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code-of-criminal-procedure•Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure
code-of-criminal-procedureLa. Code Crim. Proc.CodeJan 1, 1900
This Code shall be known as the Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure and may be cited officially: C.Cr.P.
The provisions of this Code are intended to provide for the just determination of criminal proceedings. They shall be construed to secure simplicity in procedure, fairness in administration, and the elimination of unjustifiable delay.
Where no procedure is specifically prescribed by this Code or by statute, the court may proceed in a manner consistent with the spirit of the provisions of this Code and other applicable statutory and constitutional provisions.
Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
(1) Words used in the singular number apply also to the plural; words used in the plural number include the singular.
(2) Words used in one sex apply also to the other.
Acts 2026, No. 814, §27.
The word "shall" is mandatory, and the word "may" is permissive.
Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
(1) The word "and" indicates the conjunctive;
(2) The word "or" indicates the disjunctive;
(3) When the article is phrased in the disjunctive, followed by the words "or both," both the conjunctive and disjunctive are intended; and
(4) The word "and" or "or" between the last two items in a series applies to the entire series.
Unless the context clearly indicates the contrary, the term "district attorney" includes a municipal prosecuting officer; the term "sheriff" includes a city or municipal police chief or a city marshall; and other official titles include their counterparts in municipal and parochial governments.
Unless the context clearly indicates the contrary, official titles, such as clerk of court, coroner, district attorney, and sheriff, include assistants and deputies.
Unless the context clearly indicates the contrary:
(1) A reference in this Code to a title, chapter, or article, without further designation, means a title, chapter, or article of this Code; and
(2) A reference in this Code to a title, chapter, or article of a code, or to any statutory or constitutional provision, applies to subsequent amendments thereof.
The headings of the articles of this Code, and the source notes and comments thereunder do not constitute parts of the law.
Clerical and typographical errors in this Code shall be disregarded when the legislative intent is clear.
In pleading a state statute of Louisiana or an ordinance of a political subdivision thereof, a state statute of another state of the United States, or a federal statute, or a right derived therefrom or an obligation created thereby, it is sufficient to refer to the statute or ordinance by an official method of citation, by its title, or in any other manner which identifies the statute or ordinance.
In computing a period of time allowed or prescribed by law or by order of court, the date of the act, event, or default after which the period begins to run is not to be included. The last day of the period is to be included, unless it is a legal holiday, in which event the period runs until the end of the next day which is not a legal holiday.
A half-holiday is considered as a legal holiday.
A legal holiday is to be included in the computation of a period of time allowed or prescribed, except when:
(1) It is expressly excluded;
(2) It would otherwise be the last day of the period; or
(3) The period is less than seven days.
A. If a person refuses to take an oath or to make a sworn statement or affidavit required in connection with any criminal proceedings, he may affirm in lieu of swearing, and his affirmation shall fulfill the requirement and shall have the same legal effect as an oath, sworn statement, or affidavit.
B. Before testifying every witness shall be required to declare that he will testify truthfully, by oath or affirmation administered in a form calculated to awaken his conscience and impress his mind with his duty to do so.
Acts 1988, No. 515, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 1989.
A. Until January 1, 2026, any document in a traffic or criminal action may be transmitted electronically in accordance with a system established by the clerk of court. The clerk of court shall adopt a system for the electronic filing and storage of any pleading, document, or exhibit other than those documents or exhibits introduced and filed at a hearing or trial. Furthermore, in a court that accepts electronic filings in accordance with this Paragraph, the official record shall be the electronic record. A pleading or document filed electronically is deemed filed on the date and time stated on the confirmation of electronic filing sent from the system, if the clerk of court accepts the electronic filing. Public access to electronically filed pleadings and documents shall be in accordance with the rules governing access to written filings.
B.(1) Beginning January 1, 2026, all filings as provided in this Article and all other provisions of this Code, except for expungement proceedings, filed by an attorney shall only be filed in person in paper form or transmitted electronically in accordance with a system established by a clerk of court or by the Louisiana Clerks' Remote Access Authority. Any pleading or document filed electronically or in paper form is acceptable on legal or letter size paper. Except as provided in Subparagraph (2) of this Paragraph, the filer shall be responsible for ensuring that private information is not included in filings. No filing shall include the first five digits of any social security number, tax identification number, state identification number, driver's license number, financial account number, or any information protected from disclosure by state or federal law. The clerk of court shall adopt a system for the electronic filing and storage of any pleading, document, or exhibit other than those documents or exhibits introduced and filed at a hearing or trial. Furthermore, in a court that accepts electronic filings in accordance with this Paragraph, the official record shall be the electronic record. A pleading or document filed electronically is deemed filed on the date and time stated on the confirmation of electronic filing sent from the system, if the clerk of court accepts the electronic filing. Public access to electronically filed pleadings and documents shall be in accordance with the rules governing access to written filings.
(2) Nothing in this Article shall limit the information required to be provided by a prosecuting agency pursuant to Article 388.
C. Upon adoption of uniform filing standards by the Louisiana Clerks' Remote Access Authority, no clerk of court shall accept a filing not in accordance with the adopted standards.
Acts 2001, No. 319, §3; Acts 2016, No. 109, §2; Acts 2021, No. 341, §1; Acts 2024, No. 501, §2; Acts 2024, No. 694, §5; Acts 2025, No. 352, §2; Acts 2026, No. 194, §2; Acts 2026, No. 927, §2.
NOTE: Acts 2024, No. 501, §2, amended and reenacted Art. 14.1. These amendments were superseded by Acts 2024, No. 694, §§5 and 6(B).
A. Until January 1, 2026, any document in a traffic or criminal action may be filed with the clerk of court by facsimile transmission pursuant to the policy of the clerk of court. Filing shall be deemed complete at the time that the facsimile transmission is received by the clerk of court. No later than on the first business day after receiving a facsimile filing, the clerk of court shall transmit to the filing party via facsimile a confirmation of receipt and include a statement of the fees for the facsimile filing and filing of the original document. The facsimile filing fee and transmission fee are incurred upon receipt of the facsimile filing by the clerk of court and payable as provided in Paragraph B of this Article. The facsimile filing shall have the same force and effect as filing the original document, if the party complies with Paragraph B of this Article.
B. Within seven days, exclusive of legal holidays, after the clerk of court receives the facsimile filing, all of the following shall be delivered to the clerk of court:
(1) The original document identical to the facsimile filing in number of pages and in content of each page, including any attachments, exhibits, and orders. A document that is not identical to the facsimile filing or that includes pages not included in the facsimile filing shall not be considered the original document.
(2) The fees for the facsimile filing and filing of the original document stated on the confirmation of receipt, if any.
(3) A transmission fee of five dollars, if the defendant has not been declared indigent by the court.
C. If the filing party fails to comply with any of the requirements of Paragraph B of this Article, the facsimile filing shall have no force or effect.
D. A court may provide by court rule for any additional requirement or provisions for filings by facsimile transmission.
E. In keeping with the clerk's policy, each clerk of court shall make available the necessary equipment and supplies to accommodate facsimile filing in criminal actions. Purchases for equipment and supplies necessary to accommodate facsimile filings may be funded from any expense fund of the office of the clerk of court as the clerks deem appropriate.
F. Upon adoption of uniform filing standards by the Louisiana Clerks' Remote Access Authority, no clerk of court shall accept a filing not in accordance with the adopted standards.
Acts 2024, No. 501, §2; Acts 2024, No. 694, §5.
NOTE: Acts 2024, No. 501, §2, enacted Art. 14.2. The enactment was superseded by Acts 2024, No. 694, §§5 and 6(B).
A. The provisions of this Code, except as otherwise specially provided by other statutes, shall govern and regulate the procedure in criminal prosecutions and proceedings in district courts. They also shall govern criminal prosecutions in city, parish, juvenile, and family courts, except insofar as a particular provision is incompatible with the general nature and organization of, or special procedures established or authorized by law for, those courts.
B. This Code shall not affect any power conferred by law upon any court martial, military authority, or military officer to impose or inflict punishment upon offenders.
Courts have the jurisdiction and powers over criminal proceedings that are conferred upon them by the constitution and statutes of this state, except as their statutory jurisdiction and powers are restricted, enlarged, or modified by the provisions of this Code.
A court possesses inherently all powers necessary for the exercise of its jurisdiction and the enforcement of its lawful orders, including authority to issue such writs and orders as may be necessary or proper in aid of its jurisdiction. It has the duty to require that criminal proceedings shall be conducted with dignity and in an orderly and expeditious manner and to so control the proceedings that justice is done. A court has the power to punish for contempt.
A court may adopt rules for the conduct of criminal proceedings before it, not in conflict with provisions of this Code or of other laws. When a court has more than one judge, its rules shall be adopted or amended by a majority of the judges thereof, sitting en banc.
The rules shall be entered on the minutes of the court, and a copy shall be furnished on request to any attorney licensed to practice law in this state.
A court may call a special criminal session at any time, including vacation, and any criminal proceeding or prosecution may be tried or heard during the special session.
A contempt of court is an act or omission tending to obstruct or interfere with the orderly administration of justice, or to impair the dignity of the court or respect for its authority.
Contempts of court are of two kinds, direct and constructive.
A direct contempt of court is one committed in the immediate view and presence of the court and of which it has personal knowledge; or, a contumacious failure to comply with a subpoena, summons or order to appear in court, proof of service of which appears of record; or, a contumacious failure to comply with an order sequestering a witness.
A direct contempt includes, but is not limited to, any of the following acts:
(1) Contumacious failure, after notice, to appear for arraignment or trial on the day fixed therefor;
(2) Contumacious failure to comply with a subpoena or summons to appear in court, proof of service of which appears of record;
(3) Contumacious violation of an order excluding, separating, or sequestering a witness;
(4) Refusal to take the oath or affirmation as a witness, or refusal of a witness to answer a nonincriminating question when ordered to do so by the court;
(5) Contumacious, insolent, or disorderly behavior toward the judge or an attorney or other officer of the court, tending to interrupt or interfere with the business of the court or to impair its dignity or respect for its authority;
(6) Breach of the peace, boisterous conduct, or violent disturbance tending to interrupt or interfere with the business of the court or to impair its dignity or respect for its authority;
(7) Use of insulting, abusive, or discourteous language by an attorney or other person in open court, or in a motion, plea, brief, or other document, filed with the court, in irrelevant criticism of another attorney or of a judge or officer of the court;
(8) Violation of a rule of the court adopted to maintain order and decorum in the court room; or
(9) Contumacious failure to attend court as a member of a jury venire or to serve as a juror after being accepted as such when proof of service of the subpoena appears of record.
A person who has committed a direct contempt of court may be found guilty and punished therefor by the court without any trial, after affording him an opportunity to be heard orally by way of defense or mitigation. The court shall render an order reciting the facts constituting the contempt, adjudging the person guilty thereof, and specifying the punishment imposed.
No person arrested or found guilty for the first offense of direct contempt of court either for failure to attend court as a member of a jury venire when proof of service of the summons appears on the record or for failure to comply with a subpoena to attend court to serve as a witness when proof of service of the subpoena appears on the record shall be subject to fingerprinting or have his photograph taken in any arrest or postsentence procedure.
Acts 1985, No. 937, §2.
A constructive contempt of court is any contempt other than a direct one.
A constructive contempt includes, but is not limited to any of the following acts:
(1) Willful neglect or violation of duty by a clerk, sheriff, or other person elected, appointed, or employed to assist the court in the administration of justice;
(2) Willful disobedience of any lawful judgment, order, mandate, writ, or process of court;
(3) Removal or attempted removal of any person or of property in the custody of an officer acting under the authority of a judgment, order, mandate, writ, or process of the court;
(4) Unlawful detention of a witness, the defendant or his attorney, or the district attorney, while going to, remaining at, or returning from the court;
(5) Improper conversation by a juror or venireman with any person relative to the merits of a case which is being, or may be, tried by a jury of which the juror is a member, or of which the venireman may become a member; or receipt by a juror or venireman of a communication from any person with reference to such a case without making an immediate disclosure to the court of the substance thereof;
(6) Assuming to act as a juror, or as an attorney or other officer of the court, without lawful authority;
(7) Willful disobedience by an inferior court, judge, or other official thereof, of the lawful judgment, order, mandate, writ, or process of an appellate court, rendered in connection with an appeal from a judgment or order of the inferior court, or in connection with a review of such judgment or order under a supervisory writ.
A. When a person is charged with committing a constructive contempt, he shall be tried by the judge on a rule to show cause alleging the facts constituting the contempt. The rule may be issued by the court on its own motion or on motion of the district attorney.
B. A certified copy of the motion and of the rule shall be served on the person charged in the manner of a subpoena not less than forty-eight hours prior to the time assigned for trial of the rule.
C. A person charged with committing a constructive contempt of a court of appeal may be found guilty thereof and punished therefor after receiving a notice to show cause, by brief, to be filed not less than forty-eight hours from the date the person receives such notice, why he should not be found guilty of contempt and punished accordingly. Such notice may be sent by certified or registered mail or may be served by the sheriff. The person so charged shall be granted an oral hearing on the charge if he submits a written request to the clerk of the appellate court within forty-eight hours after receiving notice of the charge.
D. If the person charged with contempt is found guilty, the court shall render an order reciting the facts constituting the contempt, adjudging the person charged with the contempt guilty thereof, and specifying the punishment imposed.
Amended by Acts 1984, No. 530, §1.
A. A person may not be adjudged guilty of a contempt of court except for misconduct defined as such, or made punishable as such, expressly by law.
B. Except as otherwise provided in this Article, a court may punish a person adjudged guilty of contempt of court in connection with a criminal proceeding by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars, or by imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.
C. When an attorney is adjudged guilty of a direct contempt of court, the punishment shall be limited to a fine of not more than one hundred dollars, or imprisonment for not more than twenty-four hours, or both; and, for any subsequent direct contempt of the same court by the same offender, a fine of not more than two hundred dollars, or imprisonment for not more than ten days, or both.
D. A justice of the peace may punish a person adjudged guilty of a direct contempt of court by a fine of not more than fifty dollars, or imprisonment in the parish jail for not more than twenty-four hours, or both.
E. When a contempt of court consists of the omission to perform an act which is yet in the power of the person charged with contempt to perform, he may be imprisoned until he performs it, and in such a case this shall be specified in the court's order.
Acts 1991, No. 508, §1.
A. The court shall appoint an interpreter in accordance with the Code of Evidence and the Rules of the Louisiana Supreme Court for any person who is a party or witness upon a determination that the person is a limited English proficient or deaf individual.
B. The cost of providing a qualified court interpreter shall be paid out of the appropriate court fund.
Acts 2008, No. 882, §2; Acts 2024, No. 32, §2.
A magistrate may order a peace bond in conformity with the provisions of this Chapter.
An applicant for a peace bond shall file an affidavit charging that the defendant has threatened or is about to commit a specified breach of the peace. The magistrate with whom the application is filed may examine under oath the complainant and any witnesses produced.
If the magistrate is satisfied that there is just cause to fear that the defendant is about to commit the threatened offense, he shall issue a summons ordering the defendant to appear before him at a specified time and date. The magistrate may issue a warrant of arrest when imminent and serious harm is threatened.
A. When a defendant appears before the magistrate, a contradictory hearing to determine the validity of the complaint shall be held immediately either in chambers or in open court. If the magistrate determines that there is just cause to fear that the defendant is about to commit the threatened offense, he may order the defendant to give a peace bond. Otherwise, he shall discharge the defendant.
B. The applicant for a peace bond shall pay as advanced court costs a fee of fifteen dollars for each defendant summoned to a hearing. If the magistrate discharges the defendant, the costs shall be paid by the applicant. If the magistrate orders the defendant to give a peace bond, the costs shall be paid instead by the defendant. However, the court may assess those costs, or any part thereof, against any party, as it may consider equitable. An applicant for a peace bond who is seeking protection from domestic abuse, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault shall not be required to prepay or be cast with court costs or cost of service or subpoena for the issuance of a peace bond.
C. Costs may be waived for an indigent applicant or defendant who complies with the provisions of Chapter 5 of Book IX of the Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure.1 The proceeds derived from these costs shall be deposited and used by the court in accordance with the provisions of R.S. 13:1899(B).
Amended by Acts 1979, No. 445, §1; Acts 2003, No. 750, §2.
1LSA-C.C.P. Art. 5181 et seq.
A. The peace bond shall be for a specified period, not to exceed six months, and its condition shall be that the defendant will not commit the threatened or any related breach of the peace. The bond shall be for a sum fixed by the magistrate. When fixed by a justice of the peace, the maximum amount of the bond shall not exceed one thousand dollars.
B. If the peace bond is for the purpose of preventing domestic abuse or dating violence, the magistrate shall cause to have prepared a Uniform Abuse Prevention Order, as provided in R.S. 46:2136.2(C), shall sign such order, and shall immediately forward it to the clerk of court for filing on the day that the order is issued. The clerk of the issuing court shall transmit the Uniform Abuse Prevention Order to the Judicial Administrator's Office, Louisiana Supreme Court, for entry into the Louisiana Protective Order Registry, as provided in R.S. 46:2136.2(A), by facsimile transmission or direct electronic input as expeditiously as possible, but no later than the end of the next business day after the order is filed with the clerk of court. The clerk of the issuing court shall also send a copy of the Uniform Abuse Prevention Order, as provided in R.S. 46:2136.2(C), or any modification thereof, to the chief law enforcement officer of the parish where the person or persons protected by the order reside by facsimile transmission or direct electronic input as expeditiously as possible, but no later than the end of the next business day after the order is filed with the clerk of court. A copy of the Uniform Abuse Prevention Order shall be retained on file in the office of the chief law enforcement officer until otherwise directed by the court.
C. The peace bond obligation shall run in favor of the clerk or judge of the court ordering the bond, in favor of the city when ordered by the mayor of a mayor's court, or in favor of the police jury when the bond is ordered by a justice of the peace. The proceeds shall be disposed of in the manner provided by law.
D. The types of security for a peace bond shall be governed by the bail bond rules set forth in Title VIII, as far as applicable.
Amended by Acts 1979, No. 289, §1; Acts 2003, No. 750, §2; Acts 2014, No. 317, §6.
If the defendant fails to give the peace bond required under Articles 29 and 30, he shall be committed to jail. The defendant may be discharged by the committing or some other magistrate upon giving bond as ordered. The committing magistrate may revoke or modify his order for a peace bond.
A defendant who has been committed for failure to give a peace bond ordered by a justice of the peace may not be held longer than five days.
When the magistrate determines that a breach of peace in violation of a peace bond has been committed, he shall order a forfeiture of the bond and send notice of the forfeiture by certified mail to the defendant and to his surety. If neither the defendant nor his surety appears within fifteen days to contest the forfeiture, the order shall become final and executory.
A peace bond is automatically discharged at the end of thirty days from the expiration of the period specified therein, unless a proceeding to declare a forfeiture has been brought within that time.
Subject to the supervision of the attorney general, as provided in Article 62, the district attorney has entire charge and control of every criminal prosecution instituted or pending in his district, and determines whom, when, and how he shall prosecute.
A. The attorney general shall exercise supervision over all district attorneys in the state.
B. The attorney general has authority to institute and prosecute, or to intervene in any proceeding, as he may deem necessary for the assertion or protection of the rights and interests of the state.
C. In any criminal action or proceeding involving a homicidal death, if deemed necessary for the assertion or protection of the rights and interests of the state, and in accordance with the provisions of Article IV, Section 8 of the Constitution of Louisiana, the attorney general may, with the consent of the district attorney, investigate, prosecute or intervene in the action or proceeding.
D. Any pleading containing an allegation of unconstitutionality of a criminal law shall be in writing and served upon the attorney general of the state. Upon proper service, the attorney general shall have thirty days to respond to the allegations or represent or supervise the interests of the state. The attorney general shall have a right to directly appeal adverse rulings to the Supreme Court of Louisiana for supervisory review whether or not the attorney general participated in the underlying proceeding.
Acts 2003, No. 1223, §1; Acts 2024, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 12, §2.
The district attorney may employ or accept the assistance of other counsel in the conduct of a criminal case.
The district attorney is the representative of the state before the grand jury and is its legal advisor. He shall be notified of and has the right to be present at all sessions of the grand jury, except while it is deliberating and voting. He shall examine witnesses before the grand jury.
It is unlawful for the following officers or their law partners to defend or assist in the defense of any person charged with an offense in any parish of the state:
(1) Any district attorney or assistant district attorney; or
(2) The attorney general or any assistant attorney general, provided that the provisions of this article shall not apply to the law partners of any assistant attorney general not employed to handle criminal matters for the attorney general, when any such law partner is judicially appointed to defend an indigent defendant.
Amended by Acts 1974, No. 220, §1.
A. Upon written motion of the attorney general or district attorney setting forth reasonable grounds therefor, the court may order the clerk to issue subpoenas directed to the persons named in the motion, ordering them to appear at a time and place designated in the order for questioning by the attorney general or district attorney respectively, concerning any offense under investigation by him. The court may also order the issuance of a subpoena duces tecum. Service of a subpoena or subpoena duces tecum issued pursuant to this Article upon motion of the attorney general may be made by any commissioned investigator from the attorney general's office, or in conformity with Article 734 of this Code.
B. The contumacious failure or refusal of the person subpoenaed to appear is punishable as a contempt of court.
C. The attorney general or district attorney, respectively, may determine who shall be present during the examination and may order all persons excluded, except counsel for the person subpoenaed.
Amended by Acts 1972, No. 408, §1; Acts 1999, No. 863, §1.
Repealed by Acts 1999, No. 718, §1.
The coroner's jury and inquest are abolished.
The coroner shall conduct an investigation concerning the manner and cause of any death when informed that death has resulted from violence or accident, or under suspicious circumstances.
The coroner may conduct an investigation concerning the medical aspects of any case that may involve medical evidence and in which there is a reasonable probability that a criminal statute has been violated and shall do so when ordered by the court. This order may be issued ex parte by the court either on its own motion or on application by the district attorney.
The coroner may perform an autopsy in any death case or cause one to be performed by a competent physician. He shall do so:
(1) When there is a reasonable probability that the violation of a criminal statute has contributed to the death;
(2) When ordered by the court, which order may be issued ex parte by the court either on its own motion or on application by the district attorney; or
(3) In all other cases provided by law.
Acts 1987, No. 878, §2.
A. The coroner may issue a subpoena or a subpoena duces tecum in the course of an investigation, directing a witness to appear and testify at an open hearing to be held at a time and place designated in the subpoena or directing the production of medical records and other documents relating to a deceased person which are necessary to classify the cause and manner of death. The subpoena shall be served in the same manner and with the same effect as a subpoena for a witness at a trial.
B.(1) The subpoena duces tecum shall be filed in and issued by the district court in the domicile of the coroner, and may be served by a coroner investigator.
(2) Production of the records, or a copy thereof, shall be made at the office of the coroner within five days of service of the subpoena duces tecum.
(3) All records produced pursuant to a subpoena duces tecum issued in accordance with this Paragraph are confidential unless otherwise ordered by the court. However, a subpoena duces tecum for the production of a public record does not alter the public nature of that record.
(4) Any person acting pursuant to and in accordance with the provisions hereof shall be immune from liability for production or disclosure to the coroner of the records identified in the subpoena duces tecum.
(5) Failure to comply with a subpoena duces tecum issued under this Article is punishable as contempt of court.
C. The witness shall be sworn, in accordance with Article 14, by the coroner or another person authorized to administer oaths, and the testimony may be reduced to writing. If the testimony is reduced to writing, the transcript shall be available for inspection by a person requesting it. Failure of a witness to appear is punishable as a constructive contempt of court.
D. No provision of this Article shall be deemed to amend, supersede, or repeal the provisions of R.S. 45:1455 et seq.
Acts 1995, No. 887, §1.
The coroner may use expert assistants in the conduct of an investigation, or in the performance of an autopsy.
In a case involving the apparent commission of a crime, the coroner shall make a written report of his investigation to the district attorney within ten days after the completion thereof. In homicide cases the coroner's report shall certify the cause of death.
The report shall be in addition to the procès verbal of an autopsy required by R.S. 13:5715.
A coroner's report and a procès verbal of an autopsy shall be competent evidence of death and the cause thereof, but not of any other fact.
If an investigation by the coroner indicates that a crime has been committed by a person who is not in custody, the coroner may arrest him. The coroner shall deliver the person arrested to a peace officer.
Clerks, sheriffs, constables, marshals, stenographers, and other court officers have such powers and perform such duties as are conferred upon them by law.
A. Except as authorized by Article 163.1 or 163.2, a judge may issue a warrant authorizing the search for and seizure of any thing within the territorial jurisdiction of the court which:
(1) Has been the subject of theft.
(2) Is intended for use or has been used as a means of committing an offense.
(3) May constitute evidence tending to prove the commission of an offense.
B. A judge of a city court located in the city of Bastrop may, only with the consent of the judicial district court, issue a warrant authorizing the search for and seizure of anything within the territorial jurisdiction of the district court.
C. A judge may also issue a search warrant in all other cases specifically provided by law. A justice of the peace may issue a search warrant only in those cases specifically provided by law.
Acts 1993, No. 846, §1; Acts 2005, No. 38, §1; Acts 2011, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 16, §1; Acts 2022, No. 384, §1.
A. A search warrant may issue only upon probable cause established to the satisfaction of the judge, by the affidavit of a credible person, reciting facts establishing the cause for issuance of the warrant.
B. In any application for warrant, an affidavit containing the electronic signature of the applicant shall satisfy the constitutional requirement that the testimony of the applicant be made under oath, provided that such signature is made under penalty of perjury and in compliance with R.S. 9:2603.1(D).
C. A search warrant shall particularly describe the person or place to be searched, the persons or things to be seized, and the lawful purpose or reason for the search or seizure.
Amended by Acts 1974, Ex.Sess. No. 15, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1975; Acts 2010, No. 58, §2.
A. In addition to the provisions of Article 162, a search warrant may issue only upon probable cause established to the satisfaction of the judge by the sworn oral testimony of a credible person reciting facts establishing the cause for issuance of the warrant.
B. The sworn oral testimony may be communicated to the judge, and the oath may be administered by the judge, by telephone, radio, or such other electronic method of communication deemed appropriate by the judge. If the judge determines that the warrant should issue, he shall order the applicant to affix a facsimile of his signature to the warrant which the applicant has prepared and to note thereon the date and time of the determination. The sworn oral testimony, the contents of the warrant issued, the order to affix the signature facsimile, and the date and time of the determination shall be electronically recorded by the judge, who shall cause the recording to be transcribed and fixed in the record within seven days. The judge shall certify the accuracy of the transcription.
C. A search warrant shall particularly describe the person or place to be searched, the persons or things to be seized, and the lawful purpose or reason for the search or seizure.
D. The testimony may also be communicated to the judge by facsimile transmission signed by the applicant, after the administration of the oath by the judge by telephone, radio, or such other electronic method of communication deemed appropriate by the judge. The judge shall certify on the facsimile transmission the date and time of the administration of the oath. If the judge determines that the warrant should issue, he shall affix his signature to the warrant which the applicant has prepared and forwarded to him by facsimile transmission. The judge shall transmit to the applicant, by facsimile transmission, the warrant which he has executed together with the written testimony and certification of oath. The original application for the warrant with the applicant's signature and the facsimile copy with the original signature of the judge shall be preserved in the same manner as an original warrant signed by both the applicant and the judge.
Acts 1991, No. 84, §1; Acts 1999, No. 895, §1.
A. In addition to the provisions of Articles 162 and 162.1, a search warrant may issue upon probable cause established to the satisfaction of the judge by the electronic testimony of a credible person reciting facts establishing the cause for issuance of the warrant.
B. For purposes of this Section, the following words shall have the following meanings:
(1) "Electronic signature" shall include any electronic means indicating that the person originating an electronic document adopts the contents of the document, and that the person who claims to have written the electronic document is in fact the person who wrote it.
(2) "Electronic testimony" shall mean any method of communication, whether wired or wireless or any combination thereof, in which text or images may be transferred electronically from one person to another and includes but shall not be limited to text messages and electronic mail.
C. The submission of electronic testimony to a judge pursuant to the provisions of this Article shall contain the electronic signature of the applicant, the applicant's full name and occupation, and a telephone number and electronic address which may be used by the judge to contact the applicant.
D. Any electronic testimony presented to a judge shall serve as the equivalent of the applicant having been administered an oath or affirmation, swearing that the facts contained in the electronic testimony are true and correct to the best of his knowledge, subject to the penalties for perjury or false swearing.
E. Accompanying the electronic testimony shall be an electronic facsimile of the search warrant. If the judge finds probable cause and approves the issuance of the warrant, he shall affix his electronic signature to the warrant and return it immediately to the applicant.
F. It shall be the responsibility of the applicant to create a written reproduction of his electronic testimony, including its electronic signature, and a written reproduction of the warrant, including the judge's electronic signature, and preserve the written reproductions in the same manner as an original warrant signed by both the applicant and the judge within forty-eight hours from the time the warrant was issued.
G. Telephonic communication between the judge and the affiant relatively contemporaneously with the application for the warrant shall satisfy the requirements of R.S. 9:2603.1(D).
Acts 2012, No. 169, §1.
A. No law enforcement officer shall seek, execute, or participate in the execution of a no-knock warrant, except in cases where both of the following apply:
(1) The affidavit supporting the request for the warrant establishes probable cause that exigent circumstances exist requiring the warrant to be executed in a no-knock manner. For purposes of this Subparagraph, exigent circumstances shall include circumstances where the surprise of a no-knock entry is necessary to protect life and limb of the law enforcement officers and the occupants.
(2) The copy of the warrant being executed that is in the possession of law enforcement officers to be delivered as provided in Paragraph C of this Article includes the judge's signature.
B. A search warrant authorized under this Article shall require that a law enforcement officer be recognizable and identifiable as a uniformed law enforcement officer and provide audible notice of his authority and purpose reasonably expected to be heard by occupants of such place to be searched prior to the execution of such search warrant.
C. After entering and securing the place to be searched and prior to undertaking any search or seizure pursuant to the search warrant, the executing law enforcement officer shall read and give a copy of the search warrant to the person to be searched or the owner of the place to be searched or, if the owner is not present, to any occupant of the place to be searched. If the place to be searched is unoccupied, the executing law enforcement officer shall leave a copy of the search warrant suitably affixed to the place to be searched.
D. Search warrants authorized under this Article shall be executed only from sunrise to sunset except in either of the following instances:
(1) A judge authorizes the execution of such search warrant at another time for good cause shown.
(2) The search warrant is for the withdrawal of blood. A search warrant for the withdrawal of blood may be executed at any time of day.
E. Any evidence obtained from a search warrant in violation of this Article shall not be admitted into evidence for prosecution.
F. For purposes of this Article, "no-knock warrant" means a warrant issued by a judge that allows law enforcement to enter a property without immediate prior notification of the residents, such as by knocking or ringing a doorbell.
G. For the purposes of this Article, only a district court judge may issue a no-knock warrant.
Acts 2021, No. 430, §2.
Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, the odor of marijuana alone shall not provide a law enforcement officer with probable cause to conduct a search without a warrant of a person's place of residence.
Acts 2022, No. 473, §1.
A. A search warrant shall be directed to any peace officer, who shall execute it and bring any property seized into the court issuing the warrant.
B. A search or seizure shall not be made during the nighttime or on Sunday, unless the warrant expressly so directs.
C. Except as authorized by Article 163.1 or 163.2, or as otherwise provided in this Article, or as otherwise provided by law, a search warrant cannot be lawfully executed after the expiration of the tenth day after its issuance.
D.(1) Any examination or testing of any property seized pursuant to the provisions of this Article shall be at the direction of the attorney general, the district attorney, or the investigating agency.
(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, any examination or testing of the seized property may be conducted at any time before or during the pendency of any criminal proceeding in which the property may be used as evidence.
E.(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, if a warrant is issued to search for and seize data or information contained in or on a computer, disk drive, flash drive, cellular telephone, or other electronic communication, or data storage device, the warrant is considered to have been executed within the time allowed in Paragraph C of this Article if the device was seized before the expiration of the time allowed, or if the device was in law enforcement custody at the time of the issuance of the warrant.
(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, if a device described in Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph was seized before the expiration of the time allowed in Paragraph C of this Article, or if the device was in law enforcement custody at the time of the issuance of the warrant, any data or information contained in or on the device may be recovered or extracted pursuant to the warrant at any time, and such recovery or extraction shall not be subject to the time limitation in Paragraph C of this Article.
Acts 2005, No. 38, §1; Acts 2012, No. 44, §1; Acts 2019, No. 341, §1; Acts 2022, No. 384, §1.
A. A judge may issue a search warrant authorizing the search of a person for bodily samples to obtain deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) or other bodily samples.
B. The warrant may be executed any place the person is found and shall be directed to any peace officer who shall obtain and distribute the bodily samples as directed in the warrant.
C. A warrant authorizing the search of a person for bodily samples remains in effect for one hundred eighty days after its issuance.
D.(1) Any examination or testing of any bodily samples seized pursuant to the provisions of this Article shall be at the direction of the attorney general, the district attorney, or the investigating agency.
(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, any examination or testing of the bodily samples may be conducted at any time before or during the pendency of any criminal proceeding in which the samples may be used as evidence.
Acts 2005, No. 38, §1; Acts 2012, No. 44, §1.
A. A judge may issue a search warrant authorizing the search for and seizure of the medical records of any person.
B. The warrant may be issued by a judge of either the court of territorial jurisdiction where the investigation for the medical records is being conducted or the court of territorial jurisdiction where the custodian of the medical records may be found. The warrant may be executed in any place the medical records may be found and shall be directed to any peace officer who shall obtain and distribute the medical records as directed in the warrant.
C. A warrant issued pursuant to this Article remains in effect for one hundred eighty days after its issuance.
D.(1) Any examination of any medical records seized pursuant to the provisions of this Article shall be at the direction of the attorney general, the district attorney, or the investigating agency.
(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, any examination of the medical records may be conducted at any time before or during the pendency of any criminal proceeding in which the medical records may be used as evidence.
Acts 2022, No. 384, §1.
In order to execute a search warrant a peace officer may use such means and force as are authorized for arrest by Title V.*
*C.Cr.P. Art. 201 et seq.
While in the course of executing a search warrant, a peace officer may make photographs, lift fingerprints, seize things whether or not described in the warrant that may constitute evidence tending to prove the commission of any offense, and perform all other acts pursuant to his duties.
When a peace officer seizes property under a warrant he shall give a receipt to the person from whom the property is taken, describing the property in detail. In the absence of such person, the peace officer shall leave the receipt in the place where the property was seized.
When property is seized pursuant to a search warrant, it shall be retained under the direction of the judge. If seized property is not to be used as evidence or is no longer needed as evidence, it shall be disposed of according to law, under the direction of the judge.
Arrest is the taking of one person into custody by another. To constitute arrest there must be an actual restraint of the person. The restraint may be imposed by force or may result from the submission of the person arrested to the custody of the one arresting him.
A. A warrant of arrest may be issued by any magistrate pursuant to this Paragraph or as provided in Paragraph D of this Article and, except where a summons is issued under Article 209 of this Code, shall be issued when all of the following occur:
(1) The person making the complaint executes an affidavit specifying, to his best knowledge and belief, the nature, date, and place of the offense, and the name and surname of the offender if known, and of the person injured if there be any. An affidavit containing the electronic signature of the applicant shall satisfy the constitutional requirement that the testimony of the applicant be made under oath, provided that such signature is made under penalty of perjury and in compliance with R.S. 9:2603.1(D).
