Louisiana · District Court — Family Division
Louisiana family court, without the confusion.
Louisiana District Court handles divorce, custody, child support, and protective orders. Louisiana has unique civil law traditions that differ from other states.
We walk you through exactly what to fill out, in plain English, and produce the forms ready to sign and file.
Where do you need help?
Coming soon
Divorce / Dissolution of Marriage
Start or respond to a divorce case. Covers petition, financial disclosure, and the complete filing packet.
Coming soon
Child Custody / Parenting Time
Establish custody and parenting time when you were never married or as part of a divorce.
Coming soon
Modify Custody or Parenting Time
Change an existing custody or parenting time order when circumstances have significantly changed.
Coming soon
Child Support
Establish or modify a child support order.
Coming soon
Establish Paternity
Legally establish parentage when the parents were not married.
Coming soon
Protective Order
Get an emergency order to protect yourself or your children from domestic violence or harassment.
Coming soon
Relocation (Moving with Children)
Request court approval to move with your children, or oppose a move.
Coming soon
Enforce a Court Order
Bring the other party back to court when they are violating an existing order.
Coming soon
Name Change
Change your name or your child's name through the court.
Coming soon
Spousal Support / Alimony
Request or respond to a request for spousal support or alimony.
What Louisiana requires — before you file
1
6-month domicile. You or your spouse must have been domiciled in Louisiana for at least 6 months before filing for divorce.
2
180-day waiting period (Article 102) OR 365 days separated (Article 103). Louisiana offers two divorce paths: live apart for 180 days after filing under Art. 102, or prove you've been separated 180 days (no children) or 365 days (with children) under Art. 103.
3
Community property state. Louisiana is a community property state — most property acquired during marriage is split equally.
Louisiana uses 'custody' and 'visitation.' Louisiana's civil law heritage means some procedures and terminology differ from common law states.
All 15 Louisiana Parishes
Louisiana family law forms are filed in the parish District Court where you or the other party lives.
Orleans
Jefferson
East Baton Rouge
St. Tammany
Caddo
Calcasieu
Lafayette
St. Landry
Tangipahoa
Rapides
Livingston
Terrebonne
Ascension
Ouachita
Iberia