RUSTON, LA SUCCESSION LAWYER
Dealing with the succession process can be a painful but necessary part of settling your loved one’s estate. Let an experienced Ruston succession lawyer
at The Greenwald Law Firm assist you with the preparation and handling of these matters.
Ruston Succession Lawyer
Estate Planning and Succession Law Firm Serving Ruston & Lincoln Parish, Louisiana
After the death of a loved one, the legal process of settling their estate—known as succession in Louisiana—can feel overwhelming. Whether a valid will exists or not, the process can be anything but easy. With trusted legal advice, however, families can avoid common pitfalls and make sure their loved one’s final wishes are honored.
At Greenwald Law Firm, we proudly assist clients with successions in Ruston, Grambling, Choudrant, Simsboro, Dubach, and nearby areas. Whether you’re planning for the future or dealing with an unexpected loss, attorney Joseph Greenwald, Jr. brings years of experience helping individuals and families throughout North Louisiana.
Call (318) 219-7867 or contact us online today to schedule your free consultation.
What is Succession in Louisiana?
Succession, also known as probate in other states, is the legal process of transferring a deceased person’s assets to their heirs or beneficiaries. It involves settling any debts, verifying ownership of property, and distributing what remains. This process ensures that the estate is properly handled and that all legal requirements are met before assets are passed on.
There are two types of succession in Louisiana: testate and intestate. Testate succession occurs when the deceased leaves behind a valid will. The executor named in the will is approved by the court to manage the estate and ensure the proper transfer of assets. Meanwhile, the other type of succession – intestate succession – applies when someone dies without having left a will. In these situations, Louisiana law decides how assets are divided, usually prioritizing children, followed by surviving spouses, parents, and/or siblings.
Testate Successions vs. Intestate Successions
Under Louisiana Civil Code Art. 874, if the decedent had a will, their estate is handled through testate succession. The two recognized types of wills are a notarial will and an olographic will. A notarial will is the more formal version, signed before a notary and two witnesses. These are often drafted by an attorney and typically offer stronger legal standing. An olographic will in Louisiana must be handwritten, signed, and dated will by the testator. Louisiana requires the will to be filed with the court, the executor to be approved, and all debts and taxes to be paid before the remaining assets can be distributed.
If no valid will is left behind, the estate goes through intestate succession as per Louisiana Civil Code Article 880. The law prioritizes inheritance as follows:
- Children and grandchildren
- Surviving spouse
- Parents and siblings
- Grandparents, great-grandparents, etc.
- Aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.
- The state of Louisiana (if no legal heirs can be found)
An administrator—often a family member—will be appointed by the court to manage the estate, pay off creditors, and distribute remaining assets in the appropriate order. A knowledgeable Ruston, LA succession lawyer like Joey Greenwald can help you understand the rules and responsibilities that come with these roles.
What is a Small Succession in Louisiana?
A small succession offers a more efficient path for settling an estate when its value is limited. As of 2025, this applies to estates valued at $125,000 or less or where the decedent has been deceased for 20+ years.
In these cases, formal court involvement is often unnecessary. Instead, heirs may use an affidavit to claim property, making it faster and less expensive. Whether the deceased had a will or not, a Ruston, LA succession lawyer can help determine whether a small succession applies in your case.
Can Succession Be Avoided in Louisiana?
In many cases, succession is required to legally transfer assets. However, with proper estate planning, families may be able to avoid the need for court involvement altogether.
Attorney Joseph Greenwald, Jr. works closely with clients to set up living trusts, POD designations, joint ownership structures, and lifetime gifting strategies—all of which can help protect your loved ones from the time and stress that often accompanies the succession/probate process.
Estate Planning in Ruston: Avoid Probate with the Right Legal Tools
Proper estate planning and administration can make a big difference when it comes to avoiding probate. With the right legal tools—like living trusts, beneficiary designations, and powers of attorney—you can ensure your assets pass directly to your heirs without going through the court system. Just like good construction relies on a solid foundation, a well-built estate plan relies on thoughtful preparation and legal guidance. When you take the time to put the right plan in place, your loved ones won’t have to stress over legal hurdles or delays—they can simply rely on your wishes being honored and focus on the more important things: healing and moving forward.
Why Work With a Ruston Estate Planning Attorney at Greenwald Law Firm?
A well-prepared estate plan ensures your wishes are carried out smoothly after your death—without delays, disputes, or extra costs. An experienced North Louisiana estate planning attorney at Greenwald Law Firm can help you:
- Draft and review legally sound wills, trusts, and powers of attorney that clearly reflect your intentions
- Structure your estate for future business acquisitions, family-owned businesses, or real estate transfers
- Minimize tax burdens and avoid conflicts that could arise among heirs or beneficiaries
- Protect your children and loved ones by ensuring guardianship, inheritance, and long-term care needs are addressed
With years of experience and a deep understanding of Louisiana estate planning and succession law, our legal team is committed to helping you protect what matters most.
How Much Does Succession Cost in Louisiana?
Succession costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Expenses vary based on the estate’s size and complexity, the number of heirs or potential conflicts, the need for formal court hearings, and attorney and filing fees.
For a more accurate estimate, speak with a Ruston succession lawyer like Joey Greenwald. He can can review your case, answer any questions you may have, and provide guidance based on your unique situation. Call (318) 219-7867 for a free consultation today.
Do I Need a Lawyer for Succession?
While handling a succession yourself is legally possible, it can lead to delays, missing documents, or even improper asset transfers. With help from an experienced succession lawyer, the process becomes easier and more accurate—especially for those dealing with more complex estates or disputes among heirs.
Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side means your loved one’s wishes are more likely to be honored without unnecessary stress. Whether you’re settling an estate or preparing your own, the Greenwald Law Firm is here to help.
Choosing the Right Ruston, LA Succession Lawyer
When looking for a succession attorney, it’s important to find someone who routinely handles Louisiana probate, successions, and estate planning. At Greenwald Law Firm, we handle these matters with care, using smart strategies that reduce delay and help preserve the value of your estate.
Backed by a dedicated team, attorney Joseph Greenwald has earned the trust of clients across Ruston, Monroe, West Monroe, Minden, Shreveport, and beyond. See for yourself why by scheduling a consultation, speaking with our attorneys, and deciding if our law firm is the right fit for you.
Contact Joseph Greenwald, Jr. – Ruston LA Succession Attorney
Losing someone you love is difficult—navigating the legal side of it shouldn’t be. At Greenwald Law Firm LLC, we’re committed to helping you honor your loved one’s wishes and protect their legacy. From successions and estate planning to personal injury and criminal defense matters, our practice proudly serves Ruston and the surrounding North Louisiana communities with a variety of legal services – always delivered with professionalism and compassion.
Let us help you handle the legal steps with confidence and care. For more information, contact Greenwald Law Firm at (318) 219-7867 or fill out our online intake form to schedule your free consultation today.