(2) The magistrate has probable cause to believe that an offense was committed and that the person against whom the complaint was made committed it.
B.(1) A justice of the peace shall not have the authority to issue a warrant for the arrest of a peace officer for acts performed while in the course and scope of his official duties.
(2) A justice of the peace shall not issue a warrant for the arrest of an administrator of any public or private elementary, secondary, high school, vocational-technical school, college, university, or licensed child day care center in this state or a teacher in any public or private elementary, secondary, high school, vocational-technical school, college, or university in this state who is acting in the course and scope of his official duties, unless an independent investigation into the allegations has been conducted and the investigator's findings support the allegations contained in the affidavit required in Subparagraph (A)(1) of this Article.
C. When complaint is made before a magistrate of the commission of an offense in another parish, the magistrate shall also immediately notify the district attorney of the parish in which the offense is alleged to have been committed.
D. A warrant of arrest may be issued when the person making the complaint executes an oath specifying, to his best knowledge and belief, the nature, date, and place of the offense, and the name and surname of the offender if known, and of the person injured if there be any, using telephone and facsimile transmission equipment under all of the following conditions:
(1) The oath is made during a telephone conversation with the magistrate, after which the declarant shall sign his or her declaration in support of the warrant of probable cause for arrest. The proposed warrant and all supporting declarations and attachments shall then be transmitted to the magistrate utilizing facsimile transmission equipment.
(2) The magistrate shall confirm with the declarant the receipt of the warrant and the supporting declarations and attachments. The magistrate shall verify that all the pages sent have been received, that all pages are legible, and that the declarant's signature is acknowledged as genuine.
(3) If the magistrate has probable cause to believe that an offense was committed and that the person against whom the complaint was made committed it and decides to issue the warrant, he or she shall:
(a) Sign the warrant.
(b) Note on the warrant the exact date and time of the issuance of the warrant.
(c) Indicate on the warrant that the oath of the declarant was administered orally over the telephone. The completed warrant, as signed by the magistrate, shall be deemed to be the original warrant.
(d) The magistrate shall transmit via facsimile transmission equipment the signed warrant to the declarant who shall telephonically acknowledge its receipt. The magistrate shall then telephonically authorize the declarant to write the words "duplicate original" on the copy of the completed warrant transmitted to the declarant, and this document shall be deemed to be a duplicate original warrant.
(4) The warrant shall be in the form required by Article 203 of this Code.
E. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, after December 31, 2010, a justice of the peace shall not have the authority to issue a warrant for arrest unless he has received a certificate of completion from the Attorney General's Arrest Warrants Course for Justices of the Peace pursuant to R.S. 49:251.4.
F. Notwithstanding any other provisions of law to the contrary, no magistrate shall have the authority to issue a warrant of arrest for a school employee, as defined by R.S. 17:16(G), for any misdemeanor act allegedly committed on school premises or at a school-sanctioned event during the course and scope of the school employee's employment. In all such instances, a summons shall be issued to the school employee pursuant to Article 209 of this Code.
G. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, no magistrate shall have the authority to issue a warrant for the arrest of a school employee, as defined by R.S. 17:16(G), for any misdemeanor allegedly committed upon a student during the course and scope of the school employee's employment regardless whether the act is alleged to have occurred on or off the school campus. In all such instances, a summons shall be issued to the school employee pursuant to Article 209 of this Code.
H. A magistrate may recall a warrant of arrest that he has previously issued and shall immediately notify by written notice the office of the district attorney and the law enforcement agency that is responsible for execution of the warrant.
Amended by Acts 1980, No. 535, §1; Acts 1997, No. 783, §1; Acts 2003, No. 650, §1; Acts 2004, No. 833, §1; Acts 2009, No. 222, §1; Acts 2010, No. 58, §2; Acts 2014, No. 670, §1, eff. June 18, 2014; Acts 2014, No. 723, §1, eff. June 18, 2014; Acts 2026, No. 114, §1.
The warrant of arrest shall:
(1) Be in writing and be in the name of the State of Louisiana;
(2) State the date when issued and the municipality or parish where issued;
(3) State the name of the person to be arrested, or, if his name is unknown, designate the person by any name or description by which he can be identified with reasonable certainty;
(4) State the offense charged against the person to be arrested;
(5) Command that the person against whom the complaint was made be arrested and booked; and
(6) Be signed by the magistrate with the title of his office.
The warrant of arrest may specify the amount of bail in noncapital cases when the magistrate has authority to fix bail.
The warrant shall be directed to all peace officers in the state. It shall be executed only by a peace officer, and may be executed in any parish by any peace officer having authority in the territorial jurisdiction where the person arrested is found, or by any peace officer having authority in one territorial jurisdiction in this state who enters another jurisdiction in close pursuit of the person arrested.
A warrant of arrest remains in effect until executed or recalled.
Acts 2026, No. 114, §1.
A warrant of arrest shall not be quashed or abated, and a person in custody for an offense shall not be discharged from custody, because of any informality or defect in the warrant, but the warrant may be amended, so as to remedy the informality or defect.
When an arrest under a warrant occurs in a parish other than that in which the alleged offense was committed, the person arrested shall be booked and imprisoned in the parish where he was arrested until he gives bail or is transferred to the parish where the offense is alleged to have been committed. A person awaiting transfer shall not be detained in custody in the parish of his arrest for a longer period than ten days.
A summons is an order in writing, issued and signed by a magistrate or a peace officer in the name of the state, stating the offense charged and the name of the alleged offender, and commanding him to appear before the court designated in the summons at the time and place stated in the summons.
When a complaint is made of the commission of a misdemeanor and the requirements of Article 202 are met, the magistrate may issue a summons instead of a warrant of arrest, if he has reasonable ground to believe that the person against whom the complaint is made will appear upon a summons. In a case where a summons has been issued, a warrant of arrest may be issued later in its place.
The service of a summons is made in the same manner as a citation in a civil action.
A.(1) When it is lawful for a peace officer to arrest a person without a warrant for a misdemeanor, or for a felony charge of theft as defined by R.S. 14:67 or illegal possession of stolen things as provided in R.S. 14:69(B)(4), he may issue a written summons instead of making an arrest if all of the following conditions exist:
(a) The officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the person will appear upon summons.
(b) The officer has no reasonable grounds to believe that the person will cause injury to himself or another or damage to property or will continue in the same or a similar offense unless immediately arrested and booked.
(c) There is no necessity to book the person to comply with routine identification procedures.
(d) If an officer issues a summons for a felony described in this Paragraph, the officer issuing the summons has ascertained that the person has no prior criminal convictions.
(2) In any case in which a summons has been issued, a warrant of arrest may later be issued in its place.
B.(1) When a peace officer has reasonable grounds to believe a person has committed the offense of issuing worthless checks as defined by R.S. 14:71, he may issue a written summons instead of making an arrest if both of the following conditions exist:
(a) He has reasonable grounds to believe that the person will appear upon summons.
(b) He has no reasonable grounds to believe that the person will cause injury to himself or another or damage to property unless immediately arrested.
(2) In any case in which a summons has been issued, a warrant of arrest may later be issued in its place.
C.(1) When a peace officer has reasonable grounds to believe a person has committed an offense of driving without a valid driver's license, whether physical or electronic, in his possession, the officer shall make every practical attempt based on identifying information provided by the person to confirm that the person has been issued a valid driver's license. If the officer determines that the person has been issued a valid driver's license which is not under revocation, suspension, or cancellation, but that the physical or electronic license is not in his possession, the officer shall issue a written summons to the offender in accordance with law, commanding him to appear and answer the charge.
(2) The provisions of this Article shall in no way limit a peace officer from issuing a citation for operating a motor vehicle without possession of a valid driver's license.
D. When a peace officer has reasonable grounds to believe a person has committed an offense of driving with a driver's license that is under revocation, suspension, or cancellation, the officer may use his discretion to make a custodial arrest or issue a written summons to the offender, in accordance with law, commanding him to appear and answer the charge.
E. When the officer has reasonable grounds to believe a person committed the offense of domestic abuse battery, battery of a dating partner, violation of a protective order, stalking, or any other offense involving the use or threatened use of force or a deadly weapon upon the defendant's family members, as defined in R.S. 46:2132, upon the defendant's household member, as defined in R.S. 14:35.3, or upon the defendant's dating partner, as defined in R.S. 46:2151, the officer shall make a custodial arrest.
Amended by Acts 1982, No. 180, §1; Acts 1995, No. 769, §1; Acts 2006, No. 143, §2; Acts 2011, No. 403, §1; Acts 2019, No. 154, §1; Acts 2021, No. 240, §1; Acts 2022, No. 621, §1; Acts 2023, No. 438, §1.
A. Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 203, or any other provision of law to the contrary, when a peace officer stops a person who has an outstanding warrant or an attachment for failing to comply with a summons to appear in court on a misdemeanor offense, including a traffic offense, the officer in his discretion, may issue a summons based on such warrant or attachment in lieu of making an arrest if the warrant or attachment is issued in the jurisdiction where the detention occurs, or release the person or arrest the person pursuant to the provisions of Article 207, if the warrant or attachment was issued outside the jurisdiction where the detention occurs.
B. Any summons issued pursuant to this Article shall be in writing and shall be issued and signed by a magistrate or a peace officer in the name of the state. It shall state the offense charged and the name of the alleged offender, and shall command him to appear before the court designated in the summons at the time and place stated in the summons and to show proof that the obligation of the outstanding warrant has been fulfilled. A duplicate original of the summons shall be forwarded by the peace officer or a designee of the officer's employing agency to the court that issued the initial warrant within seventy-two hours, excluding weekends, of the issuance of the summons.
C. The provisions of this Article shall not apply to any of the following circumstances:
(1) When the information available to the officer indicates that the warrant or attachment was issued for any of the following offenses:
(a) Any offense involving the operation of a vehicle while intoxicated.
(b) Any offense involving the use or possession of a weapon.
(c) Any offense involving the use of force or violence, except the crime of simple battery unless the warrant or attachment indicates that the battery was prosecuted as a domestic abuse battery as defined in R.S. 14:35.3.
(d) Any offense or bench warrant issued involving the failure to pay a legal child support obligation.
(2) When the offender has an outstanding felony warrant.
D. In addition to any other legal remedies provided by law, any officer of the court may seek the collection of past due court costs, fines, or fees associated with the judicial system from state or federal tax refunds by sending notice to the federal secretary of the treasury or to the state treasurer that a person owes past due court costs, fines, or fees associated with the judicial system. The officer of the court shall comply with all rules and regulations imposed by the federal secretary of the treasury or the state treasurer including payment of any fee assessed by the secretary of the treasury or the state treasurer for the cost of applying the offset procedure.
Added by Acts 1981, No. 244, §1; Acts 2011, No. 403, §1.
A. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, in Orleans Parish, when a peace officer serving a subpoena, summons, or notice to appear in court for a misdemeanor traffic offense or a nonviolent offense, except for possession of illegal weapons and driving under the influence, has reasonable grounds to believe that the conduct of an offender constitutes a direct contempt of court because the offender contumaciously fails to comply with such subpoena, summons, or notice to appear in court, and proof of service of the subpoena, summons, or notice appears of record, then either the court may order the offender attached and brought to court or the peace officer may issue a written citation or summons to the offender commanding him to appear and answer the direct contempt charge.
B. If an order of attachment is issued, it may be executed in any parish by the sheriff of the parish from which the attachment was issued, or by the sheriff of the parish where the offender is found.
Added by Acts 1982, No. 520, §1; Acts 2011, No. 403, §1.
A. When a peace officer has reasonable grounds to believe that a person has committed the offense of improper supervision of a minor by parent or legal custodian as defined in R.S. 14:92.2, he may issue a written summons instead of making an arrest unless any of the following conditions exist:
(1) The officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the person will not appear upon summons.
(2) The officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the person will cause injury to himself or another, will cause damage to property, or will continue in the same or a similar offense unless immediately arrested and booked.
(3) It is necessary to book the person to comply with routine identification procedures.
B. In any case in which a summons has been issued, a warrant of arrest may later be issued in its place. If the offender fails to appear pursuant to the summons, the court shall immediately issue a warrant for the arrest of the offender.
Acts 2019, No. 290, §2.
Repealed by Acts 2011, No. 403, §2.
Repealed by Acts 2011, No. 403, §2.
Repealed by Acts 2011, No. 403, §2.
A. When a corporation, or partnership, or other association of persons not incorporated, is charged with the commission of an offense, the court before which the case is to be tried shall issue a summons stating the offense charged and ordering the defendant to appear before the court at a time and place stated in the summons.
B. The summons is served in the same manner as the citation of a corporation, or partnership, or other association of persons not incorporated, in a civil action.
C. If the corporation, or partnership, or other association of persons not incorporated, fails to appear as ordered, a plea of not guilty shall be entered by the court. Without further process, the trial shall be held and the court shall proceed to judgment and sentence as though the defendant had appeared.
A. A peace officer may, without a warrant, arrest a person when any of the following occur:
(1) The person to be arrested has committed an offense in his presence, and if the arrest is for a misdemeanor, it must be made immediately or on close pursuit.
(2) The person to be arrested has committed a felony, although not in the presence of the officer.
(3) The peace officer has reasonable cause to believe that the person to be arrested has committed an offense, although not in the presence of the officer.
(4) The peace officer has received positive and reliable information that another peace officer from this state holds an arrest warrant, or a peace officer of another state or the United States holds an arrest warrant for a felony offense.
B. A peace officer making an arrest pursuant to this Article who is in close pursuit of the person to be arrested may enter another jurisdiction in this state and make the arrest.
C. Notwithstanding any other provisions of law to the contrary, no magistrate shall have the authority to issue a warrant of arrest for a school employee, as defined by R.S. 17:16(G), for any misdemeanor act allegedly committed on school premises or at a school-sanctioned event during the course and scope of the school employee's employment. In all such instances, a summons shall be issued to the school employee pursuant to Article 209 of this Code.
D.(1) Except as provided in Paragraph (2) of this Subsection, and notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, no peace officer shall have the authority to arrest a school employee, as defined by R.S. 17:16(G), for any misdemeanor allegedly committed upon a student during the course and scope of the school employee's employment regardless whether the act is alleged to have occurred on or off the school campus. In all such instances, a summons shall be issued to the school employee pursuant to Article 209 of this Code.
(2) A peace officer may arrest a school employee as defined in R.S. 17:16(G) and as provided in Subsection A of this Section in either of the following instances:
(a) The peace officer personally witnesses an alleged violation of R.S. 14:35 committed upon a student by a school employee, whether on or off campus.
(b) The peace officer receives a complaint of an alleged violation of R.S. 14:35 committed upon a student by a school employee, whether alleged to have occurred on or off campus, and there is physical evidence of a resulting injury to the student which is personally witnessed by the officer.
Amended by Acts 1972, No. 646, §1; Acts 1981, No. 613, §1; Acts 2014, No. 670, §1, eff. June 18, 2014; Acts 2014, No. 723, §1, eff. June 18, 2014.
A private person may make an arrest when the person arrested has committed a felony, whether in or out of his presence.
A.(1) A peace officer, merchant, or a specifically authorized employee or agent of a merchant, may use reasonable force to detain a person for questioning on the merchant's premises, for a length of time, not to exceed sixty minutes, unless it is reasonable under the circumstances that the person be detained longer, when he has reasonable cause to believe that the person has committed a theft of goods held for sale by the merchant, regardless of the actual value of the goods. The merchant or his employee or agent may also detain such a person for arrest by a peace officer. The detention shall not constitute an arrest.
(2) A peace officer may, without a warrant, arrest a person when he has reasonable grounds to believe the person has committed a theft of goods held for sale by a merchant, regardless of the actual value of the goods. A complaint made to a peace officer by a merchant or a merchant's employee or agent shall constitute reasonable cause for the officer making the arrest.
(3)(a) A merchant or a specifically authorized employee or agent of a merchant who has reasonable cause to believe that a person has committed a theft of goods held for sale by the merchant, is not precluded from offering such person the opportunity to complete a theft prevention program in lieu of reporting the suspected theft to law enforcement. The provisions of this Subparagraph apply only to those merchants who employ at least twenty-five persons.
(b)(i) A provider of a theft prevention program may charge a fee of not more than five hundred dollars for participation in the program and may not exclude a person otherwise eligible to participate in the program on the basis of the person's race, national origin, religion, sex, or the ability to pay the fee.
(ii) A provider of a theft prevention program that charges a fee to participate in the program may reduce or waive the fee based upon the inability of a participant to pay.
(iii) A provider of a theft prevention program shall maintain records of the criteria described in Item (i) of this Subsubparagraph for a period of not less than three years without including personal identifying information. This report shall be made available to the district attorney upon request.
(iv) A provider of a theft prevention program shall provide to the district attorney, upon request, its criteria for a person's participation in its theft prevention program.
(v) A merchant or a specifically authorized employee or agent of a merchant that offers a person the opportunity to complete a theft prevention program shall provide a copy of the written offer to the district attorney upon request.
(vi) Nothing in this Subparagraph shall preclude a district attorney or court from offering a theft prevention program in compliance with the provisions of this Subparagraph.
(c) The participant shall not be required to sign an admission of guilt nor sign any binding agreement in connection with participation in the theft prevention program.
(d) Any person who successfully completes a theft prevention program pursuant to this Subparagraph shall not be subject to any additional civil penalties under any other provision of law.
B. If a merchant utilizes electronic devices which are designed to detect the unauthorized removal of marked merchandise from the store, and if sufficient notice has been posted to advise the patrons that such a device is being utilized, a signal from the device to the merchant or his employee or agent indicating the removal of specially marked merchandise shall constitute a sufficient basis for reasonable cause to detain the person.
C. As used in this Article, the following definitions apply:
(1) "Reasonable under the circumstances" shall be construed in such a manner so as to include the value of the merchandise in question, the location of the store, the length of time taken for law enforcement personnel to respond, the cooperation of the person detained, and any other relevant circumstances to be considered with respect to the length of time a person is detained.
(2) "Theft prevention program" is a pre-arrest program designed to address the underlying causes of theft, reduce the occurrences of theft, and promote accountability and reconciliation between the person suspected of theft and the merchant, and may be provided by the merchant or an independent third-party provider.
Acts 1983, No. 187, §1; Acts 1987, No. 632, §1; Acts 2018, No. 61, §1.
A. A law enforcement officer may stop a person in a public place whom he reasonably suspects is committing, has committed, or is about to commit an offense and may demand of him his name, address, and an explanation of his actions.
B. When a law enforcement officer has stopped a person for questioning pursuant to this Article and reasonably suspects that he is in danger, he may frisk the outer clothing of such person for a dangerous weapon. If the law enforcement officer reasonably suspects the person possesses a dangerous weapon, he may search the person.
C. If the law enforcement officer finds a dangerous weapon, he may take and keep it until the completion of the questioning, at which time he shall either return it, if lawfully possessed, or arrest such person.
D. During detention of an alleged violator of any provision of the motor vehicle laws of this state, an officer may not detain a motorist for a period of time longer than reasonably necessary to complete the investigation of the violation and issuance of a citation for the violation, absent reasonable suspicion of additional criminal activity. However, nothing herein shall prohibit a peace officer from compelling or instructing the motorist to comply with administrative or other legal requirements of Title 32 or Title 47 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950.
Added by Acts 1968, No. 305, §1. Amended by Acts 1982, No. 686, §1; Acts 1983, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 32, §1; Acts 1997, No. 759, §3, eff. July 10, 1997.
A. A specifically authorized employee of a correctional institution may use reasonable force to detain a person for questioning on the premises of a correctional institution for a length of time not to exceed one hour, when he has reasonable cause to believe that the person is carrying contraband as defined in R.S. 14:402(D).
B. The specifically authorized employee, when he has reasonable cause to believe that the person is carrying contraband as defined in R.S. 14:402(D), may also detain such a person for arrest by a peace officer or for the procurement of a search warrant. The detention shall not constitute an arrest.
Added by Acts 1984, No. 236, §1.
An arrest may be made on any day and at any time of the day or night, and at any place.
A peace officer, when making an arrest by virtue of a warrant, shall inform the person to be arrested of his authority and of the fact that a warrant has been issued for his arrest, unless he flees or forcibly resists before the officer has an opportunity to inform him, or unless the giving of such information would imperil the arrest. The officer need not have the warrant in his possession at the time of the arrest, but after the arrest, if the person arrested so requests, the warrant shall be shown to him as soon as practicable.
A peace officer, when making an arrest without a warrant, shall inform the person to be arrested of his intention to arrest him, of his authority, and of the cause of the arrest. A private person, when making an arrest, shall inform the person to be arrested of his intention to arrest him and of the cause of the arrest.
The officer or private person making the arrest need not so inform the person to be arrested if the person is then engaged in the commission of an offense, or is pursued immediately after its commission or after an escape, or flees or forcibly resists before the officer or person making the arrest has an opportunity to so inform him, or when the giving of the information would imperil the arrest.
When any person has been arrested or detained in connection with the investigation or commission of any offense, he shall be advised fully of the reason for his arrest or detention, his right to remain silent, his right against self incrimination, his right to the assistance of counsel and, if indigent, his right to court appointed counsel.
Added by Acts 1974, Ex.Sess., No. 27, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1975.
A peace officer making a lawful arrest may call upon as many persons as he considers necessary to aid him in making the arrest. A person thus called upon shall be considered a peace officer for such purposes.
A person shall submit peaceably to a lawful arrest. The person making a lawful arrest may use reasonable force to effect the arrest and detention, and also to overcome any resistance or threatened resistance of the person being arrested or detained.
A.(1) Following arrest if an offender is charged by bill of information or indicted by a grand jury for intentionally exposing a police officer to AIDS virus as defined in R.S. 14:43.5, or battery upon a police officer as defined in R.S. 14:34.2, the police officer may be tested to determine whether the police officer is infected with a sexually transmitted disease, or is infected with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), HIV-1 antibodies, or any other probable causative agent of AIDS, or other infectious disease resulting from this exposure, or viral hepatitis.
(2) For purposes of this Article, "police officer" means a commissioned police officer, sheriff, deputy sheriff, marshal, deputy marshal, correctional officer, constable, wildlife enforcement agent, and probation and parole officer.
B.(1) If testing is requested by the police officer, as provided in Paragraph A of this Article, the testing shall be performed at a state hospital or other facility as determined by the Louisiana Department of Health or as provided by law.
(2) If the police officer tested under the provisions of this Paragraph tests positive for AIDS, HIV, HIV-1 antibodies, or any other probable causative agent of AIDS, viral hepatitis, or other infectious disease, the police officer, upon request, shall be provided with the following services:
(a) Counseling regarding HIV, viral hepatitis, or other infectious disease.
(b) Referral to appropriate health care and support services. These services shall be provided in accordance with applicable state law and the regulations governing the specific programs under which the services are to be provided.
(3) The cost associated with this testing and services shall be paid by the employing law enforcement agency of the police officer. The agency may seek reimbursement for these expenses from the offender.
C.(1) If the police officer tested under the provisions of Paragraph B tests positive for AIDS, HIV, HIV-1 antibodies, or any other probable causative agent of AIDS, viral hepatitis, or other infectious disease, then the offender who may have exposed the officer shall submit to a test designed to determine whether the offender is infected with a sexually transmitted disease, or is infected with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), HIV-1 antibodies, or any other probable causative agent of AIDS, viral hepatitis, or other infectious disease.
(2) The procedure or test shall be performed by a qualified physician or other qualified person who shall report any positive result to the chief administrator of the jail or correctional facility, if the offender is incarcerated, and shall also notify the offender, regardless of the results. If the offender is incarcerated, the test may be administered at the place of incarceration or the offender may be transferred to an appropriate testing facility and returned to incarceration following the testing procedure.
(3) If the offender tested under the provisions of this Paragraph tests positive for AIDS, HIV, HIV-1 antibodies, or any other probable causative agent of AIDS, viral hepatitis, or other infectious disease, upon request, he shall be provided with the following services:
(a) Counseling regarding HIV, viral hepatitis, or other infectious disease.
(b) Referral to appropriate health care and support services. These services shall be provided in accordance with applicable state law and the regulations governing the specific programs under which the services are to be provided.
(4) The costs associated with this testing shall be paid by the offender.
Acts 1997, No. 1012, §1.
A. Any person who commits any act which exposes a law enforcement officer to a serious infectious disease by any means resulting in contact with the officer during the course and scope of an arrest or through the investigation and handling of evidence related to the arrest for any offense shall be required to submit within seventy-two hours of the exposure to a test designed to determine whether he is infected with a sexually transmitted disease, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), HIV-1 antibodies, any other probable causative agent of AIDS, viral hepatitis, or any other serious infectious disease.
B. Any law enforcement officer who believes he has been the victim of an act which has exposed him to a serious infectious disease as provided in Paragraph A of this Article shall notify by affidavit, subject to penalty for false swearing, the criminal district court that the exposure has occurred. The court may order the testing, as provided in this Article.
C. The court shall include in its order the designation of an appropriate facility for the procedure and shall require that the result be reported to the court. The court shall provide the results to the law enforcement officer and the alleged offender and shall provide them to health authorities in accordance with law.
D. The state shall not use the fact that the medical procedure or test was performed on the alleged offender under this Article, or the results thereof, in any criminal proceeding arising out of the alleged offense.
E. For purposes of this Article:
(1) "Act" means spitting, biting, or scratching; the throwing of blood or other bodily substances by any means; and any other method of intentional or non-intentional exposure to blood or other bodily substances.
(2) "Law enforcement officer" means a commissioned police officer, sheriff, deputy sheriff, marshal, deputy marshal, correctional officer, constable, wildlife enforcement agent, probation and parole officer, or any officer of the court. "Law enforcement officer" includes a civilian employee of the Louisiana State Police Crime Laboratory or any other forensic laboratory while engaged in the performance of the employee's lawful duties. "Law enforcement officer" also includes any licensed emergency medical services practitioner as defined by R.S. 40:1131 and any firefighter regularly employed by a fire department of any municipality, parish, or fire protection district of the state or any volunteer firefighter of the state.
F. The costs associated with testing as authorized by this Article shall be paid by the offender.
G. If the person tested under the provisions of this Article tests positive for a sexually transmitted disease, AIDS, HIV, HIV-1 antibodies, any other probable causative agent of AIDS, viral hepatitis, or any other serious infectious disease, the court shall inform that person of available counseling, healthcare, and support services.
Acts 1999, No. 1247, §1; Acts 2018, No. 118, §1.
A. A state or local law enforcement officer who arrests a person shall, at the time of the arrest, do all of the following if practicable:
(1) Inquire whether the person is a parent or guardian of a minor or dependent child under the care, custody, or control of the arrested person at the time of the arrest, who may be at risk as a result of the arrest.
(2) Ascertain whether a child is present, relying on all available information including any information received from emergency call operators and any indications at the scene of arrest that a child may be present or at another location.
(3) Permit an arrested person a reasonable opportunity, including providing access to telephone numbers stored in a mobile telephone or other location, to make alternate arrangements for the care of a child under his care, custody, or control, including a child who is not present at the scene of the arrest, and to provide a partner organization with contact information of a preferred alternate caregiver.
(4) Provide an arrested person the opportunity to speak with a child who is present, prior to such caregiver being transported to a police facility. If such an opportunity is not practicable, having a police officer explain to such child, using age appropriate language, that such child did nothing wrong and that the child will be safe and cared for.
(5) Make reasonable efforts to ensure the safety of minor or dependent children at risk as a result of an arrest in accordance with guidelines established pursuant to R.S. 40:2405.9.
B. Law enforcement officers are not required to adhere to the guidelines of Paragraph A of this Article if any of the following circumstances are present:
(1) The arrested caregiver presents a threat of serious bodily injury or death to himself, others, or the law enforcement officer.
(2) The arrested caregiver is in the act of committing a crime of violence as defined in R.S. 14:2(B).
(3) The law enforcement officer has exercised due diligence, based on all available information, and ascertains that no minor children are under the arrested person's care, custody, or control.
Acts 2021, No. 126, §2.
In order to make an arrest, a peace officer, who has announced his authority and purpose, may break open an outer or inner door or window of any vehicle, watercraft, aircraft, dwelling or other structure, movable or immovable, where the person to be arrested is or is reasonably believed to be, if he is refused or otherwise obstructed from admittance. The peace officer need not announce his authority and purpose when to do so would imperil the arrest.
A peace officer making an arrest shall take from the person arrested all weapons and incriminating articles which he may have about his person. He shall deliver these articles and all other evidence seized incidental to the arrest to the sheriff, chief of police, or other officer before whom the person arrested is taken.
A private person who has made an arrest shall immediately turn the prisoner and all effects removed from him over to a peace officer.
If a person lawfully arrested escapes or is rescued, the person from whose custody he escaped or was rescued may pursue and retake him immediately without a warrant at any time and in any place within the state. He may use the same means to retake as are authorized for an arrest.
A guard or other law enforcement officer is justified in the reasonable use of force, to prevent the escape from a state correctional facility, parish prison, or the physical custody of a guard or other law enforcement officer of a person under sentence or awaiting trial.
Acts 1985, No. 792, §1; Acts 1987, No. 790, §1.
A. It is the duty of every peace officer making an arrest, or having an arrested person in his custody, promptly to conduct the person arrested to the nearest jail or police station and cause him to be booked.
B. A person is booked by an entry, in a book kept for that purpose, showing his name and address, a list of any property taken from him, the date and time of booking, and the submission of a booking information summary as provided for in Paragraph C of this Article to the person making the entry in the police or jail book. Every jail and police station shall keep a book for the listing of the above information as to each prisoner received. The book and booking information summaries shall always be open for public inspection. The person booked shall be imprisoned unless he is released on bail.
C.(1) At the time of booking, the peace officer causing the arrested person to be booked shall deliver to the person at the jail or police station who accepts custody of the arrestee a booking information summary which shall include at least the following information:
(a) The proper legal name of the arrestee, if known.
(b) The charge or charges upon which the person was arrested and the name of the person making the arrest.
(c) A short recitation of the facts or events which caused the defendant to be arrested.
(d) The names of all other persons arrested as a result of the same events or facts.
(2) If the peace officer presenting an arrestee for booking is unable to submit a complete booking information summary, he shall provide the person receiving custody of the arrestee a written statement or form, explaining why a complete booking information summary cannot be presented.
Acts 1992, No. 672, §1.
Any property taken from a prisoner in any of the penal institutions under the jurisdiction of the criminal sheriff for the parish of Orleans shall, after 90 days from the release of said prisoner, be disposed of in the following manner:
(1) There shall be notice of the sheriff's right to dispose of the property in ninety days on the entry of the list of property made at the time the person is incarcerated. Provided however, this provision shall not apply to property in possession of the sheriff at the effective date of this Act.
(2) After the passage of ninety days from the release of the prisoner, and providing the property is not needed for any legal reason by the sheriff, and it remains unclaimed, the criminal sheriff of Orleans Parish may petition the Criminal District Court for the parish of Orleans or any court of proper jurisdiction for the disposal of said property in any lawful manner, at his discretion.
(3) Before the criminal sheriff petitions said court he shall cause an advertisement of his intention to seek approval of the court to be placed in the newspaper designated as the official journal of the city of New Orleans one time at least ten days prior to filing of his petition. In the petition for disposal the sheriff shall set forth a brief description of the items to be disposed of, the court in which the proceedings will be filed, the title of the proceedings, and method or methods of intended disposal.
(4) The petition of the sheriff shall make specific recommendations as to the method of disposal for each item of unclaimed property and pray for the court to order its disposal.
(5) The court shall order the property disposed of in the manner contained in the sheriff's petition or order the disposal of the property in any legal manner within the sole discretion of the court.
(6) The costs of the proceeding to dispose of unclaimed property shall be derived from the disposal of the property as provided under this Article.
(7) Any funds remaining after payment of the cost of the proceedings to dispose of unclaimed property shall be deposited in the criminal court fund account which shall be used in defraying the expenses of the criminal district courts of Orleans Parish.
Added by Acts 1974, No. 285, §1.
A. Any property taken from a prisoner in any of the penal institutions under the jurisdiction of any sheriff, Orleans excepted, which is in the possession of the sheriff on July 31, 2001, shall, after ninety days from the release of said prisoner, be disposed of, if unclaimed, in the following manner:
(1) There shall be notice of the sheriff's right to dispose of the property in ninety days on the entry of the list of property made at the time the person was incarcerated. Provided however, this provision shall not apply to property in possession of the sheriff on September 12, 1975.
(2) After the passage of ninety days from the release of the prisoner, any sheriff may petition the court having proper jurisdiction for the disposal of said property in any lawful manner, at his discretion.
(3) Before any sheriff petitions said court, he shall cause an advertisement of his intention to seek approval of the court to be placed in the newspaper designated as the official journal of the parish one time at least ten days prior to filing of his petition and shall mail a copy of the advertisement to the prisoner at his last known address, postage prepaid. In the petition for disposal the sheriff shall set forth a brief description of the items to be disposed of, the court in which the proceedings will be filed, the title of the proceedings, and method or methods of intended disposal.
(4) The petition of the sheriff shall make specific recommendations as to the method of disposal for each item of unclaimed property and pray for the court to order its disposal.
(5) The court shall order the property disposed of in the manner contained in the sheriff's petition or order the disposal of the property in any legal manner within the sole discretion of the court.
(6) The costs of the proceedings to dispose of unclaimed property shall be derived from the disposal of the property as provided under this Paragraph.
(7) Any funds remaining after payment of the cost of the proceedings to dispose of unclaimed property shall be deposited in the sheriff's salary fund.
B. Any property taken from a prisoner in any of the penal institutions under the jurisdiction of any sheriff, Orleans excepted, after July 31, 2001, shall be disposed of after ninety days from the release or transfer of the prisoner, if unclaimed, in the following manner:
(1) The sheriff shall make a notation on the property list of the prisoner at the time of incarceration that he has the right to dispose of unclaimed property as provided in this Paragraph.
(2) The sheriff or an officer acting on his behalf shall provide written notice of the sheriff's right to dispose of unclaimed property to each prisoner upon the release or transfer of such prisoner. The sheriff or officer shall require the prisoner to sign the written notice acknowledging the sheriff's right to dispose of such property. In the event that the prisoner refuses to sign the acknowledgment, the sheriff or officer shall make a notation on the written notice that the prisoner refused to sign the acknowledgment of such right.
(3) After notice is given to the prisoner and after the expiration of ninety days from the date of release or transfer of the prisoner, if the property of the prisoner remains unclaimed, the sheriff may dispose of such property in any lawful manner at his discretion, including but not limited to authorizing the unclaimed property to be destroyed, donated to a charitable organization, or put into lawful use within the institution from which the inmate was released or transferred. Any legal tender which remains unclaimed shall be placed in a fund for the benefit of all inmates at such institution. A record of the disposition of all unclaimed property shall be maintained for a period of two years from the date of disposal.
C. For the purposes of this Article, "unclaimed property" means property that a prisoner leaves at a correctional institution or fails to take upon his release or transfer from the institution and to which no claim is made within ninety days of his release or transfer from the institution.
