Estate Law · Louisiana
Louisiana estate planning rules
State-specific rules that affect how your estate is distributed, how probate works, and what planning steps matter most for Louisiana residents.
- Louisiana intestacy gives separate property to descendants and community property usufruct to spouseLA succession (civil law): separate property goes to descendants in full ownership; community property goes to descendants with surviving spouse usufruct.
- Louisiana recognizes notarial testaments, olographic testaments, and statutory testamentsLA recognizes three testament types: notarial (notary + two witnesses), olographic (entirely handwritten), and statutory. Civil-law framework.
- Louisiana succession can proceed administratively or judiciallyLouisiana succession proceedings can be judicial (court-supervised) or administrative (simplified for small/uncomplicated estates).
- Louisiana recognizes the mandate (procuration) for property and incapacity planningLouisiana mandate (procuration) is the civil-law equivalent of power of attorney. Durable when expressly stated. Healthcare directive is separate.
- Louisiana is the only US state with forced heirship — descendants under 24 or permanently disabled cannot be disinheritedLA is the only US state with forced heirship. Descendants under 24 or permanently disabled cannot be disinherited. Legitime guarantees at least 1/4.
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Check your situationThis information is educational, not legal advice. For complex situations, consult a licensed Louisiana attorney.