Louisiana Successions Attorney Serving Shreveport, Bossier & Beyond
Compassionate Legal Guidance After the Loss of a Loved One
What Is a Succession in Louisiana?
Intestate vs. Testate Succession in Louisiana
Testate (there is a will)
- The court recognizes the will and confirms an executor.
- Assets and debts are identified and addressed.
- Property is transferred according to the will’s terms.
Intestate (no will)
- Louisiana law determines the heirs.
- An administrator is appointed to handle the estate.
- Titles and accounts are transferred according to statute.
Community and separate property, real estate in multiple parishes, minor heirs, and creditor issues can affect the path. We will outline the steps that fit your situation.
Who Needs to File a Succession?
A surviving spouse or adult child of the deceased
An executor named in the will
A legal heir under Louisiana’s intestate law
A property co-owner or joint title holder
A family member needing to settle financial accounts
Cost & Timeline for Successions
Timelines depend on the facts and the court’s schedule:
Many uncontested matters with complete documentation resolve within six to twelve weeks. Estates with real estate issues, missing documentation, or creditor questions can take longer. We will provide a realistic time frame based on your parish and the assets involved.
Managing a Succession from Out of State?
If you’re trying to manage a succession in Louisiana but live elsewhere, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Many of our clients are adult children or executors from out of state who need help with a Louisiana succession for a parent or relative. We can assist with:
Gathering and Filing Court Documents
Communicating with banks, insurers.
Resolving issues quickly and cost-effectively
You can focus on your family while we handle the paperwork.
Serving Families Throughout North & Central Louisiana
Carl Franklin assists clients with successions across Caddo, Bossier, Webster, De Soto, Sabine, Red River, Lincoln, and Rapides parishes. If your loved one lived—or owned property—in one of these areas, we can represent your family locally or work with you remotely.
- Caddo Parish
- Bossier Parish
- Webster Parish
- De Soto Parish
- Sabine Parish
- Red River Parish
- Lincoln Parish
- Rapides Parish
- Natchitoches Parish
- Claiborne Parish
- Bienville Parish
- East Baton Rouge Parish
- Calcasieu Parish
What If There’s No Will?
When someone passes away without a will in Louisiana, their estate is handled through intestate succession. The court distributes property according to state law, based on family relationships, not personal wishes.
While this system provides structure, it can lead to results your loved one may not have intended. Spouses, children, siblings, and even distant relatives could all have a claim.
If you’re facing the loss of a loved one without a will, you still have rights and options.
Carl Franklin, Attorney at Law, can guide you through the succession process, protect your interests, and help ensure everything is handled with care and respect.
Trusted for Over 35 Years
Why Work With Carl Franklin, Attorney at Law?
- Over 35 years of experience serving families in Louisiana
- Member of the Louisiana State Bar Association
- Deep knowledge of local courts in Caddo, Bossier, Webster, and surrounding parishes
- Committed to making legal services accessible, clear, and compassionate
- Trusted by generations of families in Shreveport and beyond
We’re here for you when the paperwork feels overwhelming and the legal system seems confusing. Let us be your advocate and guide.
Common Probate & Succession Questions
Do I need a lawyer for a succession?
Succession involves court filings, titles, and estate responsibilities. Legal guidance helps you avoid errors and delays.
How long does a simple succession take?
Uncontested successions with complete documents often resolve in six to twelve weeks, subject to the court calendar.
What if there is no will?
Louisiana’s intestate rules determine heirs. We prepare the filings, address debts, and transfer property according to the law.
Can I handle a succession if I live out of state?
Yes. We regularly assist executors and heirs who live elsewhere through secure e-signing and coordinated document collection.
What documents should I gather?
Death certificate; any will; a list of heirs; a list of assets (home, vehicles, accounts); recent statements; and any titles or policies.
How are debts handled?
Valid debts, costs, and obligations are addressed through the estate before distributions are made.
What is the difference between community and separate property?
Community property is generally acquired during marriage; separate property is owned before marriage or received by gift or inheritance. This distinction affects distribution.
What if heirs disagree?
We aim to resolve issues through documentation and agreement. If a dispute remains, we will discuss options and next steps.
How do we handle real estate in more than one parish?
We coordinate filings and land records in the parish where each property is located.
Is a small succession affidavit an option?
In certain limited circumstances, an affidavit may be appropriate. We can confirm whether your situation qualifies.