Forms Library
Every form, organized by subject.
Click a form to download the Microsoft Word template. Each form includes a brief description, the governing Louisiana statute, and any cautions about when to seek attorney help. Use the search box below to filter across all categories.
How to use these forms
1. Find the form that matches your situation. Read the description and the governing statute.
2. Download the form. Fill in the blanks using Microsoft Word or a compatible program.
3. Print the completed form and sign where indicated. Some forms require notarization or specific attachments.
4. File the form with the correct clerk of court. See our Court Contacts directory for addresses, phone numbers, and filing fees.
Family Law
Adoption
Louisiana intrafamily adoption under Children's Code Chapter 11 (La. Ch.C. art. 1243 et seq.) is the most common pro se adoption path, covering stepparents, grandparents, stepgrandparents, great-grandparents, and collateral relatives within the 12th degree who have had legal or physical custody of a child for at least six months.
Strict construction — follow every step
Louisiana courts apply a strict-construction rule to adoption: "laws providing for adoption must be given a strict construction as they are in derogation of the natural right of a parent to his child." The most common reasons adoptions are denied are failure to serve the non-petitioning parent with the exact Article 1247 notice language and failure to meet the six-month custody requirement. This packet follows every statutory requirement verbatim.
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Complete Intrafamily Adoption PacketLa. Ch.C. arts. 1243–1262All eight documents for a Louisiana intrafamily adoption in a single .docx: (1) Petition for Intrafamily Adoption under arts. 1243 & 1246; (2) Act of Consent by Parent (authentic act) under arts. 1193 & 1244; (3) Consent of Child Age 12+ under art. 1193(4); (4) Confidential Statement of Family History under art. 1124; (5) Order for Background Check under art. 1243.2; (6) Order Setting Hearing under art. 1253 (60/90-day rule); (7) Notice of Filing of Petition under art. 1247 with the exact statutory notice language; and (8) Final Decree of Intrafamily Adoption under arts. 1255 & 1262. Cover page walks through eligibility, consent rules, service requirements, background checks, and the step-by-step filing guide.
Appeals
Appellate Practice
Appeals from district and city courts go to one of Louisiana's five Courts of Appeal. Two appeal types: devolutive (does not stay judgment) and suspensive (stays judgment, requires bond).
- Appeal Bond (with Surety & Principal Affidavits)La. C.C.P. art. 2124Required bond for suspensive appeals. Amount set by court.
- Motion for Appeal & Trial De Novo from Justice of the Peace / Traffic Hearing OfficerLa. C.C.P. art. 4924Appeals from JP Court and traffic hearing officers get a brand-new trial (trial de novo) in the appropriate parish/district court.
- Motion for Devolutive Appeal & OrderLa. C.C.P. arts. 2082–2088Devolutive appeals do not stay the judgment. 60-day deadline from judgment.
- Motion for Suspensive Appeal & OrderLa. C.C.P. arts. 2123–2124Suspensive appeals stay the judgment pending appeal but require posting a bond. 30-day deadline.
- Writ Application to Court of AppealLa. C.C.P. art. 2201; Uniform Rules Rule 4Supervisory writ application for interlocutory rulings that cannot wait for final appeal. Herlitz three-factor analysis (clearly wrong / irreparable / terminates litigation). Includes return-date verification, assignments of error, appendix structure, and certificate of service to trial court and opposing counsel.
Public Benefits & Administrative Appeals
Public Benefits & Administrative Appeals
Appeals of denials, reductions, and terminations of SNAP, Medicaid, unemployment insurance, Social Security disability, FEMA disaster assistance, and VA benefits. Deadlines in this area are short and strictly enforced — do not delay filing. All forms include the governing federal regulation and link to the correct state or federal appeals office.
- FEMA Disaster Assistance Appeal44 C.F.R. § 206.115Appeal a FEMA denial or reduced award for disaster assistance — housing, Other Needs Assistance, personal property, transportation, medical/dental, moving/storage. 60 day deadline. Addresses ownership, occupancy, insurance, and pre-existing damage issues.
- Medicaid Fair Hearing Request42 C.F.R. §§ 431.200–431.250Fair hearing request for denial, termination, or reduction of Medicaid coverage or services — including MCO denials, HCBS waiver denials, long-term care / nursing facility eligibility, and overpayment / estate recovery disputes. Filed with Louisiana Division of Administrative Law.
- SNAP Fair Hearing Request7 C.F.R. § 273.15Request a fair hearing before an administrative law judge after DCFS denies, reduces, or terminates SNAP (food stamp) benefits. 90-day deadline. Includes aid-paid-pending election if filed within 10 days of notice, accommodation requests, and representation designation.
- SSDI / SSI Reconsideration Request20 C.F.R. §§ 404.907, 416.1407First-level appeal cover letter for Social Security disability denial — 60 day deadline. Use with SSA Form SSA-561. Includes RFC limitations matrix, medical source statement prompts, and guidance on submitting new evidence.
- SSDI / SSI Request for Hearing by ALJ20 C.F.R. §§ 404.929, 416.1429Second-level Social Security disability appeal — request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge after reconsideration denial. 60 day deadline. Covers hearing format (in-person/video/phone), functional limitations, and challenge to reconsideration decision.
- Unemployment Appeal to Administrative Law JudgeLa. R.S. 23:1629First-level appeal of LWC unemployment determination — 15 DAY deadline. Addresses misconduct disqualification, voluntary leaving, able-and-available findings, monetary determinations, overpayment, and independent contractor classification. Includes witness list and documents preparation.
- Unemployment Petition for Judicial ReviewLa. R.S. 23:1634District court petition appealing a Louisiana Board of Review unemployment decision — 30 day deadline. Formatted for filing in the parish where claimant resides or was last employed. Reviews legal errors and unsupported factual findings.
- VA Notice of Disagreement (Form 10182 Cover)38 C.F.R. § 20.202Cover letter for VA Form 10182 Board Appeal under the Appeals Modernization Act — ONE YEAR deadline. Supports choice among Direct Review, Evidence Submission, or Hearing docket. Issue-by-issue appeal grounds, service-connection nexus, and evidence manifest.
Business
Business & Commercial
Louisiana requires registration of assumed business names (DBAs) to establish public notice of the person operating under the trade name.
- Affidavit of Trade Name Assumption (Parish Level)La. R.S. 51:281 et seq.Parish-level registration of a DBA. Filed with the clerk of court for the parish where the business operates.
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Affidavit of Trade Name Assumption — ParishLa. R.S. 51:281 et seq.Parish-level assumed-name (d/b/a) affidavit for sole proprietors and partnerships operating under a name other than the legal owner's name. File with the parish clerk of court in the parish where business is conducted.
- Registration of Assumed Business Name (Statewide)La. R.S. 51:281 et seq.Registers a DBA at the statewide (Secretary of State) level. Recommended for businesses operating in multiple parishes.
Criminal Defense
Criminal Defense Motions
Twenty-five foundational motions and pleadings used by defense counsel in Louisiana criminal cases — from initial entry of appearance through trial, sentencing, and post-verdict relief. Built for Louisiana state criminal practice under the Code of Criminal Procedure and applicable U.S. Supreme Court caselaw (Brady, Giglio, Franks, etc.).
Criminal defense representation is not pro se work.
If you are charged with a crime and cannot afford counsel, you have a constitutional right to a court-appointed attorney — ask the court to appoint the public defender. These forms are provided for practicing criminal defense attorneys as drafting aids. Pro se defendants in criminal cases risk severe prejudice to their liberty.
Pretrial & Appearance
- Daubert Motion to Exclude Expert TestimonyLa. C.E. art. 702; State v. Foret (628 So.2d 1116)Expert exclusion motion invoking the five Daubert factors (testing, peer review, error rate, standards, general acceptance) and Louisiana gatekeeping framework under State v. Foret and Cheairs. Targets unreliable forensic methodologies like bite-mark, hair microscopy, arson indicators, polygraph, and blood spatter.
- Entry of Appearance of CounselLa. C.Cr.P. art. 511Formal notice to the court and district attorney that counsel represents the defendant. File at the earliest possible stage of the case.
- Motion for ContinuanceLa. C.Cr.P. arts. 707–712Requests postponement of a hearing or trial date for good cause. Must be in writing, filed at least seven days before trial except in emergencies.
- Motion for Extension of TimeLa. C.Cr.P. art. 521Requests additional time to file pretrial motions or meet procedural deadlines. Typically used when discovery has been delayed.
- Motion for In-Camera ReviewLa. C.Cr.P. arts. 723, 729.3; Pennsylvania v. RitchieMotion for private (in-camera) judicial review of privileged records to determine whether they contain Brady, Giglio, or Ritchie material. Covers counseling records, police personnel files, internal affairs records, grand jury testimony, and CPS files. Particularized-need showing and sealed-review procedure.
