Successions

Guiding You Through Life’s Most Difficult Moments

Imagine this: A loved one passes away, leaving behind a home, a little land, and a few bank accounts. Everyone assumes the family can step in to take care of things, but when you try to sell the house, pay property taxes, or even update the insurance, you’re told you don’t have legal authority. Everything is still in the deceased’s name.

We’re Here to Help — Start Here

family gathering in the kitchen

Why a Succession Matters

Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with legal matters while you’re grieving can feel overwhelming. For generations, families could get by without worrying too much about completing successions. But that’s no longer the case. You can’t simply step into their shoes and take over property, accounts, or insurance. Until a succession is complete (what other states call “probate”) everything stays locked in the deceased’s name. That means you can’t sell a home, access bank accounts, or even update insurance policies.

At Second Line Law, our role is to walk alongside you, step by step, ensuring your loved one’s wishes are honored and the process is as smooth as possible. You’ll never feel rushed or treated like just another case file. For us, this work is a privilege, helping you and your family move forward while keeping what matters most intact.

How We Help

Every family’s situation is different, and successions aren’t one-size-fits-all. At Second Line Law, we handle successions of all sizes, from straightforward to complex. Here’s what to expect when you come to us:

Succession Affidavits

If the estate is valued under $175,000 and there’s no will, families may qualify to use a succession affidavit. It’s faster, simpler, and less expensive.

Judicial Successions

Larger estates or those with wills require a court process. This involves filing documents, securing signatures from heirs or legatees, and obtaining a judge’s approval through a “Judgment of Possession.” With the right guidance, it doesn’t have to feel daunting.

When There’s No Will

Louisiana law decides who inherits. Often, children or grandchildren take priority but the longer you wait, the more complicated it becomes to track down heirs. Starting sooner avoids unnecessary roadblocks.

Defense of successions

Standing up for rightful heirs when disputes or fraud threaten what’s fair

Every case is different, but our goal is the same: to make sure families aren’t pushed aside and that legacies are protected.

Why Successions Matters

couple holding hands

Opening a succession isn’t just a formality. It’s what gives heirs and legatees legal ownership and the ability to act. Without it, you may face hurdles like losing insurance coverage, facing steep tax bills, or being cut off from disaster relief.

A completed succession gives heirs the ability to:

  • Protect property with valid insurance
  • Secure homestead exemptions and avoid hefty tax bills
  • Access bank accounts, investments, and safety deposit boxes
  • Sell or refinance property when needed
  • Qualify for FEMA and disaster relief when tragedy strikes

And here’s where urgency comes in: Louisiana’s insurance laws have tightened. Families often can’t insure property until succession is finalized. FEMA and other aid programs also require proof of succession. We’ve seen families left without coverage in wake of hurricanes and floods across Louisiana, blocked from recovery aid simply because this legal step wasn’t done in time.

Moving Forward Together

We’re Here to Help Protect What Matters Most

Here in New Orleans, the second line is a reminder: we honor our loved ones not only in memory, but by carrying their legacy forward. That’s how we see our role in successions. We walk beside you during this important step, making sure your loved one’s wishes are respected and your family is protected for what comes next.

At Second Line Law, we treat that responsibility with care, compassion, and the respect your family deserves. If you’re concerned about your family’s future, reach out today.