Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Louisiana

My grandfather and his brother owned a large amount of law, which has not undergone a succession. After my mom passed, I did a little research and noticed that a cousin has sold portions of the land. I have a document showing my mom owned land which was filed at the court of clerk back in 1969 however when I researched the land using the present database, only that cousin's name appears. I think she has been paying the taxes for years, however, does this give her the right to claim all the land and sell it. Also if a succession is done, does it focus on the original amount of land or what is left?


Asked on 1/28/16, 8:17 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Adam Lambert The Law Office of Adam S. Lambert

No, paying the taxes alone does not transfer ownership. You would have to have an act of sale, or other document transferring title. Land can ONLY be transferred by a written document. You can't just verbally give it away and simply paying the taxes on it doesn't convey ownership. If the cousin didn't own it legally, you may be able to upset any subsequent sale as well. You may want to hire an attorney or notary to review the public records for you to see if the cousin has good title and how they got it.

Read more
Answered on 2/15/16, 6:09 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Probate, Trusts, Wills & Estates questions and answers in Louisiana