- Motion to Recuse JudgeLa. C.Cr.P. arts. 671-675Criminal recusal motion covering all six statutory grounds under Article 671 (bias, family relationship, prior association, material witness status, prior judicial action, general inability to preside impartially). Includes referral-to-another-judge procedure under Article 674 and preservation of appellate rights.
- Motion to Reduce BondLa. C.Cr.P. arts. 312, 321Requests that the court lower the bail amount based on factors such as ability to pay, ties to the community, and lack of flight risk.
- Motion to Withdraw as CounselLa. Rules of Prof. Conduct 1.16For counsel seeking to withdraw from a criminal case. Requires good cause and court approval; may require a hearing if the defendant objects.
- Petition for Writ of Habeas CorpusLa. C.Cr.P. arts. 351-369; La. Const. Art. I, § 21Habeas corpus petition for unlawful custody — pre-trial detention without probable cause, excessive bail, detention after sentence completion, civil commitment, extradition, ICE detainer, or detention beyond 72-hour limit. Covers the traditional habeas role after APCR displaced most final-conviction challenges.
Discovery & Evidence
- Motion for Bill of ParticularsLa. C.Cr.P. art. 484Requests specifics about the charged offense beyond the bare allegations in the bill of information or indictment — date, place, manner, means.
- Motion for Brady/Giglio MaterialBrady v. Maryland, 373 U.S. 83; Giglio v. United States, 405 U.S. 150Compels the State to disclose all evidence favorable to the accused that is material to guilt or punishment, including impeachment evidence against witnesses.
- Motion for DiscoveryLa. C.Cr.P. arts. 716–729.5Standard defense discovery motion seeking statements of the defendant, witness lists, scientific reports, tangible evidence, and criminal history of witnesses.
- Motion for Expert FundsAke v. Oklahoma, 470 U.S. 68Indigent defendant's motion for funding to retain a necessary expert witness (psychiatric, forensic, investigative, etc.).
- Motion for Subpoena Duces TecumLa. C.Cr.P. art. 732Compels production of documents, records, or tangible items from a third party before trial. Often used for medical, school, or personnel records.
- Motion in LimineLa. Code of Evidence arts. 103, 403–412Seeks a pretrial ruling excluding particular evidence as inadmissible, prejudicial, or improper impeachment.
- Motion to Preserve EvidenceLa. C.Cr.P. art. 718Orders the State and law enforcement to preserve all evidence that may be subject to defense inspection or independent testing.
Motions to Suppress
- Franks Motion (Challenge to Warrant Affidavit)Franks v. Delaware, 438 U.S. 154Challenges a search warrant on the ground that the supporting affidavit contained knowing or reckless false statements material to probable cause. Requires a substantial preliminary showing.
- Motion to Suppress IdentificationNeil v. Biggers, 409 U.S. 188; Manson v. BrathwaiteChallenges pretrial identification procedures (lineups, show-ups, photo arrays) as impermissibly suggestive and unreliable.
- Motion to Suppress Physical EvidenceLa. C.Cr.P. art. 703; U.S. Const. amend. IVSeeks exclusion of physical evidence obtained through unlawful search or seizure. Raises probable cause, warrant validity, and exceptions.
- Motion to Suppress StatementsLa. C.Cr.P. art. 703; Miranda v. Arizona, 384 U.S. 436Seeks exclusion of the defendant's statements as involuntary, obtained in violation of Miranda, or without valid waiver of counsel.
Dispositive & Charging Motions
- Motion to Change VenueLa. C.Cr.P. art. 622Seeks transfer of the trial to another parish when prejudicial pretrial publicity or community bias prevents a fair trial.
- Motion to DismissLa. C.Cr.P. art. 691Seeks dismissal of the prosecution. Used for double jeopardy, prosecutorial misconduct, speedy trial violations, and similar grounds.
- Motion to Quash IndictmentLa. C.Cr.P. arts. 531–535Challenges the legal sufficiency of the bill of information or indictment — improper venue, lack of jurisdiction, defective charging document, time-barred prosecution.
- Motion to SeverLa. C.Cr.P. art. 704Seeks separate trials for co-defendants or severance of counts when joint trial would cause undue prejudice.
Trial & Post-Verdict
- Application for Post-Conviction ReliefLa. C.Cr.P. arts. 924–930.8Comprehensive template for collateral attack on Louisiana conviction. Covers IAC, Brady, newly-discovered evidence, illegal sentence, Ramos (unanimous jury), and other grounds. 2-year deadline from finality.
- Motion for Judgment of AcquittalLa. C.Cr.P. art. 778At the close of the State's case (or all the evidence), argues that the evidence is legally insufficient to support conviction. Preserves insufficiency claim for appeal.
- Motion for Jury QuestionnaireLa. C.Cr.P. arts. 784–806Requests use of a written questionnaire during jury selection to probe potential jurors' biases, particularly in high-publicity or sensitive cases.
- Motion for New TrialLa. C.Cr.P. art. 851Filed within 30 days of verdict. Grounds include newly discovered evidence, legal errors at trial, insufficient evidence, and ineffective assistance.
- Motion for Reconsideration of SentenceLa. C.Cr.P. art. 881.1Filed within 30 days of sentencing (or as extended by the court). Asks the court to reconsider the sentence imposed. Required to preserve excessive-sentence claim for appeal.
- Proposed Jury InstructionsLa. C.Cr.P. art. 807Template for defense-submitted jury charges. Must be submitted before closing arguments; failure to object preserves only plain error.
Criminal
Criminal Procedure (Miscellaneous)
Specific-purpose criminal forms: diversion programs, evidence release, transcripts, bond forfeiture, and injunctive relief.
- Character Reference / Mitigation Letter TemplateFor sentencing letter-writersTemplate for friends, family, employers, clergy, and community members writing character reference letters to the court at sentencing. Structured to produce specific, personal letters (not form letters) with concrete examples, acknowledgment of the offense, and post-release support commitments.
- La. C.Cr.P. 892.1 Driving School AffidavitLa. C.Cr.P. art. 892.1Attests completion of court-ordered driving school in lieu of traffic conviction.
- La. C.Cr.P. Article 894 Guidelines & AffidavitLa. C.Cr.P. art. 894For first-offender misdemeanor deferrals/suspended sentences. Predicate for later expungement.
- Louisiana Pardon Application Cover LetterLa. Const. Art. IV § 5(E); La. R.S. 15:572Cover letter for Louisiana Board of Pardons application. Distinguishes first-offender automatic pardon (R.S. 15:572(B)) from gubernatorial pardon requiring Board hearing. Organizes personal history, sentence completion, rehabilitation, letters of reference, and required supporting documents.
- Motion for ContinuanceLa. C.C.P. art. 1601General civil motion to reschedule a trial or hearing.
- Motion to Cancel Judgment of Bond ForfeitureLa. C.Cr.P. art. 345Cancels a bond forfeiture judgment when the defendant has appeared or been surrendered.
- Motion to Release Weapon / EvidenceLa. C.Cr.P. art. 167Requests return of property or evidence seized in a criminal case after disposition.
- Motion to Set for Trial / Motion for Extension of TimeLa. C.C.P. arts. 1571, 1971Procedural motions to set a trial date or extend a deadline.
- Petition for Relief from Sex Offender RegistrationLa. R.S. 15:544.1; La. R.S. 15:560 et seq.Petition for removal, tier reclassification, or Romeo-Juliet relief from Louisiana sex offender registration. Covers three-tier framework (15/25/lifetime), age-proximity consensual-activity relief under R.S. 15:544.1, post-pardon relief, and continued-registration-harm documentation for housing and employment.
- Sentencing MemorandumLa. C.Cr.P. arts. 875, 894.1Comprehensive defense sentencing memorandum covering all Article 894.1(B) mitigating factors, personal history, acceptance of responsibility, post-arrest rehabilitation, family responsibilities, mental health/trauma history, alternative-to-incarceration options, and Apprendi/Alleyne preservation. Organizes mitigation letters as exhibits.
- Special Request for TranscriptsLa. R.S. 13:961Orders the court reporter to prepare a transcript of proceedings — required for most appeals.
- TRO & Rule to Show Cause / Preliminary InjunctionLa. C.C.P. arts. 3601–3613Full injunction packet: temporary restraining order, rule to show cause, and preliminary injunction motion & order.
Family Law
Custody, Visitation & Support
Custody, visitation, and child support are three separate (but interrelated) legal issues. Louisiana law presumes joint custody is in the best interest of the child. Child support follows the guidelines in La. R.S. 9:315 et seq. If a prior court has issued any order involving your children, use the modification forms rather than the initial petition.
- Affidavit of Income and ExpensesLa. R.S. 9:315.2Sworn financial disclosure required in all support cases. Covers gross income, mandatory deductions, monthly housing, utilities, transportation, healthcare, childcare, debts, and assets — structured to feed the Louisiana Child Support Guidelines.
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Ex Parte Custody Order & Temporary Custody PetitionLa. C.C.P. art. 3603.1For emergency temporary custody when waiting for a contradictory hearing would risk harm to the child. Must demonstrate immediate and irreparable harm.
