Blog - Ogden Law, LLC

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What is a Usufruct in Louisiana?

July 21, 2026

Usufruct in Louisiana is one of those legal terms that stops people cold the first time they see it. Most people encounter it the same way. They’re sitting at a kitchen table, reading through a parent’s will. Or they’ve just received paperwork from the courthouse after a spouse passed away. There it is: usufruct. They stop. They read it again. They might even try to sound it out…and then they call me! In more than forty-five years of practicing law in Louisiana, I’ve had this conversation hundreds of times. The word looks like it came from another language. Because it did. But the concept behind it is something every Louisiana family needs to understand, especially if you own property, have lost a loved one, or are thinking ahead about your own estate plan. Let me explain it the way I explain it to clients sitting across from me at my office

What Is a Codicil to a Will?

June 3, 2026

What is a codicil to a will? If you’ve never heard the word before, you’re not alone. Most people haven’t, until they find themselves needing one. A codicil (pronounced KOD-uh-sil) is simply a legal update to a will you’ve already signed. Think of it like an amendment to a contract, or a change-of-address form filed with the post office. You’re not throwing out the original and starting over. You’re just saying: everything in my will still stands, except for this one part, which I’m changing to say this instead. That’s it. A codicil attaches to your original will, references it by date, spells out exactly what is different, and from that point forward, the two documents are read together as one. People use codicils when life changes in ways their original will didn’t account for. A named executor moves across the country. A grandchild is born. Someone you left a

Managing a succession in Louisiana with Ogden Law

Navigating a Succession in Louisiana: 10 Essential Tips

November 27, 2024

Going through the process of a succession in Louisiana plays a huge role in ensuring that a deceased person’s estate is distributed fairly, efficiently, and in accordance with the law. While the process can feel overwhelming, proper preparation, organization, and guidance can transform a daunting task into a manageable journey. With the right steps and expert advice, navigating a succession doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. Whether you’re planning for the future or managing a loved one’s estate, Charlton “Chink” Ogden can provide clarity and support every step of the way. 10 Tips for Navigating Succession in Louisiana Understand the Basic Laws Regarding Succession in Louisiana: Louisiana’s succession laws differ from those of other states, largely because of its foundation in civil law rather than common law. Take time to familiarize yourself with terms like “testate” (with a will) and “intestate” (without a will) to set expectations for the

Choosing the Right Business Structure

October 22, 2024

When starting a business in Louisiana, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is choosing the right business structure. Two of the most common options for small businesses are the Limited Liability Company (LLC) and the Sole Proprietorship. Each structure offers unique advantages and potential drawbacks, so understanding their differences is essential to making an informed choice that suits your business needs. Sole Proprietorship: The Simple StartA sole proprietorship is the simplest and most common form of business structure. It’s easy to set up and operate because it doesn’t require formal registration beyond necessary local business licenses. Advantages of a Sole Proprietorship: Simplicity: One of the main appeals of a sole proprietorship is how easy it is to establish. There’s no need to file special paperwork with the state of Louisiana, and costs are generally low. Full Control: As the sole owner, you have complete control over all

The Importance of Estate Planning in Louisiana

September 23, 2024

Estate planning in Louisiana is often overlooked or delayed, but it is one of the most critical steps you can take to protect your family’s future. Whether you have substantial assets or a modest estate, planning for how your property and financial matters will be handled after your death or during incapacitation provides security and peace of mind for your loved ones. Estate planning is more than just creating a will; it involves a comprehensive approach, including trusts and powers of attorney, to ensure that your wishes are carried out according to your intentions. That’s why choosing an expert Louisiana Estate Planning Attorney to guide you through the process is critical. Why Estate Planning in Louisiana is Different from Everywhere Else Louisiana isn’t like the other 49 states when it comes to estate law. Most of the country follows English common law. Louisiana follows the Napoleonic Code, a legal system

Two people in suits shaking hands over a desk with a gavel, illustrating Louisiana intestate succession

Louisiana Intestate Succession: Who Inherits When There’s No Will

August 21, 2024

When someone dies in Louisiana without a will, families usually ask one question first: who gets what? Most people assume the answer is “the spouse gets everything.” In Louisiana, that’s often wrong. I’m Charlton “Chink” Ogden, and I’ve practiced Louisiana law since 1981. Louisiana intestate succession follows a specific order set out in the Civil Code, and that order looks different from what you’d find in most other states. Here’s how it works, step by step. What Is Louisiana Intestate Succession? “Intestate” means without a valid will. Succession is Louisiana’s word for what other states call probate: the court process that moves a person’s property into the names of the people who inherit it. Under Civil Code Article 880, when there’s no valid will, property passes “by operation of law.” That means automatically, in an order the law sets. It passes to descendants, ascendants (parents and grandparents), and collaterals (brothers,

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