Added by Acts 1975, No. 544, §1; Acts 2001, No. 1123, §1, eff. June 28, 2001.
Any unclaimed property seized in connection with any criminal investigation under the jurisdiction of any sheriff, Orleans excepted, shall, if it remains unclaimed for more than one year after its use or from the time it was last used in connection with any criminal proceeding, be disposed of in the following manner:
(1) After the lapse of one year any sheriff may petition the court having proper jurisdiction for the disposal of said property in any lawful manner.
(2) Before any sheriff petitions said court he shall cause an advertisement of his intention to seek approval of the court to be placed in the newspaper designated as the official journal of the parish one time at least ten days prior to filing of his petition, and shall mail a copy of the advertisement to the last known owner at his last known address, postage prepaid. In the petition for disposal the sheriff shall set forth a brief description of the items to be disposed of, the court in which the proceedings will be filed, the title of the proceedings, and method or methods of intended disposal.
(3) The petition of the sheriff shall make specific recommendations as to the method of disposal for each item of unclaimed property and pray for the court to order its disposal.
(4) The court shall order the property disposed of in the manner contained in the sheriff's petition or order the disposal of the property in any legal manner within the sole discretion of the court.
(5) The costs of the proceedings to dispose of unclaimed property shall be derived from the disposal of the property as provided under this Article.
(6) Any funds remaining after payment of the cost of the proceedings to dispose of unclaimed property shall be deposited in the sheriff's salary fund.
Added by Acts 1975, No. 545, §1.
Any noncontraband unclaimed property seized in connection with any criminal investigation under the jurisdiction of any district attorney, municipal police department, or state investigative agency shall, if it remains unclaimed for more than one year after its seizure and provided it is not needed in any criminal proceeding, be disposed of in the following manner:
(1) After the lapse of one year, the district attorney of the parish in which the noncontraband property is located is authorized to petition any court in that parish having proper jurisdiction for the disposal of the property in any lawful manner. Any petition filed pursuant to this Article shall be without cost and on behalf of the district attorney, municipal police department, or state investigative agency which has custody of the noncontraband property.
(2)(a) Before any district attorney petitions the court, he shall cause an advertisement of his intention to seek approval of the court to be placed in the newspaper designated as the official journal of the parish one time at least ten days prior to filing of his petition, and he shall mail a copy of the advertisement to the last known owner of the property at his last known address, postage prepaid, if the owner is known. If the owner of the property is unknown, no such notice shall be mailed. In the petition for disposal, the district attorney shall set forth a brief description of the property to be disposed of, the court in which the proceedings will be filed, the title of the proceedings, and method or methods of intended disposal.
(b) The district attorney shall have a duty to determine if any of the property for which disposal is sought is subject to a prior recorded mortgage, lien or security interest held by a federally insured financial institution defined herein as an "interest holder". If an "interest holder's" name and address are required by law to be recorded with the parish clerk of court, the motor vehicle division of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, the vessel division of the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, or another state or federal agency to perfect an interest in the property, and the "interest holder's" current address is not known, he shall mail a copy of the notice by certified mail, return receipt requested, to any address of record with any of the described agencies, or if the "interest holder's" address is not on record, he shall notify the "interest holder" by publication as required in Subparagraph (a) of this Paragraph.
(3) The petition of the district attorney shall make specific recommendations as to the manner of disposal for each item of unclaimed noncontraband property and pray for the court to order its disposal.
(4) The court shall order the disposal of the noncontraband property according to the specific recommendations contained in the district attorney's petition or in any legal manner within the sole discretion of the court. If the manner of disposal ordered by the court is not in accordance with the manner contained in the district attorney's petition, the district attorney may withdraw the petition.
(5) All items of property designated by the court for sale shall be sold either by public sale, without appraisal, or by public auction conducted by a licensed auctioneer, without appraisal.
(6) If the manner of disposal ordered by the court generates any direct revenue, the proceeds shall be distributed in the following order of priority:
(a) For satisfaction of the costs of the proceedings to dispose of noncontraband unclaimed property.
(b) Thirty percent to the district attorney to defer the expenses of bringing any such action before the court.
(c) The remaining funds to the investigative agency that stored, maintained, insured, or bore the administrative costs as is related to maintaining the property seized in criminal investigations.
(7) Weapons released to the district attorney, municipal police department, or state investigative agency by the court pursuant to this Article shall become the property of that office, department, or agency and may be disposed of or issued in any manner which that office, department, or agency deems appropriate.
Acts 2010, No. 976, §1.
The officer in charge of the jail or police station shall immediately inform the prisoner booked:
(1) Of the charge against him;
(2) Of his rights to communicate with and procure counsel; and
(3) Of his right to request a preliminary examination when he is charged with a felony.
The officer in charge shall, within forty-eight hours from the time of the booking, notify the district attorney in writing of all persons booked for violation of state statutes, and shall furnish without cost a certified copy of any booking entry to any person requesting it.
The person arrested has, from the moment of his arrest, a right to procure and confer with counsel and to use a telephone or send a messenger for the purpose of communicating with his friends or with counsel.
A. The sheriff or law enforcement officer having custody of an arrested person shall bring him promptly, and in any case within seventy-two hours from the time of the arrest, before a judge for the purpose of appointment of counsel. Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays shall be excluded in computing the seventy-two-hour period referred to herein. The defendant shall appear in person unless the court by local rule provides for such appearance by telephone or audio-video electronic equipment. However, upon a showing that the defendant is incapacitated, unconscious, or otherwise physically or mentally unable to appear in court within seventy-two hours, then the defendant's presence is waived by law, and a judge shall appoint counsel to represent the defendant within seventy-two hours from the time of arrest.
B. At this appearance, if a defendant has the right to have the court appoint counsel to defend him, the court shall assign counsel to the defendant. The court may also, in its discretion, determine or review a prior determination of the amount of bail.
C. If the arrested person is not brought before a judge in accordance with the provisions of Paragraph A of this Article, he shall be released on his own recognizance.
D. The failure of the sheriff or law enforcement officer to comply with the requirements herein shall have no effect whatsoever upon the validity of the proceedings thereafter against the defendant.
Added by Acts 1972, No. 700, §1. Amended by Acts 1977, No. 395, §1; Acts 1984, No. 206, §1; Acts 1985, No. 955, §1; Acts 2006, No. 811, §1; Acts 2018, No. 129, §1.
A. A law enforcement officer effecting the arrest of a person without a warrant shall promptly complete an affidavit of probable cause supporting the arrest of the person and submit it to a magistrate. Persons continued or remaining in custody pursuant to an arrest made without a warrant shall be entitled to a determination of probable cause within forty-eight hours of arrest. The probable cause determination shall be made by a magistrate and shall not be an adversary proceeding. The determination may be made without the presence of the defendant and may be made upon affidavits or other written evidence, which may be transmitted to the magistrate by means of facsimile transmission or other electronic means. A magistrate's determination of probable cause hereunder shall not act as a waiver of a person's right to a preliminary examination pursuant to Article 292.
B.(1) If a probable cause determination is not timely made in accordance with the provisions of Paragraph A of this Article, the arrested person shall be released on his own recognizance.
(2) Nothing in this Paragraph shall preclude the defendant's rearrest and resetting of bond for the same offense or offenses upon the issuance of an arrest warrant based upon a finding of probable cause by a magistrate.
Acts 1992, No. 674, §1; Acts 2010, No. 260, §1; Acts 2011, No. 83, §1.
A. A state, county, or city peace officer of another state of the United States who enters this state in close pursuit of a person and continues within this state in close pursuit to arrest him on the ground that he is reasonably believed to have committed a felony in the other state, shall have the same authority to arrest and hold the person in custody as has a peace officer of this state to arrest and hold a person in custody on the ground that he is reasonably believed to have committed a felony in this state.
B. This Article shall not be construed so as to make unlawful any arrest in this state that would otherwise be lawful.
An officer making an arrest under Article 231 shall, without unnecessary delay, take the person arrested before a judge of the parish in which the arrest was made, who shall conduct a hearing for the purpose of determining the lawfulness of the arrest. If the judge determines that the arrest was lawful he shall, subject to rights of bail as stated in Article 271, commit the person arrested to jail for a period of time, not exceeding thirty days, to await the issuance of an extradition warrant by the governor of this state. If the judge determines that the arrest was unlawful he shall discharge the person arrested.
A. Law enforcement agencies are authorized to utilize the electronic signature of any offender. The signature may be captured by any generally accepted method or process of electronic signature capture, including the use of devices which capture and convert analog writing to electronic or digital form.
B. If any provision of law requires a signature or any record, bail undertaking, summons, or affidavit to be signed, acknowledged, verified, or made under oath by a criminal offender, the requirement is satisfied if the electronic signature of the offender, together with all other information required to be included by other applicable law, is attached to or logically associated with the signature or record.
C. For purposes of this Section, "electronic signature" shall mean an electronic sound, symbol, or process attached to or logically associated with a record and executed or adopted by a person with the intent to sign the record.
Acts 2010, No. 583, §1.
A. As used in this Article:
(1) "Booking photograph" means a photograph or still, nonvideo image of an individual generated by a law enforcement agency for identification purposes after arrest or while in the agency's custody.
(2) "Remove-for-pay publication or website" means a publication that requires the payment of a fee or other valuable consideration in order to remove or delete a booking photograph from the publication or which primarily utilizes the publication of booking photographs for profit or to obtain advertising revenue.
B.(1) A remove-for-pay publication or website shall remove and destroy a booking photograph of an individual who submits a request for removal and destruction within seven calendar days from the day that the individual makes the request if both of the following conditions exist:
(a) The individual in the booking photograph was acquitted of the criminal charge or not prosecuted, or the individual had the criminal charge expunged, vacated, or pardoned.
(b) The individual submits, in relation to the request, evidence of a disposition described in Subsubparagraph (a) of this Subparagraph.
(2)(a) A remove-for-pay publication or website shall not require payment for removal or destruction of the booking photograph.
(b) Any remove-for-pay publication or website that seeks any fee or other valuable consideration for the removal or destruction of a booking photograph shall be subject to prosecution under R.S. 14:66.
(3) If the remove-for-pay publication or website does not remove and destroy the booking photograph, the remove-for-pay publication or website shall be liable for all costs, including reasonable attorney fees, resulting from any legal action that the individual brings in relation to the failure of the remove-for-pay publication or remove-for-pay website to remove and destroy the booking photograph.
Acts 2022, No. 494, §2, eff. June 16, 2022; Acts 2023, No. 303, §1; Acts 2024, No. 281, §1.
A. The legislature finds that police investigations are strengthened by the use of best practices for investigative procedures, which increase the ability of law enforcement to keep communities safe and apprehend those suspected of criminal activity, reduce erroneous eyewitness identifications, and enhance the reliability and objectivity of eyewitness identification.
B. The legislature further finds that policies and procedures to improve the accuracy of eyewitness identifications, such as those recommended by the Louisiana Sheriff's Executive Management Institute (LSEMI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, would help to ensure that the integrity of Louisiana criminal justice investigations is strengthened and enhanced so as to convict the guilty and protect the innocent.
Acts 2018, No. 466, §1, eff. May 23, 2018.
For purposes of this Title:
(1) "Administrator" means the person conducting the photo or live lineup.
(2) "Blind" means conducted in such a way that the administrator does not know the identity of the suspect.
(3) "Blinded" means conducted in such a way that the administrator may know who the suspect is, but does not know which lineup member is being viewed by the eyewitness.
(4) "Criminal justice entity" means any government agency or subunit thereof, or private agency that, through statutory authorization or a legal formal agreement with a governmental unit or agency, has the power of investigation, arrest, detention, prosecution, adjudication, treatment, supervision, rehabilitation, or release of persons suspected, charged, or convicted of a crime.
(5) "Eyewitness" means a person who observes another person at or near the scene of an offense.
(6) "Filler" means either a person or a photograph of a person who is not suspected of an offense but is included in an identification procedure.
(7) "Folder shuffle method" means a blinded procedure in which the suspect photos and nonsuspect or filler photos are each placed in separate folders for a total of six photographs and shuffled together along with four blank folders and handed to the eyewitness one at a time so that the administrator cannot see which photograph the eyewitness is viewing.
(8) "Live lineup" means an identification procedure in which a group of persons, including the suspected perpetrator of an offense and other persons not suspected of the offense, is displayed to an eyewitness for the purpose of determining whether the eyewitness identifies the suspect as the perpetrator.
(9) "Photo lineup" means an identification procedure in which an array of photographs, including a photograph of the suspected perpetrator of an offense and additional photographs of other persons not suspected of the offense, is displayed to an eyewitness either in hard copy form or via computer or similar device for the purpose of determining whether the eyewitness identifies the suspect as the perpetrator.
(10) "Suspect" means a person believed by law enforcement to be the possible perpetrator of an offense.
Acts 2018, No. 466, §1, eff. May 23, 2018.
A.(1) No later than January 30, 2019, any criminal justice entity conducting eyewitness identifications shall either adopt the LSEMI model policy or draft its own policy that minimally comports to key best practices as outlined in this Article.
(2) Each criminal justice entity that administers eyewitness identification procedures shall provide a copy of its written policies to the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Criminal Justice no later than March 1, 2019.
B. For any criminal justice entity that elects to draft its own policy on eyewitness identification procedures, these policies shall:
(1) Be based on all of the following:
(a) Credible field, academic, or laboratory research on eyewitness memory.
(b) Relevant policies, guidelines, and best practices designed to reduce erroneous eyewitness identifications and to enhance the reliability and objectivity of eyewitness identifications.
(c) Other relevant information as appropriate.
(2) Include the following information regarding evidence-based practices:
(a) Procedures for selecting photograph and live lineup filler photographs or participants to ensure that the photographs or participants:
(i) Are consistent in appearance with the description of the alleged perpetrator.
(ii) Do not make the suspect noticeably stand out.
(b) Instructions given to a witness before conducting a photograph or live lineup identification procedure shall include a statement that the person who committed the offense may or may not be present in the procedure.
(c) Procedures for documenting and preserving the results of a photograph or live lineup identification procedure, including the documentation of witness statements, regardless of the outcome of the procedure.
(d) Procedures for administering a photograph or live lineup identification procedure to an illiterate person or a person with limited English language proficiency.
(e) For a live lineup identification procedure, if practicable, procedures for assigning an administrator who is unaware of which member of the live lineup is the suspect in the case or alternative procedures designed to prevent opportunities to influence the witness.
(f) For a photograph identification procedure, procedures for assigning an administrator who is capable of administering a photograph array in a blind manner or in a blinded manner consistent with other proven or supported best practices designed to prevent opportunities to influence the witness.
(g) Any other procedures or best practices supported by credible research or commonly accepted as a means to reduce erroneous eyewitness identifications and to enhance the objectivity and reliability of eyewitness identifications.
(3) Provide that a witness who makes an identification based on a photograph or live lineup identification procedure be asked immediately after the procedure to state, in the witness's own words, how confident the witness is in making the identification. A law enforcement agency shall document in accordance with Subsubparagraph (2)(c) of this Paragraph any statement made under this Subparagraph.
C. Not later than December thirty-first of each odd-numbered year, the institute shall review the model policy and training materials adopted under this Article and shall modify the policy and materials as appropriate while maintaining the requirements outlined in Paragraph B of this Article.
D. Not later than December thirty-first of each even-numbered year, each law enforcement agency shall review its policy adopted under this Article and shall modify that policy as appropriate while maintaining the requirements outlined in Paragraph B of this Article.
E. Failure to conduct a photograph or live lineup identification procedure in substantial compliance with the model policy or any other policy adopted under this Article shall not bar the admission of eyewitness identification testimony.
F. A video record of identification procedures shall be made or, if a video record is not practicable, an audio record shall be made. If neither a video nor audio record are practicable, the reasons shall be documented in writing, and the lineup administrator shall make a full and complete written record of the lineup in accordance with Subsubparagraph (B)(2)(c) of this Article.
G. The written eyewitness identification procedures of a criminal justice entity shall be made available, in writing, to the public upon request.
H. Evidence of failure to comply with any of the provisions of this Article:
(1) May be considered by the district court in adjudicating motions to suppress an eyewitness identification.
(2) May be admissible in support of any claim of eyewitness misidentification, as long as the evidence is otherwise admissible.
Acts 2018, No. 466, §1, eff. May 23, 2018.
In this Title:
(1) "Crime" means any offense denounced by a state statute and does not include an offense denounced by a local ordinance.
(2) "Governor" includes any person performing the functions of governor by authority of the law of this state.
(3) "Executive authority" includes the governor, and any person performing the functions of governor in a state other than this state.
(4) "Indictment" is limited in meaning to the finding of a grand jury.
(5) "Judge" means any judge of a district court with criminal jurisdiction.
(6) "State," when used with reference to a state other than this state, means any state or territory of the United States of America, and includes the District of Columbia.
Subject to the provisions of this Title, it is the duty of the governor of this state to have arrested and delivered to the executive authority of any other state any person charged with any felony in that state, or wanted for sentencing or to serve sentence after conviction of a crime, who has fled from justice and who is found in this state.
Acts 2003, No. 1118, §1.
Subject to the provisions of this Title, the governor may, in his discretion, have arrested and delivered to the executive authority of any other state any person physically present in this state who commits an act which intentionally results in a criminal offense in the demanding state and who is thereafter charged with such offense even though such person was not physically present in that state at the time of the commission of the crime, and has not fled therefrom.
Acts 2003, No. 1118, §1.
A demand for the extradition of a person wanted in another state shall not be recognized by the governor unless the demand is in writing and states the purpose for which he is wanted. The demand must be accompanied by:
(1) A statement of facts by the prosecuting officer having jurisdiction of the crime, and by a copy of an indictment found or of an information filed in the state having jurisdiction of the crime, or by a copy of an affidavit made before a magistrate there, together with a copy of any warrant which was issued thereupon; or
(2) A copy of a judgment of conviction or of a sentence imposed in execution thereof, together with a statement by the executive authority of the demanding state that the person claimed has escaped from confinement or has broken the terms of his bail, probation, parole, furlough, or reprieve.
The indictment, information, or affidavit made before the magistrate must substantially charge the person demanded with having committed a crime under the law of that state; and the copy of the indictment, information, affidavit, judgment of conviction, or sentence must be authenticated by the executive authority making the demand.
When a demand is made upon the governor of this state by the executive authority of another state for surrender of a person wanted by the other state, the governor may call upon the attorney general, a district attorney, or other official or agency in this state to investigate or assist in investigating the demand, and to report to him the situation of and circumstances surrounding the person so demanded, and whether or not he ought to be surrendered.
If the governor decides that a demand for extradition should be complied with, he shall sign a warrant of arrest directed to any peace officer for execution. The warrant shall recite facts showing substantial compliance with Article 263, but an incomplete recital of facts shall not invalidate the warrant if a proper basis for its issuance exists.
The governor's warrant authorizes any peace officer to arrest the accused at any time and at any place he may be found in the state. The peace officer shall have authority to command the aid of other peace officers or persons in the execution of the warrant, and to deliver the accused, subject to the provisions of this Title, to the designated agent of the demanding state. The governor may recall his warrant of arrest or may issue another warrant at any time.
Acts 1997, No. 1321, §1; Acts 2001, No. 822, §1.
A person arrested upon the governor's warrant shall not be delivered over to the agent appointed by the executive authority to receive him unless he shall first be taken before a judge, or in Orleans Parish, before a judge, a magistrate judge, or a commissioner of the magistrate section of the criminal district court, who shall inform him of the demand made for his surrender, of the crime with which he is charged, of his right to procure legal counsel, and of his right to an extradition hearing. If the prisoner or his counsel states that he desires an extradition hearing, the court shall assign as early a day as practicable for the hearing, to be held in open court. At least one full day shall intervene between the assignment and the day fixed for the hearing. Notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be given to the district attorney of the parish in which the hearing is to be held. If an extradition hearing is not requested, the prisoner shall be delivered promptly to the agent of the demanding state.
Acts 1986, No. 935, §1.
A. The grounds for discharge at the extradition hearing are that:
(1) The accused is not the person mentioned in the governor's warrant, in the requisition, or in the judgment of conviction, sentence, indictment, information, or affidavit which is the basis of the requisition;
(2) The governor's warrant is not signed; or
(3) A requirement of Article 263 has not been met.
B. The guilt or innocence of the accused as to the crime of which he is charged is not an issue at the hearing. Unless one of the grounds for discharge is proven, the accused shall, without further delay, be delivered into the custody of the designated agent of the demanding state.
C. The court may commit the accused for an additional thirty-day period, to enable the demanding state to furnish the proper and necessary papers, if a ground for discharge under Subparagraph (A)(2) or (3) of this Article has been established. If some other ground for discharge is established the accused shall, without further delay, be released.
A judge may issue a warrant for the arrest of a person in this state, prior to a demand for extradition in conformity with Article 263, when on the oath or affidavit of a credible person, taken before a judge or clerk of court, the person to be arrested is charged with:
(1) Being a fugitive from justice of another state;
(2) Commission of a crime in another state; or
(3) Having been convicted of a crime in another state, and having escaped from confinement or having broken the terms of his bail, probation, parole, furlough, or reprieve.
In this article, "judge" means any judge of a district, city, or parish court with criminal jurisdiction.
Amended by Acts 1970, No. 292, §1.
A. The judge shall commit the accused for thirty days if it appears, after a hearing in open court pursuant to Article 271, that there is reasonable ground to hold him awaiting extradition. The order of commitment shall recite the accusation. The accused shall be imprisoned in the parish jail until the term of his commitment expires or he is otherwise legally discharged, unless he gives bail as provided in Article 271.
B. The judge may extend the commitment of the accused for an additional period, not to exceed sixty days, if such additional period of commitment is for the purpose of awaiting receipt of the extradition requisition or other necessary or proper papers needed for the extradition of the accused.
Amended by Acts 1982, No. 470, §1; Acts 2005, No. 358, §1.
A.(1) A judge may admit to bail a person arrested for extradition, or to await extradition, unless the offense with which the accused is charged is punishable by death or by life imprisonment under the laws of the state in which it was committed or unless the offender is charged as a parole or probation violator, is a convict charged with escape, or the offender is serving a sentence with the department of corrections in the state from which he has been extradited. Under no circumstances shall such an accused be admitted to bail.
(2) Except as otherwise provided in Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph, if the accused is charged with a crime of violence as defined in R.S. 14:2(B) or with the production, manufacture, distribution, or dispensing or possession with intent to produce, manufacture, distribute, or dispense a controlled dangerous substance as defined by the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law, the accused shall not be bailable if, after a contradictory hearing, the judge or magistrate finds by clear and convincing evidence that there is a substantial risk that the person may flee or poses an imminent danger to any person or the community.
B. A governor's warrant issued under Article 265 shall be presumed to be valid. Notwithstanding the provisions of Paragraph A of this Article, once a warrant is issued, the person named in the warrant shall be held in custody at all times thereafter and shall not be eligible for release on bail.
C. After the extradition proceedings have been held or waived, the agent appointed by the executive authority to receive the prisoner shall have thirty days to do so. If no such agent appears within thirty days, the person arrested for extradition may be discharged.
Acts 1983, No. 584, §1; Acts 2001, No. 846, §1; Acts 2003, No. 1118, §1; Acts 2005, No. 358, §1; Acts 2008, No. 617, §1.
If a criminal prosecution against the demanded person is pending under the laws of this state, or if he has been convicted in a court of this state but has not completely satisfied his sentence, the governor may, in his discretion, surrender him on demand of the executive authority of the other state. The surrender must be pursuant to a re-extradition agreement, and:
(1) If a prosecution is pending the district attorney must agree to the surrender; or
(2) If the person demanded has been convicted but has not been sentenced, the court of the conviction must agree to the surrender.
Acts 2003, No. 1118, §1.
A. A demanded person arrested in this state may waive the issuance and service of the warrant required by Articles 265 and 266 and all other requirements incidental to extradition proceedings, by consenting in writing in the presence of the judge to return to the demanding state. Before such waiver is executed or subscribed to by the demanded person, the judge shall inform him of his rights to the issuance and service of a warrant of extradition and to an extradition hearing. When a waiver has been executed the judge shall direct the officer having the person in custody to deliver him immediately to the accredited agent of the demanding state, with a copy of the waiver.
B. The waiver procedure of Paragraph A of this Article is not exclusive and does not in any way preclude the state's return of a probationer or parolee to another state with which the state of Louisiana has entered into a compact for out-of-state probation and parole supervision, under the authority of R.S. 15:574.14(3), or a probation or parole absconder who has signed a waiver of extradition as a condition of probation or parole.
Amended by Acts 1984, No. 139, §1.
When a district attorney desires the return to this state of a person wanted to be tried for a crime, he shall present to the governor a written application for a requisition for the return of the person charged. The application shall state the name of the person wanted, the crime with which he is charged, and the approximate time, place, and circumstances of its commission. It shall also specify the state in which he is believed to be and his probable location in that state at the time the application is made. The application shall recommend a peace officer or other person as agent to receive the accused. It shall certify that, in the opinion of the district attorney the ends of justice require the arrest and return of the accused to this state for trial and that the proceeding is not instituted to enforce a private claim.
When the return to this state of a person convicted of a crime who has escaped from confinement or broken the terms of his bail, probation, parole, furlough, or reprieve is desired, the governor shall be presented with a written application for a requisition for his return. The application may be made by a district attorney or the attorney general, and shall state the name of the person, the crime of which he was convicted, the circumstances of his escape from confinement or of the breach of the terms of his bail, probation, parole, furlough, or reprieve. It shall specify the state in which he is believed to be and his probable location in that state at the time the application is made. It shall also recommend a peace officer or other person as agent to receive the person sought.
The application for a requisition shall be verified by affidavit, executed in duplicate, and accompanied by two certified copies of all documents that are required for extradition by the law of the state from which the wanted person is to be returned. One copy of the application, with the action of the governor indicated by endorsement thereon, and one of the certified copies of the required documents, shall be filed in the office of the secretary of state. The other copies of all papers shall be forwarded with the governor's requisition. Failure to meet the requirements of this article, or of Articles 274 and 275, will not invalidate a requisition issued by the governor.
When the governor issues a requisition for extradition he shall also issue a warrant under the seal of the state, to an agent, commanding him to receive the person to be extradited and to deliver him to the proper authority.
When the return to this state of a person wanted in this state to be tried for a crime is desired, and the person is imprisoned or is held under criminal proceedings pending against him in another state, the governor may enter into a re-extradition agreement with the executive authority of the other state for the purpose of procuring the extradition of the person before the conclusion of the proceedings or his term of sentence in the other state. The agreement shall be upon the condition that the person extradited will be returned to the other state without further extradition proceedings, upon the request of the executive authority of that state and at the expense of this state.
A. Whenever a person has been released on bail pursuant to a commercial surety bond and is subsequently located in another state, the reasonable and necessary expenses incurred in having that person returned to the parish in which charges are pending against him, whether through extradition proceedings or otherwise, shall be paid by the commercial surety provided that the surety was given notice of extradition or waiver of extradition and was provided seventy-two hours to return the person to the parish at his cost. Payment of these expenses shall be due within thirty days after written notice thereof has been given to the surety at the address provided pursuant to Code of Criminal Procedure Article 322. The commercial surety shall not be relieved of his obligation on the bond until the commercial surety has paid said reasonable and necessary costs for the return of the wanted person.
B. Except as provided in Paragraph A of this Article, the necessary and reasonable expenses connected with an extradition in all other cases shall be paid by the authority for whom it was requested.
Acts 2003, No. 954, §1.
A person brought into this state by, or after waiver of, extradition based on a criminal charge shall not be subject to service of personal process in civil actions until he has been convicted or has pleaded guilty in the criminal proceeding, or, if acquitted or otherwise discharged, until three days after the acquittal or discharge.
After a person has been brought back to this state by, or after waiver of, extradition proceedings, he may be tried in this state for other crimes which he may be charged with having committed here as well as that specified in the requisition for his extradition.
Acts 2003, No. 1118, §1.
The following magistrates, throughout their several territorial jurisdictions, shall have authority to conduct preliminary examinations of persons accused of felonies, with authority to bail or discharge, as follows:
(1) District courts having criminal jurisdiction, in all cases;
(2) City or parish courts having criminal jurisdiction, in cases not capital; and
(3) Justices of the peace in cases not capital or necessarily punishable at hard labor.
The court, on request of the state or the defendant, shall immediately order a preliminary examination in felony cases unless the defendant has been indicted by a grand jury.
After the defendant has been indicted by a grand jury, the court may rescind its order for a preliminary examination.
An order for a preliminary examination in felony cases may be granted by the court at any time, either on its own motion or on request of the state or of the defendant before or after the defendant has been indicted by a grand jury.
Amended by Acts 1974, Ex.Sess. No. 16, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1975.
When a preliminary examination is ordered, the court shall conduct the examination promptly but shall allow the defendant a reasonable time to procure counsel.
A. At the preliminary examination the state and the defendant may produce witnesses, who shall be examined in the presence of the defendant and shall be subject to cross-examination. The defendant may also testify, subject to cross-examination. A record of the preliminary examination proceedings shall be made.
B. Except upon an order issued by the court pursuant to a motion filed by the defendant, a defendant who is charged with a crime against a juvenile may not subpoena the victim to testify at the preliminary examination.
C. A transcript of the testimony of the witnesses, including that of the defendant, may be made by the court or under its direction and, if made, shall be signed and certified by the person taking the testimony.
D. Upon motion of the state or the defendant, a transcript of the preliminary examination proceedings may be made. The cost of the transcript preparation under this Paragraph shall be paid by the party making the motion, unless the party is an indigent defendant.
E. The procedures set forth in Articles 322 through 329 of the Louisiana Children's Code and R.S. 15:440.1 and 283, relative to those procedures which provide protection for children who are victims of physical or sexual abuse, shall apply to all trial and pretrial procedures.
Acts 1986, No. 1029, §1; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 142, §1.
A. The transcript of the testimony of a defendant who testified at the preliminary examination is admissible against him upon the trial of the case or, if relevant, in any subsequent judicial proceeding.
B. The transcript of testimony of any other witness who testified at the preliminary examination is admissible for any purpose in any subsequent proceeding in the case, on behalf of either party, if the court finds that the witness is dead, too ill to testify, cannot be found, or is otherwise unavailable for testimony, and that the absence of the witness was not procured by the party offering the testimony.
C. The transcript of testimony given by a person at a preliminary examination may be used by any party in a subsequent judicial proceeding for the purpose of impeaching or contradicting the testimony of such person as a witness.
Amended by Acts 1982, No. 554, §1.
If the defendant has not been indicted by a grand jury for the offense charged, the court shall, at the preliminary examination, order his release from custody or bail if, from the evidence adduced, it appears that there is not probable cause to charge him with the offense or with a lesser included offense. If the defendant is ordered held upon a finding of probable cause, the court shall fix his bail if he is entitled to bail.
After an indictment has been found by a grand jury, the preliminary examination shall be limited to the perpetuation of testimony and the fixing of bail.
After the preliminary examination, unless the court has ordered the release of the defendant upon a finding that there is not probable cause to charge him with an offense, the court shall transmit, without delay, to the clerk of the court having jurisdiction of the offense:
(1) The transcript of the testimony of the witnesses, including that of the defendant if he testified;
(2) The order rendered after the examination, or a certified copy thereof; and
(3) All articles or objects admitted in evidence.
A person ordered held in custody following a preliminary examination shall not be discharged on a writ of habeas corpus or by other process because of any informality or error in the commitment or the proceedings prior thereto that does not substantially prejudice him. No preliminary examination shall be held invalid for any purpose because of an informality or error that does not substantially prejudice the defendant.
For the purpose of this Title, the following definitions shall apply:
(1) Bail is the security given by a person to assure a defendant's appearance before the proper court whenever required.
(2) An appearance is a personal appearance before the court or the court's designee, where the charges are pending.
(3) A surrender is the detention of the defendant at the request of the surety by the officer originally charged with his detention on the original commitment. When the surety has requested the surrender of the defendant, the officer shall acknowledge the surrender by a certificate of surrender signed by him and delivered to the surety.
(4) A constructive surrender is the detention of the defendant in another parish of the state of Louisiana or a foreign jurisdiction under the following circumstances:
(a) A warrant for arrest has been issued for the defendant in the jurisdiction in which the bail obligation is in place.
(b) The surety has provided proof of the defendant's current incarceration to the court in which the bail obligation is in place, to the prosecuting attorney, and to the officer originally charged with the defendant's detention.
(c) The surety agrees to pay reasonable or actual costs of returning the defendant to the jurisdiction where the warrant for arrest was issued. If the surety fails to pay a set amount of the reasonable or actual costs, the recovery shall be through a summary proceeding against both the principal and the surety, as provided in Code of Civil Procedure Article 2592(4).
(5) A surety's motion and affidavit for issuance of warrant may be filed when the defendant is found incarcerated in another parish of the state of Louisiana or a foreign jurisdiction and a warrant has not been issued by the court or in which the bail obligation is in place. In such instances, the surety may file a motion with the court requesting a warrant be issued when the following conditions have been met:
(a) There has been a breach of the bail undertaking.
(b) The surety provides proof of the defendant's current incarceration outside of the state of Louisiana. The defendant's incarceration may be used as evidence of a breach of the bail undertaking.
(c) The defendant did not have written permission from the court to leave the state of Louisiana.
(d) Upon presentation of evidence of the breach of the bail undertaking, the court may issue a warrant for the defendant's violation of the conditions of the bail undertaking.
(e) The surety may then file the constructive surrender in accordance with this Article and Article 331.
(6) A personal surety is a natural person domiciled in the state of Louisiana who owns property in this state that is subject to seizure and is of sufficient value to satisfy, considering all his property, the amount specified in the bail undertaking. The value of the property shall exclude the amount exempt from execution, and shall be over and above all other liabilities including the amount of any other bail undertaking on which he may be principal or surety. If there is more than one personal surety, then the requirements shall apply to the aggregate value of their property. A personal surety shall not charge a fee or receive any compensation for posting a bail undertaking. A bail undertaking of a personal surety may be unsecured or secured.
(7) Bail enforcement is the apprehension or surrender by a natural person of a principal who is released on bail or who has failed to appear at any stage of the proceedings to answer the charge before the court in which the principal may be prosecuted.
(8) A bail enforcement agent is a licensed bail agent who engages in the apprehension or surrender by a natural person of a principal who is released on bail or who has failed to appear at any stage of the proceedings to answer the charge before the court in which the principal may be prosecuted.
(9) The originating jurisdiction is the jurisdiction where the warrant for the arrest was issued and where the charges are pending.
(10) The executing jurisdiction is the jurisdiction where the defendant is arrested and incarcerated on a warrant for arrest.
(11) Electronic bond is a commercial bail bond contract executed digitally as security given by a surety to assure a defendant's appearance before the proper court whenever required.
Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2020, No. 267, §1; Acts 2021, No. 197, §1; Acts 2021, No. 243, §1; Acts 2024, No. 222, §1; Acts 2024, No. 564, §1; Acts 2025, No. 140, §2.
A. Except as provided in this Article, Article 312.1, Article 313, or Article 313.1, a person in custody who is charged with the commission of an offense is entitled to bail before conviction.
B.(1) A person released on a previously posted bail undertaking for any of the following shall not be readmitted to bail when the person previously failed to appear and a warrant for arrest was issued and not recalled or the previous bail undertaking has been revoked or forfeited:
(a) A crime of violence as defined by R.S. 14:2(B) which carries a minimum mandatory sentence of imprisonment upon conviction.