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Joint Custody Implementation AgreementLa. R.S. 9:335The parenting plan that accompanies a joint custody judgment — designating domiciliary parent, specifying visitation schedules, holiday rotation, transportation, and decision-making authority.
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Motion for Continuance (Custody & Support)La. C.C.P. art. 1601To ask the court to reschedule a hearing. Courts take deadlines seriously; a continuance is not guaranteed and generally requires good cause.
- Motion for Income Assignment OrderLa. R.S. 46:236.3Two-part packet: motion and proposed order for direct wage withholding of child support from the obligor parent's employer. Presumptive method under Louisiana law. Strongest single tool for reliable support collection.
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Motion for Psychological EvaluationLa. R.S. 9:331To request the court order a psychological evaluation of a parent and/or child in a custody dispute. Typically used in contested custody cases.
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Motion to Modify Child SupportLa. R.S. 9:311; La. C.C. art. 142Motion to modify an existing child support order based on a material change in circumstances — typically a 25%+ change in income (statutory presumption under R.S. 9:311(C)), a change in custody, new child, or substantial change in childcare or medical costs. Includes guideline recalculation request under La. R.S. 9:315 et seq.
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Motion to Modify CustodyLa. C.C. art. 134; Bergeron v. BergeronPost-judgment motion to modify custody, pleading both Bergeron "heavy burden" (considered decree) and material-change standard (consent judgment) in the alternative. Includes all twelve La. C.C. art. 134 best-interest factors and UCCJEA jurisdictional compliance.
- Motion to RelocateLa. R.S. 9:355.1–355.19Petition to relocate a child's residence more than 75 miles or out-of-state. Requires 60-day advance notice, good-faith showing, and best-interest analysis. Includes revised visitation proposal.
- Objection to Proposed RelocationLa. R.S. 9:355.7Written objection filed within 30 days of receiving a relocation notice — preserves your right to contest. Miss the 30-day deadline and you are deemed to have consented to the move. Covers statutory factors, burden of proof under La. R.S. 9:355.10, and fallback terms if relocation is authorized.
- Petition for Grandparent / Sibling VisitationLa. R.S. 9:344; La. C.C. art. 136Petition for court-ordered visitation rights when a parent is deceased, incarcerated, or when parents have been living apart for 6+ months. Includes best-interest analysis under La. R.S. 9:344(D) and Troxel v. Granville considerations for balancing against fit-parent rights.
- Petition to Disavow PaternityLa. C.C. art. 187Husband's action to rebut La. C.C. art. 184 marital presumption. Strict ONE-YEAR deadline from discovery. Includes curator ad hoc request and genetic testing order. Terminates all parental rights/obligations if granted.
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Petition to Establish Custody, Visitation, and/or Child SupportLa. C.C. arts. 131–136; La. R.S. 9:315 et seq.For parents seeking initial custody, visitation, and/or child support orders. Use only if no prior court has issued a custody judgment for your children. Child must have resided in Louisiana for at least six months.
- Petition to Establish PaternityLa. C.C. arts. 196–198Establishes legal father-child relationship for child support, custody, inheritance, Social Security. Includes genetic testing order. Imprescriptible for living fathers; 1-year/10-year rule for deceased fathers.
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Provisional Custody by MandateLa. R.S. 9:951 et seq.A notarial act (no court filing needed) that lets a parent designate a caregiver — often a grandparent, relative, or family friend — to exercise temporary custody for up to one year. Used for military deployment, medical treatment, incarceration, work away from home, or other crises. Gives the mandatary authority to consent to medical care, enroll the child in school, and handle daily decisions.
- Rule for Contempt — Child SupportLa. C.C.P. art. 224; La. R.S. 9:315.30Full contempt rule with order. Enforces child support orders through jail (up to 6 months), fines, license suspension, wage assignment, and tax refund interception. Recovers attorney's fees.
- Rule for Contempt — Custody / VisitationLa. C.C.P. art. 224; La. R.S. 9:346Full contempt rule with order. Remedies denial of court-ordered custody/visitation: makeup time, sanctions, modification, and mandatory attorney's fees under La. R.S. 9:346.
- UCCJEA AffidavitLa. R.S. 13:1812Required with EVERY custody pleading in Louisiana. Discloses child's residential history for 5 years, other custody proceedings, jurisdiction issues. Failure to file = grounds for dismissal.
Debt
Debt Collection Pleadings
Standardized petitions, answers, and judgments for collecting on debts — money owed, open accounts, promissory notes, written contracts, and rent.
- Petition on Open Account (Petition, Answer, Judgment)La. R.S. 9:2781For accounts where goods/services were provided on ongoing credit. Statute allows attorney-fee recovery on demand procedures.
- Suit for Money Owed (Petition, Answer, Judgment)La. C.C.P. arts. 421 et seq.General petition for a liquidated sum due. Used when no specific contract or note underlies the debt.
- Suit on Promissory Note (Petition, Answer, Judgment)La. R.S. 10:3-101 et seq.For enforcing negotiable promissory notes. Simpler than contract suits because the note itself is evidence.
- Suit on Rent (Petition, Answer, Judgment)La. C.C. art. 2668 et seq.For collecting unpaid rent under a lease. Can be combined with eviction proceedings or filed separately.
Debtor Defenses & Consumer Protection
If you're being sued on a debt, you have rights. These forms help defendants push back against improper debt-collection suits and raise federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) protections.
- Answer to Debt Collection LawsuitLa. C.C.P. arts. 1001, 1003Basic answer form for a defendant sued on an open account or consumer debt. Denies the allegations and preserves your right to contest.
- Answer with FDCPA Counterclaim15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq.For consumers sued by debt collectors who have engaged in abusive, deceptive, or unfair collection practices. Includes affirmative defenses and FDCPA counterclaim for damages plus attorney's fees.
- Cease and Desist Letter to Debt Collector15 U.S.C. § 1692c(c)Orders a debt collector to stop all communications with you under the FDCPA. After receipt, collector may only acknowledge, advise of termination, or state intent to pursue specific remedy.
- Credit Report Dispute Letter (FCRA)15 U.S.C. § 1681iWritten dispute to credit bureau (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion). Forces 30-day investigation. Unverified items must be deleted. Powerful against identity theft, stale debts, and inaccurate reporting.
- Declinatory Exception (Jurisdiction & Service)La. C.C.P. arts. 925, 928Challenges improper service, lack of personal or subject-matter jurisdiction, or improper venue in a debt-collection suit. Must be raised before answering on the merits.
- FDCPA Cease-Communication Letter15 U.S.C. § 1692c(c)Federal cease-and-desist to debt collector. Collector must stop all contact after receipt. Violations carry up to $1,000 statutory damages plus attorney's fees. Most powerful one-page letter in consumer law.
- FDCPA Debt Validation Letter15 U.S.C. § 1692gDemand for debt validation within 30 days of first contact. Forces debt collector to produce proof of debt, chain of title, and right to collect. Stops collection until validation is provided.
- LUTPA Demand LetterLa. R.S. 51:1401 et seq.Louisiana Unfair Trade Practices Act pre-suit demand. Preserves treble damages and attorney's fees against fraud, deceptive sales, contractor scams, and similar misconduct.
- Medical Debt / Charity Care RequestACA § 501(r) / 26 U.S.C. § 501(r)Requests financial assistance policy and application from non-profit hospital. Required by federal law. Many patients qualify for full or substantial write-off. Suspends collections while under review.
- Motion to Require Proof of DebtLa. C.C.P. art. 1421Compels the debt-collection plaintiff to produce the original contract, chain of assignment, and account records. Common defense against debt buyers suing on purchased, stale accounts.
- Peremptory Exception of PrescriptionLa. C.C. arts. 3494, 3498Raises the defense that the debt is too old to be collected under Louisiana's prescriptive periods (3 years for open account; 5 for promissory note; 10 for written contract).
- Time-Barred Debt / Prescription LetterLa. C.C. arts. 3494–3500Asserts liberative prescription against old debts collectors try to revive. Open accounts: 3 years; written contracts: 10 years. Do NOT acknowledge or pay — this letter protects without restarting the clock.
Education, Disability & Workplace Rights
Education, Disability & Workplace Rights
Special education (IEP / Section 504), manifestation determination reviews, student discipline appeals, FERPA records requests, FMLA medical leave, and ADA workplace accommodations. Tools for parents of children with disabilities, students, and workers seeking protected leave or reasonable accommodations.
- ADA Reasonable Accommodation Request42 U.S.C. § 12112; 29 C.F.R. § 1630Written accommodation request triggering the ADA interactive process. Identifies major life activities affected, essential functions impaired, specific accommodations sought (modified schedule, telework, ergonomic, assistive tech, leave, reassignment), and preserves EEOC/LCHR rights.
