Probate & Successions
Assisting families with the legal transfer of assets and the care of minors and incapacitated adults.
Understanding Probate
The Probate Department handles matters concerning the estates of deceased individuals (Successions), as well as the legal protection of individuals unable to care for themselves (Interdictions and Tutorships).
Opening a succession is often a necessary step to transfer ownership of property, access bank accounts, or resolve debts after a loved one passes away. Whether the deceased left a Last Will and Testament ("Testate") or died without one ("Intestate"), our office maintains the official record of the proceedings.
Legal Counsel Recommended
Probate law in Louisiana is complex. While small succession affidavits are available for certain estates under $125,000, most proceedings require the assistance of an attorney to ensure proper legal transfer of assets.
Probate Procedures
Successions
Filing pleadings to open an estate, appoint an executor or administrator, and obtain a Judgment of Possession.
Small Succession Affidavits
A simplified process for estates valued under $125,000 where the deceased died intestate (without a will).
Eligibility RequirementsInterdictions
Legal proceedings to appoint a curator for adults who are unable to make decisions regarding their person or property due to infirmity.
Tutorships (Minors)
appointing a legal tutor for a minor child to manage their property or legal rights, often required after a settlement or inheritance.
Wills for Safekeeping
Residents may deposit their original Last Will and Testament with the Clerk of Court for safekeeping in our vault.
Search Probate Records
Search for existing succession or probate records using our online public records portal.
Search OnlineAdvance Deposit Fees
Similar to civil suits, probate matters require an advance deposit to cover the accrued costs of the Clerk. All unused balances are refunded at the conclusion of the case.
| Proceeding Type | Deposit Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Succession (Intestate or Testate) | $400.00 | Standard opening deposit |
| Small Succession Affidavit | $250.00 | One-time filing fee (varies by page count) |
| Tutorship (Minor) | $400.00 | - |
| Interdiction (Curatorship) | $400.00 | - |
| Deposit Will for Safekeeping | $20.00 | One-time fee per document |
* These are estimated advance deposits. Complex cases with multiple filings or services may require additional funds. See Full Fee Schedule.
Questions about Probate?
Our experienced staff can help guide you through the filing process.