If I Die Without a Will in Louisiana, Who Inherits My Property?
– Handy Outline of Succession from an Estate Planning Attorney in Shreveport
Many of us have heard the horror stories of heirs fighting for their share of a family’s estate. It is especially disheartening to learn of the greed and deceptive lengths some people will stoop to for a bigger slice of the pie. Stories like these are portrayed in Hollywood films, but the fact remains, if you die without a will in place, you may have inadvertently put family harmony at risk.
Implement a correctly executed will to save your family some heartache during an already stressful time. Enlist the services of an estate planning attorney in Shreveport like David L. White. He and his team can ensure your wishes leave no room for doubt after you pass. He will guide you through the process now to avoid legal and financial issues later.
How the Line of Intestate Succession Works
You may assume that your spouse gets everything before your children. That is not the case in Louisiana because there are certain caveats. Here is a general overview of who gets what if you die without a will (i.e., intestate):
- Children – no spouse: Your children will get everything from your estate and divide it amongst themselves.
- Spouse – no children, parents, or siblings: This is the only time your spouse receives everything.
- Parents – no children, spouse, or siblings: Mom and Dad will inherit all of your estate.
- Siblings – no children, spouse, or parents: Your brothers and sisters will divide your belongings and property.
- Spouse and children: It starts getting interesting when your spouse survives, and there are children. Your kids inherit your share of community property plus any separate property. However, spouse will have the right to use your share of any community property during their lifetime.
- Spouse and parents, no children: Your spouse will receive all of the community property, while your parents will get any separate property.
- Spouse and siblings, no parents: Similarly, your husband or wife will inherit your interest in community property, and your brothers and sisters will get separate property.
- Siblings and parents, no spouse or children: In this instance, your brothers and sisters inherit everything subject to your parents’ right to use your property during their lifetime.
As you can see, there are many different avenues your estate can follow based on who your heirs are. Additionally, since Louisiana is a community property state, the law differentiates between the community and separate property. Don’t overlook forced heirs either.
Work with an Experienced Succession Attorney in Shreveport
Avoid putting your wishes in jeopardy, and give your family the gift of peace of mind, knowing clearly who gets what when you die. Hire the services of Shreveport’s established estate planning attorney David L. White. He understands Louisiana’s intricate laws and assists you in establishing a plan now. You can depend on his years of experience and knowledge to ensure your descendants get what you want them to have.
Contact your Shreveport estate planning attorney to find out more about creating your last will and
