Louisiana Probate & Succession Quiz

Notarial wills in Louisiana must be typed or printed, signed on each page, and include attestation by a notary and two competent witnesses. Handwriting is only required for olographic wills, which are different.

These assets typically pass directly to the named beneficiary and are not subject to probate unless the estate is listed as the beneficiary or no beneficiary is named.

A child who is 23 or younger at the time of death, or of any age but permanently disabled, is considered a forced heir and is entitled to a portion of the estate under Louisiana law.

By default, executors are entitled to a maximum of 2.5% of the gross estate, unless the will provides for a greater (or lesser) amount.

Not all successions require administration. If there are no disputes and the heirs accept the succession, it may be handled without administration in certain cases.

Out-of-state real estate must be probated in the state where it’s located. Louisiana courts have no jurisdiction over real property outside the state. Use of a Revocable Living Trust solves this problem.