
Navigating the Succession Process
In Louisiana, a succession is the process of transferring legal title to all of the property owned by the decedent at the time of death which includes both immovable (land, house) and movable (cash, personal belongings, etc.) property to the decedent’s legatees or heirs who have the right to take possession and ownership of the property after complying with Louisiana law.
There are two types of successions in Louisiana:
1. TESTATE SUCCESSION
2. INTESTATE SUCCESSION
Successions are one of the most subtly complex areas of legal practice in Louisiana. On its face, it looks simple to the unknowing attorney; however, specific legal skill, knowledge and acumen are required to correctly manage successions especially when passing title to a house or land owned by the decedent. As title attorneys, we pay special attention to ensure that title to property sold from a decedent’s estate or passed directly to a decedent’s heirs and legatees is clear and merchantable once the succession is finalized.
If your family member has passed owning an interest in a house or land for which you are trying to sell, we welcome the opportunity to consult with you about succession options.