When someone in Metairie dies without a will, their estate goes through intestate succession, a court-supervised process that follows Louisiana’s default inheritance rules. Many families are caught off guard by what happens—and who actually inherits.
Here’s what you need to know.
Who Inherits?
Under Louisiana law:
- Children inherit full ownership
- Spouses may receive usufruct (the right to use property during their lifetime)
- If no children: parents, siblings, or other relatives may inherit
- If no heirs: the estate can pass to the state
This can cause unintended outcomes—especially in blended families or estranged relationships.
What the Court Requires
Even without a will, a court filing is required. You’ll need to:
- Prove who the legal heirs are
- Gather death certificates, property records, and account info
- File pleadings in the 24th Judicial District Court in Gretna
We handle all of this for you—from opening the succession to transferring titles.
Why Legal Help is Critical
Without a will, the risk of conflict is higher. The legal rules are strict, and mistakes can create title issues or even lawsuits. We provide peace of mind that it’s all handled correctly.
📞 We’re here to help — Contact our office to start the succession process today. Contact information is provided below.
