Opening a succession is the legal process which allows for the transfer of property from the deceased to the heir. Generally, with some exceptions, immovable property (i.e house, land) has to be transferred through the legal process of opening a succession. Additionally, the succession process allows for the distribution of the specific bequests that have been made in the Last Will and Testament. (i.e. Michael is put in possession of the painting, Jane is put in possession of grandma’s wedding band).
In order to avoid the state handling your estate you should take the time and considering making a Last Will and Testament as part of your estate plan. (Hint: most of the time no!). Check out our FAQ's to learn more about successions.