In most cases, the answer is no. However, some exceptions allow property to go to the state of Louisiana after death.
Distribution of Property If There Is a Valid Will
If a valid will exists, property must be distributed according to the terms of the will. Most people leave their property to relatives, friends, or favorite charities. However, if someone wanted to leave property to the state of Louisiana, it could be specified in a will.
Distribution of Property Without a Will
More commonly, property goes to the state of Louisiana if a person dies without a valid will. However, even this situation is rare. When someone dies intestate, Louisiana law provides that the person’s property goes to a spouse or any relative related by blood or adoption including, children, grandchildren, parents, grandparents, siblings, nieces, nephews, and cousins or any of their descendants. The state would only get your loved one’s property in the absence of any of these relations. For example, just one surviving distant cousin would inherit property before the state. However, it is important to note that in the absence of a will that states otherwise, it is only family and not close friends that may inherit property through Louisiana’s laws of intestacy.
Make Sure Your Rights Are Protected
If your loved one died without a will, if you are a forced heir, or if you have any questions about what should happen next in your loved one’s succession, we encourage you to contact our New Orleans succession lawyers. Every year, we handle hundreds of succession cases throughout the state. We know how to manage complicated cases, and we make sure our clients’ rights are protected.
Contact us through this website or by phone any time to schedule your initial consultation.
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