- FERPA Request for Educational Records20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 C.F.R. Part 99Parent or eligible student request for education records under FERPA. 45-day compliance deadline. Covers cumulative file, transcripts, discipline records, IEP/504 file, evaluations, teacher observations, email correspondence, incident reports, and standardized test scores.
- FMLA Leave Request with Medical Certification29 U.S.C. § 2601; 29 C.F.R. Part 825Written FMLA leave request for own serious health condition, family care, birth/adoption, or military family leave. Supports continuous, intermittent, or reduced-schedule leave with DOL Form WH-380-E context. Includes job-restoration, health insurance, and anti-retaliation acknowledgments.
- Manifestation Determination Review RequestIDEA — 34 C.F.R. § 300.530Parent request for MDR within 10 school days of a disciplinary change of placement for a student with IEP/504. Addresses both statutory questions: (1) whether conduct was caused by or directly related to disability, and (2) whether it was the direct result of failure to implement the IEP.
- Special Education (IEP) / Section 504 Request LetterIDEA 20 U.S.C. § 1400; § 504 (29 U.S.C. § 794)Formal written request triggering the IDEA 60-day evaluation timeline under 34 C.F.R. § 300.301. Specifies suspected disability category, functional concerns, specific evaluations requested (psychoeducational, speech/language, OT/PT, FBA, assistive technology), and attached medical diagnoses.
- Student Suspension / Expulsion AppealLa. R.S. 17:416; Goss v. LopezAppeal to superintendent or school board of student discipline. Covers factual innocence, insufficient evidence, due process violations, proportionality, discrimination, missing MDR, and mitigating circumstances. Includes academic history attachment and relief menu.
Elder Law & Advance Directives
Elder Law, POA & Advance Directives
Powers of attorney (mandates), health care proxies, living wills, DNR directives, LaPOST orders, HIPAA releases, and complaints against facility abuse. Essential planning documents for seniors, people with serious illness, and their families — plus reporting tools for abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation of vulnerable adults.
- Adult Protective Services (APS) ReportLa. R.S. 15:1501–15:1525Written report template for Louisiana APS. Covers physical/emotional/sexual abuse, caregiver neglect, self-neglect, financial exploitation, and abandonment. Captures adult's vulnerability, alleged perpetrator, current risk level, witnesses, medical providers, and attachments. Good-faith immunity statement. Hotline: 1-800-898-4910.
- Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) DirectiveLa. R.S. 40:1155.1 et seq.Pre-hospital and in-hospital DNR order — an actual physician's order that EMS must honor on sight. Patient or agent certification, physician certification with Louisiana license number, and two-witness attestation. Clarifies comfort care will still be provided. Covers cardiac/respiratory arrest scenarios.
- HIPAA Authorization for Release of Medical Information45 C.F.R. § 164.508HIPAA-compliant authorization meeting all nine required elements of 45 C.F.R. § 164.508. Covers standard medical records and specifically-protected categories (mental health, psychotherapy notes, substance abuse under 42 C.F.R. Part 2, HIV/AIDS, genetic information, STI). Expiration options and revocation statement.
- LaPOST Preparation & Discussion GuideLa. R.S. 40:1155.10 et seq.Discussion template for Louisiana Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment — a portable medical order for seriously or terminally ill patients. Walks through CPR, medical interventions (full/selective/comfort), and artificial nutrition. Note: the actual LaPOST must be on the official state pink form, signed by a Louisiana physician.
- Living Will (Life-Sustaining Procedures Declaration)La. R.S. 40:1151.1 et seq.Declaration concerning life-sustaining procedures in terminal and irreversible condition. Specific directives on CPR, mechanical ventilation, artificial nutrition, artificial hydration, dialysis, antibiotics, and blood transfusions (with trial-period options). Separate persistent vegetative state / irreversible coma section. Full witness attestation meeting statutory requirements.
- Louisiana Durable Power of Attorney (Mandate)La. C.C. arts. 2989–3034Comprehensive durable mandate with explicit durability clause surviving incapacity. Twelve-category power menu (real property, banking, business, insurance, retirement/benefits, tax, litigation, gifts, family maintenance, digital assets, catch-all). Immediate or springing effective date election. Authentic form notary block for real-property eligibility.
- Louisiana Health Care Power of AttorneyLa. R.S. 40:1151.1 et seq.Health care mandate effective on two-physician certification of incapacity. Covers consent/refusal, admission/discharge, records access (HIPAA-compliant), provider selection, pain management, mental health decisions, organ donation. Successor agent, specific instructions section, and limitations on authority.
- Nursing Home Resident Rights ComplaintLa. R.S. 40:2010.6–40:2010.9Formal complaint to LDH Health Standards Section under Louisiana's Nursing Home Residents' Bill of Rights and the federal Nursing Home Reform Act (42 U.S.C. § 1396r). Covers abuse, neglect, exploitation, restraints, staffing, retaliation, and involuntary discharge. Includes parallel referrals to Long-Term Care Ombudsman, AG Medicaid Fraud Unit, and APS.
Family Law
Divorce
Louisiana recognizes two procedural paths to divorce — Civil Code article 102 (filed before the required period of living separate and apart) and article 103 (filed after living separate and apart for the required period: six months without minor children, one year with). Fault-based divorce under article 103(2) (adultery) and article 103(5) (physical or sexual abuse) are also recognized. Article 102 and 103(1) are the most commonly used pro se paths.
Important distinction: 102 vs. 103(1)
Under article 102, community property terminates at the date of filing. Under article 103(1), it terminates at the date the divorce is granted. If there is community property to protect, this difference can be significant. Consult an attorney if the property issue matters to you.
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102 Divorce Process ChartInformationalVisual flow chart showing the stages of a 102 divorce from filing through final judgment, with typical timelines.
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103 Divorce Process ChartInformationalVisual flow chart showing the stages of a 103(1) divorce from filing through final judgment.
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Acceptance of Service & Waiver (Divorce)La. C.C.P. art. 1201Allows the other spouse to voluntarily accept service of the petition and waive formal service by sheriff. Speeds uncontested divorces.
- Complete 102 Divorce Packet (No Minor Children)La. Civil Code art. 102All six documents you need for a 102 no-children divorce in one file — Petition, Acceptance of Service & Waiver, Affidavit of Living Separate and Apart, Corroborating Witness Affidavit, Rule to Show Cause, and Final Judgment. Cover page explains the two-stage process.
- Complete 102 Divorce Packet (With Minor Children)La. Civil Code art. 102All six documents for a 102 divorce with children — Petition, Acceptance of Service & Waiver, both Affidavits, Rule to Show Cause, and Final Judgment. File a separate custody/support petition from Category 02 to address the children.
- Complete 103(1) Divorce Packet (No Minor Children)La. Civil Code art. 103(1)All five documents for a 103(1) no-children divorce — Petition, Acceptance of Service & Waiver, both Affidavits, and Final Judgment. Faster than 102 because the separation period is already complete before filing.
- Complete 103(1) Divorce Packet (With Minor Children)La. Civil Code art. 103(1)All five documents for a 103(1) divorce with children — Petition, Acceptance of Service & Waiver, both Affidavits, and Final Judgment. File a separate custody/support petition from Category 02 to address the children.
- Complete 103(2) Adultery Divorce PacketLa. Civil Code art. 103(2)All five documents for a fault-based divorce on grounds of adultery — Petition, Acceptance (if cooperative), both Affidavits, and Final Judgment. No waiting period, but adultery must be proven by a preponderance of evidence; expect a contested hearing.
- Complete 103(5) Protective Order / Abuse Divorce PacketLa. Civil Code art. 103(5)All five documents for a fault-based divorce on grounds of physical or sexual abuse, or where a protective order has been issued. No waiting period. If in immediate danger, call 911. For confidential help: LCADV 1-888-411-1333.
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Discovery Requests (Divorce)La. C.C.P. art. 1421 et seq.Interrogatories, requests for production, and requests for admission in divorce actions — particularly useful where property or custody is disputed.
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Instructions: When the Other Spouse Refuses to SignLa. C.C.P. art. 1261 et seq.Guidance on next steps when the other spouse will not accept service or waive. Covers personal service, domiciliary service, and long-arm service.
- Joint Petition for Divorce (Art. 103)La. C.C. art. 103Streamlined mutual no-fault divorce. Both spouses sign as joint petitioners, waive service, and submit joint verification. For couples who agree on divorce and all incidental issues. Art. 103(1) — 180/365 day separation already complete.
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Petition for 102 Divorce (with minor children)La. Civil Code art. 102For spouses who have not yet lived separate and apart for the required period. Use when minor children are involved. Community property terminates at filing.
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Petition for 102 Divorce (without minor children)La. Civil Code art. 102For spouses who have not yet lived separate and apart for six months. No minor children of the marriage. Community property terminates at filing.
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Petition for 103(1) Divorce (with minor children)La. Civil Code art. 103(1)For spouses who have already lived separate and apart for at least one year with minor children. Fastest path to final judgment.