(b) The production, manufacture, distribution, or dispensing or possession with intent to produce, manufacture, distribute, or dispense a controlled dangerous substance as defined by the Louisiana Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law.
(c) Any offense involving the possession or use of a firearm.
(d) Any sex offense as defined by R.S. 15:541.
(2) If a person voluntarily appears without confinement by a law enforcement officer or bail recovery agent following a motion to revoke bail or issuance of an arrest warrant for failure to appear but prior to revocation or forfeiture, then he may be released only under one of the following circumstances:
(a) After a contradictory hearing, a person may be released on the previously posted bail undertaking if the motion to revoke bail is rescinded or the arrest warrant is recalled and the surety is present or represented at the hearing and gives written consent. Previous instances of revocation and forfeiture in unrelated cases are admissible at the hearing. This relief is available only once.
(b) A person may be released on a new bail undertaking without a contradictory hearing only on bail with a commercial surety and in an amount higher than the original bail.
C. A defendant who has been surrendered under the provisions of Article 331, or has been rearrested under the provisions of Article 332, is entitled to bail in accordance with this Code.
D. A convicted person shall be remanded to jail to await sentence, and shall be remanded to custody after sentencing, unless any of the following occur:
(1) He is allowed to remain free on a bail undertaking posted prior to conviction by operation of Article 331(A), and the bail previously fixed is in accordance with all of the applicable provisions of this Article and other applicable law.
(2) He is released by virtue of a bail undertaking posted after conviction, and the bail was fixed in accordance with this Article and other applicable law. However, post conviction bail is not authorized pursuant to this Article when there is proof of a substantial risk that the person may flee or poses an imminent danger to any other person or the community, including when the court finds the convicted person is likely to commit other crimes while on bail and is therefore a danger to the community.
E. Except as provided in Paragraph H of this Article, after conviction and before sentence, bail shall be allowed if the maximum sentence which may be imposed is imprisonment for five years or less. Except as provided in Paragraph H of this Article, bail may be allowed pending sentence if the maximum sentence which may be imposed is imprisonment exceeding five years, except when the court has reason to believe, based on competent evidence, that the release of the person convicted will pose a danger to any other person or the community, or that there is a substantial risk that the person convicted might flee.
F. Except as provided in Paragraph H of this Article, after sentence and until final judgment, bail shall be allowed if a sentence of five years or less is actually imposed. Except as provided in Paragraph H of this Article, bail may be allowed after sentence and until final judgment if the sentence actually imposed exceeds imprisonment for five years, except when the court has reason to believe, based on competent evidence, that the release of the person convicted will pose a danger to any other person or the community, or that there is a substantial risk that the person convicted might flee.
G.(1) After conviction of any crime punishable by imprisonment for twenty-five years or more that is either a sex offense as defined in R.S. 15:541 or a crime of violence as defined in R.S. 14:2(B), there shall be a rebuttable presumption that the release of the person convicted will pose a danger to another person or the community and that there is a substantial risk that the person convicted might flee.
(2) This Paragraph applies based on the cumulative maximum sentences for all crimes for which a person was convicted, provided that any crime for which the person has been convicted is a sex offense or crime of violence as defined in this Paragraph.
(3) This Paragraph also applies to any person who has been charged as a habitual offender pursuant to R.S. 15:529.1.
H. After conviction, a defendant shall not be allowed bail for any of the following offenses:
(1) A capital offense.
(2) Any aggravated offense as defined in R.S. 15:541 that is committed against a victim who is a minor.
I. A person held without bail or unable to post bail may invoke the supervisory jurisdiction of the court of appeal on a claim that the trial court has improperly refused bail or a reduction of bail in a bailable case.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Sept. 1, 1994; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2018, No. 484, §1, eff. May 25, 2018; Acts 2026, No. 285, §1; Acts 2026, No. 354, §1.
A. If a defendant is admitted to bail for any crime of violence, any sex offense, or any crime involving the possession or use of a firearm, the bail for such offense shall be revoked upon any subsequent arrest for a felony offense that is not a part of the same transaction, occurrence, or criminal episode which resulted in the arrest that is the basis for the defendant's current admittance to bail.
B.(1) Prior to booking the defendant, the arresting agency shall conduct a prompt and diligent search to determine if the defendant is currently on bail for any crime of violence, any sex offense, or any crime involving the possession or use of a firearm.
(2) The arresting agency shall provide the court with the information described in Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph, along with an updated criminal history with all other booking information, for the court to consider when determining the defendant's entitlement to bail, the amount of bail, and conditions of bail.
C. If the court determines that the defendant is currently on bail for any crime of violence, any sex offense, or any crime involving the possession or use of a firearm, the bail for such offense shall be revoked upon any subsequent arrest for a felony offense that is not a part of the same transaction, occurrence, or criminal episode which resulted in the arrest that is the basis for the defendant's current admittance to bail. The court shall enter an order revoking such prior bail, pending a bail hearing which may be invoked by the state or the defendant. Either party may seek supervisory review of the granting or denial of any order that revokes the defendant's prior admittance to bail.
D. For the purposes of this Article, the following terms have the following meanings:
(1) "Crime of violence" means any offense defined or enumerated as a crime of violence in R.S. 14:2(B).
(2) "Sex offense" means any offense that requires registration and notification pursuant to R.S. 15:540 et seq.
Acts 2026, No. 354, §1.
A.(1) This Paragraph may be cited as and referred to as "Gwen's Law".
(2)(a) A contradictory bail hearing, as provided for in this Paragraph, may be held prior to setting bail for a person in custody who is charged with domestic abuse battery, violation of protective orders, stalking, or any felony offense involving the use or threatened use of force or a deadly weapon upon the defendant's family member, as defined in R.S. 46:2132 or upon the defendant's household member as defined in R.S. 14:35.3, or upon the defendant's dating partner, as defined in R.S. 46:2151. If the court orders a contradictory hearing, the hearing shall be held within five days from the date of determination of probable cause, exclusive of weekends and legal holidays. At the contradictory hearing, the court shall determine the conditions of bail or whether the defendant should be held without bail pending trial. If the court decides not to hold a contradictory hearing, it shall notify the prosecuting attorney prior to setting bail.
(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of Subsubparagraph (a) of this Subparagraph, a person charged with any crime listed in this Paragraph, and for whom a determination of probable cause has been made, may be held without bail for not less than forty-eight hours nor more than seventy-two hours following the determination of probable cause. This holding period shall run concurrently with the time period provided in Article 230.1.
(c) In deciding whether to impose the holding period authorized by Subsubparagraph (b) of this Subparagraph, the court shall consider any facts presented that indicate an increased risk to the victim, including but not limited to stalking, strangulation, violation of a protective order, use or threatened use of force or a deadly weapon, serious bodily injury, or documented threats to the victim, the victim's family, or the public.
(d) The holding period provided for in Subsubparagraph (b) of this Subparagraph may be referred to as a "cooling off" period for the benefit of the victim.
(3) In addition to the factors listed in Article 316, in determining whether the defendant should be admitted to bail pending trial, or in determining the conditions of bail, the judge or magistrate shall consider the following:
(a) The criminal history of the defendant.
(b) The potential threat or danger the defendant poses to the victim, the family of the victim, or to any member of the public, especially children.
(c) Documented history or records of any of the following: substance abuse by the defendant; threats of suicide by the defendant; the defendant's use of force or threats of use of force against any victim; strangulation, forced sex, or controlling the activities of any victim by the defendant; or threats to kill. Documented history or records may include but are not limited to sworn affidavits, police reports, and medical records.
(4) Following the contradictory hearing and based upon the judge's or magistrate's review of the factors set forth in Subparagraph (A)(3) of this Article, the judge or magistrate may order that the defendant not be admitted to bail, upon proof by clear and convincing evidence either that the defendant might flee, or that the defendant poses an imminent danger to any other person or the community.
(5) If bail is granted, with or without a contradictory hearing, the judge or magistrate shall comply with the provisions of Article 320, as applicable. The judge or magistrate shall consider, as a condition of bail, a requirement that the defendant wear an electronic monitoring device and be placed under active electronic monitoring and house arrest. The conditions of the electronic monitoring and house arrest shall be determined by the court and may include but are not limited to limitation of the defendant's activities outside the home and a curfew. The defendant may be required to pay a reasonable supervision fee to the supervising agency to defray the cost of the required electronic monitoring and house arrest. A violation of the conditions of bail may be punishable by revocation of the bail undertaking and the issuance of a bench warrant for the defendant's arrest or remanding of the defendant to custody or a modification of the terms of bail.
B. Upon motion of the prosecuting attorney, the judge or magistrate may order the temporary detention of a person in custody who is charged with the commission of an offense, for a period of not more than five days, exclusive of weekends and legal holidays, pending the conducting of a contradictory bail hearing. Following the contradictory hearing, upon proof by clear and convincing evidence either that there is a substantial risk that the defendant might flee or that the defendant poses an imminent danger to any other person or the community, the judge or magistrate may order the defendant held without bail pending trial.
C.(1) A contradictory bail hearing, as provided for in this Paragraph, shall be held prior to setting bail for a person in custody who is charged with the commission of a sex offense and who has been previously convicted of a sex offense.
(2) The court, after having been given notice of an applicable prior conviction as described in Subparagraph (5) of this Paragraph, shall order a contradictory hearing to be held within five days of receiving notice of the prior conviction, exclusive of weekends and legal holidays.
(3) At the contradictory hearing the court, in addition to hearing whatever evidence it finds relevant, shall, on motion of the prosecuting attorney, perform an in camera examination of the evidence against the accused.
(4) In addition to the factors listed in Article 316, the court shall take into consideration the previous criminal record of the defendant; any potential threat or danger the defendant poses to the victim, the family of the victim, or to any member of the public, especially children; and the court shall give ample consideration to any statistical evidence prepared by the United States Department of Justice relative to the likelihood of the defendant, or any person in general who has been convicted of sexually inappropriate conduct with a prepubescent child under the age of thirteen, to commit similar offenses against juvenile victims in the future.
(5) For purposes of this Paragraph, "sex offense" means any offense as defined as a sex offense in R.S. 15:541 when the victim is under the age of thirteen at the time of commission of the offense and less than ten years have elapsed between the date of the commission of the current offense and the expiration of the maximum sentence of the previous conviction.
D.(1) A person charged with the commission of a capital offense shall not be admitted to bail if the proof is evident and the presumption great that he is guilty of the capital offense. When a person charged with the commission of a capital offense makes an application for admission to bail, the judge shall hold a hearing contradictorily with the state.
(2) The burden of proof at the contradictory bail hearing:
(a) Prior to indictment is on the state to show that the proof is evident and the presumption great that the defendant is guilty of the capital offense.
(b) After indictment is on the defendant to show that the proof is not evident or the presumption is not great that he is guilty of the capital offense.
Amended by Acts 1974, Ex.Sess. No. 17, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1975; Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2026, No. 834, §1.
A. A contradictory bail hearing, as provided for in this Article, shall be held prior to setting bail for any person in custody who is not a citizen of the United States or not lawfully admitted for permanent residence and who is charged with the commission of an offense in which there was a fatality. The hearing shall be held within five days from the date of determination of probable cause, exclusive of weekends and legal holidays. At the contradictory hearing, the court shall determine the conditions of bail or whether the defendant should be held without bail pending trial.
B. In determining whether the defendant should be admitted to bail pending trial, or in determining the conditions of bail, the judge or magistrate shall consider the following:
(1) The criminal history of the defendant.
(2) The nature and seriousness of the danger to any other person or the community that would be posed by the defendant's release.
(3) Documented history or records of substance abuse by the defendant.
(4) The seriousness of the offense charged and the weight of the evidence against the defendant.
(5) The risk that the defendant might flee.
C. Following the contradictory hearing and based upon the judge's or magistrate's review of the factors set forth in Paragraph B of this Article, the judge or magistrate may order that the defendant not be admitted to bail, upon proof by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant might flee, or that the defendant poses an imminent danger to any other person or the community.
D. If bail is granted, the judge or magistrate may consider, as a condition of bail, a requirement that the defendant wear an electronic monitoring device and be placed under active electronic monitoring and house arrest. The conditions of the electronic monitoring and house arrest shall be determined by the court and may include but are not limited to limitation of the defendant's activities outside the home and a curfew. The defendant may be required to pay a reasonable supervision fee to the supervising agency to defray the cost of the required electronic monitoring and house arrest.
E. Any violation of the conditions of bail may be punishable by revocation of the bond and the issuance of a bench warrant for the defendant's arrest or remanding of the defendant to custody or a modification of the terms of bail.
Acts 2016, No. 474, §1.
A. The following magistrates, throughout their several territorial jurisdictions, shall have authority to fix bail:
(1) District courts and their commissioners having criminal jurisdiction, in all cases.
(2) City or parish courts and municipal and traffic courts of New Orleans having criminal jurisdiction, in cases not capital.
(3) Mayor's courts and traffic courts in criminal cases within their trial jurisdiction.
(4) Juvenile and family courts in criminal cases within their trial jurisdiction.
(5) Justices of the peace in cases not capital or necessarily punishable at hard labor.
B. An order fixing bail shall be in writing, set the type and a single amount of bail for each charge, designate the officer or officers authorized to accept the bail, and shall be signed electronically or by any other means by the magistrate. An order fixing bail may issue on request of the state or defendant, or on the initiative of the magistrate.
Amended by Acts 1974, Ex.Sess. No. 18, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1975; Acts 1981, No. 438, §1; Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
A. Unless the bail is fixed by a schedule in accordance with this Article, the amount of bail shall be specifically fixed in each case. In noncapital felony cases, a bail schedule according to the offense charged may be fixed by a district court. In misdemeanor cases, a bail schedule according to the offense charged may be fixed by a district, parish or city court for offenses committed within its trial jurisdiction. When more than one court has trial jurisdiction, the applicable bail schedule shall be that of the court in which the case is to be tried.
B. The court order setting the bail schedule shall fix the amount of bail for each offense listed, designate the officer or officers authorized to accept the bail, and order that bail be taken in conformity with the schedule. It may also contain a general provision designating the amount of bail for any noncapital felony and misdemeanor not listed in the schedule. A copy of the schedule shall be sent to all jails, sheriff's offices, and police stations within the judicial district, parish, or city. A bail schedule may be revised or rescinded at any time. The type or form of bail shall not be sent in a bail schedule.
C. A person charged with the commission of an offense for which bail is fixed by a schedule may give bail according to the schedule or demand a special order fixing bail. The bail amount fixed by schedule may be modified by the court in accordance with Article 319.
D. A bail schedule implemented by a district court shall fix the minimum bail amount for the following offenses, and any court that does not utilize a bail schedule shall not approve a bail undertaking that is less than the minimum amount specified for the following offenses:
(1) For possession of child sexual abuse materials, R.S. 14:81.1, fifty thousand dollars.
(2) For production of child sexual abuse materials, R.S. 14:81.1, one hundred thousand dollars.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Sept. 1, 1994; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2026, No. 354, §1.
The amount of bail shall be fixed in an amount that will ensure the presence of the defendant, as required, and the safety of any other person and the community, having regard to:
(1) The seriousness of the offense charged, including but not limited to whether the offense is a crime of violence, sex offense, or involves a controlled dangerous substance.
(2) The weight of the evidence against the defendant.
(3) The previous criminal record of the defendant.
(4) The ability of the defendant to give bail.
(5) The nature and seriousness of the danger to any other person or the community that would be posed by the defendant's release.
(6) The defendant's voluntary participation in a pretrial drug testing program.
(7) The absence or presence in the defendant of any controlled dangerous substance.
(8) Whether the defendant is currently out on a bail undertaking on a previous felony arrest for which he is awaiting institution of prosecution, arraignment, trial, or sentencing.
(9) Whether a firearm or other dangerous weapon was possessed or used during the commission of the offense.
(10) Whether available resources exist within the jurisdiction to impose enforceable conditions that would help ensure the defendant's appearance and protect the community.
(11) The likelihood that the defendant, if released on bail, will continue to commit crimes resulting in harm to any person or the property of another.
(12) Any other circumstances affecting the probability of defendant's appearance.
(13) The type or form of bail.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2026, No. 354, §1.
Any organization which is contracted, employed, or which receives public funds to perform or provide pretrial services, such as screening of any defendant, shall verify all background information provided by a defendant or otherwise obtained by the organization regarding the defendant.
Amended by Acts 1982, No. 276, §1; Acts 1987, No. 500, §1; Acts 1991, No. 72, §1; Acts 1992, No. 401, §1; Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2003, No. 222, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
A. For the purpose of fixing bail, a court may make a written request of any juvenile court for an abstract containing the pending or adjudicated delinquent acts of a defendant currently before the requesting court. The juvenile court shall promptly comply with the request; however, not more than forty-eight hours, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, shall lapse before the requested information is deposited by means of an email address provided in the written request addressed to the requesting court.
B. The requesting court shall issue a protective order concerning the use of the juvenile abstract for the purposes of protecting the confidentiality of the abstract from any individual who is not involved in the relevant proceedings that concern the defendant who is currently before the requesting court.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2026, No. 354, §1.
A. The court having trial jurisdiction over the offense charged, on its own motion or on motion of the prosecuting attorney or defendant, for good cause, may either increase or reduce, subject to any minimum amount provided by law, the amount of bail or require new or additional security. For purposes of this Article, good cause for increase of bail specifically includes but is not limited to the rearrest of the defendant on offenses alleged to have been committed while out on a bail undertaking. The modification of any bail order wherein a bail undertaking has been posted by a criminal defendant and his sureties shall upon the modification terminate the liability of the defendant and his sureties under the previously existing bail undertaking. A new bail undertaking must be posted in the amount of the new bail order.
B. The defendant or his surety may, at any time before a breach of the bail undertaking and with approval of the court in which the prosecution is pending, substitute another form of security authorized by this Code. The original security, including a surety, shall be released when the substitution of security is made.
Amended by Acts 1979, No. 161, §1; Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Sept. 1, 1994; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2026, No. 354, §1.
A. Definitions. For the purpose of this Article:
(1) "Firearm" means any pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun, machine gun, submachine gun, black powder weapon, or assault rifle that is designed to fire or is capable of firing fixed cartridge ammunition or from which a shot or projectile is discharged by an explosive.
(2) "Global positioning monitoring system" means a system that electronically determines and reports the location of an individual by means of an ankle bracelet transmitter or similar device worn by the individual that transmits latitude and longitude data to monitoring authorities through global positioning satellite technology but does not contain or operate any global positioning system technology or radio frequency identification technology or similar technology that is implanted in or otherwise invades or violates the corporeal body of the individual.
(3) "Immediate family member" means the spouse, mother, father, aunt, uncle, sibling, or child of the victim, whether related by blood, marriage, or adoption.
(4) "Informed consent" means that the victim was given information concerning all of the following before consenting to participate in global positioning system monitoring:
(a) The victim's right to refuse to participate in global positioning system monitoring and the process for requesting the court to determine the victim's participation after it has been ordered.
(b) The manner in which the global positioning monitoring system technology functions and the risks and limitations of that technology, and the extent to which the system will track and record the victim's location and movements.
(c) The boundaries imposed on the defendant during the global positioning system monitoring.
(d) Sanctions that the court may impose on the defendant for violating an order issued under this Article.
(e) The procedure that the victim is to follow if the defendant violates an order issued under this Article or if global positioning monitoring system equipment fails.
(f) Identification of support services available to assist the victim to develop a safety plan to use if the court's order issued under this Article is violated or if the global positioning monitoring system equipment fails.
(g) Identification of community services available to assist the victim in obtaining shelter, counseling, education, child care, legal representation, and other help in addressing the consequences and effects of domestic violence or stalking.
(h) The nonconfidential nature of the victim's communications with the court concerning global positioning system monitoring and the restrictions to be imposed upon the defendant's movements.
B. Conditions of bail generally. The condition of the bail undertaking in district, juvenile, parish, and city courts shall be that the defendant will appear at all stages of the proceedings to answer the charge before the court in which he may be prosecuted, will submit himself to the orders and process of the court, and will not leave the state without written permission of the court. The court may impose any additional conditions of release that are reasonably related to assuring the appearance of the defendant before the court and guarding the safety of any other individual or the community.
C. Operating a vehicle while intoxicated. The court shall require as a condition of release on bail that any person who is charged with a second or subsequent violation of R.S. 14:32.1, 39.1, 39.2, 98, 98.6, or a parish or municipal ordinance that prohibits the operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs to install an ignition interlock device on any vehicle which he operates. The defendant shall have fifteen days from the date that he is released on bail to comply with this requirement, and the ignition interlock device shall remain on the vehicle or vehicles during the pendency of the criminal proceedings. Under exceptional circumstances, the court may waive the provisions of this Article but shall indicate the reasons therefor to the law enforcement agency who has custody of the alleged offender documentation.
D. Pretrial drug testing and screening for substance use disorders.
(1) Every person arrested for a violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law or a crime of violence as provided in R.S. 14:2(B) shall be required to submit to a pretrial drug test for the presence of designated substances in accordance with the provisions of this Article and rules of court governing such testing. Every person arrested for any other felony may be required to submit to a pretrial drug test for the presence of designated substances in accordance with the provisions of this Article and rules of court governing such testing. Every person arrested for a misdemeanor may be required to submit to a pretrial drug test for the presence of designated substances in accordance with the provisions of this Article and rules of court governing such testing.
(2) Drug testing to determine the presence of any controlled dangerous substance identified in the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law shall occur within twenty-four hours of the booking of the person, and random testing thereafter may be required to verify that the person is drug free.
(3) All persons testing positive for the presence of one or more substances provided in Subparagraph (2) of this Paragraph shall be clinically screened utilizing a validated screening tool for the purpose of determining whether the person suffers from a substance use disorder and is suitable for a drug or specialty court program.
(4) All persons who receive a positive test result pursuant to the drug testing administered pursuant to Subparagraph (2) of this Paragraph and who are considered suitable for a drug or specialty court program pursuant to the screening process set forth in Subparagraph (3) of this Paragraph shall be subject to the provisions of Article 904.
(5) All records and information provided or obtained pursuant to Subparagraphs (2) and (3) of this Paragraph shall be considered confidential and shall not be, without the consent of the person tested or screened, disclosed to any person who is not connected with the district attorney, counsel for the person tested or screened pursuant to this Paragraph, a treatment professional, or the court. Such records and information shall not be admissible in any civil or criminal action or proceeding, except for the purposes of determining suitability or eligibility of the person for any drug or specialty court program.
(6) The expenses and costs incurred relative to the mandatory drug testing and the screening required by this Paragraph shall be deemed to be an approved purpose for use of opioid funds. If sufficient funds do not exist for the reimbursement of the expenses and costs of mandatory testing and screening, the provisions of Subparagraphs (2) and (3) of this Paragraph may still be enforced at the discretion of the governing authority responsible for funding those provisions.
E. Pretrial drug testing program. The court may implement a pretrial drug testing program. All persons released under the provisions of the pretrial drug testing program shall submit to continued random testing and refrain from the use or possession of any controlled dangerous substance or any substance designated by the court. A pretrial drug testing program shall provide for the following:
(1) All persons testing positive for the presence of one or more of the designated substances set forth in Subparagraph (2) of this Paragraph, who are not otherwise required to participate, shall submit to a pretrial drug testing program.
(2) Drug testing to determine the presence of any controlled dangerous substance identified in the Uniform Controlled Substances Law prior to first court appearance and random testing thereafter to verify that the person is drug free.
(3) Restrictions on the use of any and all test results to ensure that they are used only for the benefit of the court to determine appropriate conditions of release, monitoring compliance with court orders, and assisting in determining appropriate sentences. A form statement shall be signed by the law enforcement agency and the person in custody stipulating that under no circumstances shall the information be used as evidence or as the basis for additional charges.
(4) Reasonable testing procedures to ensure the fair administration of the test and protection for the chain of custody for any evidence obtained.
F. Implementation of pretrial drug testing program. The implementation of any pretrial drug testing program authorized pursuant to the provisions of this Article shall be contingent upon receipt by the court requiring the test of sufficient federal or other funding to conduct the testing program in accordance with the provisions of this Article and any rules of court. No elected official who is in any way connected with the administration of the pretrial drug testing program provided for in this Article, either directly or indirectly, shall have any financial interest, either directly or indirectly, in any drug testing company participating in such pretrial drug testing program. All contracts awarded to any drug testing company authorized to conduct the pretrial drug testing program provided for in this Article shall be awarded in accordance with the provisions governing public bids, R.S. 38:2181 et seq.
G. Domestic offenses, stalking, and sex offenses.
(1) In determining conditions of release of a defendant who is alleged to have committed an offense against the defendant's family or household member, as defined in R.S. 46:2132, or against the defendant's dating partner, as defined in R.S. 46:2151, or who is alleged to have committed the offense of domestic abuse battery under the provisions of R.S. 14:35.3, or who is alleged to have committed the offense of battery of a dating partner under the provisions of R.S. 14:34.9, or who is alleged to have committed the offense of stalking under the provisions of R.S. 14:40.2, or who is alleged to have committed the offense of cyberstalking under the provisions of R.S. 14:40.3, or who is alleged to have committed the offense of violation of protective orders under the provisions of R.S. 14:79, or who is alleged to have committed the offense of unlawful communications under the provisions of R.S. 14:285, or who is alleged to have committed a sexual assault as defined in R.S. 46:2184, the court shall consider the previous criminal history of the defendant and whether the defendant poses a threat or danger to the victim. If the court determines that the defendant poses such a threat or danger, it shall require as a condition of bail that the defendant refrain from going to the residence or household of the victim, the victim's school, and the victim's place of employment or otherwise contacting the victim in any manner whatsoever, and shall refrain from having any further contact with the victim. The court shall also require as a condition of bail that the defendant be prohibited from communicating, by electronic communication, in writing, or orally, with a victim of the offense or with any of the victim's immediate family members. This condition shall not apply if the victim consents by way of a request to the court and the court issues an order permitting the communication. If an immediate family member of the victim consents by way of a request to the court and the court issues an order permitting the communication, then the defendant may contact that person. The court shall also consider any statistical evidence prepared by the United States Department of Justice relative to the likelihood of such defendant or any person in general who has raped or molested victims under the age of thirteen years to commit sexual offenses against a victim under the age of thirteen in the future.
(2) If the defendant is alleged to have committed any of the offenses included in Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph and is denied bail or is unable to post bail and is therefore incarcerated prior to trial, the court may issue an order under this Paragraph prohibiting the defendant from communicating, by electronic communication, in writing, or orally, with a victim of the offense, or with any of the victim's immediate family members. This condition shall not apply if the victim consents by way of a request to the court and the court issues an order permitting the communication. If an immediate family member of the victim consents by way of a request to the court and the court issues an order permitting the communication, then the defendant may contact that person.
(3) In all cases, the court shall issue and shall file into the record any order issued pursuant to this Paragraph and shall serve the defendant with the order by personal service. The court shall also comply with the provisions of Paragraph H of this Article.
H. Uniform Abuse Prevention Order.
(1) If the court issues any order pursuant to any of the provisions of this Article prohibiting the defendant from contacting or communicating with the victim or the victim's immediate family members, the judge shall cause to have prepared a Uniform Abuse Prevention Order, as provided in R.S. 46:2136.2(C), shall sign such order, and shall immediately forward it to the clerk of court for filing, on the next business day after the order is issued. The clerk of the issuing court shall transmit the Uniform Abuse Prevention Order to the judicial administrator's office, Louisiana Supreme Court, for entry into the Louisiana Protective Order Registry, as provided in R.S. 46:2136.2(A), by facsimile transmission or direct electronic input as expeditiously as possible, but no later than the end of the next business day after the order is filed with the clerk of court. The clerk of the issuing court shall also send a copy of the Uniform Abuse Prevention Order, as provided in R.S. 46:2136.2(C), or any modification thereof, to the chief law enforcement officer of the parish where the person or persons protected by the order reside. A copy of the Uniform Abuse Prevention Order shall be retained on file in the office of the chief law enforcement officer until otherwise directed by the court.
(2) If, as part of any order issued pursuant to any of the provisions of this Article, an order is issued pursuant to the provisions of this Paragraph, the court shall also order that the defendant be prohibited from possessing a firearm for the duration of the Uniform Abuse Prevention Order.
I. Global positioning monitoring. (1)(a) In addition, the court shall order a defendant who is alleged to have committed the offense of first degree rape under the provisions of R.S. 14:42, and may order a defendant who is alleged to have committed an offense enumerated in Paragraph G or J of this Article, to be equipped with a global positioning monitoring system as a condition of release on bail.
(b) In determining whether to order a defendant, as a condition of release on bail, to participate in global positioning system monitoring, the court shall consider the likelihood that the defendant's participation in global positioning system monitoring will deter the defendant from seeking to harm, injure, or otherwise threaten the victim prior to trial.
(c) The defendant shall be released on bail pursuant to the provisions of this Article only if he agrees to pay the cost of the global positioning monitoring system and monitoring fees associated with the device, or agrees to perform community service in lieu of paying such costs.
(2) If the court orders the defendant to be equipped with a global positioning monitoring system as a condition of release on bail, the court may order the defendant, with the informed consent of the victim, to provide the victim of the charged crime with an electronic receptor device which is capable of receiving the global positioning system information and which notifies the victim if the defendant is located within an established proximity to the victim. The court, in consultation with the victim, shall determine which areas the defendant shall be prohibited from accessing and shall establish the proximity to the victim within which a defendant shall be excluded. In making this determination, the court shall consider a list, provided by the victim, which includes those areas from which the victim desires the defendant to be excluded.
(3) The victim shall be furnished with telephone contact information for the local law enforcement agency in order to request immediate assistance if the defendant is located within that proximity to the victim. The court shall order the global positioning monitoring system provider to program the system to notify local law enforcement if the defendant violates the order. The victim, at any time, may request that the court terminate the victim's participation in the global positioning monitoring system of the defendant. The court shall not impose sanctions on the victim for refusing to participate in global positioning system monitoring provided for in this Paragraph.
(4) In addition to electronic monitoring, the court shall consider house arrest. The conditions of the electronic monitoring and house arrest shall be determined by the court, and may include but are not be limited to limitation of the defendant's activities outside of the home and a curfew.
J.(1) Crimes of violence. Notwithstanding the provisions of Paragraph G of this Article and notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, if the defendant is alleged to have committed a crime of violence as defined in R.S. 14:2(B), the court shall require the following conditions of bail:
(a)(i) That the defendant refrain from going to the residence or household of the victim, the victim's school, and the victim's place of employment or otherwise contacting the victim in any manner whatsoever, and shall refrain from having any further contact with the victim. The court shall also require as a condition of bail that the defendant be prohibited from communicating, by electronic communication, in writing, or orally, with a victim of the offense, or with any of the victim's immediate family members.
(ii) This condition does not apply if the victim consents by way of a request to the court and the court issues an order permitting the communication. If an immediate family member of the victim consents by way of a request to the court and the court issues an order permitting the communication, then the defendant may contact that person.
(b) That the defendant, if equipped with a global positioning monitoring system, comply with the appropriate geographic restrictions, monitoring conditions, and enforcement provisions of R.S. 15:571.36, 571.37, and 571.38.
(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of Paragraph G of this Article and notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, if a defendant alleged to have committed an offense included in Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph is denied bail or is unable to post bail and is therefore incarcerated prior to trial, the court shall nevertheless issue an order under this Paragraph prohibiting the defendant from communicating, by electronic communication, in writing, or orally, with a victim of the offense, or with any of the victim's immediate family members. This condition shall not apply if the victim consents by way of a request to the court and the court issues an order permitting the communication. If an immediate family member of the victim consents by way of a request to the court and the court issues an order permitting the communication, then the defendant may contact that person.
(3) In all cases, the court shall issue and shall file into the record any order issued pursuant to this Paragraph and shall serve the defendant with the order by personal service. The court shall also comply with the provisions of Paragraph H of this Article.
(4) If the defendant is alleged to have committed the offense of human trafficking in violation of R.S. 14:46.2 or trafficking of children for sexual purposes in violation of R.S. 14:46.3, the court shall require as a condition of bail that the defendant refrain from engaging in any of the following work:
(a) A transportation network company driver as provided in Part C of Chapter 4 of Title 45 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950.
(b) Operation of any bus, taxicab, or limousine for hire as defined in R.S. 15:553.
(c) A service worker who goes into a residence to provide any type of service.
(d) Operation of any carnival or amusement ride as defined in R.S. 15:553.
(e) A door-to-door solicitor, peddler, or itinerant vendor selling any type of goods or services including magazines or periodicals or subscriptions to magazines or periodicals.
(f) Supervisory or disciplinary authority over children.
(g) Operation or participation in the governance of any early learning center as defined in R.S. 17:407.33, residential home as defined in R.S. 46:1403, or residence in which child care services are provided by a family child care provider or in-home provider who is registered pursuant to R.S. 17:407.61 et seq.
K. Violations. Violation of any condition by the defendant shall be considered as a constructive contempt of court, and shall result in the revocation of bail and issuance of a bench warrant for the defendant's arrest or remanding the defendant to custody. The court may also modify bail by either increasing the amount of bail or adding additional conditions of bail.
L. Under no circumstances shall any court deny the issuance of a protective order pursuant to any provision of this Article on the ground that a protective order has already been issued under any other provision of law. Any protective order issued pursuant to this Article shall remain in effect for the time that the criminal case is pending until sentencing unless the person protected by the protective order moves the court to dissolve the protective order as to that person and the court grants the motion to dissolve the protective order as to that person.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2017, No. 90, §2; Acts 2020, No. 246, §1; Acts 2024, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 4, §1, eff. July 1, 2024; Acts 2026, No. 131, §1; Acts 2026, No. 354, §1.
A. The types of bail are:
(1) Bail with a commercial surety.
(2) Bail with a secured personal surety.
(3) Bail with an unsecured personal surety.
(4) Bail without surety.
(5) Bail with a cash deposit.
B. All bail must be posted in the full amount fixed by the court. When the court fixes the amount of bail, a secured bail undertaking may be satisfied by a commercial surety, a cash deposit, or with the court's approval, by a secured personal surety or a bail undertaking secured by the property of the defendant, or by any combination thereof. When the court elects to release the defendant on an unsecured personal surety or a bail without surety, that election shall be expressed in the bail order.
C. Any defendant who has been arrested for any of the following offenses shall not be released on his personal undertaking or with an unsecured personal surety:
(1) A crime of violence as defined by R.S. 14:2(B).
(2) A felony offense, an element of which is the discharge, use, or possession of a firearm.
(3) A sex offense as defined by R.S. 15:541 when the victim is under the age of thirteen at the time of commission of the offense and less than ten years have elapsed between the date of the commission of the current offense and the expiration of the maximum sentence of the previous conviction.
(4) R.S. 14:32.1 (vehicular homicide).
(5) R.S. 14:35.3 (domestic abuse battery) or R.S. 14:34.9 (battery of a dating partner).
(6) R.S. 14:37.7 (domestic abuse aggravated assault) or R.S. 14:34.9.1 (aggravated assault upon a dating partner).
(7) R.S. 14:40.3 (cyberstalking), if the person has two prior convictions for the same offense.
(8) R.S. 14:44.2 (aggravated kidnapping of a child).
