louisiana’s succession laws and can offer advice to guide you through the steps. Call David today to learn more about your next steps in the succession process.

Contact a Bossier City succession attorney who will guide you through the Louisiana legal system. Give us a call at 318-747-7023.