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Petition for 103(1) Divorce (without minor children)La. Civil Code art. 103(1)For spouses who have lived separate and apart for at least six months, no minor children. Fastest pro se divorce path in Louisiana.
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Petition for 103(2) Divorce (Adultery)La. Civil Code art. 103(2)Fault-based divorce on grounds of adultery. Requires evidentiary proof at a contradictory hearing. Heightened evidentiary burden.
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Petition for 103(5) Divorce (Protective Order / Abuse)La. Civil Code art. 103(5)Fault-based divorce following issuance of a protective order or on proof of physical or sexual abuse. May be filed immediately — no waiting period.
Employment
Employment Remedies
Forms for former employees seeking unpaid final wages.
- EEOC Charge of Discrimination29 C.F.R. Part 1601Intake worksheet and cover letter for filing federal discrimination charge with the EEOC. Required to exhaust administrative remedies before suing under Title VII, ADA, ADEA, PWFA, or GINA. 300-day Louisiana deadline.
- LEDL Charge — LA Commission on Human RightsLa. R.S. 23:301 et seq.Louisiana Employment Discrimination Law charge for state-level preservation. 180-day deadline. Can be dual-filed with EEOC. Protects race, sex, age, disability, pregnancy, religion, national origin, and sickle cell trait.
- Unpaid Wages Demand LetterLa. R.S. 23:631–632One of the most powerful letters in Louisiana law. Demands payment of final wages within 15 days of separation. Preserves up to 90 days of penalty wages plus attorney's fees if employer does not pay.
Landlord-Tenant
Eviction
Eviction in Louisiana is governed by Civil Code articles 4701–4735 and is a summary proceeding, meaning it moves quickly. Landlords must give written notice to vacate, then file a Rule to Evict if the tenant does not leave. Tenants have the right to answer and contest the eviction.
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Affidavit Under C.C.P. 4732 (No Appeal Taken)La. C.C.P. art. 4732Sworn statement by landlord that 24 hours have passed since judgment of eviction and no appeal was taken. Prerequisite for warrant of possession.
- Demand to Return Personal Property After EvictionLa. C.C.P. art. 4705Demand letter for return of belongings left after eviction, with detailed inventory (essential items, high-value, irreplaceable). Preserves conversion claim if landlord refuses.
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Eviction Answer (Tenant)La. C.C.P. art. 4732Tenant's response to a Rule to Evict. Raises defenses such as notice deficiency, habitability issues, retaliation, or payment. Filing preserves appeal rights.
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Eviction: Relevant Code Articles (Reference)La. C.C. arts. 4701–4735Reference printout of all eviction-related Louisiana Civil Code articles, for both landlords and tenants.
- Mobile Home Park Eviction DefenseLa. R.S. 9:3211–3260Pre-litigation letter + formal Answer / Exceptions under the Louisiana Manufactured Housing Tenancy Act. Addresses stricter notice requirements, statutory grounds, right to cure, and preservation of mobile home ownership separate from lot eviction.
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Motion for Dismissal (Eviction)La. C.C.P. art. 1671Used when the parties have resolved the dispute (e.g., tenant has paid back rent or moved voluntarily) and the landlord wishes to withdraw the eviction.
- Motion for Emergency Stay of EvictionLa. C.C.P. arts. 2083, 2088, 4735Ex parte motion for emergency stay of writ of possession pending motion to set aside, new trial, or appeal. Suitable when sheriff's eviction is imminent and no suspensive bond is available.
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Motion for Intervention (Eviction)La. C.C.P. art. 1091For third parties with an interest in the premises (e.g., sub-tenant, family member in possession) to join an existing eviction proceeding.
- Motion to Set Aside Default EvictionLa. C.C.P. arts. 1972–1974, 2002–2004Motion for new trial + emergency stay when tenant missed the eviction hearing. Grounds include improper service, lack of notice to vacate, excusable neglect, and fraud. Includes meritorious defense section.
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Notice to Vacate (General)La. C.C. art. 4701Written notice to tenant to vacate. For month-to-month tenants, 10 days' notice is required. Served in person or by registered/certified mail.
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Notice to Vacate (Non-Payment of Rent)La. C.C. art. 4701Five-day notice to vacate for failure to pay rent. Must identify the amount past due.
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Request for Warrant of PossessionLa. C.C.P. art. 4733Directs the sheriff/constable to physically remove the tenant and their belongings. Issued only after judgment and expiration of appeal period.
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Rule to Evict (with Order)La. C.C. arts. 4701–4735The court filing that begins the eviction proceeding after notice has expired. Sets a hearing typically within 3-10 days.
Eminent Domain
Expropriation
Expropriation (eminent domain) is when the state or a political subdivision takes private property for public use. Property owners have rights to fair compensation and to contest the taking.
Attorney strongly recommended.
Expropriation cases are complex, involve expert valuation, and usually justify retaining counsel because attorney fees are potentially recoverable from the condemnor.
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Form 1088 — DOTD Expropriation NoticeLa. R.S. 48:441 et seq.Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Form 1088 used in highway and bridge expropriation proceedings. Provides statutory notice of taking to affected property owners.
- Form 1088 — Expropriation (DOTD)La. R.S. 48:449Standardized form for state highway expropriations by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development.
Criminal Records
Expungement
Expungement removes a criminal record from public view. Louisiana uses statewide-uniform forms issued by the Louisiana Supreme Court's Judicial Administrator. These forms are mandatory and may not be altered. Separate form sets exist for District Court and for City & Parish Courts. Eligibility is governed by La. C.Cr.P. articles 891–995.
These forms are statewide-mandated and may not be altered.
The Louisiana Supreme Court has adopted these as uniform forms under La. C.Cr.P. art. 977 and related provisions. Use them as-is. For eligibility screening, the Justice and Accountability Center's online tool at jaclouisiana.org/expungements can help determine whether your record qualifies.
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Expungement Procedural GuideLa. C.Cr.P. arts. 977–995Plain-language walkthrough of the Louisiana expungement process: eligibility rules (La. C.Cr.P. arts. 976–978.1), permanently ineligible offenses (Art. 978.B), $550 filing fee and IFP waiver, the 60-day DA objection window, 10-step procedural timeline, common complications (DWI, domestic violence, federal records, immigration, licensing), and free legal aid resources.
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Form 2014 EXP 4 — Certification of Fee WaiverLa. C.Cr.P. art. 983Applies to waive the expungement processing fee (up to $550 total). Available for eligible expungements.
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Form 2015 EXP 1 — Motion to Set Aside ConvictionLa. C.Cr.P. art. 893(E); 894(B)First step: motion to set aside a conviction where allowed by statute. Required before expungement of the same case.
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Form 2015 EXP 2 — Rule to Show CauseLa. C.Cr.P. art. 977Sets a hearing on the Motion to Set Aside. Required procedural step before the court can grant the motion.
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Form 2015 EXP 3 — Order of DismissalLa. C.Cr.P. art. 894The judge's signed order dismissing the case or setting aside the conviction, as the predicate for expungement.
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Form 2015 EXP 6 — Affidavit of ResponseLa. C.Cr.P. art. 980Filed by the District Attorney, Clerk of Court, Sheriff, and State Police confirming (or contesting) grounds for expungement.
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Form 2015 EXP 7 — Order Setting 60-Day ResponseLa. C.Cr.P. art. 979Sets the 60-day period during which the State, DA, and law enforcement agencies must respond to the expungement motion.
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Form 2020 EXP 5 — Motion for ExpungementLa. C.Cr.P. arts. 977–995The main expungement petition. Must specify whether arrest, conviction, or both are being expunged, and attach required certifications.
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Form 2020 EXP 8 — Order of ExpungementLa. C.Cr.P. art. 981The final order granting expungement. Transmits to all agencies holding records; they must remove the record from public databases.
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Form 2020 EXP SUP-2 — Supplemental Sheet (Felonies)La. C.Cr.P. art. 978Used when expunging felony convictions alongside other charges. Additional supplemental sheets are available for arrests-without-conviction and misdemeanors.
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Motion for Interim Expungement (City & Parish Courts)La. C.Cr.P. art. 988For City and Parish Courts only — interim expungement of arrests that did not result in conviction and certain misdemeanors. Parallel set of forms exists.
Access
Fee Waiver (In Forma Pauperis)
Louisiana law permits indigent litigants to proceed without paying court costs up front. This is called proceeding "in forma pauperis" (IFP). The Supreme Court's statewide form (Appendix 8.0) is accepted by every Louisiana court.
Your IFP status generally continues through appeal.
You do not need to reapply on appeal. If your financial situation changes, the opposing party or clerk can file a traversal to challenge your status.
- In Forma Pauperis Affidavit (Appendix 8.0)La. C.C.P. arts. 5181–5188; LSC District Court Rule 8.0Official Supreme Court statewide IFP form. Must be filed with the initial petition.