(9) R.S. 14:46 (false imprisonment).
(10) R.S. 14:46.1 (false imprisonment while the offender is armed with a dangerous weapon).
(11) R.S. 14:87.1.1 (killing a child during delivery).
(12) R.S. 14:87.2 (human experimentation on an infant born alive).
(13) R.S. 14:93.3 (cruelty to persons with infirmities), if the person has a prior conviction for the same offense.
(14) R.S. 14:98 (operating a vehicle while intoxicated), if the person has a prior conviction for the same offense.
(15) R.S. 14:102.1(B) (aggravated cruelty to animals).
(16) R.S. 14:102.8 (injuring or killing of a police animal).
(17) R.S. 14:110.1 (jumping bail).
(18) R.S. 14:110.1.1 (out-of-state bail jumping).
(19) Violation of an order issued pursuant to R.S. 9:361 et seq., R.S. 9:372, R.S. 46:2131 et seq., R.S. 46:2151, Children's Code Article 1564 et seq., Code of Civil Procedure Articles 3604 and 3607.1, or Code of Criminal Procedure Articles 30, 320, and 871.1.
(20) The production, manufacturing, distribution, or dispensing or the possession with the intent to produce, manufacture, distribute or dispense a controlled dangerous substance in violation of R.S. 40:966(B), 967(B), 968(B), 969(B), or 970(B) of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law.
D. There shall be a presumption that any defendant who has either been arrested for a new felony offense or has at any time failed to appear in court on the underlying felony offense after having been notified in open court shall not be released on his own recognizance or on the signature of any other person. This presumption may be overcome after contradictory hearing in open court only if the judge determines by clear and convincing evidence that the relevant factors warrant this type of release.
Amended by Acts 1979, No. 704, §1; Acts 1991, No. 102, §1; Acts 1992, No. 314, §1; Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2020, No. 246, §1.
A surety company authorized to do business in the state of Louisiana may become surety for the release of a person on a bail undertaking. The sufficiency of security posted in the form of an appearance bond by a surety company, as required by the provisions of Title 22 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, shall be determined solely by the commissioner of insurance. A contract to indemnify a surety company against loss on a bail undertaking is valid and enforceable.
Acts 1985, No. 232, §1; Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2006, No. 246, §1; Acts 2010, No. 710, §1; Acts 2010, No. 914, §§1, 5; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
A. A secured personal surety is a personal surety who satisfies all the requirements of Article 311 and specifically mortgages immovable property located in the state of Louisiana.
B. Bail without surety may be secured by a mortgage on the immovable property of the defendant pursuant to this Article or unsecured. A secured personal surety may establish a mortgage over immovable property in favor of the state of Louisiana or the proper political subdivision to secure a bail undertaking. The security shall apply only to and be limited to that immovable property specifically described in the mortgage.
C. The mortgage is established upon the recordation of a written mortgage, in authentic form satisfactory to the officer authorized to receive the bail, in the mortgage records of the parish where the immovable is located that:
(1) Contains the name and signature of the person making the mortgage.
(2) Describes the immovable and declares that a mortgage is given over it as security for the performance of the bail obligation.
(3) Certifies that the person making the mortgage owns the immovable and states its value, in excess of the amount of all encumbrances against it.
(4) Attaches to it a copy of the order fixing bail.
D. The person providing the security shall deliver a certified copy of the recorded statement establishing the mortgage and a mortgage certificate to the officer authorized to receive the bail. The officer may require additional evidence of ownership and value of the mortgaged property including a copy of the current tax assessment.
E.(1) The recorder shall cancel the mortgage from his records upon the order of the court.
(2) In all other cases, the effect of its recordation shall cease ten years after its recordation unless it is reinscribed in the manner otherwise provided by law.
F. Any materially false or incorrect statements made by a person who intentionally and knowingly gives a mortgage or security interest pursuant to this Article shall be prima facie proof of a violation of the provisions of R.S. 14:125, false swearing.
Acts 1988, No. 579, §1; Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2017, No. 172, §1, eff. June 12, 2017; Acts 2026, No. 59, §1.
A. A person in custody may be released by order of the court on an unsecured personal surety bail undertaking. An unsecured personal surety is a personal surety where the surety satisfies all the requirements of Article 311 and lives and resides in the state of Louisiana without specifically mortgaging or giving a security interest in any property as security to guarantee the surety's performance.
B. A personal surety shall execute an affidavit that he possesses the sufficiency and qualifications of a personal surety and that he is not disqualified from becoming a surety by Article 327. The affidavit shall list the number and amount of undischarged bail undertakings, if any, entered into by the personal surety. The officer accepting the bail may require the personal surety to state in his affidavit the nature and value of his property not exempt from execution, and the amount of his liabilities. An officer authorized to accept the bail shall have authority to administer any affidavit required of the person signing a bail undertaking.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Sept. 1, 1994; Acts 2000, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 95, §1; Acts 2011, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 16, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2026, No. 59, §1.
A person in custody may be released by order of the court on his personal bail undertaking without the necessity of furnishing a surety, unless otherwise provided in this Title.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Repealed by Acts 1983, No. 256, §1.
A.(1) In lieu of a surety the defendant may furnish a bail undertaking, secured by a deposit with an officer authorized to accept the bail. The deposit shall consist of any of the following which are equal to the amount of the bail:
(a) Cash.
(b) A certified or cashier's check on any state or national bank.
(c) Bonds of the United States government negotiable by delivery.
(d) Bonds of the state of Louisiana or any political subdivision thereof negotiable by delivery.
(e) United States postal money orders or money orders issued by any state or national bank.
(2) The court in the parishes of St. John the Baptist and St. Charles, by written rule, may alter the percentage amount of bail to be deposited with the officer authorized to accept the bail undertaking and authorize the officer to charge an administrative fee, not to exceed fifteen dollars, for processing the bail undertaking.
B. Upon final disposition of all cases in which a deposit of money, checks, bonds, or money orders has been made pursuant to this Article, and the deposits have remained unclaimed for a period of one year from the date of the final disposition, the officer authorized to accept the bail shall apply and use one-half of such funds for the operation and maintenance of the office of the clerk of court, or the office of the clerk of the criminal district court, or the office of the clerk of the criminal district court in Orleans Parish, and one-half to the local governing authority after advertising his intention to so utilize the funds by publication in the official parish journal of a notice to the public containing an itemized list of all of such funds on deposit, containing the names and last known addresses of defendants and the docket numbers of the cases involved. The publication shall be made once within thirty days after the final disposition of the case as aforesaid. The clerk shall also send a notice by certified mail to each of such defendants at the last known address of the defendant. Any interest earned on the funds deposited for bail shall be disbursed as provided in Paragraph E of this Article.
C. After the publication and mailing of the notice by certified mail, the clerk of court, or the clerk of the criminal district court in Orleans Parish shall petition the court of proper jurisdiction for permission to utilize the funds for the use, operation, and maintenance of the office of the clerk of court or the clerk of criminal district court in Orleans Parish.
D. When bail has been given in conformity with this Article, the money, check, bond, or money order shall not be subject to garnishment, attachment, or seizure under any legal process. An assignment or sale thereof by the owner, to be valid, must be in the form of an authentic act and filed in the proceedings in the court having jurisdiction to discharge the bail. The property shall remain on deposit and the assignment or sale shall be contingent upon the nonforfeiture of the bail.
E. When money, checks, or money orders have been given for bail in conformity with this Article, those funds may be deposited by the officer authorized to accept bail into an interest-bearing account established exclusively for the deposit of such funds. Interest earned on the deposits in the account shall be used solely for the operation and maintenance of the office of the clerk of court.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2004, No. 496, §1; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
A person shall not be released on bail for which an attorney at law, a judge, or ministerial officer of a court becomes a surety or provides money or property for bail; but the invalidity of such bail shall not be a defense to an action to forfeit and enforce the bail.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 1999, No. 1272, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 1997, No. 1156, §3; Acts 2003, No. 750, §2; Acts 2012, No. 197, §3; Acts 2014, No. 317, §6; Acts 2015, No. 242, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
A. The bail undertaking shall:
(1) Be in writing.
(2) State the court before which the defendant is bound to appear.
(3) Be entered into before an officer who is authorized to take it.
(4) State a single amount of bail for each charge.
B. The bail undertaking shall be enforceable if the above requirements are met; and no officer may refuse to accept the posting of a bail undertaking and releasing a defendant on bail if the conditions set by this Title are met. A person shall not be discharged from his bail undertaking, nor shall a judgment of forfeiture be stayed, set aside, or reversed, nor the collection of any such judgment be barred or defeated by reason of any defect of form, omission of a recital, or of a condition of the undertaking, by reason of a failure to note or record the default of any defendant or surety, or because of any other irregularity. The bail undertaking shall run, subject to the provisions of Article 626, in favor of the state of Louisiana, or the city or parish whose ordinance is charged to have been violated, with the proceeds to be disposed of according to law. No error, inaccuracy, or omission in naming the obligee on the bail undertaking is a defense to an action thereon.
C.(1) An electronic bond shall only be executed in a parish where the sheriff has electronic bond software in place. Only agents approved by the sheriff shall execute an electronic bond. A licensed bail bond producer applying for electronic bond authority shall make an application to the sheriff and shall be domiciled and maintain a principal place of business in this state and possess a Louisiana bail bond producer license for at least three years preceding the date of application.
(2) The approving sheriff authority may require any documents deemed necessary to verify the information contained in the application and may establish additional requirements for approval of electronic bond authority within the parish, including but not limited to geographic limitations, proof of local domicile or principal place of business within the parish, geofencing parameters, or other requirements that the sheriff deems appropriate for the administration of electronic bonds within the parish.
(3) Any parish that elects to implement electronic bonds shall allow both in-person and electronic methods of posting bail bonds.
(4)(a) The electronic bond provider shall maintain a registry of agents approved by each participating parish sheriff to execute electronic bonds within that parish.
(b) Prior to permitting the execution of any electronic bond, the provider shall verify that the agent seeking to post the bond is listed in the approved agent registry for the parish in which the bond is to be posted. The provider shall deny electronic bond access to any agent who does not appear in the applicable registry.
(c) The sheriff shall provide the electronic bond provider with timely notice of any additions to or removals from the approved registry.
(5) When an electronic bond is used, all of the following procedures shall be followed:
(a) The electronic bond provider shall implement multi-factor authentication for each individual bond posting transaction, which shall include at a minimum both of the following:
(i) Facial recognition liveness verification linked to the identity of the approved licensed agent executing the bond.
(ii) A secondary authentication factor independent of the agent's account login credentials.
(b) The electronic bond provider shall ensure that the authentication required by Subsubparagraph (a) of this Subparagraph is performed personally by the approved agent of record at the time of each individual bond posting. The provider shall not permit the use of shared login credentials, shared authentication devices or factors, or proxy authentication by any person other than the approved agent of record.
(c) The approving sheriff may, as a condition of authorizing electronic bond posting within the parish, require the electronic bond provider to incorporate a geographic restriction, including a geofence, limiting electronic bond posting to a defined geographic area within or proximate to the parish.
(d) The electronic bond provider shall offer automated clearing house (ACH) electronic funds transfer as a method of payment for fees associated with the posting of an electronic bond.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2024, No. 564, §1; Acts 2026, No. 489, §1, eff. May 29, 2026.
A.(1) The placement of a valid mailing address and electronic mail address pursuant to this Article is required in order for a party to receive the notice provided in accordance with Article 333. A bond forfeiture judgment shall not be denied or set aside because of the invalidity of the information provided by the defendant, personal surety, commercial surety, or agent or bondsman as required by this Article or for the failure to include the information required by this Article.
(2) A defendant who signs a bail undertaking shall provide the address where he can be served and, if different, provide his mailing address along with the last four digits of his social security number. The defendant and his counsel may, with the court's approval, by joint affidavit filed of record in the matter in which the bail undertaking was given, appoint his counsel as his agent to whom notice to appear can be sent. The appointment shall be conclusively presumed to continue until the defendant, with court approval, files of record an affidavit revoking or changing the appointment. The affidavit shall include the address to which notice to appear can be sent.
(3) A personal surety who signs a bail undertaking shall write the address where he can be served and, if different, provide his mailing address and the last four digits of his social security number.
(4) A commercial surety shall place its valid mailing address and electronic mail address on the face of the power of attorney used to execute the bail undertaking and on the appearance bond.
(5) The agent or bondsman posting the bail undertaking shall place his proper mailing address on the appearance bond.
(6) A bond forfeiture judgment shall not be denied or set aside because of the invalidity of the information required by this Article or for the failure to include the information required by this Article.
B. When a person who is required to sign his name or to make a declaration in writing under the provisions of this Title swears that he cannot sign or write, the officer authorized to receive the signature or declaration in writing may, at the request of the person, sign for him or make for him the declaration in writing, with the same binding effect as if the person had himself signed or himself made the declaration in writing; provided that the declaration and signature shall be witnessed and signed by at least two competent witnesses.
C. When a person who is required to sign his name or to make a declaration in writing under the provisions of this Title indicates that he cannot speak or write the English language, the officer authorized to receive the signature or declaration in writing may provide either an interpreter or a written form in the person's native language, enabling him to sign his name or make a declaration in writing.
D. Each address provided pursuant to Paragraph A of this Article shall be conclusively presumed to continue for all proceedings until the party providing the address changes it by filing a written declaration in the matter for which the bail undertaking was filed.
E. Except for the notice required by Article 330, by signing the bond undertaking, the defendant and his surety waive any right of notice to appear, including actual notice.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2026, No. 672, §1.
A. When a bail undertaking fixes an appearance date, the defendant appears as ordered, and notice of the next appearance date is given to the defendant, no additional notice of that appearance date is required to be given to the defendant or the personal surety or the commercial surety or the agent or bondsman who posted the bail undertaking for the commercial surety.
B. When a bail undertaking does not fix the appearance date, written notice of the time, date, and place the defendant is first ordered by the court to appear shall be given to the defendant or his duly appointed agent and his personal surety or the commercial surety or the agent or bondsman who posted the bail undertaking for the commercial surety.
C. If the defendant appears as ordered and the proceeding is continued to a specific date, the defendant and the personal surety or the commercial surety or the agent or bondsman who posted the bail undertaking for the commercial surety and who has been given initial notice pursuant to Paragraph A or B of this Article, need not be given notice of the new appearance date. If the defendant fails to appear as ordered, or the proceeding is not continued to a specific date, the defendant or his duly appointed agent, the personal surety or the agent or bondsman who posted the bail undertaking for the commercial surety shall be given notice of the new appearance date.
D. Notice required pursuant to the provisions of this Article to the defendant and the personal surety or the commercial surety or the agent or bondsman who posted the bail undertaking for the commercial surety shall be made to the address provided pursuant to Article 329. Notice may be:
(1) Delivered by an officer designated by the court at least two days prior to the appearance date.
(2) Mailed by United States first class mail or by electronic means in accordance with Article 329 at least five days prior to the appearance date.
E. Failure to give the notice required by this Article relieves the surety from liability on a judgment of bond forfeiture for the nonappearance of the defendant on that particular date.
Acts 1992, No. 254, §1; Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 1997, No. 1305, §1; Acts 1997, No. 1498, §1, eff. Nov. 5, 1998; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
A. Notwithstanding any provisions of law to the contrary, a person who is arrested and booked in an executing jurisdiction pursuant to a warrant for arrest issued by the originating jurisdiction may be released from custody when bail is posted under the following conditions:
(1) The amount of the bail obligation is included on the warrant for arrest. If the warrant for arrest does not include the amount of the bail obligation, the amount may be set within forty-eight hours by anyone in the originating jurisdiction who is authorized to set bail pursuant to Article 314. If a personal surety undertaking is authorized, the personal surety undertaking shall be in accordance with either Article 323 or 324.
(2) There are no holds, court orders, or other legal impediments that would prohibit the release of the arrested person from custody.
(3) The executing jurisdiction does not object. If the executing jurisdiction objects, the originating jurisdiction shall comply with existing provisions of law relative to bail. The originating jurisdiction shall retain the right to transport or to have the person in custody transported to the originating jurisdiction for the purpose of posting bail in the originating jurisdiction.
(4) Written notice shall be provided to the executing jurisdiction when bail is posted in the originating jurisdiction and release from custody is authorized. When released, the executing jurisdiction shall provide notice in accordance with Article 330 to the arrested person. The originating jurisdiction shall deliver to the executing jurisdiction the information necessary to provide such notice to the arrested person. The notice shall include the date, time, and location of any required court appearances as well as any conditions of bail. Notwithstanding any provisions of law to the contrary, an electronic copy, digital copy, or photocopy of the arrested person's signature on the notice shall be the equivalent of an original signature.
B. The provisions of this Article shall not apply to warrants for sex offenses, homicides and crimes resulting in a death or deaths, felony domestic violence offenses, and aggravated offenses.
Acts 2021, No. 243, §1.
Acts 2005, No. 237, §1; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2014, No. 318, §1; Acts 2015, No. 439, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
A.(1) Upon conviction in any case, the bail undertaking shall cease and the surety shall be relieved of all obligations under the bail undertaking by operation of law without the need to file a motion or other pleading. The provisions of this Subparagraph shall not prejudice the state's right to obtain a judgment of bond forfeiture after the elapse of one hundred eighty days following the execution of the certificate that notice of warrant for arrest was sent pursuant to Article 333.
(2) In all cases, if necessary to assure the presence of the defendant at all future stages of the proceedings, the court may in its discretion, in accordance with Article 312 require the defendant to post another bail undertaking or other acceptable security, or may release the defendant on bail without surety as provided for in Article 325. The court may continue the existing bail undertaking with the written approval of the surety on the bail undertaking. Such approval must be obtained from the surety after conviction.
(3) Repealed by Acts 2017, No. 205, §2.
B. When the district attorney dismisses an indictment or information and institutes a subsequent indictment or information for the same offense or for a lesser offense based on the same facts, the court shall reinstate any bail discharged when the district attorney dismissed the initial indictment or information if the surety consents to the reinstatement expressly and in writing. Orleans Parish district judges with criminal jurisdiction sitting en banc may adopt rules effectuating telephonic communication and verification of bail undertakings and releases.
C.(1) A surety may surrender the defendant at any time. For the purpose of surrendering the defendant, the surety may arrest him. The surety shall pay a fee of twenty-five dollars to the officer charged with the defendant's detention for accepting the surrender, processing the paperwork, and giving the surety a certificate of surrender. Upon the surrender of the defendant, the officer shall retain a copy and forward a copy of the certificate of surrender to the clerk of court and the prosecuting attorney.
(2) Upon surrender of the defendant at any time prior to the expiration of one hundred eighty days after the notice of warrant for arrest was sent, the surety shall be fully and finally discharged and relieved of all obligations under the bail undertaking by operation of law, without the need to file a motion or other pleading.
D. A surety may constructively surrender the defendant only within one hundred eighty days of when the notice of warrant for arrest was sent. After the constructive surrender of the defendant, the surety shall be fully and finally discharged and relieved of all obligations under the bail undertaking by operation of law, without the need to file a motion or other pleading.
E. At any time prior to the defendant's failure to appear or within one hundred eighty days after the notice of warrant for arrest is sent, the surety may file with the clerk of court and present to the court a certificate of death naming the defendant as the deceased party. The certificate shall be under seal of the authority confirming the defendant's death. Upon proof that the surety is unable to obtain a certificate of death, the surety or the court may invoke a contradictory hearing in order to establish proof of death by clear and convincing evidence. If the court determines that the defendant is deceased thereafter, the surety shall be fully and finally discharged and relieved of any and all obligations under the bail undertaking.
F.(1) Forty-five days after the defendant's failure to appear and while there is still an active arrest warrant in the proceeding for which the bond was posted, the surety or bail bond producer who posted the bond may file with the clerk of court where the charges are pending an affidavit requesting the defendant be remanded and surrendered upon his appearance before the court. The clerk of court shall forward a copy of the affidavit to the court before which the charges are pending. The affidavit must meet all the requirements set forth in R.S. 22:1585 and be filed before the court where the charges are pending. A copy of the affidavit must be provided to the prosecuting attorney.
(2) Upon the appearance of the defendant within one hundred eighty days of when the notice of warrant for arrest was sent, the court shall grant the relief requested and remand the defendant to the custody of the officer originally charged with the defendant's detention. Upon remand and payment by the surety of the twenty-five dollar fee to the officer charged with the defendant's detention, the court shall relieve the surety of all obligations under the bail undertaking.
G. Any time after the defendant's failure to appear and the issuance of the warrant of arrest, the surety may request that the officer originally charged with the detention of a defendant place the name of the defendant into the National Crime Information Center registry. The officer shall determine if the placement of the name is authorized by the rules governing the National Crime Information Center registry within thirty days of the request. If not authorized, the officer shall provide notice to the surety of the reason for nonplacement. If placement is authorized, the surety shall pay to that officer a fee of twenty-five dollars for processing the placement. If authorized and after payment of the twenty-five-dollar fee, the name of the defendant is removed from the National Crime Information Center registry without cause during the period provided for surrendering the defendant, the period for filing a rule to show cause under Article 335 shall be suspended until the name of the defendant is placed back in the registry.
H. In the case of any fee required under the provisions of this Article, the officer charged with the defendant's detention shall provide the surety with a receipt indicating the amount of the fee collected, the name of the defendant, the purpose of the fee collected, the name of the person from whom the fee was collected, information sufficient to identify any applicable bail undertaking, and the date and time the defendant was surrendered.
I. In all cases and by operation of law, during the period of time declared by the governor to be a statewide public health emergency due to COVID-19, the time period for the appearance or surrender of a defendant shall be calculated as follows:
(1) For cases when the defendant failed to appear in court and one hundred eighty days from the date the notice of warrant for arrest was sent has not elapsed prior to March 11, 2020, the one-hundred-eighty-day period required before filing a rule to show cause to obtain a judgment of bond forfeiture shall not begin to run until March 17, 2022.
(2) For cases when the defendant failed to appear in court between March 11, 2020, and August 31, 2020, the one-hundred-eighty-day period required before filing a rule to show cause to obtain a judgment of bond forfeiture shall not begin to run until June 1, 2022.
(3) For cases when the defendant failed to appear in court between September 1, 2020, and February 28, 2021, the one-hundred-eighty-day period required before filing a rule to show cause to obtain a judgment of bond forfeiture shall not begin to run until August 1, 2022.
(4) For cases when the defendant failed to appear in court between March 1, 2021, and August 31, 2021, the one-hundred-eighty-day period required before filing a rule to show cause to obtain a judgment of bond forfeiture shall not begin to run until October 1, 2022.
(5) For cases when the defendant failed to appear in court between September 1, 2021, and March 16, 2022, the one-hundred-eighty-day period required before filing a rule to show cause to obtain a judgment of bond forfeiture shall not begin to run until December 1, 2022.
(6) For cases when the defendant failed to appear in court on or after March 17, 2022, the one-hundred-eighty-day period required before filing a rule to show cause to obtain a judgment of bond forfeiture shall begin to run after the notice of warrant for arrest is sent pursuant to Article 335.
J.(1) Additionally, a surety may file a motion in the criminal court of records seeking additional time to surrender a defendant citing specific circumstances related to COVID-19 and pertaining to the defendant in the criminal matter. A motion seeking relief pursuant to this Paragraph shall be filed prior to or at a hearing on a rule to show cause to obtain a judgment of bond forfeiture. The motion shall include all of the following as a bona fide effort of active investigation in the recovery of the defendant:
(a) A sworn affidavit affirming efforts to locate and recover the defendant.
(b) A signed agreement of the engagement contract between the bail bondsman surety and the fugitive recovery team.
(c) Evidence of the last contact between the bail bondsman and either the defendant's next of kin or the indemnitor of the defendant.
(2) If the motion meets the requirements of this Paragraph, the court may grant an additional extension of time not to exceed one hundred eighty days. If the court grants an extension of time, the rule to show cause hearing shall be continued after the expiration of the extension of time. If the motion does not meet the requirements of this Paragraph, the court may deny the motion.
K. In cases which were continued by the court during the time period declared by the governor to be a statewide public health emergency due to COVID-19, it is required that notice of any new date be provided to the defendant or his duly appointed agent and his personal surety or the commercial surety or the agent or bondsman who posted the bail undertaking for the commercial surety in accordance with Article 330(D).
L. The court shall order the bail obligation canceled when there is no further liability thereon.
M. At any time prior to the defendant's failure to appear or within one hundred eighty days after the notice of warrant for arrest is sent, the surety may file proof of the defendant's deportation with the clerk of court. If the surety is unable to obtain proof of deportation, the surety or the court may invoke a contradictory hearing in order to establish proof of the defendant's deportation. If the court determines that the defendant's deportation has occurred, the surety shall be fully and finally discharged and relieved of any and all obligations under the bail undertaking.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2017, No. 205, §§1, 2; Acts 2020, No. 267, §1; Acts 2022, No. 90, §1, eff. May 24, 2022; Acts 2022, No. 593, §1; Acts 2025, No. 149, §1; Acts 2026, No. 672, §1.
The court in which the defendant is held to answer may issue a warrant for the arrest and commitment of the defendant who is at large on bail when any of the following are true:
(1) There has been a breach of the bail undertaking.
(2) It appears that a surety has become insufficient, is dead, cannot be found, or has ceased to meet the qualifications of law or does not own adequate immovable property within the state.
(3) The court is satisfied that the bail should be increased or new or additional security required.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 1997, No. 1305, §1;Acts 1997, No. 1498, §1, eff. Nov. 5, 1998; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
A. When, at the time fixed for any appearance as required by the court, the defendant, who was properly noticed, fails to appear as required by the court, the court shall, on its own motion or on motion of the prosecuting attorney, immediately issue a warrant for the arrest of the defendant. The clerk of court shall send a notice of the warrant for arrest to the prosecuting attorney. The notice of the warrant for arrest shall also be sent by United States mail or electronic means to the defendant and the personal surety, if any. The notice of the warrant for arrest shall be delivered to the bail agent and the commercial surety through electronic means, or certified mail, return receipt requested, within sixty days of the defendant's failure to appear.
B. Notice of a bench warrant shall be sent to the addresses provided pursuant to Article 329. The notice to the commercial surety and the bail agent shall include the power of attorney number used to execute the bail undertaking. Failure to include the power of attorney number shall not affect the validity or enforcement of a resulting judgment. After sending the notice of warrant for arrest, the clerk of court shall execute a certificate that notice was sent and shall place the certificate and either the proof of certified mailing or confirmation of electronic service in the record.
C. Failure to send notice of the bench warrant to the commercial surety and the bail agent within sixty days of the defendant's failure to appear shall release the surety of all obligations under the bail undertaking.
Amended by Acts 1975, No. 781, §1; Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2004, No. 833, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2026, No. 672, §1.
Repealed by Acts 2026, No. 672, §3.
Acts 2006, No. 811, §1; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2008, No. 66, §1; Acts 2010, No. 479, §1; Acts 2010, No. 584, §1; Acts 2014, No. 194, §2; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2008, No. 659, §1; Acts 2010, No. 892, §1; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2012, No. 773, §1; Acts 2013, No. 261, §1; Acts 2014, No. 194, §3; Acts 2014, No. 811, §31, eff. June 23, 2014; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2012, No. 748, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2013, No. 261, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
A. If the defendant fails to make an appearance and has not been surrendered or constructively surrendered within one hundred eighty days of the execution of the certificate that notice of warrant for arrest was sent, the prosecuting attorney may file a rule to show cause requesting that a bond forfeiture judgment be rendered.
B. The rule to show cause shall be mailed to the defendant, served on all other parties against whom a judgment is sought, and shall be set for a contradictory hearing.
C. The time period for filing a rule to show cause to obtain a judgment of bond forfeiture shall be within five years after the notice of warrant for arrest is sent.
D. For warrants issued prior to August 1, 2024, the rule to show cause requesting a bond forfeiture shall be filed no later than August 1, 2028. The state's right to file a rule to show cause to obtain a judgment of bond forfeiture is perempted if the rule to show cause is filed after August 1, 2028, and the surety shall be released of all obligations with respect to the bail undertaking.
E. The five-year time period established by this Article is peremptive and is the exclusive prescriptive and peremptive period applicable to the filing of a rule to show cause to obtain a judgment of bond forfeiture. Upon the expiration of the five-year period, the right to file a rule to show cause to obtain a judgment of bond forfeiture is extinguished, and no court shall render a judgment of bond forfeiture on a rule to show cause filed after the expiration of the five-year time period. The general prescriptive periods provided in the Civil Code and any other general prescriptive or peremptive periods do not apply to the filing of a rule to show cause.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2024, No. 221, §1; Acts 2026, No. 672, §1.
Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 70, §3; Acts 1999, No. 963, §3; Acts 2003, No. 750, §2; Acts 2010, No. 126, §1; Acts 2014, No. 318, §1; Acts 2015, No. 242, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2012, No. 197, §3; Acts 2014, No. 317, §6; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
A. The court at a contradictory hearing shall forfeit the bail undertaking and sign a judgment of bond forfeiture upon proof of all of the following:
(1) The bail undertaking.
(2) The power of attorney, if any.
(3) Notice to the defendant and the surety as required by Article 333.
(4) Proof that more than one hundred eighty days have elapsed since the notice of warrant for arrest was sent.
B. The judgment of bond forfeiture shall be issued against the defendant and his sureties in solido for the full amount of the bail. A bail agent who represents the surety as an insurance agent shall not be solidarily liable for the judgment of bond forfeiture against the defendant and his sureties. In the event that a bail agent who represents the surety as an insurance agent is held solidarily liable, then that bail agent may request to be released from the judgment. However, the release of the bail agent shall have no effect on the judgment decreeing the forfeiture of the bail undertaking against the defendant and his sureties.
C. The judgment shall include the address and the last four digits of the social security number for the defendant and the personal sureties. A judgment of bond forfeiture shall not be set aside because of the invalidity of the information required by the provisions of this Article or for the failure to include the information required by this Article.
Amended by Acts 1970, No. 442, §1; Acts 1974, No. 693, §1; Acts 1976, No. 537, §1; Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 1997, No. 1189, §1; Acts 2004, No. 567, §1; Acts 2011, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 16, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017; Acts 2026, No. 672, §1.
Acts 2003, No. 795, §1; Acts 2015, No. 184, §6; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2005, No. 381, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
An appearance by the defendant shall interrupt the period for obtaining a bond forfeiture judgment. An appearance by the defendant does not relieve the surety of its bail undertaking obligations.
Amended by Acts 1981, No. 218, §1; Acts 1987, No. 728, §1; Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
A. A judgment decreeing the forfeiture of a bail undertaking shall not be rendered if it is proven, at or prior to the hearing on a rule to show cause, that the defendant, principal on the bail undertaking, failed to appear in court because of any of the following:
(1) The defendant was serving in the armed forces of the United States.
(2) The defendant was a member of the Louisiana National Guard called to duty pursuant to R.S. 29:7.
(3) The defendant was prevented from appearing due to a state of emergency declared by the governor.
B. There shall be a rebuttable presumption that the calling of the defendant to duty pursuant to R.S. 29:7 prevented the defendant, principal on the bail undertaking, from attending court.
Acts 1983, No. 370, §1; Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 1995, No. 989, §1; Acts 1999, No. 676, §1; Acts 1999, No. 1272, §1; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
A. Notice of the signing of judgment of bond forfeiture shall be mailed by the clerk of court to the counsel of record for each party, and to each party not represented by counsel pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure Article 1913.
B. The clerk shall file a certificate in the record showing the date on which the notice of the signing of the judgment was mailed.
Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
A. The district attorney may cause the judgment to be recorded in every parish in which the recordation may be proper. Every such recordation shall be without cost, pursuant to R.S. 13:4521, and shall operate as a judicial mortgage against the defendant and all his sureties.
B. Prior to recordation, the district attorney shall verify the inclusion of information on the judgment, namely, the address and the last four digits of the social security number for the defendant and the personal sureties. Third parties may rely upon the accuracy of the information required by the provisions of this Article for purposes of distinguishing the identity of the defendant and his sureties. Any judgment of bond forfeiture containing inaccurate information required by the provisions of this Article shall be deemed ineffective as a judicial mortgage to third parties who rely upon that information.
Acts 1993, No. 850, §1; Acts 1995, No. 989, §1; Acts 1999, No. 665, §1; Acts 2010, No. 914, §5; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
The rights of appeal of a bail undertaking forfeiture judgment shall be governed by the Code of Civil Procedure Article 2081 et seq.
Acts 1986, No. 696, §1; Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
After the delay for filing a suspensive appeal has elapsed or when a judgment becomes final and definitive, the prosecuting attorney may file a rule to show cause in accordance with R.S. 22:1441 or collect the judgment in the same manner as a civil judgment.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 1999, No. 677, §1; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 138, §1; Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan.1, 2017.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 1995, No. 927, §1; Acts 2006, No. 246, §1; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2012, No. 771, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 1999, No. 325, §1; Acts 1999, No. 759, §1; Acts 1999, No. 1054, §1; Acts 2001, No. 1218, §1; Acts 2004, No. 374, §1; Acts 2006, No. 466, §2, eff. June 15, 2006; Acts 2010, No. 709, §1; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 1993, No. 834, §1, eff. June 22, 1993; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2010, No. 710, §2; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2010, No. 710, §2; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2012, No. 59, §1, eff. May 11, 2012; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2010, No. 710, §2; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2010, No. 710, §2; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Acts 2010, No. 914, §1; Acts 2016, No. 613, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
Habeas corpus is a writ commanding a person who has another in his custody to produce him before the court and to state the authority for the custody.
"Custody" as used in this Title means detention or confinement as a result of or incidental to an instituted or anticipated criminal proceeding.
The provisions of this Title are not available to persons entitled to file an application for post conviction relief under Title XXXI-A.
Amended by Acts 1980, No. 429, §2, eff. Jan. 1, 1981.
Habeas corpus proceedings by or on behalf of a person in custody shall be instituted in the parish in which the person is in custody.
Amended by Acts 1980, No. 429, §2, eff. Jan. 1, 1981.
An application for a writ of habeas corpus shall be by written petition addressed to a competent court by the person in custody or by some other person in his behalf. If the custody is by virtue of or under pretext of a court order, a copy of such order shall be annexed to the petition, or the petition shall allege that a copy of it has been demanded and refused. The petition shall further allege:
(1) The name of the person in custody and the place of custody if known, or if not known, a statement to that effect;
(2) The name of the custodian, if known, or if not known, a designation or description of him as far as possible; and
(3) A statement of facts upon which the petition is based, which statement may be supported by affidavits filed with the petition.
The application shall conclude with a prayer for the issuance of the writ. It shall be signed by the applicant and be accompanied by an affidavit that the allegations contained in the petition are true to the best of the affiant's information and belief.
Amended by Acts 1976, No. 382, §1; Acts 1980, No. 429, §2, eff. Jan. 1, 1981.
The court to which the application is presented shall immediately grant a writ of habeas corpus, unless it appears by the petition itself or by the documents annexed to it that the person in custody is not entitled to be set at liberty. The writ may issue at any time on any day, in term time or vacation, and shall fix the place and time for the answer, which shall be as early as practicable, and shall not exceed seventy-two hours from the time of the issuance of the writ.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 139, §1; Acts 1980, No. 429, §2, eff. Jan. 1, 1981.
