10/05/2026
Can You Handwrite Your Own Will in Louisiana? Dan's Story Is a Cautionary Tale!⚰
Dan was a handyman, always believing, "If you can do it yourself, you should!" He had heard that in Louisiana, you can legally handwrite your own will, so that’s what he did. In his handwritten will, Dan left his entire estate to his partner of 30 years, Barb, specifically stating that his estranged brother, Earl, should inherit nothing.
Unfortunately, when Dan passed away, Barb consulted an estate planning attorney and discovered that Dan’s will was not properly signed or dated, making it legally invalid. Without a valid will, Louisiana succession law took over, and as Dan’s only living relative, Earl was entitled to inherit everything.
Lesson Learned: While Louisiana law allows handwritten wills (called "holographic wills"), they come with strict requirements. Dan’s do-it-yourself will wasn’t enough to protect Barb or his wishes.
Don’t let your loved ones face unnecessary legal challenges. If you’re thinking of writing your own will in Louisiana, consult with an estate planning attorney to make sure your will is valid and enforceable.