Immigration & Naturalization
Immigration & Naturalization
Cover letters, declarations, and appeals for USCIS filings and Board of Immigration Appeals. Family-based petitions, adjustment of status, asylum, VAWA self-petition, U visa, removal of conditions, naturalization, and BIA appeals. These supplement (never replace) the official USCIS forms at uscis.gov — they organize the packet, flag issues, and give adjudicators the narrative they need.
- Asylum Declaration / Personal StatementINA § 208; 8 C.F.R. § 208.4Template for the sworn personal declaration accompanying Form I-589 asylum application. Structured around the five protected grounds (race, religion, nationality, PSG, political opinion), chronological incidents of persecution, nexus analysis, government involvement or inability to protect, fear of return, and one-year filing deadline exceptions (changed / extraordinary circumstances).
- BIA Notice of Appeal / Motion to Reopen8 C.F.R. §§ 1003.3, 1003.23BIA appeal and motion template covering notices of appeal (Form EOIR-26, 30-day), motions to reopen (90-day with exceptions for changed country conditions, in absentia, VAWA), motions to reconsider (30-day), and Lozada-compliant ineffective-assistance claims. Includes stay-of-removal guidance and certificate of service.
- I-130 Family-Based Petition Cover LetterINA §§ 201, 203, 204Cover letter for USCIS Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative. Organizes the family-based immigration packet — petitioner status evidence, relationship proof, bona-fide-marriage evidence, concurrent I-485 filing flag, and visa-bulletin priority date tracking. Applies to spouses, children, parents, and siblings of U.S. citizens and LPRs.
- I-485 Adjustment of Status Cover LetterINA § 245; 8 C.F.R. § 245.1Cover letter for USCIS Form I-485 Application to Adjust Status. Covers eligibility, bars under § 245(c), concurrent I-130/I-140/I-360 filings, I-693 medical exam, I-765 EAD, I-131 Advance Parole, I-864 Affidavit of Support, and § 245(i) grandfathered cases. Flags admissibility issues and I-601/I-601A waiver needs.
- I-751 Removal of Conditions Cover LetterINA § 216; 8 C.F.R. § 216Cover letter for Form I-751 to remove conditions on a 2-year conditional green card based on marriage. Joint filing with spouse OR waiver (divorce-with-good-faith-marriage, widow/widower, battered spouse, extreme hardship). Comprehensive bona-fide-marriage evidence checklist (financial commingling, shared residence, insurance, photos, affidavits).
- N-400 Naturalization Cover LetterINA §§ 310, 316Cover letter for USCIS Form N-400 naturalization application. Covers 5-year general rule, 3-year marriage rule, continuous residence, physical presence calculation, good moral character analysis (criminal history, taxes, Selective Service), English/civics waivers (50/20, 55/15, 65/20, N-648 medical exception), and oath commitment.
- U Visa Crime-Victim Petition Cover LetterINA § 101(a)(15)(U); 8 C.F.R. § 214.14Cover letter for Form I-918 U nonimmigrant status petition for victims of qualifying serious crimes. Covers qualifying criminal activity, substantial abuse suffered, helpfulness to law enforcement, law-enforcement certification (Form I-918 Supplement B), derivative family members, and I-192 waiver of inadmissibility. Bona-fide-determination pathway to work authorization.
- VAWA Self-Petition Cover LetterINA § 204(a)(1)(A); 8 U.S.C. § 1367Cover letter for Form I-360 VAWA self-petition by an abused spouse, child, or parent of a U.S. citizen or LPR. Files under strict confidentiality of 8 U.S.C. § 1367 — USCIS cannot disclose to abuser. Covers qualifying relationship, good-faith marriage, shared residence, battery or extreme cruelty, good moral character, and derivative children.
Torts & Civil Litigation
General Civil Litigation
General tort and civil pleadings under Louisiana Civil Code article 2315 et seq. — the foundation of Louisiana civil liability. These forms are the workhorse filings for personal injury, property damage, intentional tort, and other general civil claims.
- Bad Faith Insurance Claim LetterLa. R.S. 22:1892 and 22:1973Pre-suit demand preserving 50% statutory penalty plus attorney's fees (§ 1892) and 2X damages plus mental anguish (§ 1973) against insurer misconduct. Strong in disaster claims.
- Declinatory Exceptions (Jurisdiction, Venue, Service)La. C.C.P. arts. 925, 928, 932Pre-answer declinatory exceptions covering the six Article 925 grounds: insufficient citation, insufficient service, lis pendens, improper venue, lack of personal jurisdiction, and lack of subject matter jurisdiction. Includes preservation statement and remedies (dismissal / transfer / reservice).
- Motion for Leave to Amend PleadingLa. C.C.P. arts. 1151, 1153, 1155Motion to amend a pleading after answer has been filed, with relation-back analysis under Article 1153 (same conduct/transaction/occurrence) and Article 1155 (adding or substituting parties). Includes good-faith statement, certificate of service, and proposed order.
- Motion for New TrialLa. C.C.P. arts. 1971-1979Post-judgment motion within the strict 7-day deadline of Article 1974. Covers mandatory grounds (contrary to law/evidence, newly discovered evidence, fraud) and discretionary grounds under Article 1973. Full/partial new trial options. Preserves appeal rights.
- Motion for Preliminary InjunctionLa. C.C.P. arts. 3601-3613Preliminary injunction motion after contradictory hearing. Irreparable injury analysis, prima facie merits showing, statutory-injunction alternative, balance of harms, 48-hour notice requirement under Article 3602, bond posting under Article 3610.
- Motion for Summary JudgmentLa. C.C.P. arts. 966, 967Full or partial summary judgment motion with essential-elements list and undisputed-facts section per Act 422 of 2015 / Article 966 requirements. Includes the three mandatory packet items: motion, memorandum, and list of essential legal elements. Strict 65-day / 15-day / 5-day / 30-day timing built in.
- Motion In LimineLa. C.E. art. 103; La. C.C.P. art. 1631Pretrial motion to exclude specific evidence before it prejudices the jury. Three-request template with comprehensive evidentiary-basis menu: relevance, Rule 403 prejudice, character evidence, hearsay, Daubert, insurance, settlement, subsequent remedial measures, privilege, prior convictions, late disclosure.
- Motion to Compel DiscoveryLa. C.C.P. arts. 1469, 1473Motion to compel interrogatory answers, document production, deposition attendance, or inspection under La. C.C.P. art. 1469. Includes the required good-faith meet-and-confer certification, sanctions request, and proposed order. Preserves right to striking of pleadings or default.
- Peremptory Exception of No Cause of ActionLa. C.C.P. arts. 927, 931, 934Peremptory exception testing legal sufficiency of the petition on the four corners of the pleadings. Assumes allegations true and asks whether any cause of action exists. Includes Article 934 analysis (leave to amend) and cautions against attaching evidence (which would convert to summary judgment).
- Peremptory Exception of PrescriptionLa. C.C.P. art. 927; La. C.C. arts. 3492-3504Statute-of-limitations exception with comprehensive Louisiana prescriptive period menu (tort 1 yr; contract 10 yr; open account 3 yr; medical malpractice 1/3 yr; legal malpractice peremption; wages 3 yr; wrongful death 1 yr). Addresses interruption, suspension, contra non valentem, and peremption vs. prescription.
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Petition for Damages (General Tort)La. Civil Code art. 2315 et seq.A thorough, checkbox-driven general petition for damages. Blank narrative space to describe what happened. Check-boxes for jurisdiction (C.C.P. arts. 6 & 42), venue (C.C.P. arts. 42, 74, 76, 80), jury demand (C.C.P. art. 1732), and every major theory of liability (negligence, intentional tort, custody/garde, vicarious liability, premises liability, products, animals, buildings). All five Louisiana exemplary-damages statutes enumerated specifically: 2315.3 (child pornography), 2315.4 (intoxicated driver) with detailed evidence sub-checkboxes for DWI/BAC/field sobriety, 2315.7 (criminal sexual activity against minors), 2315.8 (domestic abuse), 2315.10 (hazing). Full prayer, verification, and service request for multiple defendants and insurers (R.S. 22:1269 direct action).
- Public Records RequestLa. R.S. 44:1 et seq.Louisiana Public Records Law request to any public body. 3-business-day response required. Writ of mandamus with mandatory attorney's fees available for denial.
Guardianship
Interdiction
Interdiction is Louisiana's adult guardianship procedure. It removes the interdicted person's capacity to make legal decisions and transfers those decisions to a court-appointed curator. A significant deprivation of civil rights — courts require proof by clear and convincing evidence.
Attorney strongly recommended for all interdictions.
La. C.C.P. art. 4544 mandates appointment of counsel for the respondent. The heightened evidentiary standard, two-physician affidavit requirement, and procedural complexity make pro se petitions rarely successful.
