Navigating Succession After a Loss

Probate and succession law services for families in Crowley, Louisiana.

When someone passes away in Crowley, the legal process that follows can feel overwhelming, especially when you are also managing grief and family decisions. Whether the estate includes a family home, land passed down through generations, or accounts that need to be settled, you need clear guidance on what the law requires and how to move forward without unnecessary delays. Law Office of Thomas B "Rett" Harrington helps executors and heirs understand their responsibilities and complete the succession process in compliance with Louisiana law.


Succession in Louisiana involves court filings, notice to creditors, asset inventory, and distribution according to a will or state law if no will exists. The process varies depending on whether the estate is small or complex, whether real property is involved, and whether all heirs agree on the distribution. You receive support with preparing and filing the required documents, communicating with the court, and resolving issues that arise during administration. Crowley families often deal with property that has been in the family for years, which can add layers of title and ownership questions that need legal attention.


If you are serving as an executor or you are an heir trying to understand what happens next, reach out to discuss your situation and the steps involved in your case.

What Happens During the Succession Process

The succession process in Crowley begins with gathering information about the deceased person's assets, debts, and heirs, then filing a petition with the court to open the succession. You work with legal counsel to prepare an inventory, notify creditors, and obtain authority to act on behalf of the estate. If there is a will, it must be validated and submitted to the court. If there is no will, Louisiana intestacy laws determine how assets are divided among surviving family members.


Once the court grants authority, you can begin paying debts, filing final tax returns, and distributing property to heirs. You will notice that the process requires documentation at every step, from death certificates to affidavits to signed receipts from heirs. Each filing must meet court standards, and missing or incomplete documents can delay the entire succession. Law Office of Thomas B "Rett" Harrington ensures that filings are accurate and submitted on time so that the estate can be closed without prolonged court involvement.


The timeline depends on the size of the estate and whether any disputes arise among heirs. Small successions with cooperative heirs and minimal assets may be resolved in a few months, while larger or contested estates take longer. Legal counsel helps you anticipate issues, respond to objections, and keep the process moving forward even when complications occur.

Families in Crowley often have similar concerns when they begin the succession process, especially if this is the first time they have dealt with estate administration or probate court.

We know this process raises a lot of questions

Louisiana uses the term succession instead of probate, but the purpose is the same: transferring ownership of a deceased person's assets to their heirs. The process is governed by Louisiana Civil Code and involves court supervision to ensure proper distribution.
What is the difference between probate and succession in Louisiana?
The timeline varies based on estate complexity, whether there is a will, and whether heirs agree on distribution. A straightforward small succession may take three to six months, while larger or disputed estates can take a year or more.
How long does succession take in Crowley?
Louisiana intestacy laws determine how the estate is divided among surviving relatives based on their relationship to the deceased. You still need to open a succession and follow court procedures, but the distribution follows a legal formula rather than the deceased person's written instructions.
What happens if there is no will?
The court appoints an executor if there is a will, or an administrator if there is no will. That person has legal authority to gather assets, pay debts, and distribute property to heirs. You are required to act in the best interest of the estate and follow court rules.
Who is responsible for managing the estate?
You need a certified death certificate, any will or trust documents, a list of assets and debts, and information about all heirs. Additional documents may be required depending on the type of property involved and whether the estate includes real estate in Crowley or elsewhere in Louisiana.
What documents are needed to start the succession?

If you are dealing with the loss of a loved one and need to begin the succession process, Law Office of Thomas B "Rett" Harrington can help you understand what is required and guide you through each step. Contact the office to schedule a consultation and discuss your family's situation.