A writ of habeas corpus may be served by a person over the age of twenty-one who is capable of testifying. If the writ is served by someone other than a sheriff, the affidavit of the person who served it shall be prima facie proof of such service.
Service of the writ may be made on any day by:
(1) Delivering it to the person to whom it is addressed;
(2) Informing him of its contents if he refuses to receive it; or
(3) Attaching the writ to an entrance door of the residence of the person to be served or of the place of custody if such person conceals himself or cannot be found or refuses admittance to the person attempting service.
A writ of habeas corpus, although addressed to a particular person, may be served in the manner provided by this article upon any person who has custody of the person whose release is sought.
The person upon whom the writ has been served, whether it is directed to him or not, shall file a written answer, signed and sworn to by him stating whether he has custody of the person named in the writ. If the person is in his custody, he shall produce him and state in his answer his authority for holding the person in custody. If the custody is by virtue of a court order, the document in the possession of the custodian shall be annexed to the answer. The answer and the production of the person in custody shall be made at the place and time designated by the writ.
If the custody has been transferred prior to service of the writ, the person upon whom the writ was served shall state in his answer the name and address of the person to whom custody was transferred, the time of and the authority for the transfer, and the place where the person is then in custody.
If the person in custody cannot for any reason be brought before the court, the reasons therefor shall be stated in the answer. If the court is satisfied with the reasons stated, the hearing may proceed without his presence. If the court is not satisfied with the reasons stated, it may require the immediate production of the person in custody.
Amended by Acts 1976, No. 448, §1; Acts 1980, No. 429, §2, eff. Jan. 1, 1981.
At the time and place fixed in the writ for the answer thereto, the court shall proceed summarily to hear the evidence and reasons adduced by the person in custody and by the custodian. The hearing shall be held in open court and may be held in term time or in vacation, or on a legal holiday.
If the person in custody is being held not by virtue of a court order, the court, after the hearing, shall discharge or refuse to discharge the person from custody as justice may require.
If the person in custody is being held by virtue of a court order, relief shall be granted only on the following grounds:
(1) The court has exceeded its jurisdiction;
(2) The original custody was lawful, but by some act, omission, or event which has since occurred, the custody has become unlawful;
(3) The order for the custody is deficient in some legal requisite;
(4) The order for the custody, although legal in form, imposes an illegal custody;
(5) The custodian is not the person allowed by law to detain the person in custody;
(6) He has been denied his right to a hearing in an extradition case, as provided in Article 267; or
(7) He is being held in custody prior to trial in violation of due process of law.
Amended by Acts 1980, No. 429, §2, eff. Jan. 1, 1981.
The writ of habeas corpus shall not be granted to a convicted person for a cause under Article 362, if he may appeal, or has done so and the appeal is pending.
The court shall issue a new warrant of arrest when it appears that there exists sufficient legal ground for the custody of the person based on an offense with which he may be charged, although the order for the custody may have been rendered in an irregular or unauthorized manner, or may have been executed by an unauthorized person.
If the person in custody is being held not by virtue of a court order, the custodian shall have the burden of proving the legality of the custody and of showing good cause why the person in custody should not be released.
If the person in custody is being held by virtue of a court order, he shall have the burden of proving the illegality of the custody and that he is entitled to be released.
At the time of issuing the writ the court may render a special order concerning the custody of the person from the time the writ is served until rendition of judgment.
A person discharged from custody in a habeas corpus proceeding may be rearrested if a legal ground exists therefor.
A person who fails to comply with the writ of habeas corpus, or with a judgment rendered on a petition for a writ of habeas corpus may be punished for contempt.
There shall be no appeal from a judgment granting or refusing to grant release upon a petition for a writ of habeas corpus.
A person in custody shall not be released upon a writ of habeas corpus until forty-eight hours after the judgment ordering the release has been entered or until an application by the state for supervisory writs has been denied, whichever occurs first, if:
(1) The state has announced its intention to apply for supervisory writs; and
(2) The person is being held in custody by virtue of a court order or in connection with a felony.
A criminal prosecution is brought in the name of the state in a court of criminal jurisdiction, for the purpose of bringing to punishment one who has violated a criminal law.
The person injured by the commission of an offense is not a party to the criminal prosecution, and his rights are not affected thereby.
A. A prosecution for an offense punishable by death, or for an offense punishable by life imprisonment, shall be instituted by indictment by a grand jury. Other criminal prosecutions in a district court shall be instituted by indictment or by information.
B.(1) A prosecution for violation of an ordinance and other criminal prosecutions in a parish court shall be instituted by affidavit or information charging any offense.
(2) A prosecution for violation of an ordinance and other criminal prosecutions in a city court shall be instituted by affidavit or information charging any offense supported by an affidavit.
(3) Criminal prosecutions in a juvenile court or family court shall be instituted by affidavit, information, or indictment.
Amended by Acts 1974, Ex.Sess. No. 19, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1975; Acts 1989, No. 8, §1; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 83, §1.
An indictment is a written accusation of crime made by a grand jury. It must be concurred in by not less than nine of the grand jurors, indorsed "a true bill," and the indorsement must be signed by the foreman. Indictments shall be returned into the district court in open court; but when an indictment has been returned for an offense which is within the trial jurisdiction of another court in the parish, the indictment may be transferred to that court.
An information is a written accusation of crime made by the district attorney or the city prosecutor and signed by him. It must be filed in open court in a court having jurisdiction to try the offense, or in the office of the clerk thereof.
Acts 1989, No. 8, §1.
An affidavit is a written accusation of crime made under oath and signed by the affiant. It must be filed in open court in a court having jurisdiction to try the offense, or in the office of the clerk thereof.
Discharge of a defendant after a preliminary examination does not preclude the subsequent filing of an indictment, information, or affidavit against him for the same offense.
The failure or refusal of a grand jury to indict a defendant does not preclude a subsequent indictment by the same or another grand jury, or the subsequent filing of an information or affidavit against him, for the same offense.
A. When instituting the prosecution of an offense involving a violation of any state law or local ordinance that prohibits the use of force or a deadly weapon against any family member or household member as those terms are defined by R.S. 14:35.3 or that prohibits the use of force or violence against a dating partner as defined by R.S. 14:34.9, the district attorney, or city prosecutor for criminal prosecutions in city court, shall include the following information in the indictment, information, or affidavit:
(1) Date of the offense.
(2) The state identification number of the defendant, if one has been assigned to the defendant for this offense or for any prior offenses.
B. Failure to comply with the provisions of this Article shall not constitute grounds for a motion to quash.
Acts 2015, No. 440, §4; Acts 2017, No. 84, §5.
A. When instituting the prosecution of an offense involving a violation of any state law or local ordinance, the prosecuting agency, when authorized to provide information, shall include the following information in the indictment, information, or affidavit, if provided by the booking agency:
(1) Date of the offense.
(2) Date of arrest or summons, if a summons was issued in lieu of an arrest.
(3) The state identification number of the defendant, if one has been assigned to the defendant for the offense or for any prior offenses.
(4) Defendant demographic data to include sex, race, and date of birth, if known.
B. The information provided in Paragraph A of this Article may be provided in a separate document submitted with the bill of information, bill of indictment, or summons to the clerk of court.
C. The booking agency shall provide the information provided in Paragraph A of this Article to the prosecuting agency.
D. The clerk of court shall report the information provided in Paragraph A of this Article, along with the disposition and disposition date, to the supreme court.
E. The supreme court is authorized to report the information provided in Paragraph A of this Article, along with the disposition and disposition date, to the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information.
F. Failure to comply with the provisions of this Article shall not constitute grounds for a motion to quash.
Acts 2023, No. 278, §1.
A. Beginning on January 1, 2025, the clerk of court for each judicial district shall provide a daily electronic submission to the Louisiana Supreme Court containing the data elements enumerated in Article 388(A), as well as the date of initiation of prosecution, the date of adjudication, and the number of days from initiation of prosecution to adjudication for all criminal cases. The Louisiana Supreme Court shall include a summary of this information, broken down by judicial district, in its annual report.
B. The data required by Paragraph A of this Article shall be recorded and reported to the Louisiana Supreme Court in a standard format and practice as directed by the court.
Acts 2024, No. 724, §1.
A. In any criminal proceeding in which the justification of self-defense is raised pursuant to R.S. 14:19 or 20, the state shall have the burden to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant did not act in self-defense.
B. Any defendant intending to assert the justification of self-defense pursuant to R.S. 14:19 or 20 shall provide written notice to the district attorney within ten days after the state has moved for discovery under Article 724. Thereafter, the court may, for good cause shown, allow a defendant to provide such notice at any time before the commencement of the trial.
C. A peace officer shall consider evidence of self-defense in accordance with R.S. 14:19 or 20 when determining if probable cause exists to conduct an arrest.
Acts 2024, No. 729, §2.
A. In order to qualify to serve as a juror, a person shall meet all of the following requirements:
(1) Be a citizen of the United States and of this state who has resided within the parish in which he is to serve as a juror for at least one year immediately preceding his jury service.
(2) Be at least eighteen years of age.
(3) Be able to read, write, and speak the English language and be possessed of sufficient knowledge of the English language.
(4) Not be under interdiction or incapable of serving as a juror because of a mental or physical infirmity, provided that no person shall be deemed incompetent solely because of the loss of hearing in any degree.
(5) Not be under indictment, incarcerated under an order of imprisonment, or on probation or parole for a felony offense within the five-year period immediately preceding the person's jury service.
(6) Not have been convicted at any time of a felony crime of violence as defined in R.S. 14:2(B) or a felony sex offense as defined in R.S. 15:541.
B. Notwithstanding any provision in Subsection A, a person may be challenged for cause on one or more of the following:
(1) A loss of hearing or the existence of any other incapacity which satisfies the court that the challenged person is incapable of performing the duties of a juror in the particular action without prejudice to the substantial rights of the challenging party.
(2) When reasonable doubt exists as to the competency of the prospective juror to serve as provided for in Code of Criminal Procedure Article 787.
Amended by Acts 1972, No. 695, §1; Acts 1984, No. 655, §1; Acts 2010, No. 438, §1; Acts 2021, No. 121, §1; Acts 2026, No. 419, §2.
A. When a person with a hearing loss is among the petit jury venire, the court shall:
(1) Provide an interpreter for the deaf prospective juror. The interpreter shall be sworn in as an officer of the court.
(2) Permit the interpreter to be present and assist a deaf prospective juror during voir dire.
B. When a deaf or hard of hearing person is summoned for jury duty, the court shall:
(1) Provide an interpreter for the deaf juror. The interpreter shall be sworn in as an officer of the court.
(2) Instruct the interpreter, in the presence of the jury, to:
(a) Make true, literal, and complete translations of all testimony and other relevant colloquy to the deaf juror during the deliberations of the jury.
(b) Refrain from participating in any manner in the deliberations of the jury.
(c) Refrain from having any communications, oral or visual, with any member of the jury regarding the deliberations of the jury except for literal translations of jurors' remarks made during deliberations.
(3) Permit the interpreter to be present and assist a deaf juror during the deliberations of the jury.
(4) Give a special instruction to the interpreter not to disclose any portion of the deliberations with any person following a verdict.
(5) Direct all costs relating to the interpreting services provided, including summoning, voir dire process, and empaneling of a juror in all trials, to be paid by the clerk of court's office through the juror and witness fee account.
C. The verdict of the jury shall be valid notwithstanding the presence of the interpreter during deliberations.
D. All costs relating to the interpreting services provided in this Article shall be paid by the clerk of court's office through the juror and witness fee account.
Added by Acts 1984, No. 655, §1. Acts 1988, No. 446, §1; Acts 1988, No. 775, §1; Acts 2017, No. 146, §14.
Repealed by Acts 1974, Ex.Sess., No. 20, §1, eff. January 1, 1975
Exemptions from jury service shall be as provided by rules of the Louisiana Supreme Court pursuant to Section 33(B) of Article V of the Louisiana Constitution of 1974.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 108, §1; Acts 1970, No. 450, §1; Acts 1972, No. 35, §1; Acts 1972, No. 282, §1; Acts 1972, No. 523, §1; Acts 1974, Ex.Sess. No. 22, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1975.
If the judge who presided over the impaneling of the grand jury finds that a grand juror can no longer serve without undue hardship, he may disqualify such juror and a substitute juror shall be selected in the same manner as for the filling of a vacancy.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 467, §1.
A. Except as otherwise provided in this Article:
(1) The jury commission of each parish shall consist of the clerk of court or a deputy clerk designated by him in writing to act in his stead in all matters affecting the jury commission, and four other members, each having the qualifications set forth in Article 401 and appointed by written order of the district court, who shall serve at the court's pleasure.
(2) Before entering upon their duties, members of the jury commission shall take an oath to discharge their duties faithfully.
(3) Three members of the jury commission shall constitute a quorum.
(4) Meetings of the jury commission shall be open to the public.
B. In the parish of East Baton Rouge the function of the jury commission shall be performed by the judicial administrator of the Nineteenth Judicial District Court or by a deputy judicial administrator designated by him in writing to act in his stead in all matters affecting the jury commission. The judicial administrator or his designated deputy shall have the same powers, duties and responsibilities, and be governed by those provisions of law as presently pertain to jury commissioners which are applicable, including the taking of an oath to discharge their duties faithfully. The clerk of court of the parish of East Baton Rouge shall perform the duties and responsibilities otherwise imposed upon him by law with respect to jury venires, shall coordinate the jury venire process, and shall receive the compensation generally authorized for a jury commissioner.
C. In Orleans Parish, the jury commission shall be appointed by the judges en banc of the Criminal District Court of the parish of Orleans, and the jury commissioners shall serve at the pleasure of the court.
D. In the parish of Lafourche, the function of the jury commission may be performed by the clerk of court of the parish of Lafourche or by a deputy clerk of court designated by him in writing to act in his stead in all matters affecting the jury commission. The clerk of court or his designated deputy shall have the same powers, duties, and responsibilities, and shall be governed by applicable provisions of law pertaining to jury commissioners. The clerk of court of the parish of Lafourche shall perform the duties and responsibilities otherwise imposed upon him by law with respect to jury venires, shall coordinate the jury venire process, and shall receive the compensation generally authorized for a jury commissioner.
E. In the parish of Terrebonne, the function of the jury commission shall be performed by the clerk of court of Terrebonne Parish or by a deputy clerk of court designated by him in writing to act in his stead in all matters affecting the jury commission. The clerk of court or his designated deputy shall have the same powers, duties, and responsibilities, and shall be governed by all applicable provisions of law pertaining to jury commissioners. The clerk of court of Terrebonne Parish shall perform the duties and responsibilities otherwise imposed upon him by law with respect to jury venires, shall coordinate the jury venire process, and shall receive the compensation generally authorized for a jury commissioner.
F. In the parish of St. Charles, the function of the jury commission shall be performed by the clerk of court of St. Charles Parish or by a deputy clerk of court designated by him in writing to act in his stead in all matters affecting the jury commission. The clerk of court or his designated deputy shall have the same powers, duties, and responsibilities, and shall be governed by all applicable provisions of law pertaining to jury commissioners. The clerk of court of St. Charles Parish shall perform the duties and responsibilities otherwise imposed upon him by law with respect to jury venires, shall coordinate the jury venire process, and shall receive the compensation generally authorized for a jury commissioner.
G. In the parishes of East Feliciana and West Feliciana, the function of the jury commission shall be performed by the clerks of court of East Feliciana Parish and West Feliciana Parish or by a deputy clerk of court designated by the respective clerk in writing to act in his stead in all matters affecting the jury commission. The clerk of court or his designated deputy shall have the same powers, duties, and responsibilities, and shall be governed by all applicable provisions of law pertaining to jury commissioners. The clerks of court of East Feliciana Parish and West Feliciana Parish shall perform the duties and responsibilities otherwise imposed upon him by law with respect to jury venires, shall coordinate the jury venire process, and shall receive the compensation generally authorized for a jury commissioner.
H. In the parishes of Caldwell, Claiborne, DeSoto, Franklin, Red River, Union, and Webster, the function of the jury commission shall be performed by the clerks of court of Caldwell Parish, Claiborne Parish, DeSoto Parish, Franklin Parish, Red River Parish, Union Parish, and Webster Parish or by a deputy clerk of court designated by the respective clerk in writing to act in his stead in all matters affecting the jury commission. The clerk of court or his designated deputy shall have the same powers, duties, and responsibilities and shall be governed by all applicable provisions of law pertaining to jury commissioners. The clerks of court of Caldwell Parish, Claiborne Parish, DeSoto Parish, Franklin Parish, Red River Parish, Union Parish, and Webster Parish shall perform the duties and responsibilities otherwise imposed upon him by law with respect to jury venires, shall coordinate the jury venire process, and shall receive the compensation generally authorized for a jury commissioner.
I. In the parish of Tangipahoa, the function of the jury commission shall be performed by the clerk of court of Tangipahoa Parish or by a deputy clerk of court designated by the respective clerk in writing to act in his stead in all matters affecting the jury commission. The clerk of court or his designated deputy shall have the same powers, duties, and responsibilities, and shall be governed by all applicable provisions of law pertaining to jury commissioners. The clerk of court of Tangipahoa Parish shall perform the duties and responsibilities otherwise imposed upon him by law with respect to jury venires, shall coordinate the jury venire process, and shall receive the compensation generally authorized for a jury commissioner.
J. In the parishes of Ascension, Assumption, Jackson, and St. James, the function of the jury commission shall be performed by the clerks of court of Ascension Parish, Assumption Parish, Jackson Parish, and St. James Parish or by a deputy clerk of court designated by the respective clerk in writing to act in his stead in all matters affecting the jury commission. The clerk of court or his designated deputy shall have the same powers, duties, and responsibilities and shall be governed by all applicable provisions of law pertaining to jury commissioners. The clerks of court of Ascension Parish, Assumption Parish, Jackson Parish, and St. James Parish shall perform the duties and responsibilities otherwise imposed upon him by law with respect to jury venires, shall coordinate the jury venire process, and shall receive the compensation generally authorized for a jury commissioner.
K. In the parish of Lincoln, the function of the jury commission shall be performed by the clerk of court of Lincoln Parish or by a deputy clerk of court designated by the respective clerk in writing to act in his stead in all matters affecting the jury commission. The clerk of court or his designated deputy shall have the same powers, duties, and responsibilities and shall be governed by all applicable provisions of law pertaining to jury commissioners. The clerk of court of Lincoln Parish shall perform the duties and responsibilities otherwise imposed upon him by law with respect to jury venires, coordinate the jury venire process, and receive the compensation generally authorized for a jury commissioner.
L. In the parish of West Baton Rouge, the function of the jury commission shall be performed by the clerk of court of West Baton Rouge Parish or by a deputy clerk of court designated by the clerk in writing to act in his stead in all matters affecting the jury commission. The clerk of court or his designated deputy shall have the same powers, duties, and responsibilities, and shall be governed by all applicable provisions of law pertaining to jury commissioners. The clerk of court of West Baton Rouge Parish shall perform the duties and responsibilities otherwise imposed upon him by law with respect to jury venires, shall coordinate the jury venire process, and shall receive the compensation generally authorized for a jury commissioner.
Amended by Acts 1975, No. 259, §1; Acts 1993, No. 632, §1; Acts 2007, No. 94, §1; Acts 2013, No. 100, §1; Acts 2013, No. 156, §1; Acts 2016, No. 232, §1; Acts 2017, No. 104, §1; Acts 2018, No. 417, §1; Acts 2020, No. 97, §1; Acts 2021, No. 84, §1; Acts 2024, No. 40, §1; Acts 2024, No. 108, §1; Acts 2026, No. 51, §1; Acts 2026, No. 249, §1.
A. Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, this Article shall apply to the board of jury commissioners in Orleans Parish. In Orleans Parish, there shall be a board of jury commissioners, hereinafter referred to as "the board", composed of five members appointed by the governor, subject to confirmation of the Senate, to serve at his pleasure. The board shall meet at least once every six months and when it is ordered to do so by the court and may meet to select or supplement the general venire for grand and petit jurors. Three members shall constitute a quorum. The board may select a new general venire at any meeting and shall do so when ordered by the court.
B. The board in such parishes may, with the concurrence of the judges of the criminal district court, have subpoenas served through personal or domiciliary service by depositing same in the United States mail, regular, certified, or registered, addressed to the juror at his usual residence or business address. The date of mailing shall be not less than fifteen days prior to the date on which the addressee is subpoenaed to appear. When service is by regular mail, the board of jury commissioners shall retain a record of the date of mailing. In cases of service by regular mail, prior to any contempt citation, the person shall be served by registered or certified mail with return receipt requested. If service is made by registered or certified mail with return receipt requested, the return receipt shall be retained by the jury commission as proof of proper service and failure of the person to respond to the subpoena so served shall constitute contempt of court.
C. The municipality which the board serves in such parishes shall cooperate with the board to provide the board with records, computer and other equipment, voter registration rolls, tapes, and other items which it needs to compile the general venire of grand jurors and petit jurors at no cost to the board.
D. The board in such parishes shall develop a plan to govern its operation. Such plan shall be approved by a majority of the judges of the criminal district court of such parishes.
E. The board shall have authority over all its employees, subject to supervision by the criminal district court. The board, by majority vote, shall determine all matters relating to its jurisdiction, subject only to the approval of the judges of the district court or criminal district court.
F. The accounting functions of the board and of the jury commission shall be transferred to the judicial administrator of the criminal district court.
G. All procedures and policies developed by the jury commission shall be under the direction and subject to the approval of the criminal district court, en banc.
Acts 1985, No. 558, §1; Acts 1987, No. 281, §1; Acts 1991, No. 289, §2; Acts 2011, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 16, §1.
A. Each member of the jury commission shall be notified in writing of the time and place designated for a meeting of the commission, at least twenty-four hours prior to the meeting.
B. The notice shall be issued by one of the members or the secretary of the jury commission in Orleans Parish, and by the clerk of court in all other parishes, and shall be served in the manner provided for service of subpoenas.
Acts 2013, No. 220, §26, eff. June 11, 2013.
In order to secure qualified jurors, the jury commission may issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of evidence relative to the qualifications of prospective jurors. Disobedience of a subpoena of a jury commission is punishable as contempt of court.
Acts 2013, No. 220, §26, eff. June 11, 2013.
A jury commissioner shall administer an oath to each witness appearing before the commission, in accordance with Article 14.
A. In parishes other than Orleans, the jury commission shall select impartially at least three hundred persons having the qualifications to serve as jurors, who shall constitute the general venire. A list of persons so selected shall be prepared and certified by the clerk of court as the general venire list, and said list shall be kept as part of the records of the commission. The name and address of each person on the list shall be written on a separate slip of paper, with no designation as to race or color, which shall be placed in a box labeled "General Venire Box."
B. After the jury commission has selected the general venire, it shall lock and seal the general venire box and deliver it to the clerk of court, as the custodian thereof. Alternatively, the list of persons so selected may be retained in a form suitable for use by a properly programmed electronic device commonly known as a computer.
C. The jury commission shall meet at least once every six months and when ordered by the court, and may meet at any time to select or supplement the general venire. The commission may select a new general venire at any meeting and shall do so when ordered by the court.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 140, §1; Acts 1972, No. 755, §1.
A. In developing a list of all persons who may be called for grand or petit jury duty:
(1) It shall be determined by each judicial district whether the names of prospective jurors shall be drawn exclusively from voter registration lists or also drawn from other sources or lists.
(2) If the district judges of the judicial district, in their discretion, authorize the use of sources other than voter registration lists in developing grand and petit jury lists, a jury commission shall not draw the names of prospective jurors exclusively from voter registration lists, but shall use other sources or lists of prospective jurors as may be legally available.
B. If the district judges authorize the use of a list of persons issued drivers' licenses as a source from which to choose prospective jurors, such list of drivers shall be provided annually at no cost by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections to the respective clerks of court or jury commissions responsible for preparing the list of prospective jurors. However, such a list shall only be provided to parishes that make written request through the parish clerk of court or jury commission.
Acts 1995, No. 933, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1102, §1; Acts 1997, No. 886, §1; Acts 1998, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 124, §1.
A. In the parish of Orleans, the jury commission shall select impartially at least seven hundred fifty persons having the qualifications to serve as jurors, who shall constitute the general venire.
B. A list of the persons so selected shall be prepared and certified by the commission as the general venire list and shall be kept as part of the records of the commission.
C. The name and address of each person on the list shall be written on a separate slip of paper, with no designation as to race or color, which shall be placed in a box labeled "General Venire Box."
D. No drawing shall be made from a general venire containing fewer than seven hundred fifty names, except when the court orders the drawing of tales jurors.
E. After the jury commission has selected the general venire, it shall lock and seal the general venire box and deliver it to the secretary of the commission, as the custodian thereof.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 140, §2; Acts 2013, No. 220, §26, eff. June 11, 2013.
A. There is hereby created a central jury pool for the Criminal District Court for the Parish of Orleans which shall be administered by the Jury Commission of the Parish of Orleans as hereinafter provided.
B. In order to properly and adequately administer and operate the central jury pool for the Criminal District Court for the Parish of Orleans, the chairman of the Jury Commissioners for the Parish of Orleans shall designate two jury commissioners each month who shall be specifically charged with the responsibility for administering and operating the central jury pool. The chairman of the jury commissioners shall rotate the responsibility for the administration and operation of the central jury pool amongst the other four jury commissioners so that no jury commissioner shall be assigned to the central jury pool for more than six months out of every twelve months.
C. The Criminal District Court for the Parish of Orleans acting en banc shall by majority vote determine the number of jurors to serve in the central jury pool in any given month, the jury days for that month, and all other matters relative to the operating procedures of the central jury pool.
D. The jury commission shall select the number of jurors to serve in the central jury pool as hereinabove determined by the criminal district court acting en banc and by the method now prescribed by law.
E. The provisions of this Act shall be cumulative of and in addition to the method now prescribed by law for the selection of a jury panel for the Criminal District Court for the Parish of Orleans except that those provisions in conflict with this Act are hereby repealed and declared invalid insofar as they apply to the Criminal District Court for the Parish of Orleans.
Acts 1972, No. 41, §§1 to 5.
A. The judges of the Twenty-Fourth Judicial District Court for the parish of Jefferson, sitting en banc by majority vote may create a central jury pool for criminal and/or civil juries for the Twenty-Fourth Judicial District Court for the parish of Jefferson, which shall be administered by the jury commission for the parish of Jefferson as hereinafter provided.
B. The jury selection shall be administered by the jury commission for the parish of Jefferson as provided by law, except that the provisions of Article 417(B) shall not apply to Jefferson Parish.
C. The judges of the Twenty-Fourth Judicial District Court for the parish of Jefferson, acting en banc shall by majority vote determine the system, method, and number of jurors to serve in the central jury pool for criminal and/or civil juries for a given term whether daily, weekly, or monthly, and may specify jury days for a particular term. Likewise, all other matters relative to the operating procedures of the central jury pool shall be determined by the judges of the Twenty-Fourth Judicial District Court for the parish of Jefferson, acting en banc by a majority vote, including the designation of persons to administer the central jury pool.
D. The jury commission shall select the number of jurors to serve in the central jury pool as hereinabove determined by the judges of the Twenty-Fourth Judicial District Court, acting en banc and by the method now prescribed by law for jury selection.
E. The jurors so selected may serve as jurors in either criminal and/or civil matters in the method and manner prescribed by majority vote of the judges of the Twenty-Fourth Judicial District Court for the parish of Jefferson sitting en banc.
F. The provisions of this section shall be cumulative of and in addition to the method now prescribed by law for the selection of jury panels for the Twenty-Fourth Judicial District Court for the parish of Jefferson, except that those provisions in conflict with this Act are hereby repealed and declared invalid insofar as they apply to the Twenty-Fourth Judicial District Court for the parish of Jefferson.
Added by Acts 1976, No. 232, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1012, §1, eff. June 29, 1995; Acts 1995, No. 1273, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1277, §1.
A. A district court may, by local rules adopted by majority vote of the judges, create and provide for the manner of administering a central jury pool for criminal and civil cases. The combined Orleans criminal and civil district courts shall be considered a district court for purposes of this Article.
B. Jurors selected to serve in the central jury pool may serve as jurors in either civil or criminal matters, or both.
C. The central jury pool shall be selected at random from persons included within the general venire. The number of persons selected to comprise the central jury pool and their length of service shall be determined pursuant to local court rules.
D. A panel of the central jury pool shall be selected at random from persons in the central jury pool. The number of persons selected to comprise the panel shall be determined pursuant to local court rules but the number shall be no less than three times the number of persons needed to complete the jury and in no event less than ten.
E. The petit jury shall be selected from the one or more central jury pool panels assigned to the court. Persons shall be called from the central jury pool panel at random.
F. Persons selected to serve on a central jury pool panel and not selected to serve on a jury may, pursuant to local court rules, be returned to the central jury pool.
G. The provisions of this Article supplement the methods presently provided by law for selecting jurors.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 372, §1.
A. The Nineteenth Judicial District Court may, by local rules adopted by majority vote of the judges, create and provide for the manner of administering a central jury pool for criminal and civil cases.
B. The central jury pool shall be selected from persons included within the general venire. The number of persons selected to comprise the central jury pool and their length of service shall be determined pursuant to local court rules.
C. Jurors selected to serve in the central jury pool may serve as jurors in either civil or criminal matters, or both.
D. The provisions of this Article supplement the methods presently provided by law for selecting jurors.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 739, §1.
A. A district court may, by local rules adopted by a majority vote of all the judges of that district, create and provide for the manner of administering a one day/one trial jury system for criminal and civil cases. The combined Orleans criminal and civil district courts shall be considered a district court for the purposes of this Article.
B. Unless otherwise provided in this Article, the jurors shall be selected and shall serve in accordance with the provisions of Code of Criminal Procedure Article 409.3.
C. Any juror selected pursuant to this Article shall serve in the central jury pool for a period of not more than one day unless he is selected to serve on a jury or unless extraordinary circumstances warrant, pursuant to local court rules, that he be held over for the continuation of voir dire. Any juror selected to serve on a jury shall serve until he is discharged from the jury.
D. Any district court which adopts rules pursuant to this Article is hereby authorized to provide for (1) audio-visual presentations for the purpose of orienting new jurors and (2) prequalification questionnaires to prospective jurors in order to assist those public officials responsible for selecting qualified jurors for the general venire and central jury pool.
E. No district court may adopt rules pursuant to this Article unless the court has previously determined by majority vote of all the judges that it has sufficient computer availability to assist in the overall management of a one day/one trial jury system.
Added by Acts 1981, No. 178, §1.
A. At each commission meeting to revise and supplement the general venire, the commission shall examine the general venire list prepared at the previous selection of the general venire and shall delete therefrom the names of those persons who:
(1) Have served as civil or criminal jurors since the previous selection of the general venire; or
(2) Are known to have died or who have become disqualified to serve as jurors since their selection on the general venire.
B. The slips bearing the names of those persons deleted from the general venire list shall be removed from the general venire box.
C. The commission shall then supplement the list prepared at the previous commission meeting and the corresponding slips in the box by selecting a sufficient number of additional persons in compliance with Article 408 or Article 409 of this Code, whichever is applicable. Where the general venire list is maintained in a form suitable for use by a computer, the general venire shall likewise be deleted and supplemented as provided in this Article.
Amended by Acts 1972, No. 755, §1; Acts 2013, No. 220, §26, eff. June 11, 2013; Acts 2014, No. 791, §21.
A. Upon order of the court, the jury commission shall select by drawing indiscriminately and by lot from the general venire box the names of a sufficient number of not less than fifty persons from which to empanel a grand jury, with the number to be specified by the court in its order, who shall constitute the grand jury venire. Alternatively, the grand jury venire may be drawn with the use of a properly programmed electronic device. A grand jury venire shall not be drawn from a general venire containing fewer than three hundred names.
B. The slips containing the names of the persons so drawn shall be placed in an envelope which shall be sealed and the words "Grand Jury Venire" written thereon.
C. The sealed envelope shall be placed in a box labeled "Grand Jury Box", which shall be locked and sealed and placed in the custody of the clerk of court for use at the next term of court, subject to the orders of the district court, as hereinafter provided.
D.(1) The clerk shall prepare subpoenas directed to the persons on the grand jury venire, ordering their appearance in court on the date set by the court for the selection of the grand jury, and shall deliver the subpoenas to the sheriff for service.
(2) The sheriff, at the election of the district judges of the judicial district in which the parish lies, may serve such subpoenas by:
(a) Personal or domiciliary service, or by registered, certified, or regular mail addressed to the juror at his usual residence or business address.
(b) When the service is by mail, the date of mailing shall be not less than fifteen days prior to the date on which the addressee is subpoenaed to appear.
(c) When service is by registered or certified mail, the sheriff shall attach to his return the return receipt of delivery from the United States Post Office showing the disposition of the envelope bearing the summons to the juror.
(d) When service is by regular mail, the return shall show the date of mailing. In case of service by regular mail, prior to any contempt citation, the person shall be served by registered or certified mail with return receipt requested.
(3) The return, with the attached return receipt of delivery, when received by the clerk, shall form part of the record and shall be considered prima facie correct and shall constitute sufficient basis for an action to cite persons for contempt for failure to appear in response thereto.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 141, §1; Acts 1970, No. 297, §1; Acts 1972, No. 755, §1; Acts 1977, No. 552, §1; Acts 1987, No. 281, §1; Acts 2001, No. 281, §1; Acts 2010, No. 347, §1.
Repealed by Acts 2016, No. 389, §3.
A. The grand jury shall consist of twelve persons plus no fewer than two nor more than four alternates qualified to serve as jurors, selected or drawn from the grand jury venire.
B. The sheriff or his designee, or the clerk or a deputy clerk of court, or the jury commissioner shall draw indiscriminately and by lot from the envelope containing the remaining names on the grand jury venire a sufficient number of names to complete the grand jury. The envelope containing the remaining names shall be replaced into the grand jury box for use in filling vacancies as provided in Article 415. The court shall cause a random selection to be made of one person from the impaneled grand jury to serve as foreman of the grand jury.
C. The alternate grand jurors shall receive the charge as provided in Article 432 but shall not be sworn nor become members of the grand jury except as provided in Article 415.
Acts 1990, No. 47, §1; Acts 1999, No. 984, §1; Acts 2001, No. 281, §§1, 2; Acts 2010, No. 347, §1; Acts 2016, No. 389, §1.
A. A grand jury shall be impaneled twice a year in each parish, except in the parish of Cameron in which at least one grand jury shall be impaneled each year.
B. The court shall fix the time at which a grand jury shall be impaneled, but no grand jury shall be impaneled for more than eight months, nor less than four months, except in the parish of Cameron in which the grand jury may be impaneled for a year.
C. Repealed by Acts 2016, No. 389, §3.
D. A grand jury shall remain in office until a succeeding grand jury is impaneled. A court may not discharge a grand jury or any of its members before the time for the impaneling of a new grand jury, except for legal cause.
Acts 1985, No. 675, §1; Acts 2016, No. 389, §§1, 3.