- Petition for Interdiction (Full / Limited)La. C.C. arts. 389–399; La. C.C.P. arts. 4541–4569Petition for full or limited interdiction of an adult who cannot consistently make reasoned decisions about personal care or property. Includes proposed-curator designation, asset/debt disclosure, heirs list, and full prayer. A court-appointed attorney for the proposed interdict is mandatory. Plain-language cover pages explain when interdiction is appropriate, less-restrictive alternatives, the clear-and-convincing-evidence standard, and the procedural timeline.
Tenant Rights
Landlord-Tenant Remedies (Tenant Side)
Forms tenants can use to enforce their rights against landlords — particularly when deposits are wrongfully withheld.
- Habitability Complaint to Code EnforcementParish / Municipal CodesFormal complaint to parish/municipal code enforcement requesting housing inspection and enforcement action. Creates government-agency paper trail that reinforces civil remedies. Works with any Louisiana code enforcement office.
- HUD / Section 8 Grievance Hearing Request24 C.F.R. Parts 966 & 982Federal due-process request for grievance hearing (public housing) or informal hearing (Section 8 voucher) before termination, rent change, or other adverse housing authority action. Preserves VAWA and reasonable accommodation rights.
- Roommate AgreementPrivate ContractInternal agreement among co-tenants covering rent allocation, security deposit shares, utilities, groceries, chores, guests, quiet hours, pets, and early move-out. Enforceable contract under Louisiana law.
- Security Deposit Demand LetterLa. R.S. 9:3251–3254Written demand for return of security deposit under the Louisiana Lessee's Deposit Act. Preserves statutory damages ($300 or 2X withheld) plus attorney's fees if landlord does not return within 30 days.
- Tenant's Rent-Withholding / Escrow LetterLa. C.C. arts. 2691–2700Notice to landlord that rent is being placed in escrow pending repairs. Use only after repair demand and reasonable time to cure. Creates defense to eviction for nonpayment.
- Tenant's Repair-Demand LetterLa. C.C. art. 2694Formal written notice demanding landlord repairs. Required before exercising self-help remedies under Article 2694. Creates paper trail protecting tenant from eviction and preserving rent-withholding defense.
- Tenant's Response to 5-Day Notice to VacateLa. C.C.P. arts. 4701–4705Pre-litigation written response preserving defenses (habitability, retaliation, payment acceptance, defective notice) and proposing resolution before landlord files eviction. Creates critical paper trail.
- Uninhabitability Lease TerminationLa. C.C. art. 2693Formal 30-day notice terminating lease when conditions render property unfit for residential use and landlord has failed to repair. Protects tenant from future-rent liability.
Minors
Minors & Emancipation
Legal tools for changing a minor's status or temporarily delegating parental authority.
- Petition for Judicial EmancipationLa. C.C. arts. 365–371; La. C.C.P. arts. 3991–3994For minors seeking court-ordered emancipation. Requires parental notice/service, good cause, and best-interest showing.
- Provisional Custody by MandateLa. R.S. 9:951–954Parent temporarily delegates custodial authority (medical, educational, disciplinary, general welfare) to a caregiver. Maximum duration one year. Notarial act required — no court filing. Also listed in Custody & Visitation.
Real Estate
Mortgage, Lien & Identity
Louisiana requires mortgages and liens to be reinscribed periodically to remain effective against third parties. When debts are paid, cancellations and requests for clear lien certificates are filed with the parish clerk to clean up title.
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Affidavit of Identity & DistinctionLa. R.S. 9:5501.1Used to establish that a person named in one document is the same as (or different from) a person in another, resolving title confusion from similar names.
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Affidavit of Prescription of MortgageLa. C.C. arts. 3367–3368Sworn statement that a mortgage has prescribed (expired) without reinscription, supporting a request for cancellation.
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Cancellation of Tutor's MortgageLa. C.C. art. 3354Cancels a mortgage that automatically arose over a tutor's property when they were appointed tutor for a minor.
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Clear Lien Certificate (Assumption)La. R.S. 9:4801 et seq.Certifies that no statutory construction liens, materialman's liens, or similar encumbrances are filed against a property — used at closing.
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Notice of Reinscription (Mortgage)La. C.C. art. 3362Extends the effective period of a recorded mortgage. Must be filed before the original inscription lapses (generally 10 years).
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Request for Cancellation (RFC 1 — General)La. C.C. art. 3366Cancels a recorded mortgage or lien after payment or satisfaction. Standard form accepted by most parish clerks.
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Request for Cancellation (RFC 3 — Financial Institution)La. R.S. 44:109Statutory form for banks, savings institutions, and credit unions to cancel their own mortgages. Streamlined procedure.
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Request for Mortgage CertificateLa. R.S. 9:2721 et seq.Obtains an official certificate listing all mortgages against a specific property or person from the clerk of court. Essential for title work.
Criminal
Peace Bond
A peace bond is an ancient preventive remedy — Louisiana's criminal equivalent of a protective order for cases that don't qualify as domestic violence. The defendant is required to post bond to keep the peace.
- Peace Bond Complaint (Petition, Order, Bond)La. C.Cr.P. art. 28Complete packet: complaint, order setting hearing, and bond form.
Collection
Post-Judgment Collection
After you win a money judgment, collection is a separate process: garnishment, writs of fifa, judgment debtor examinations, and revival of expiring judgments.
- Garnishment InterrogatoriesLa. C.C.P. art. 2412Questions served on the garnishee (employer/bank) to establish the amount and type of debtor's property held.
- Judgment Against GarnisheeLa. C.C.P. art. 2413Entered when the garnishee fails to answer the interrogatories, making them liable for the underlying judgment.
- Motion to Revive JudgmentLa. C.C.P. art. 2031Louisiana judgments prescribe after 10 years. This motion revives them for another 10. File before the original prescribes.
- Petition for Garnishment & OrderLa. C.C.P. arts. 2411–2417Garnishes wages (up to 25%) or bank accounts of a judgment debtor. Must be served on both garnishee and debtor.
- Request for Writ of Fieri Facias (FIFA)La. C.C.P. arts. 2291–2299Directs the sheriff to seize and sell the judgment debtor's non-exempt property to satisfy the judgment.
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Rule for Contempt (Generic)La. C.C.P. arts. 221-227Generic civil contempt rule for enforcement of any court order not specifically covered by the custody- or support-specific contempt forms. Use for alimony, spousal support, injunctions, or other civil orders.
- Rule for Examination of Judgment DebtorLa. C.C.P. art. 2451Orders the debtor to appear and answer questions under oath about their assets. Includes sample question set.
- Rule for Judgment Pro ConfessoLa. C.C.P. art. 1702(B)(1)Obtains default judgment when defendant fails to answer after service.
- Satisfaction of JudgmentLa. C.C.P. art. 2268Filed by the judgment creditor when the debt is paid, clearing the judgment from the record.
Debtor Protections & Garnishment Defenses
Judgment debtors have rights too. Louisiana and federal law protect certain income and property from garnishment. If your wages or bank account have been garnished, these forms help you claim exemptions, release exempt funds, or dissolve an improper garnishment.
- Claim for Exemption from GarnishmentLa. R.S. 13:3881Claims statutory exemptions for wages (75% protected), Social Security, unemployment, pensions, and other protected income. File as soon as you receive notice of garnishment.
- Garnishee's Answer to InterrogatoriesLa. C.C.P. art. 2412For employers or banks served with garnishment interrogatories. This is the garnishee's sworn response stating what (if anything) they owe to the debtor.
- Motion for Release of Exempt FundsLa. R.S. 13:3881; 42 U.S.C. § 407Asks the court to release funds in a garnished bank account that are exempt — Social Security, SSI, VA benefits, unemployment, or other protected deposits.
- Motion to Dissolve Wage GarnishmentLa. C.C.P. arts. 2411 et seq.Seeks to stop an improper garnishment — amounts exceed statutory limits, debt was paid, defective service, or other grounds.
- Release of GarnishmentLa. C.C.P. art. 2413Filed by the creditor when the underlying judgment has been satisfied, formally releasing the employer or bank from the garnishment.
Property
Property Transfers & Leases
Louisiana property law follows civil-law concepts: immovables (real estate), movables (everything else), and distinct categories for usufruct, servitude, and ownership. Transfers of immovables must be by authentic act (notarial) or private signature duly acknowledged to be effective against third parties (La. C.C. art. 1839).
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Act of Cash SaleLa. C.C. arts. 2439–2659Notarial act transferring immovable property for a stated cash price. Must be signed before a notary and two witnesses, and recorded in the parish conveyance records.
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Act of DonationLa. C.C. arts. 1541–1569Transfers immovable property as a gift. Requires authentic act. Donations subject to strict formal rules and potential reduction claims by forced heirs.
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Declaration to Immobilize Mobile HomeLa. R.S. 9:1149.4Files with OMV to convert a manufactured home from a vehicle to an immovable fixture attached to the land. Necessary for mortgages and property transfers.
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General Power of AttorneyLa. C.C. arts. 2985–3032Grants broad authority to an agent (mandatary) to act on the principal's behalf in legal, financial, and personal matters. Louisiana uses the term "mandate."
