Probate in Louisiana, handled for you
Louisiana is unlike any other state — it uses a civil-law system (inherited from French and Spanish law), and the process is called a 'succession' rather than 'probate.' Louisiana also has forced heirship, which means certain heirs are entitled to a portion of the estate by law. An executor isn't strictly required to hire an attorney, though the unique terminology and procedures make professional help valuable. Kindred handles the administrative work for one flat fee.
Louisiana lets you handle an uncontested probate without a lawyer. Louisiana does not strictly require an attorney for an ordinary, uncontested succession. However, the civil-law terminology and forced-heirship rules are unique. Kindred handles the administrative work; if anything is contested or involves forced-heirship disputes, we flag it so you can bring in an attorney of your choosing.
The four things families ask first
Hourly / flat fee
Read moreA typical Louisiana succession runs about 8 to 14 months.
Read more$125,000
Read moreDistrict Court, in the parish where the person lived
What it could cost in Louisiana
≈ 45 hours of admin and legal work, all billed at lawyer rates.
Kindred + your attorney
Estimated difference vs. a full-service firm
$5,500
+ about 150 hours of your own time
Full-service estimated at $250–$400/hr for ~45hours; the attorney figure is an illustrative fixed fee. Illustrative only — not a quote or legal advice. Figures vary by estate. We're not a law firm; an independent attorney always handles the legal work.
Worth knowing in Louisiana
Forced heirship
Unique to Louisiana: children under 24 (or disabled children of any age) are entitled to a 'forced portion' of the estate — typically one-fourth if one forced heir, one-half if two or more — regardless of what the will says. This is the most important difference between Louisiana and other states.
Succession (not probate)
Louisiana calls the estate-administration process a 'succession,' not 'probate.' The terminology and procedures come from civil law (French/Spanish tradition), not English common law. The core administrative work is similar — Kindred handles it either way.
Frequently asked
Do I need a lawyer for a succession in Louisiana?
Not strictly — Louisiana does not require an attorney for an ordinary, uncontested succession. However, the civil-law terminology, forced-heirship rules, and unique procedures make professional guidance valuable. Kindred handles the administrative work for a flat fee; if forced-heirship disputes or complex issues arise, we flag it so you can bring in an attorney of your choosing. Kindred is not a law firm.
What is forced heirship in Louisiana?
Louisiana is the only U.S. state with forced heirship. Children under 24 (or disabled children of any age) are entitled to a 'forced portion' of the estate — typically one-fourth if one forced heir, one-half if two or more — regardless of what the will says. This is separate from intestate succession and applies even with a will.
How much does a succession cost in Louisiana?
No statutory percentage fee — attorneys typically bill $250-$450/hour or a flat fee. Filing fees run about $200-$350. An affidavit of small succession is available for estates under $125,000. These are illustrative figures; actual costs vary by estate.
How long does a succession take in Louisiana?
Typically 8 to 14 months. Unlike other states, creditors generally have 1 year from death to file claims. An inventory is due within 90 days of appointment. A judgment of possession is needed to transfer real property.
Last verified July 2026. Figures are illustrative and vary by estate — not a quote or legal advice. Kindred is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice; we handle the administrative work and coordinate an independent attorney where one is legally required.
You don't have to carry this alone.
Tell us about the estate on a free, no-obligation call. We'll map out exactly what needs to happen — and how we'd take it off your plate.
Start with fixed-fee Estate Setup, then choose the right package.
Tell us about your situation
Has the person passed away?
Your relationship to them