Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Louisiana

Joint Administrators in LA

Is it feasible or possible to have ''joint'' administrators for a intestate succession in Louisiana under which either administrator can execute documents without the others signature?

My brother and I are the only heirs. I am within a few hours of area, but am out of state. My brother is a Louisiana resident, but frankly is not very interested in taking on the responsibility of being the sole Administrator.

I would like to have control, but want him to be able to sign documents solely without my signature and to have skin in the game. Ideally, I would like either him or me to be able to sign documents on behalf of the estate for logistical reasons.

An attorney who we have not yet retained stated that my brother would need to act as Administrator since he is a LA resident. We could then sign a side agreement stating the we both must agree before executing documents. While I fully trust my brother, my hesitation is that he might not follow through in paying bills, administrating the estate, etc. I would like the ability to sign documents in case he fails to follow through without having to go through some potentially lengthy legal process to remove him as Administrator.

Any suggestions would be appreciated


Asked on 2/13/08, 11:30 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

James Maguire James G. Maguire, Attorney At Law

Re: Joint Administrators in LA

You can be co-Administrators. Even if you are not a Louisiana resident, you can qualify by appointing a LA resident as agent for service.

As co-Administrators, you would both have to act together, though. It is usually more efficient if just one is appointed. That makes things simpler.

Whoever serves will have to render an accounting to the other, showing assets, liabilities, etc. before the assets are distributed.

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Answered on 2/13/08, 11:44 pm


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