A. When a vacancy occurs on a grand jury, the court shall fill the vacancy by administering the oath to and seating the first alternate if he is still legally qualified and available, or if he is not, by administering the oath to and seating the second, third, or fourth alternate, if still legally qualified and available, in the order in which the alternates were selected, until the vacancy is filled. If a vacancy occurs and there is no alternate legally qualified and available to fill the vacancy, the vacancy shall be filled by ordering the sheriff or his designee, the clerk or deputy clerk of court, or, in Orleans Parish the jury commissioner, to draw indiscriminately and by lot from the envelope containing the remaining names on the grand jury venire a sufficient number of names to complete the grand jury. If the names in the envelope are exhausted before the grand jury is completed, or if a vacancy occurs on the grand jury and no names remain in the envelope, the court shall order the jury commission to withdraw indiscriminately and by lot from the general venire box or through the use of a properly programmed electronic device as provided in Article 411, an additional number of names sufficient to complete the grand jury.
B. If the foreman of the grand jury is, for any reason, unable to act, the court shall cause a random selection to be made of one person from the remaining members of the impaneled grand jury to serve as acting foreman or to serve as foreman of the grand jury. An acting foreman has the powers and duties of the foreman.
Acts 1990, No. 47, §1; Acts 2010, No. 347, §1.
Upon the request of the district attorney, the court shall order one or more additional grand juries to be impaneled. Such additional grand juries shall be selected in the same manner and have the same qualifications, duties, powers, and responsibilities, and be subject to the same provisions of law which presently govern grand juries, except as to duration and the duty to inspect facilities as provided by R.S. 15:121. However, no grand jury may concurrently conduct an inquiry into any offense or matter or receive evidence of any offense or matter which is under investigation by another grand jury impaneled in the same parish. These additional grand juries shall be impaneled and presided over by the judge who impaneled the existing regular grand jury or a judge appointed by him to act in his absence.
Acts 1990, No. 74, §1; Acts 2012, No. 119, §1, eff. May 14, 2012.
Grand juries impaneled in accordance with Article 415.1 shall remain impaneled for a period not to exceed one year unless discharged sooner by the court upon motion of the district attorney. Provided, however, that prior to the discharge of a grand jury by the court, a grand jury shall return its report on all offenses and matters presented or pending before it as authorized by the provisions of Article 444. Upon the request of the district attorney, the court may extend this time limit for an extra six months.
Added by Acts 1975, 1st Ex.Sess., No. 45, §1, eff. Feb. 20, 1975. Amended by Acts 1975, No. 569, §1.
A. Upon order of court the jury commission in parishes other than Orleans shall draw a petit jury venire. The commission shall draw indiscriminately and by lot thirty name slips from the general venire box, unless directed by the court order to draw a larger number. The persons whose names are so drawn shall be subject to serve as petit jurors for the first week of the next criminal session of court.
The court also may order the commission to draw indiscriminately and by lot as many additional name slips, not less than thirty, as it may direct for each additional week that a petit jury venire may be required, not to exceed two additional weeks. The persons whose names are so drawn shall be subject to serve as petit jurors for the week for which their names were drawn.
Alternatively, for the purpose of drawing a petit jury venire, the jury commission may use an electronic device, commonly known as a computer, which is programmed to draw indiscriminately and by lot.
B. A petit jury venire for the first week of a session shall not be drawn from a general venire containing less than two hundred fifty names, and no petit jury venire for any subsequent week shall be drawn from a general venire containing less than one hundred fifty names.
The commission shall place the slips bearing the names of the petit jury venire for each week in a separate envelope. It shall seal each envelope and write thereon the words "Petit Jury Venire No. 1," "Petit Jury Venire No. 2," and "Petit Jury Venire No. 3." Each envelope shall be placed in a box labeled "Petit Jury Box."
If a petit jury venire does not serve during the week for which it was drawn, the court may order that it serve during any other week of that session of court.
Amended by Acts 1972, No. 755, §1.
A. In parishes other than Orleans, at the election of the judges of the judicial district in which the parish lies, the qualification questionnaire, subpoena, and return envelope for each person who may be selected for the petit jury venire shall be prepared by the clerk and delivered in the same computer-generated envelope to the sheriff for service. The sheriff may serve such questionnaire and subpoena by first class mail addressed to such person at his usual residence or business address. The subpoena shall state an appearance date for such person not later than three weeks after the date on which the questionnaire is to be returned.
B. The questionnaire shall contain a section for signature to acknowledge receipt of the accompanying subpoena. The addressee of the subpoena and questionnaire shall fill out, sign, and return the questionnaire in the return envelope by first class mail, within five days of receipt thereof. The signing of the questionnaire shall constitute acknowledgement of receipt of the subpoena and personal service of the subpoena on the addressee.
C. The questionnaire may constitute part of the sheriff's return and may be made part of the record. When served in accordance with this Section, a person may be cited for contempt for failing to appear in response to the subpoena.
Added by Acts 1982, No. 701, §1.
A. In parishes other than Orleans, the clerk of court shall make a proces verbal of the selection of the general venire and of the drawing of the grand jury venire and of the petit jury venire. It shall be certified to by a member of the commission and shall be filed in the clerk's office as a public record.
The clerk shall make a list of the names on the grand jury venire and on the petit jury venire, showing the week for which each petit jury venire is to serve. The lists, together with the general venire list, shall be a part of the proces verbal.
B. The clerk shall cause a copy of the petit jury venire list and grand jury venire list to be published in the official journal of the parish, if there be one, or in some other newspaper published in the parish, or, if there is no official journal or other newspaper in said parish, he shall post a copy of the lists on the door of the courthouse.
C.(1) The clerk shall prepare subpoenas directed to the persons on the petit jury venire and deliver them to the sheriff for service.
(2) The sheriff, at the election of the district judges of the judicial district in which the parish lies, may serve such subpoenas by:
(a) Personal or domiciliary service, or by registered, certified, or regular mail addressed to such juror at his usual residence or business address.
(b) When the service is by mail, the date of mailing shall not be less than fifteen days prior to the date on which the addressee is subpoenaed to appear.
(c) When service is by registered or certified mail, the sheriff shall attach to his return the return receipt of delivery from the United States Post Office showing the disposition of the envelope bearing the summons to the juror.
(d) When service is by regular mail, the return shall show the date of mailing. In case of service by regular mail, prior to any contempt citation, the person shall be served by registered or certified mail with return receipt requested.
(3) The return, with the attached return receipt of delivery, when received by the clerk, shall form part of the record and shall be considered prima facie correct and shall constitute sufficient basis for an action to cite persons for contempt for failure to appear in response thereto.
Amended by Acts 1972, No. 755, §1; Acts 1987, No. 281, §1.
A. In Orleans Parish upon order of the court the jury commission shall draw a petit jury venire.
B. The jury commission shall draw indiscriminately and by lot as many name slips from the general venire box as a court may direct, not less than seventy-five, for service as petit jurors during the next monthly session of that judge's section of court.
C. The commission shall prepare a list of the persons drawn which shall constitute the petit jury venire list. This list, together with the name slips drawn, shall be delivered to the judge ordering the drawing.
D. The commission shall prepare subpoenas directed to the persons on the petit jury venire and cause them to be served in accordance with the provisions of Article 404.1(B) or R.S. 15:112, as directed by the court.
Acts 1987, No. 281, §1.
A. A general venire, grand jury venire, or petit jury venire shall not be set aside for any reason unless fraud has been practiced, some great wrong committed that would work irreparable injury to the defendant, or unless persons were systematically excluded from the venires solely upon the basis of race.
B. This article does not affect the right to challenge for cause, a juror who is not qualified to serve.
Acts 1987, No. 638, §1.
The grand jurors shall take the following oath when impaneled:
"As members of the grand jury, do you solemnly swear or affirm that you will diligently inquire into and true presentment make of all indictable offenses triable within this parish which shall be given you in charge, or which shall otherwise come to your knowledge; that you will keep secret your own counsel and that of your fellows and of the state, and will not, except when authorized by law, disclose testimony of any witness examined before you, nor disclose anything which any grand juror may have said, or how any grand juror may have voted on any matter before you; that you will not indict any person through malice, hatred, or ill will, nor fail to indict any person through fear, favor, affection, or hope of reward or gain; but in all of your indictments you will present the truth, according to the best of your skill and understanding?"
The oath shall be read to the grand jury by the clerk, who shall then ask each juror: "Do you take this oath or affirmation?"
The oath shall be administered to every grand juror appointed to fill a vacancy in the grand jury and to every grand juror who was not present at the taking of the oath by the grand jury.
After the oath is administered to the members of the grand jury, the judge shall charge them orally in open court upon their duties, rights, and powers. Upon completion of the charge the judge shall give the grand jury a written copy of the charge.
At any time thereafter, the judge, on his own initiative or on request of the grand jury, may give the grand jury additional charges concerning their duties, rights, and powers. Such additional charges shall be given in open court, and a written copy thereof shall thereafter be given to the grand jury.
A.(1) Only the following persons may be present at the sessions of the grand jury:
(a) The district attorney and assistant district attorneys or any one or more of them.
(b) The attorney general and assistant attorneys general or any one or more of them.
(c) The witness under examination.
(d) A person sworn to record the proceedings of and the testimony given before the grand jury.
(e) An interpreter sworn to translate the testimony of a witness who is a limited English proficient or deaf individual.
(2) An attorney for a target of the grand jury's investigation may be present during the testimony of the target. The attorney shall be prohibited from objecting, addressing, or arguing before the grand jury; however, the attorney may consult with his client at any time. The court shall remove the attorney for a violation of these conditions. If a witness becomes a target because of his testimony, the legal advisor to the grand jury shall inform the witness of his right to counsel and cease questioning until the witness has obtained counsel or voluntarily and intelligently waived his right to counsel. Any evidence or testimony obtained under the provisions of this Subparagraph from a witness who later becomes a target shall not be admissible in a proceeding against him.
B. No person, other than a grand juror, shall be present while the grand jury is deliberating and voting.
C. A person who is intentionally present at a meeting of the grand jury, except as authorized by Paragraph A of this Article, shall be in constructive contempt of court.
Amended by Acts 1972, No. 409, §1; Acts 1986, No. 725, §1; Acts 1992, No. 308, §1; Acts 1999, No. 865, §1; Acts 2024, No. 32, §2.
A. Members of the grand jury, all other persons present at a grand jury meeting, and all persons having confidential access to information concerning grand jury proceedings, shall keep secret the testimony of witnesses and all other matters occurring at, or directly connected with, a meeting of the grand jury. However, after the indictment, such persons may reveal statutory irregularities in grand jury proceedings to defense counsel, the attorney general, the district attorney, or the court, and may testify concerning them. Such persons may disclose testimony given before the grand jury, at any time when permitted by the court, to show that a witness committed perjury in his testimony before the grand jury. A witness may discuss his testimony given before the grand jury with counsel for a person under investigation or indicted, with the attorney general or the district attorney, or with the court.
B. Whenever a grand jury of one parish discovers that a crime may have been committed in another parish of the state, the foreman of that grand jury, after notifying his district attorney, shall make that discovery known to the attorney general. The district attorney or the attorney general may direct to the district attorney of another parish any and all evidence, testimony, and transcripts thereof, received or prepared by the grand jury of the former parish, concerning any offense that may have been committed in the latter parish, for use in such latter parish.
C. Any person who violates the provisions of this article shall be in constructive contempt of court.
Amended by Acts 1972, No. 450, §1.
A. Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 434, the state may disclose to state or federal prosecutors or law enforcement officers, or to investigators on the staff of the district attorney or attorney general, or to expert witnesses, information and documents provided to a grand jury. Any person to whom such disclosure is made shall not engage in further disclosure of the material and shall use the disclosed material solely for purposes of investigation of criminal offenses and enforcement of criminal laws.
B. The district attorney shall also disclose to the defendant material evidence favorable to the defendant that was presented to the grand jury.
C. The district attorney may also disclose to a witness at trial, including the defendant if the defendant testifies, any statement of the witness before the grand jury that is inconsistent with the testimony of that witness.
Acts 2012, No. 842, §1.
The grand jury shall meet as directed by the court, or may meet on its own initiative at the direction of nine of its members, at any time and place within the parish. Nine grand jurors shall constitute a quorum, and nine grand jurors must concur to find an indictment.
Amended by Acts 1975, 1st Ex.Sess., No. 45, §2, eff. Feb. 20, 1975.
The foreman of the grand jury shall preside over all hearings. He may delegate duties to other grand jurors and may determine rules of procedure. A grand juror who objects to a rule of procedure made by the foreman may apply to the court for a determination of the matter.
The grand jury shall inquire into all capital offenses and offenses punishable by life imprisonment triable within the parish. It may inquire into other offenses triable by the district court of the parish, and shall inquire into such offenses when requested to do so by the district attorney or ordered to do so by the court.
Acts 2010, No. 663, §1.
If a grand juror knows or has reason to believe that an offense triable by the district court of the parish has been committed, he shall declare such fact to his fellow jurors, who may investigate it. In such investigation or any subsequent criminal proceeding the grand juror shall be a competent witness.
Upon request of the grand jury or the district attorney, the court shall issue a subpoena for a witness to appear before the grand jury to testify when questioned by the grand jury or district attorney, or both, concerning an offense under investigation. Upon request of the grand jury or the district attorney, the court may also issue a subpoena duces tecum. The issuance, service, and return of a subpoena provided for in this article and the effect of the return and the enforcement of the subpoena shall be as provided in Articles 731 through 737.
A. In the case of any individual who has been or may be called to testify or provide other information at any proceeding before or ancillary to a grand jury of the state, at any proceeding before a court of this state, or in response to any subpoena by the attorney general or district attorney, the judicial district court of the district in which the proceeding is or may be held shall issue, in accordance with Subsection B of this article, upon the request of the attorney general together with the district attorney for such district, an order requiring such individual to give testimony or provide other information which he refuses to give or provide on the basis of his privilege against self-incrimination, such order to become effective as provided in Subsection C of this article.
B. The attorney general together with the district attorney may request an order under Subsection A of this article when in his judgment
(1) the testimony or other information from such individual may be necessary to the public interest; and
(2) such individual has refused or is likely to refuse to testify or provide other information on the basis of his privilege against self incrimination.
C. The witness may not refuse to comply with the order on the basis of his privilege against self incrimination, but no testimony or other information compelled under the order, or any information directly or indirectly derived from such testimony or other information, may be used against the witness in any criminal case, except a prosecution for perjury, giving a false statement or otherwise failing to comply with the order.
D. Whoever refuses to comply with an order as hereinabove provided shall be adjudged in contempt of court and punished as provided by law.
Added by Acts 1972, No. 410, §1.
A witness who is to testify before the grand jury shall first be sworn by the foreman, in accordance with Article 14, to testify truthfully and to keep secret, except as authorized by law, matters which he learns at the grand jury meeting.
Acts 1988, No. 515, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 1989.
{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1988, NO. 515, §12.}}
Before being permitted to function in their respective capacities, the court shall administer an oath, to persons employed to record and transcribe the testimony and proceedings, and to interpreters, to faithfully perform their duties and keep secret the grand jury proceedings.
A grand jury shall hear all evidence presented by the district attorney. It may hear evidence for the defendant, but is under no duty to do so.
When the grand jury has reason to believe that other available evidence will explain the charge, it should order the evidence produced.
A grand jury should receive only legal evidence and such as is given by witnesses produced, or furnished by documents and other physical evidence. However, no indictment shall be quashed or conviction reversed on the ground that the indictment was based, in whole or in part, on illegal evidence, or on the ground that the grand jury has violated a provision of this article.
The grand jury shall find an indictment, charging the defendant with the commission of an offense, when, in its judgment, the evidence considered by it, if unexplained and uncontradicted, warrants a conviction.
A. A grand jury shall have power to act, concerning a matter, only in one of the following ways:
(1) By returning a true bill;
(2) By returning not a true bill; or
(3) By pretermitting entirely the matter investigated.
The grand jury is an accusatory body and not a censor of public morals. It shall make no report or recommendation, other than to report its action as aforesaid.
B. At least nine members of the grand jury must concur in returning "a true bill" or "not a true bill." A matter may be pretermitted by a vote of at least nine members of the grand jury, or as a consequence of the failure of nine of the grand jury members to agree on a finding.
C. A grand jury may make such reports or requests as are authorized by law.
In this Title the terms enumerated shall have the designated meanings:
"Writing" and "written" include words printed, painted, typed, engraved, lithographed, photographed, or otherwise copied, traced, or made visible to the eye.
"Indictment" includes affidavit and information, unless it is the clear intent to restrict that word to the finding of a grand jury.
The indictment by a grand jury may be in substantially the following form:
In the (Here state the name of the court.) on the ______ day of ____, 20. State of Louisiana v. A.B. (Here state the name or description of the accused.).
The grand jury of the Parish of ______, charges that A.B. (Here state the name or description of the accused.) committed the offense of ______, in that (Here set forth the offense and transaction according to the rules stated in this Title. The particulars of the offense may be added with a view to avoiding the necessity for a bill of particulars.) contrary to the law of the State of Louisiana and against the peace and dignity of the same.
The information may be in substantially the following form:
In the (Here state the name of the court.) on the ______ day of ____, 20. State of Louisiana v. A.B. (Here state the name or description of the accused.).
X.Y., District Attorney for the Parish of ______, charges that A.B. (Here state the name or description of the accused.) committed the offense of ______, in that (Here set forth the offense and transaction according to the rules stated in this Title. The particulars of the offense may be added with a view to avoiding the necessity for a bill of particulars.) contrary to the law of the state of Louisiana and against the peace and dignity of the same.
The indictment shall be a plain, concise, and definite written statement of the essential facts constituting the offense charged. It shall state for each count the official or customary citation of the statute which the defendant is alleged to have violated. Error in the citation or its omission shall not be ground for dismissal of the indictment or for reversal of a conviction if the error or omission did not mislead the defendant to his prejudice.
A. The following forms of charging offenses may be used, but any other forms authorized by this Title may also be used:
Abortion--A.B. committed abortion on C.D.
Aggravated Arson--A.B. committed aggravated arson of a dwelling (or structure, watercraft, or movable, as the case may be). If the words "belonging to another and with the damage amounting to __________ dollars" are added, simple arson will be included in the charge.
Simple Arson--A.B. committed simple arson of __________ (state the property burned or damaged) with the damage amounting to __________ dollars.
Arson with Intent to Defraud--A.B. committed arson of __________ (state the property burned or damaged) with intent to defraud C.D.
Aggravated Assault--A.B. assaulted C.D. with a dangerous weapon.
Simple Assault--A.B. assaulted C.D.
Attempt--A.B. attempted to __________ (commit theft of one rifle--state property subject of the theft; rob C.D.; or murder C.D.; as the case may be).
Aggravated Battery--A.B. committed a battery with a dangerous weapon upon C.D.
Simple Battery--A.B. committed a battery upon C.D.
Bigamy--A.B. committed bigamy with C.D.
Public Bribery--A.B. committed public bribery by giving (or offering to give) __________ dollars (or describe property) to C.D., __________, (state official status of person bribed); or, A.B., __________, (state official status of A.B.) committed public bribery by receiving (or offering to receive) __________ dollars (or describe property) from C.D.
Bribery of Voters--A.B. bribed C.D., a voter, by giving him (or offering him) __________ dollars (or describe property); or A.B., a voter, committed bribery of voters by receiving (or offering to receive) __________ dollars (or describe property) from C.D.
Aggravated Burglary--A.B. committed aggravated burglary of the dwelling of C.D.; or A.B. committed aggravated burglary of a warehouse (or other structure, watercraft, or movable, as the case may be) belonging to C.D.
Simple Burglary--A.B. committed simple burglary of the houseboat (or other structure, watercraft, or movable, as the case may be) belonging to C.D.
Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile--A.B. committed carnal knowledge of C.D., a juvenile.
Crime Against Nature--A.B. committed crime against nature with C.D. by __________ (describe the act).
Criminal Conspiracy--A.B. conspired with C.D. to __________ (commit theft of one rifle--state property subject of the theft; murder E.F.; or rob E.F.; as the case may be).
Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property--A.B. committed aggravated criminal damage to __________ (state the structure, watercraft, or movable). If the words "belonging to another and with the damage amounting to __________ dollars" are added, simple criminal damage to property will be included in the charge.
Simple Criminal Damage to Property--A.B. committed simple criminal damage to __________ (state the property damaged) with the damage amounting to __________ dollars.
Damage to Property with Intent to Defraud--A.B. damaged __________ (state the property damaged) with intent to defraud C.D.
Cruelty to Juveniles--A.B. committed cruelty to C.D., a juvenile, by __________ (describe act of cruelty).
Aggravated Escape--A.B. committed aggravated escape from C.D., a __________ (state official status of person escaped from); or A.B. committed aggravated escape from __________ (state place of official detention).
Simple Escape--A.B. escaped from C.D., a __________ (state official status of person escaped from); or A.B. escaped from __________ (state place of official detention).
Forgery--A.B. forged a __________ (promissory note, or other instrument) by __________ (state nature of defendant's act).
False Imprisonment--A.B. falsely imprisoned C.D.
Incest--A.B. committed incest with C.D., his __________ (state relationship).
Public Intimidation--A.B. committed public intimidation upon C.D., a __________ (state official status of person intimidated).
Issuing Worthless Checks--A.B. issued a worthless check to __________ (state name of payee) in the amount of __________ dollars.
Aggravated Kidnapping--A.B. committed aggravated kidnapping of C.D.
Simple Kidnapping--A.B. kidnapped C.D.
First Degree Murder--A.B. committed first degree murder of C.D.
Second Degree Murder--A.B. committed second degree murder of C.D.
Manslaughter--A.B. unlawfully killed C.D.
Negligent Homicide--A.B. negligently killed C.D.
Negligent Injuring--A.B. negligently injured C.D.
Perjury--A.B. committed perjury on the trial of C.D. for a felony (or on the trial of C.D. for a misdemeanor; or in a civil case between C.D. and E.F.; or at a __________ hearing; as the case may be) by testifying as follows: __________ (set forth the testimony).
False Swearing--A.B. made a false statement under oath for __________ (set forth purpose of making the statement) as follows: __________ (set forth the false statement).
Prostitution--A.B. committed prostitution.
Aggravated Rape or First Degree Rape--A.B. committed aggravated or first degree rape upon C.D.
Simple Rape or Third Degree Rape--A.B. committed simple or third degree rape upon C.D.
Receiving Stolen Things--A.B. received stolen things, viz., __________ (state property received) of a value of __________ dollars.
Armed Robbery--A.B., while armed with a dangerous weapon, robbed C.D.
Simple Robbery--A.B. robbed C.D.
Theft--A.B. committed theft of __________ (state property stolen) of a value of __________ dollars.
Theft of Cattle, etc.--A.B. committed theft of __________ (describe animal or animals stolen).
Unauthorized Use of Movables--A.B. committed unauthorized use of __________ (describe the movable).
Forcible Rape or Second Degree Rape--A.B. committed forcible or second degree rape upon C.D.
B. The indictment, in addition to the necessary averments of the appropriate specific form hereinbefore set forth, may also include a statement of additional facts pertaining to the offense charged. If this is done it shall not affect the sufficiency of the specific indictment form authorized by this article.
Amended by Acts 1973, No. 128, §1; Acts 2015, No. 184, §6; Acts 2026, No. 103, §2.
In an indictment it is sufficient for the purpose of identifying the defendant to state his true name, or to state the name, appellation, or nickname by which he is known, or if no better way of identifying him is practicable, to state a fictitious name, or to describe him as a person whose name is unknown, or in any other manner. In stating the true name or the name by which the defendant is known or a fictitious name, it is sufficient to state a surname, a surname and one or more given names, or a surname and one or more abbreviations or initials of a given name or names.
If the true name of a defendant identified in the indictment otherwise than by his true name is disclosed by the evidence or is otherwise discovered, the court shall cause the indictment to be amended to show his true name, and the proceedings shall continue against the defendant in his true name.
In no case is it necessary to aver or prove that the true name of the defendant is unknown to the grand jury, complainant, or prosecuting officer.
If the defendant is a corporation, it is sufficient to state the corporate name of the defendant in an indictment, or to state any name or designation by which it has been or is known or by which it may be identified, without an averment that it is a corporation or that it was incorporated according to law.
If the defendant is a partnership or other association of persons not incorporated, it is sufficient to state any proper name of the partnership or association, or to state any name or designation by which it is known, or to state the names of all the persons in the partnership or association, or to state the name of one or more persons in the partnership or association referring to the other or others as "another" or "others." It is not necessary to state the legal form of the partnership or association.
The date or time of the commission of the offense need not be alleged in the indictment, unless the date or time is essential to the offense.
If the date or time is not essential to the offense, an indictment shall not be held insufficient if it does not state the proper date or time, or if it states the offense to have been committed on a day subsequent to the finding of the indictment, or on an impossible day.
All allegations of the indictment and bill of particulars shall be considered as referring to the same date or time, unless otherwise stated.
It is not necessary to state any venue in the body of the indictment, but the state, parish, or other jurisdiction where the indictment is filed shall be taken to be the venue for the offense charged in the indictment.
The place of the commission of the offense need not be alleged in the indictment unless the place of commission is essential to the offense. All allegations in the indictment and bill of particulars shall be considered as referring to the same place, unless stated otherwise.
Value, price, or amount of damage need not be alleged in the indictment, unless such allegation is essential to charge or determine the grade of the offense.
Ownership, or the name of the owner of property, need not be alleged in the indictment, unless such ownership or name of the owner is essential to the offense.
In offenses requiring only a general criminal intent, the indictment need not allege that the act was intentionally done.
When the name of the person injured is substantial and not merely descriptive, such as when the injury is to the person, as in murder, rape, or battery, the indictment shall state the true name of the victim or the name, appellation, or nickname by which he is known. If the name, appellation, or nickname of the victim is not known, it is sufficient to so state and to describe him as far as possible. In stating any name of a victim it is sufficient to state a surname, a surname and one or more given names, or a surname and one or more abbreviations or initials of a given name or names.
When it is necessary to make an averment in an indictment as to money, treasury notes or certificates, banknotes or other securities intended to circulate as money, it is sufficient to describe them or any of them as money, without specifying the particular character, denomination, kind, species, or nature thereof.
When it is necessary to make an averment in an indictment relative to any instrument or object which consists wholly or in part of writing or figures, pictures or designs, it is sufficient to describe the instrument or object by any name or description by which it is usually known or by which it may be identified, or by its purport, without setting forth a copy or facsimile of the whole or any part thereof.
When it is necessary to make an averment in an indictment relative to any words, whether spoken, written or otherwise recorded, or to any plan, map, or picture, it is sufficient to set forth the words by their general purport, or to describe the plan, map, or picture generally, without setting forth a copy or facsimile thereof.
The words and phrases used in an indictment or bill of particulars are to be construed according to their usual meaning and acceptation. Words and phrases which have been defined by law or which have otherwise acquired a legal meaning are to be construed according to their legal meaning.
Where a judgment or other determination of, or a proceeding before, any court or official, civil or military, is referred to in an indictment, it is unnecessary to allege the facts conferring jurisdiction on the court or official. It is sufficient to allege generally that the judgment or determination was given or made or the proceeding had, in such manner as identifies the judgment, determination or proceeding.
An indictment shall not be invalid or insufficient for the reason that it fails to negative an exception, excuse, or proviso contained in the statute creating or defining the offense. An exception, excuse, or proviso must be urged by way of defense.
If an offense may be committed by doing one or more of several acts, or by one or more of several means, or with one or more of several intents, or with one or more of several results, two or more of such acts, means, intents, or results may be charged conjunctively in a single count of an indictment, or set forth conjunctively in a bill of particulars, and proof of any one of the acts, means, intents, or results so charged or set forth will support a conviction.
An indictment for theft may include several counts against the same defendant for distinct acts of theft, and the aggregate amount of the thefts shall determine the grade of the offense charged. If a defendant misappropriates money or other things of value, which were entrusted to him by virtue of his office, employment, or any fiduciary relationship, he may be charged in one count with theft of the aggregate amount misappropriated by him during the entire time of his holding the office, employment, or fiduciary relationship.
A. An indictment for theft may also contain a count for receiving stolen things, and the defendant may be convicted of either offense. When two or more persons are jointly indicted for these offenses, any or all of the persons indicted may be found guilty of either of the offenses charged. The district attorney shall not be required to elect between the two offenses charged.
B. An indictment for manslaughter may also contain a count for abortion and the jury may convict of either offense. The district attorney shall not be required to elect between the two offenses charged.
Acts 1988, No. 515, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 1989.
{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1988, NO. 515, §12.}}
If it is necessary to allege a prior conviction in an indictment, it is sufficient to allege the name or nature of the offense and the fact, date, and court of the conviction.
An indictment shall not contain an allegation of a prior conviction of the defendant unless such allegation is necessary to fully charge the offense.
A motion for a bill of particulars may be filed of right in accordance with Article 521. The court, on its own motion or on motion of the defendant, may require the district attorney to furnish a bill of particulars setting forth more specifically the nature and cause of the charge against the defendant.
Supplemental bills of particulars or a new bill may be ordered by the court at least seven days before the trial begins.
When a bill of particulars is furnished, it shall be filed of record and a copy of the bill shall be given to the defendant.
Amended by Acts 1978, No. 735, §2; Acts 1981, No. 440, §1.
If it appears from the bill of particulars furnished under Article 484, together with any particulars appearing in the indictment, that the offense charged in the indictment was not committed, or that the defendant did not commit it, or that there is a ground for quashing the indictment, the court may on its own motion, and on motion of the defendant shall, order that the indictment be quashed unless the defect is cured. The defect will be cured if the district attorney furnishes, within a period fixed by the court and not to exceed three days from the order, another bill of particulars which either by itself or together with any particulars appearing in the indictment so states the particulars as to make it appear that the offense charged was committed by the defendant, or that there is no ground for quashing the indictment, as the case may be.
An indictment that charges an offense in accordance with the provisions of this Title shall not be invalid or insufficient because it contains repugnant allegations. Unnecessary allegations may be disregarded as surplusage.
A. An indictment that charges an offense in accordance with the provisions of this Title shall not be invalid or insufficient because of any defect or imperfection in, or omission of, any matter of form only, or because of any miswriting, misspelling, or improper English, or because of the use of any sign, symbol, figure, or abbreviation, or because any similar defect, imperfection, omission, or uncertainty exists therein. The court may at any time cause the indictment to be amended in respect to any such formal defect, imperfection, omission, or uncertainty.
Before the trial begins the court may order an indictment amended with respect to a defect of substance. After the trial begins a mistrial shall be ordered on the ground of a defect of substance.
B. Nothing contained herein shall be construed to prohibit the defendant from entering a plea of guilty to a crime nonresponsive to the original indictment when such a plea is acceptable to the district attorney, and in such case, the district attorney shall not be required to file a new indictment to charge the crime to which the plea is offered.
Amended by Acts 1970, No. 679, §1.
An indictment which charges operating a vehicle while intoxicated may be amended at any time prior to commencement of the trial to charge a second, third, or fourth offense thereof regardless of whether such second, third, or fourth offense occurred before or after an earlier conviction of operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
Added by Acts 1978, No. 682, §2.
When there is a variance between the allegations of an indictment or bill of particulars which state the particulars of the offense, and the evidence offered in support thereof, the court may order the indictment or bill of particulars amended in respect to the variance, and then admit the evidence.
If it is shown, on motion of the defendant, that the defendant has been prejudiced in his defense on the merits by the defect, imperfection, omission, uncertainty, or variance, with respect to which an amendment is made, the court shall grant a continuance for a reasonable time. In determining whether the defendant has been prejudiced in his defense upon the merits, the court shall consider all the circumstances of the case and the entire course of the prosecution. If it becomes necessary to discharge the original jury from further consideration of the case, the trial before a new jury will not constitute double jeopardy.
Counts are charges of crime joined in the same indictment. Recitals in one count may be incorporated in subsequent counts by means of a clear and distinct reference. The conclusion of the indictment applies to all counts stated therein.
Arts. 491, 492 Repealed by Acts 1975, No. 528, §1
Two or more offenses may be charged in the same indictment or information in a separate count for each offense if the offenses charged, whether felonies or misdemeanors, are of the same or similar character or are based on the same act or transaction or on two or more acts or transactions connected together or constituting parts of a common scheme or plan; provided that the offenses joined must be triable by the same mode of trial.
Amended by Acts 1975, No. 528, §2.
Whenever two or more misdemeanors are joined in accordance with Article 493 in the same indictment or information, the maximum aggregate penalty that may be imposed for the misdemeanors shall not exceed imprisonment for more than six months or a fine of more than one thousand dollars, or both.
Acts 1992, No. 313, §1, eff. June 17, 1992.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 493, offenses in which punishment is necessarily confinement at hard labor may be charged in the same indictment or information with offenses in which the punishment may be confinement at hard labor, provided that the joined offenses are of the same or similar character or are based on the same act or transaction or on two or more acts or transactions connected together or constituting parts of a common scheme or plan. Cases so joined shall be tried by a jury composed of twelve jurors, ten of whom must concur to render a verdict.
Acts 1997, No. 559, §1.
Two or more defendants may be charged in the same indictment or information if they are alleged to have participated in the same act or transaction or in the same series of acts or transactions constituting an offense or offenses. Such defendants may be charged in one or more counts together or separately and all of the defendants need not be charged in each count.
Amended by Acts 1975, No. 528, §2.
The objections of misjoinder of defendants or misjoinder of offenses may be urged only by a motion to quash the indictment.
Amended by Acts 1975, No. 528, §2.
If it appears that a defendant or the state is prejudiced by a joinder of offenses in an indictment or bill of information or by such joinder for trial together, the court may order separate trials, grant a severance of offenses, or provide whatever other relief justice requires.
Added by Acts 1975, No. 528, §3. Amended by Acts 1978, No. 466, §1.
A. When an indictment has been found against a defendant who is not in custody or at large on bail for the offense charged, the court shall issue a warrant for the defendant's arrest, unless the court issues a summons pursuant to Article 497.
B. When an information has been filed against a defendant who is not in custody or at large on bail for the offense charged, the court shall issue a warrant for the defendant's arrest if the information is accompanied by one or more affidavits which establish probable cause to believe that an offense has been committed and that the defendant named in the information committed it, unless the court issues a summons pursuant to Article 497.
Acts 2011, No. 216, §1; Acts 2012, No. 216, §1.
If an offense charged by indictment or information is a misdemeanor, the court may issue a summons, instead of a warrant of arrest, if it has reasonable ground to believe that the person will appear in response to a summons. If the court issues a summons, it may later issue a warrant of arrest in place of the summons.
A certified copy of the indictment or information shall be furnished by the clerk of court to a defendant upon his request. Failure to furnish a correct copy of the indictment or information shall not affect the validity of the criminal prosecution, unless the defendant was substantially prejudiced thereby.
A. A person against whom charges have been filed for a sex offense as defined in R.S. 15:541 either by indictment or information shall, at the direction of the court, undergo a medical procedure or test designed to determine or aid in determining whether the person has a sexually transmitted disease, or is infected with the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) virus, the human immuno deficiency virus (HIV-1) infection, any antibodies to such viruses, or with any other probable causative agent of AIDS.
B. The court shall include in its order the designation of an appropriate facility for the procedure, and shall require that the result be reported to the court. The court may in its discretion provide the results to the victim of the offense, and shall provide them to health authorities in accordance with law.
C. The state shall not use the fact that the medical procedure or test was performed on the alleged offender under this Article, or the results thereof, in any criminal proceeding arising out of the alleged offense.
Acts 1991, No. 316, §1; Acts 2006, No. 23, §1.
The accused in every instance has the right to defend himself and to have the assistance of counsel. His counsel shall have free access to him, in private, at reasonable hours.