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Lease-Purchase Agreement (Bond for Deed)La. R.S. 9:2941–2948Contract where the buyer takes possession and pays in installments; title transfers when fully paid. Heavily regulated in Louisiana.
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Limited (Special) Power of AttorneyLa. C.C. arts. 2985–3032Grants authority for a specific purpose or transaction only — selling one property, closing one account, handling one lawsuit.
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Residential Lease AgreementLa. C.C. arts. 2668–2729Standard residential lease with space for term, rent, deposit, and local provisions. Louisiana recognizes both verbal and written leases; written is strongly preferred.
Safety
Protective Orders (LPOR)
The Louisiana Protective Order Registry (LPOR) maintains statewide protective orders issued against domestic abusers, stalkers, and sexual assault perpetrators. The Supreme Court's Judicial Administrator's Office issues the mandatory LPOR form set under La. R.S. 46:2136.2(C). These forms cannot be altered — but supplemental instructions and ancillary forms are provided here.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
For 24-hour crisis support, call the Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence statewide hotline at 1-888-411-1333. Many parishes have Family Justice Centers with advocates who can help you file protective order paperwork in person, often with an attorney present.
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LPOR Dating Violence / Stalking / Sexual Assault Petition PacketLa. R.S. 46:2151 (dating); 46:2171 (stalking); 46:2181 (sexual assault)Full packet: Petition from Dating Violence/Stalking/Sexual Assault (Form D), Uniform Order (Form 1), Service Information (Form H).
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LPOR Domestic Abuse Petition PacketLa. R.S. 46:2131 et seq.Full packet: Petition for Protection from Domestic Abuse (Form B), Uniform Abuse Prevention Order (Form 1), and Service Information (Form H).
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Protective Order Filing InstructionsInformationalStep-by-step guide for Louisiana petitioners on filing, service, temporary restraining orders, contradictory hearings, and enforcement under the Domestic Abuse Assistance Act (46:2131), Dating Violence Act (46:2151), Stalking Act (46:2171), Sexual Assault Act (46:2181), and Children's Code (Ch.C. 1564). Includes which LPOR form to use, venue options, confidential address process, firearm surrender rules, and legal aid resources.
Procedure
Service & Civil Procedure
Service of process — formally notifying the defendant of a lawsuit — is a prerequisite to any Louisiana civil action. Most service is by sheriff. Long-arm service applies to defendants outside Louisiana. When defendants cannot be located, a curator must be appointed to represent them.
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Affidavit of Long-Arm ServiceLa. R.S. 13:3201–3207Required when serving a defendant located outside Louisiana. Demonstrates that service complied with the Louisiana long-arm statute.
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Civil Case Cover Sheet (Appendix 9.6)La. R.S. 13:4688; LSC General Administrative Rules Part G §13Mandatory statewide form filed with every original civil petition. Captures case type for judicial administration purposes.
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Motion to Appoint Attorney for Absent Person (Family Law)La. C.C.P. arts. 5091–5098Family-law analog to the curator motion — for situations where the other spouse or parent cannot be located for service.
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Motion to Appoint CuratorLa. C.C.P. arts. 5091–5098Appoints an attorney to represent a defendant who cannot be located after diligent search. Required before the action can proceed against that defendant.
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Motion to Appoint Process ServerLa. R.S. 13:3204Allows a private individual to serve process instead of the sheriff, typically when the sheriff is unable or unwilling to effect service.
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Notice of Limited Appearance (Appendix 9.12A / 9.12B)LSC District Court Rule 9.12For limited-scope (unbundled) legal representation. 9.12A for family law matters, 9.12B for non-family. Allows attorneys to appear for discrete portions of a case.
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Request for Subpoena Duces TecumLa. C.C.P. art. 1354Directs the clerk to issue a duces tecum subpoena. Must specify the records sought with reasonable particularity.
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Service of Process Information SheetLa. C.C.P. arts. 1231–1320General overview of how service works in Louisiana — who can be served, how, and what to do when the defendant cannot be located.
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Subpoena Duces TecumLa. C.C.P. art. 1354Commands a person to appear with specified documents or records. Used to obtain evidence held by third parties.
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Subpoena for WitnessLa. C.C.P. art. 1351Commands a witness to appear at trial or hearing. Issued by the clerk of court on request.
Small Claims
Small Claims Practice
Small Claims courts handle civil disputes up to $5,000. Streamlined procedure, no attorneys required (but allowed), limited discovery.
- Motion to Transfer to Regular Civil DocketLa. R.S. 13:5205Either party may ask to move the case out of small claims to ordinary civil procedure — typically for cases over the jurisdictional limit or needing full discovery.
- Notice of Hearing (Small Claims)La. R.S. 13:5203Notifies defendant of the hearing date — typically 30-60 days after filing.
- Small Claims Guidelines (Information Sheet)La. R.S. 13:5200 et seq.Overview of small claims procedure, jurisdictional limits, and how it differs from regular civil court.
- Small Claims Petition — Security Deposit RecoveryLa. R.S. 9:3251–3252; C.C.P. art. 4835Small claims petition to recover wrongfully withheld security deposit. Seeks full deposit, statutory damages ($300 or amount withheld, whichever greater), and attorney's fees under the Lessee's Deposit Act.
- Small Claims Petition — Unpaid WagesLa. R.S. 23:631–632; C.C.P. art. 4835Small claims petition for unpaid wages plus penalty wages (up to 90 days) plus reasonable attorney's fees under the Louisiana Wage Payment Act.
- Statement of Claim and CitationLa. R.S. 13:5202The initial filing in small claims — simpler than a formal petition.
Estates
Successions & Estates
Louisiana's unique civil-law system calls what other states call "probate" a succession. The process depends on whether there is a will (testate) or not (intestate), and on whether the estate qualifies for small-succession procedures (total assets under $125,000 for most estates — La. C.C.P. art. 3421).
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Affidavit of Small SuccessionLa. C.C.P. arts. 3421–3434Simplified procedure for estates where total gross assets are less than $125,000 (or the decedent died 20+ years ago). No court filing required; notarized affidavit transfers property.
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Judgment of PossessionLa. C.C.P. art. 3061The court order transferring ownership of the decedent's property to the heirs. Recorded in the parish conveyance and mortgage records where immovables are located.
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Last Will & Testament PackageLa. C.C. arts. 1570–1580.1Templates for both olographic (handwritten) and notarial (witnessed) wills. Louisiana requires specific formalities; improper execution voids the will.
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Petition to Probate Will & for Possession (Testate, No Administration)La. C.C.P. arts. 2851–2853, 3001–3008For testate successions where heirs agree, no debts are owed, and no administration is needed. Results in a Judgment of Possession.
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Succession with Independent Administration (Full Packet)La. C.C.P. arts. 3081–3099Complete 10-document packet for contested successions or those requiring administration of debts, claims, or complex assets. Independent administration allows the executor to act without court supervision.
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Sworn Detailed Descriptive ListLa. C.C.P. art. 3136Required inventory listing all assets, liabilities, and their values. Filed with succession petition when no full inventory is made.
Tax
Tax Appeals (Louisiana Board of Tax Appeals)
The BTA hears disputes over state tax assessments. Taxpayers may appeal determinations, seek overpayment refunds, or recover taxes paid under protest.
- BTA Petition of AppealLa. R.S. 47:1431 et seq.Combined form for Petition for Redetermination of Assessment, Petition for Determination of Overpayment, or Petition to Recover Tax Paid Under Protest.
Vital Records
Vital Records & Name Changes
Birth, death, and marriage records are managed by Louisiana Vital Records (part of DHH). Name changes are judicial proceedings filed in the parish of residence.
- Birth Certificate ApplicationLa. R.S. 40:32 et seq.Official request to Louisiana Vital Records for a certified birth certificate copy.
- Death Certificate ApplicationLa. R.S. 40:32 et seq.Official request to Louisiana Vital Records for a certified death certificate copy.
- Marriage Officiant / Clergy Registration AffidavitLa. R.S. 9:202 et seq.Registers a clergyperson or other authorized officiant to solemnize marriages in Louisiana.
- Petition to Change Name (Adult)La. R.S. 13:4751–4755For persons 18+ to change their legal name. Requires publication and a hearing. Criminal history must be disclosed.
- Petition to Make Foreign Judgment Executory (Name/Gender Correction)La. R.S. 13:4242; La. R.S. 40:62; La. C.C.P. arts. 2541–2543Two-document packet: (1) Petition to Make Foreign Judgment Executory and (2) Proposed Louisiana Judgment. For persons born in Louisiana who obtained a name-change and/or gender-marker-change judgment in another state and need their Louisiana birth certificate amended. Invokes Full Faith and Credit Clause. Names the State Registrar of Vital Records as defendant; adds spouse if married and DA if name change sought. Cover page explains venue, necessary parties, required exhibits, and the 10-day transmittal to Vital Records under La. R.S. 40:62(D).