Many families in Covington are surprised to learn that even without a will, an estate still needs to go through the probate process. In Louisiana, this is called an intestate succession, and state law determines who inherits what.
Here’s what to expect if your loved one passed away without a will in St. Tammany Parish.
Louisiana’s Default Rules for Inheritance
When someone dies without a will, Louisiana law sets out who inherits:
- If married with children: Children inherit full ownership of the decedent’s half of community property (spouse gets usufruct).
- If unmarried with children: Children inherit everything.
- If no children: Parents, siblings, or other relatives may inherit depending on family structure.
These default rules can lead to surprising or unintended outcomes. For example, your surviving spouse may not automatically get the house or bank account.
Court Process for Intestate Succession
Just like with a will, the estate must be opened in the 22nd Judicial District Court in Covington. The court will appoint an administrator to handle the estate and oversee the distribution of assets under Louisiana law.
We help families prepare and file the necessary pleadings to start this process quickly and correctly.
Common Challenges Without a Will
- Disagreements among heirs
- Unknown debts or assets
- Delays due to heirship research
- Unintended beneficiaries
We can minimize confusion and provide a clear path forward—even without a will.
Protect Your Family From These Problems
The best way to avoid confusion is to plan ahead. But if a loved one has already passed away without a will, we’re here to help.
📞 We’re here to help — Contact our office to start the succession process today. Contact information is provided below.