When a defendant charged with a capital offense appears for arraignment without counsel, the court shall provide counsel for his defense in accordance with the provisions of R.S. 15:141 et seq. Such counsel must be assigned before the defendant pleads to the indictment, but may be assigned earlier. Counsel assigned in a capital case must have been admitted to the bar for at least five years. An attorney with less experience may be assigned as assistant counsel.
Amended by Acts 1976, No. 653, §2; Acts 2010, No. 861, §2.
In the case of an offense punishable by imprisonment, when the defendant appears for arraignment without counsel, the court shall inform him before he pleads to the indictment of his right to have counsel appointed to defend him if he is indigent. When a defendant states under oath that he desires counsel but is indigent, and the court finds the statement of indigency to be true, before the defendant pleads to the indictment, the court shall provide counsel for the defendant, in accordance with R.S. 15:141 et seq.
Amended by Acts 1974, Ex.Sess. No. 22, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1975; Acts 1976, No. 653, §2; Acts 2010, No. 861, §2.
The minutes of the court must show either that the defendant was represented by counsel or that he was informed by the court of the defendant's right to counsel, including the right to court-appointed counsel, and that he waived such right.
Amended by Acts 1981, No. 135, §1.
Assignment of counsel shall not deprive the defendant of the right to engage other counsel at any stage of the proceedings in substitution of counsel assigned by the court. The court may assign other counsel in substitution of counsel previously assigned or specially assigned to assist the defendant at the arraignment.
When a defendant has pleaded at the arraignment without counsel, counsel subsequently appointed or procured before trial shall be given a reasonable time within which to withdraw any motion, plea, or waiver made by the defendant, and to enter any other motion or plea.
A. Whenever two or more defendants have been jointly charged in a single indictment or have moved to consolidate their indictments for a joint trial, and are represented by the same retained or appointed counsel or by retained or appointed counsel who are associated in the practice of law, the court shall inquire with respect to such joint representation and shall advise each defendant on the record of his right to separate representation.
B. Unless it appears that there is good cause to believe that no conflict of interest is likely to arise, the court shall take such measures as may be appropriate to protect each defendant's right to counsel.
Acts 1997, No. 889, §1.
A. Pretrial motions shall be made or filed within thirty days after receipt of initial discovery, unless a different time is provided by law or fixed by the court upon a showing of good cause why thirty days is inadequate.
B. Upon written motion at any time and a showing of good cause, the court shall allow additional time to file pretrial motions.
C. If by pretrial motion the state or the defendant requests discovery or disclosure of evidence favorable to the defendant, then the court shall fix a time by which the state or the defendant shall respond to the motion.
Added by Acts 1978, No. 735, §1; Amended by Acts 1981, No. 440, §1; Acts 2012, No. 842, §1; Acts 2020, No. 252, §1.
A. If provided by local rule of the court, a defendant's appearance at the seventy-two hour hearing and the initial setting of bail may be by simultaneous transmission through audio-visual electronic equipment.
B. If provided by local rule of the court and approved by the defense counsel, a defendant's appearance at any pretrial motion or at any hearing on a pretrial motion, except as provided in Paragraph A of this Article, may be by simultaneous transmission through audio-visual electronic equipment.
Acts 1997, No. 1015, §1.
A. When the court sets a date for a contradictory hearing of any pretrial motion filed by the defendant, in addition to any other method of service provided for by law, notice of the date of such hearing may be served upon the defendant by mailing notice to the counsel of record.
B. Failure of a defendant who is not incarcerated, or failure of his attorney, to appear for the hearing of a pretrial motion filed by the defendant shall be grounds for dismissal by the court.
C. On oral or written motion of the district attorney, the court may dismiss the defendant's pretrial motion upon either of the following:
(1) The second failure to appear by the defendant or his counsel, after actual notice, for the hearing of a pretrial motion filed by the defendant, when the hearing for such motion was previously reset due to the defendant's failure to appear on the date that the hearing was originally set.
(2) The first failure to appear by the defendant or his counsel, after actual notice, for the hearing of a pretrial motion filed by the defendant, when the defendant has previously failed to appear in court for any other proceeding in the case.
Acts 2010, No. 713, §1.
All pleas or defenses raised before trial, other than mental incapacity to proceed, or pleas of "not guilty" and of "not guilty and not guilty by reason of insanity," shall be urged by a motion to quash.
A motion to quash may be based on one or more of the following grounds:
(1) The indictment fails to charge an offense which is punishable under a valid statute.
(2) The indictment fails to conform to the requirements of Chapters 1 and 2 of Title XIII. In such case the court may permit the district attorney to amend the indictment to correct the defect.
(3) The indictment is duplicitous or contains a misjoinder of defendants or offenses. In such case the court may permit the district attorney to sever the indictment into separate counts or separate indictments.
(4) The district attorney failed to furnish a sufficient bill of particulars when ordered to do so by the court. In such case the court may overrule the motion if a sufficient bill of particulars is furnished within the delay fixed by the court.
(5) A bill of particulars has shown a ground for quashing the indictment under Article 485.
(6) Trial for the offense charged would constitute double jeopardy.
(7) The time limitation for the institution of prosecution or for the commencement of trial has expired.
(8) The court has no jurisdiction of the offense charged.
(9) The general venire or the petit jury venire was improperly drawn, selected, or constituted.
(10) The individual charged with a violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law has a valid prescription for that substance.
Acts 2009, No. 265, §2.
A motion to quash an indictment by a grand jury may also be based on one or more of the following grounds:
(1) The manner of selection of the general venire, the grand jury venire, or the grand jury was illegal.
(2) An individual grand juror was not qualified under Article 401.
(3) A person, other than a grand juror, was present while the grand jurors were deliberating or voting, or an unauthorized person was present when the grand jury was examining a witness.
(4) Less than nine grand jurors were present when the indictment was found.
(5) The indictment was not indorsed "a true bill," or the endorsement was not signed by the foreman of the grand jury.
A motion to quash an information may also be based on one or more of the following grounds:
(1) The information was not signed by the district attorney; or was not properly filed.
(2) The offense is not one for which prosecution can be instituted by an information.
A. A motion to quash may be filed of right at any time before commencement of the trial, when based on the ground that:
(1) The offense charged is not punishable under a valid statute;
(2) The indictment does not conform with the requirements of Chapters 1 and 2 of Title XIII;
(3) Trial for the offense charged would constitute double jeopardy;
(4) The time limitation for the institution of prosecution has expired;
(5) The court has no jurisdiction of the offense charged; or
(6) The information charges an offense for which prosecution can be instituted only by a grand jury indictment.
(7) The individual charged with a violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law has a valid prescription for that substance.
These grounds may be urged at a later stage of the proceedings in accordance with other provisions of this Code.
B. A motion to quash on the ground that the time limitation for commencement of trial has expired may be filed at any time before commencement of trial.
C. A motion to quash on grounds other than those stated in Paragraphs A and B of this Article shall be filed in accordance with Article 521.
D. The grounds for a motion to quash under Paragraphs B and C are waived unless a motion to quash is filed in conformity with those provisions.
E. The court may, in order to avoid a continuance, defer a hearing on a motion to quash until the end of the trial.
Amended by Acts 1978, No. 735, §2; Acts 2009, No. 265, §2.
A motion to quash shall be in writing, signed by the defendant or his attorney, and filed in open court or in the office of the clerk of court. It shall specify distinctly the grounds on which it is based. The court shall hear no objection based on grounds not stated in the motion.
All issues, whether of law or fact, that arise on a motion to quash shall be tried by the court without a jury.
The court shall order the defendant discharged from custody or bail, as to that charge, when it sustains a motion to quash based upon the ground that:
(1) The offense is not punishable under a valid statute;
(2) Trial for the offense charged would constitute double jeopardy;
(3) The time limitation for the institution of prosecution or for the commencement of trial has expired; or
(4) The court has no jurisdiction of the offense charged.
In other cases, when a motion to quash is sustained, the court may order that the defendant be held in custody or that his bail be continued for a specified time, pending the filing of a new indictment.
A. The arraignment consists of the reading of the indictment to the defendant by the clerk in open court, and the court calling upon the defendant to plead. Reading of the indictment may be waived by the defendant at the discretion and with the permission of the court. The arraignment and the defendant's plea shall be entered in the minutes of the court and shall constitute a part of the record.
B. The court may, by local rule, provide for the defendant's appearance at the arraignment and the entry of his plea by way of simultaneous transmission through audio-visual electronic equipment.
Acts 1990, No. 543, §1; Acts 1990, No. 593, §1; Acts 2017, No. 406, §1; Acts 2020, No. 160, §1.
A. Subject to the provisions of Paragraph D, at arraignment and upon verified motion of the railroad employer of an employee-defendant charged with a violation of a parish or municipal ordinance, the railroad employer shall be substituted as defendant in the proceedings in accordance with the provisions of Paragraphs B and C.
B. Any railroad employer seeking to be substituted as the defendant in any proceeding citing its employee for a violation of any parish or municipal ordinance must file a verified motion setting forth the facts that the defendant is its employee, and at the time of the violation, the defendant was in the employ of the railroad employer and was performing his duties and functions in the course and scope of his employment which caused the violation, in accordance with the rules and regulations or instructions of the employer.
C. Subject to the provisions of Paragraph D, upon the timely filing of the motion to substitute defendant by the railroad employer, the railroad employer shall be substituted as the defendant in the proceedings, the individual employee shall be dismissed as a defendant, and the charges against the individual employee shall be erased from the record, at which time the railroad defendant shall be the sole defendant and entity responsible for the violation of the parish or municipal ordinance as originally cited.
D. The provisions of this Article shall not apply to or be available in prosecutions involving the alleged consumption of alcohol or controlled dangerous substances.
Acts 1993, No. 360, §1, eff. June 3, 1993.
There are four kinds of pleas to the indictment at the arraignment:
(1) Guilty;
(2) Not guilty;
(3) Not guilty and not guilty by reason of insanity; or
(4) Nolo contendere, which plea a court may in its discretion accept only if the offense charged is not a capital offense. If a court accepts such a plea, it shall impose sentence or place the defendant on probation, or release him during his good behavior, in accordance with the laws applicable to the offense. A sentence imposed upon a plea of nolo contendere is a conviction and may be considered as a prior conviction and provide a basis for prosecution or sentencing under laws pertaining to multiple offenses, and shall be a conviction for purposes of laws providing for the granting, suspension or revocation of licenses to operate motor vehicles.
Amended by Acts 1972, No. 453, §1; Acts 1977, No. 534, §1.
A. Except when otherwise provided under Paragraph B of this Article or by local rule in accordance with Articles 551 and 562, the defendant in a felony case shall plead in person. In misdemeanor cases, the defendant may plead not guilty through counsel, may plead guilty through counsel with consent of the court, may appear and enter his plea of guilty by way of simultaneous audio-visual transmission in accordance with local rules of court and Articles 551 and 562, and may plead and be arraigned in accordance with procedures established according to R.S. 32:57(C). A corporation may plead through counsel in all cases. The plea shall be made in open court and shall be immediately entered in the minutes of the court. A failure to enter a plea in the minutes shall not affect the validity of any proceeding in the case.
B. By rule adopted pursuant to R.S. 13:472, the judge of the district court or a majority of the judges in a multi-district court may permit the defendant in a noncapital felony case to waive formal arraignment and enter a plea of not guilty without pleading in person. The rule shall require that the plea be in writing and shall set forth the filing procedure. Any formal defect shall not affect the validity of the proceeding.
C. Repealed by Acts 2020, No. 160, §2.
Acts 1980, No. 570, §1; Acts 1990, No. 543, §1; Acts 1990, No. 593, §1; Acts 1997, No. 1011, §1; Acts 2003, No. 206, §1; Acts 2017, No. 406, §1; Acts 2020, No. 160, §§1, 2.
A defendant shall plead when arraigned. If he stands mute, refuses to plead, or pleads evasively, a plea of not guilty shall be entered of record. When a defendant is a corporation and fails to appear for arraignment when summoned, a plea of not guilty shall be entered of record.
Any irregularity in the arraignment, including a failure to read the indictment, is waived if the defendant pleads to the indictment without objecting thereto. A failure to arraign the defendant or the fact that he did not plead, is waived if the defendant enters upon the trial without objecting thereto, and it shall be considered as if he had pleaded not guilty.
A. Except as otherwise provided in Paragraph B of this Article or in R.S. 32:57 or in any other applicable law, in a misdemeanor case, if the defendant is not represented by counsel of record, the court shall not accept a plea of guilty or nolo contendere without first determining that the plea is voluntary and is made with an understanding of the nature of the charge and of his right to be represented by counsel.
B. In a misdemeanor case in which the court determines that a sentence of imprisonment will actually be imposed or in which the conviction can be used to enhance the grade or statutory penalty for a subsequent offense, the court shall not accept a plea of guilty or nolo contendere without first addressing the defendant personally in open court and informing him of, and determining that he understands, all of the following:
(1) The nature of the charge to which the plea is offered, the mandatory minimum penalty provided by law, if any, and the maximum possible penalty provided by law.
(2) If the defendant is not represented by an attorney, that he has the right to be represented by an attorney at every stage of the proceeding against him and, if financially unable to employ counsel, one will be appointed to represent him.
(3) That he has the right to have a trial, and if the maximum penalty provided for the offense exceeds imprisonment for six months or a fine of one thousand dollars, a right to trial by a jury or by the court, at his option.
(4) At that trial he has the right to confront and cross-examine witnesses against him and the right not to be compelled to incriminate himself.
(5) That if he pleads guilty or nolo contendere there will not be a further trial of any kind, so that by pleading guilty or nolo contendere he waives the right to a trial.
C. The court shall require either:
(1) That a verbatim record of the proceedings at which the defendant enters a plea be made.
(2) That a form reflecting the court's advice to the defendant and the court's inquiry into the voluntariness of the plea be signed by the court and the defendant and filed in the record at the time of the plea.
D. Any variance from the procedures required by this Article which does not affect substantial rights of the defendant shall not invalidate the plea.
E. Nothing in this Article prohibits the court, by local rule, from providing for a defendant's appearance at the entry of his plea of guilty or nolo contendere by simultaneous audio-visual transmission.
Acts 2001, No. 243, §1; Acts 2017, No. 406, §1; Acts 2020, No. 160, §1.
A. In a felony case, the court shall not accept a plea of guilty or nolo contendere without first addressing the defendant personally in open court and informing him of, and determining that he understands, all of the following:
(1) The nature of the charge to which the plea is offered, the mandatory minimum penalty provided by law, if any, and the maximum possible penalty provided by law.
(2) If the defendant is not represented by an attorney, that he has the right to be represented by an attorney at every stage of the proceeding against him and, if financially unable to employ counsel, one will be appointed to represent him.
(3) That he has the right to plead not guilty or to persist in that plea if it has already been made, and that he has the right to be tried by a jury and at that trial has the right to the assistance of counsel, the right to confront and cross-examine witnesses against him, and the right not to be compelled to incriminate himself.
(4) That if he pleads guilty or nolo contendere there will not be a further trial of any kind, so that by pleading guilty or nolo contendere he waives the right to a trial.
(5) That if he pleads guilty or nolo contendere, he may be subject to additional consequences or waivers of constitutional rights in the following areas as a result of his plea to be informed as follows:
(a) Defense counsel or the court shall inform him regarding:
(i) Potential deportation, for a person who is not a United States citizen.
(ii) The right to vote.
(iii) The right to bear arms.
(iv) The right to due process.
(v) The right to equal protection.
(b) Defense counsel or the court may inform him of additional direct or potential consequences impacting the following:
(i) College admissions and financial aid.
(ii) Public housing benefits.
(iii) Employment and licensing restrictions.
(iv) Potential sentencing as a habitual offender.
(v) Standard of proof for probation or parole revocations.
(c) Failure to adhere to the provisions of Subsubparagraphs (a) and (b) of this Subparagraph shall not be considered an error, defect, irregularity, or variance affecting the substantial rights of the accused and does not constitute grounds for reversal pursuant to Article 921.
(d) It shall be sufficient to utilize a form which conveys this information to the client and the form shall constitute prima facie evidence that the content was conveyed and understood.
B. In a felony case, the court shall not accept a plea of guilty or nolo contendere without first addressing the defendant personally in open court and determining that the plea is voluntary and not the result of force or threats or of promises apart from a plea agreement.
C.(1) The court shall also inquire as to whether the defendant's willingness to plead guilty or nolo contendere results from prior discussions between the district attorney and the defendant or his attorney. If a plea agreement has been reached by the parties, the court, on the record, shall require the disclosure of the agreement in open court or, on a showing of good cause, in camera, at the time the plea is offered.
(2) The court shall further inquire of the defendant and his attorney whether the defendant has been informed of all plea offers made by the state.
D. In a felony case a verbatim record shall be made of the proceedings at which the defendant enters a plea of guilty or nolo contendere.
E. Any variance from the procedures required by this Article which does not affect substantial rights of the accused shall not invalidate the plea.
F. Nothing in this Article prohibits the court, by local rule, from providing for a defendant's appearance at the entry of his plea of guilty or nolo contendere by simultaneous audio-visual transmission in accordance with the provisions of Article 562.
Acts 1997, No. 1061, §1; Acts 2001, No. 243, §1; Acts 2017, No. 406, §1; Acts 2019, No. 158, §1; Acts 2020, No. 160, §1; Acts 2021, No. 271, §1.
A. A court shall not receive an unqualified plea of guilty in a capital case. However, with the consent of the court and the state, a defendant may plead guilty with the stipulation either that the court shall impose a sentence of life imprisonment without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence without conducting a sentencing hearing, or that the court shall impanel a jury for the purpose of conducting a hearing to determine the issue of penalty in accordance with the applicable provisions of this Code.
B. If a defendant makes an unqualified plea, the court shall order a plea of not guilty entered for him.
Amended by Acts 1973, No. 134, §1; Acts 1995, No. 434, §1.
The defendant, with the consent of the district attorney, may plead guilty of a lesser offense that is included in the offense charged in the indictment.
The court may adjudicate a defendant not guilty by reason of insanity without trial, when the district attorney consents and the court makes a finding based upon expert testimony that there is a factual basis for the plea.
Added by Acts 1983, No. 530, §1.
A. Upon motion of the defendant and after a contradictory hearing, which may be waived by the state in writing, the court may permit a plea of guilty to be withdrawn at any time before sentence.
B. The court shall not accept a plea of guilty of a felony within forty-eight hours of the defendant's arrest. When such a plea has been accepted within the forty-eight hour period, the court, upon a motion filed by the defendant within thirty days after the plea was entered, shall set aside the plea and any sentence imposed thereon.
C. The admissibility of a withdrawn plea of guilty and the facts surrounding it, is governed by Louisiana Code of Evidence Article 410.
Acts 1988, No. 515, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 1989; Acts 2014, No. 85, §1.
{{NOTE: See Acts 1988, No. 515, §12, regarding effectiveness and applicability.}}
A defendant may at any time withdraw a plea of not guilty and plead guilty, subject to the limitations stated in Articles 556 through 559.
The defendant may withdraw a plea of "not guilty" and enter a plea of "not guilty and not guilty by reason of insanity," within ten days after arraignment. Thereafter, the court may, for good cause shown, allow such a change of plea at any time before the commencement of the trial.
A. In a case where the offense is a noncapital felony or a misdemeanor, the defendant, who is confined in a jail, prison, or other detention facility in Louisiana, may, with the court's consent and the consent of the district attorney, appear at the entry of his plea of guilty, at any revocation hearing for a probation violation, including any hearing for a contempt of court, and at sentencing by simultaneous audio-visual transmission if the court, by local rule, provides for the defendant's appearance in this manner and the defendant waives his right to be physically present at the proceeding.
B. In a capital case, the defendant may not enter his plea by simultaneous audio-visual transmission.
C. If the defendant is represented by an attorney during the proceeding in which a simultaneous audio-visual transmission system is used, the attorney may elect to be present either in the courtroom with the presiding judicial officer or in the place where the defendant is confined. Upon request by the defendant or the attorney representing the defendant, the court shall provide the opportunity for confidential communication between the defendant and the attorney representing him at any time prior to or during the proceeding.
D. The law enforcement agency who has custody of the defendant at the time of the proceeding shall obtain the fingerprints of the defendant for purposes of Article 871. The fingerprints may be taken electronically or in ink and converted to electronic format.
Acts 2017, No. 406, §1; Acts 2020, No. 160, §1.
There is no time limitation upon the institution of prosecution for any crime for which the punishment may be death or life imprisonment or for the crime of forcible or second degree rape (R.S. 14:42.1) or molestation of a juvenile or a person with a physical or mental disability (R.S. 14:81.2).
Amended by Acts 1984, No. 926, §1; Acts 2001, No. 207, §1; Acts 2015, No. 184, §6; Acts 2024, No. 698, §1.
Except as provided by Article 571, 572, or any other provision of law that establishes a longer period of limitation, the time within which to institute prosecution of the perpetration or attempted perpetration of, conspiracy to commit, or commission of any sex offense as defined in R.S. 15:541 that involves a victim under eighteen years of age shall be thirty years. This thirty-year period begins to run when the victim attains the age of eighteen.
Acts 1993, No. 592, §1, eff. June 15, 1993; Acts 2001, No. 207, §1; Acts 2001, No. 533, §1; Acts 2003, No. 809, §1, eff. July 1, 2003; Acts 2004, No. 676, §3; Acts 2005, No. 186, §1; Acts 2012, No. 446, §5; Acts 2014, No. 602, §2, eff. June 12, 2014; Acts 2016, No. 41, §1; Acts 2022, No. 202, §2; Acts 2024, No. 698, §1; Acts 2025, No. 346, §2.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 572, the time limitation for the institution of prosecution of an elected official or a public employee for the following offenses when the offense was committed during the official's term in office or the public employee's period of public employment shall be ten years after the official's term of office during which the offense was committed ends or the official otherwise leaves or vacates the office, whichever is sooner, or ten years after the public employee's employment during which the offense was committed terminates:
(1) Abuse of office, R.S. 14:134.3.
(2) Bribery of a candidate, R.S. 18:1469.
(3) Bribery of voters, R.S. 18:1461.
(4) Corrupt influencing, R.S. 14:120.
(5) Malfeasance in office, R.S. 14:134.
(6) Public bribery, R.S. 14:118.
Acts 2026, No. 364, §1.
A. Except as provided in Article 571, 571.1, or 571.2, no person shall be prosecuted, tried, or punished for an offense not punishable by death or life imprisonment, unless the prosecution is instituted within the following periods of time after the offense has been committed:
(1) Six years, for a felony necessarily punishable by imprisonment at hard labor.
(2) Four years, for a felony not necessarily punishable by imprisonment at hard labor.
(3) Two years, for a misdemeanor punishable by a fine, or imprisonment, or both.
(4) Six months, for a misdemeanor punishable only by a fine or forfeiture.
B.(1) Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 571.1 and Paragraph A of this Article, prosecutions for any sex offense may be commenced beyond the time limitations set forth in this Title if the identity of the offender is established after the expiration of such time limitation through the use of a DNA profile or newly discovered photographic or video evidence.
(2) A prosecution under the exception provided by this Paragraph shall be commenced within three years from the date on which the identity of the suspect is established by DNA testing or by the use of newly discovered photographic or video evidence.
(3) For purposes of this Article, "DNA" means deoxyribonucleic acid, which is located in cells and provides an individual's personal genetic blue print and which encodes genetic information that is the basis of human heredity and forensic identification.
(4) This Paragraph shall have retroactive application to crimes committed prior to June 20, 2003.
C. Upon expiration of the time period in which a prosecution may be instituted, any bail bond applicable to that prosecution which bond has not been forfeited shall also expire, and all obligations of that bail undertaking shall be extinguished as a matter of law.
Amended by Acts 1984, No. 926, §1; Acts 2001, No. 207, §1; Acts 2003, No. 487, §2, eff. June 20, 2003; Acts 2003, No. 809, §1, eff. July 1, 2003; Acts 2006, No. 123, §1, eff. June 2, 2006; Acts 2024, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 3, §1, eff. March 5, 2024; Acts 2026, No. 364, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 2003, No. 487, §5, relative to application.
The time limitations established by Article 572 shall not commence to run as to the following offenses until the relationship or status involved has ceased to exist when:
(1) Except as provided in Article 571.2, the offense charged is based on the misappropriation of any money or thing of value by one who, by virtue of his office, employment, or fiduciary relationship, has been entrusted therewith or has control thereof.
(2) The offense charged is extortion (R.S. 14:66) or false accounting (R.S. 14:70) committed by a public officer or employee in his official capacity.
(3) The offense charged is a felony crime of violence as defined in R.S. 14:2(B) or cruelty to juveniles as defined in R.S. 14:93 and the victim is under eighteen years of age, unless a longer period of limitation is established by Article 571.1 or any other provision of law.
Added by Acts 1982, No. 753, §1; Acts 1987, No. 587, §1; Acts 1988, No. 436, §1; Acts 1988, No. 693, §1; Acts 1993, No. 592, §1, eff. June 15, 1993; Acts 2021, No. 142, §1; Acts 2026, No. 364, §1.
A. The time limitations established by Article 572 shall not commence to run as to any crime wherein the victim is a person with infirmities until the crime is discovered by a competent victim, or in the case of an incompetent victim, by a law enforcement officer. This shall include but is not limited to the crimes of simple battery of persons with infirmities (R.S. 14:35.2), cruelty to persons with infirmities (R.S. 14:93.3), exploitation of persons with infirmities (R.S. 14:93.4), sexual battery of persons with infirmities (R.S. 14:93.5), and abuse of persons with infirmities through electronic means (R.S. 14:283.3).
B.(1) "Law enforcement officer" shall mean any employee of the state, a political subdivision, a municipality, a sheriff, or other public agency whose permanent duties include the making of arrests, the performing of searches and seizures, or the execution of criminal warrants, and who is responsible for the prevention or detection of crime or for the enforcement of the penal, traffic, or highway laws of this state.
(2) "Person with infirmities" shall mean a person who suffers from a mental or physical disability, including those associated with advanced age, which renders the person incapable of adequately providing for his personal care. The term "person with infirmities" may include but is not limited to any individual who is an outpatient or resident of a nursing home, facility for persons with intellectual disabilities, mental health facility, hospital, or other residential facility, or a recipient of home or community-based care or services.
Acts 2010, No. 317, §1; Acts 2014, No. 811, §31, eff. June 23, 2014; Acts 2021, No. 72, §1.
The time limitations established by Article 572 shall not commence to run as to the crime of video voyeurism (R.S. 14:283) until the crime is discovered by the victim.
Acts 2016, No. 352, §1.
The time limitations established by this Chapter shall not commence to run as to a crime described in R.S. 11:2261.1(C) and committed against the Firefighters' Retirement System until the crime is discovered by the Firefighters' Retirement System.
Acts 2018, No. 115, §2.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 572(A) and except as provided by Article 571.1, 572(B), or any other provision of law that establishes a longer period of limitation, the time within which to institute prosecution of the crime of third degree rape (R.S. 14:43) shall be ten years. This period shall not commence to run until the crime is discovered by the victim.
Acts 2024, No. 557, §1; Acts 2026, No. 103, §2.
The time limitations applicable to the offense for which a person is prosecuted apply to a conviction or punishment for a lesser and included offense.
The periods of limitation established by this Chapter shall be interrupted when the defendant:
(1) For the purpose of avoiding detection, apprehension or prosecution, flees from the state, is outside the state, or is absent from his usual place of abode within the state; or
(2) Lacks mental capacity to proceed at trial and is committed in accordance with Article 648 of this Code.
Amended by Acts 1979, No. 318, §1.
The periods of limitation established by this Chapter shall be suspended when a civil suit is filed as provided in R.S. 11:2261.1(C).
Acts 2018, No. 115, §2.
When a criminal prosecution is timely instituted in a court of proper jurisdiction and the prosecution is dismissed by the district attorney with the defendant's consent, or before the first witness is sworn at the trial on the merits, or the indictment is dismissed by a court for any error, defect, irregularity, or deficiency, a new prosecution for the same offense or for a lesser offense based on the same facts may be instituted within the time established by this Chapter or within six months from the date of dismissal, whichever is longer.
A new prosecution shall not be instituted under this article following a dismissal of the prosecution by the district attorney unless the state shows that the dismissal was not for the purpose of avoiding the time limitation for commencement of trial established by Article 578.
The issue that a prosecution was not timely instituted may be raised at any time, but only once, and shall be tried by the court alone. If raised during the trial, a hearing thereon may be deferred until the end of the trial.
The state shall not be required to allege facts showing that the time limitation has not expired, but when the issue is raised, the state has the burden of proving the facts necessary to show that the prosecution was timely instituted.
A. Except as otherwise provided in this Chapter, no trial shall be commenced nor any bail obligation be enforceable:
(1) In capital cases after three years from the date of institution of the prosecution;
(2) In other felony cases after two years from the date of institution of the prosecution; and
(3) In misdemeanor cases after one year from the date of institution of the prosecution.
B. The offense charged shall determine the applicable limitation.
Acts 2006, No. 123, §1, eff. June 2, 2006.
A. The period of limitation established by Article 578 shall be interrupted if:
(1) The defendant at any time, with the purpose to avoid detection, apprehension, or prosecution, flees from the state, is outside the state, or is absent from his usual place of abode within the state; or
(2) The defendant cannot be tried because of insanity or because his presence for trial cannot be obtained by legal process, or for any other cause beyond the control of the state; or
(3) The defendant fails to appear at any proceeding pursuant to actual notice, proof of which appears of record.
B. The periods of limitation established by Article 578 shall commence to run anew from the date the cause of interruption no longer exists.
C. If the defendant fails to appear in court pursuant to any provision of this Article and the defendant is subsequently arrested, the periods of limitations established by Article 578 of this Code shall not commence to run anew until the defendant appears in person in open court where the case on the original charge is pending, or the district attorney prosecuting the original charge has notice of the defendant's custodial location. For purposes of this Paragraph, "notice" shall mean either of the following:
(1) Filing in the court record by either the defendant or his counsel advising the court of his incarceration with a copy provided to the district attorney and certification of notice provided to the district attorney.
(2) Following the seventy-two hour hearing provided by Article 230.1 of this Code, actual notice of arrest is provided to the district attorney and filed in the record of the proceeding of which the warrant against the defendant was issued.
Amended by Acts 1984, No. 671, §1; Acts 2013, No. 6, §1.
A. When a defendant files a motion to quash or other preliminary plea, the running of the periods of limitation established by Article 578 shall be suspended until the ruling of the court thereon; but in no case shall the state have less than one year after the ruling to commence the trial.
B. The periods of limitation established by Article 578 shall also be suspended if the court grants a continuance in accordance with the provisions of Paragraph B of Article 709.
Acts 2010, No. 744, §1, eff. June 29, 2010.
Upon the expiration of the limitations established by this Chapter, the court shall, upon motion of the defendant, dismiss the indictment. This right of dismissal is waived unless the motion to quash is made prior to trial.
If the indictment is dismissed under this article, there shall be no further prosecution against the defendant for the same or a lesser offense based on the same facts.
A. When a defendant obtains a new trial through a motion for new trial, appeal, post conviction relief, or any other mechanism provided in state or federal law, or when there is a mistrial, the state shall commence the second trial within one year from the date that the new trial is granted, or the mistrial is ordered, or within the period established by Article 578, whichever is longer.
B. If the state seeks review of the granting of the new trial, the period of limitations in this Article shall not commence to run until the judgment granting the new trial has become final by the state exhausting all avenues of review in the appropriate appellate courts, including the Louisiana Supreme Court.
Acts 2024, N0. 207, §1, eff. May 23, 2024.
The period of limitation established by Article 582 shall be interrupted by any of the causes stated in Article 579. Where such interruption occurs, the state must commence the new trial within one year from the date the cause of interruption no longer exists.
Added by Acts 1972, No. 647, §1.
No person shall be twice put in jeopardy of life or liberty for the same offense, except, when on his own motion, a new trial has been granted or judgment has been arrested, or where there has been a mistrial legally ordered under the provisions of Article 775 or ordered with the express consent of the defendant.
When a defendant pleads not guilty and is tried by jury, jeopardy begins when the jury panel is sworn pursuant to Article 790. When a defendant pleads not guilty, and is tried without a jury, jeopardy begins when the first witness is sworn at the trial on the merits. When a defendant pleads guilty, jeopardy begins when a valid sentence is imposed.
Acts 1990, No. 525, §1.
Double jeopardy shall be raised by a written motion setting forth the name of the court, the proceeding in which the defendant was in jeopardy, and the facts constituting double jeopardy.
Double jeopardy may be raised at any time, but only once, and shall be tried by the court alone. If raised during the trial, a hearing thereon may be deferred until the end of the trial.
A person shall not be considered as having been in jeopardy in a trial in which:
(1) The court was illegally constituted or lacked jurisdiction;
(2) The prosecution was dismissed because it was instituted in an improper venue; or
(3) The indictment was invalid.
Double jeopardy exists in a second trial only when the charge in that trial is:
(1) Identical with or a different grade of the same offense for which the defendant was in jeopardy in the first trial, whether or not a responsive verdict could have been rendered in the first trial as to the charge in the second trial; or
(2) Based on a part of a continuous offense for which offense the defendant was in jeopardy in the first trial.
Double jeopardy does not apply to a prosecution under a law enacted by the Louisiana Legislature if the prior jeopardy was in a prosecution under the laws of another state or the United States.
Amended by Acts 1972, No. 648, §1.
A. When a person is found guilty of a lesser degree of the offense charged, the verdict or judgment of the court is an acquittal of all greater offenses charged in the indictment and the defendant cannot thereafter be tried for those offenses on a new trial.
B. When a jury returns a verdict in the sentencing hearing in a capital case determining that the defendant should be sentenced to life imprisonment, the defendant cannot thereafter be sentenced to death for that offense on a new trial.
Amended by Acts 1973, No. 133, §1; Acts 1980, No. 430, §1; Acts 1988, No. 779, §1, eff. July 18, 1988.
A. All trials shall take place in the parish where the offense has been committed, unless the venue is changed. If acts constituting an offense or if the elements of an offense occurred in more than one place, in or out of the parish or state, the offense is deemed to have been committed in any parish in this state in which any such act or element occurred.
B. If the offender is charged with any criminal homicide enumerated in R.S. 14:29 or any other crime involving the death of a human being and it cannot be determined where the offense or the elements of the offense occurred, the offense is deemed to have been committed in the parish where the body of the victim was found.
C. If the offender is charged with any of the following offenses, the offense is deemed to have been committed either in the parish where the offense occurred or where the victim resides:
(1) R.S. 14:67.16, identity theft.
(2) R.S. 14:70.4, access device fraud.
(3) R.S. 14:70.8, illegal transmission of monetary funds.
(4) R.S. 14:71.1, bank fraud.
(5) R.S. 14:72, forgery.
(6) R.S. 14:72.2, monetary instrument abuse.
D.(1) If the offender is charged with the crime of accessory after the fact, the offense is deemed to have been committed either in the parish where the principal felony was committed or in the parish where any act or element constituting the basis for the accessory after the fact prosecution occurred.
(2) If the offender is charged with the crime of obstruction of justice, the offense is deemed to have been committed either in the parish of the underlying actual or potential present, past, or future criminal proceeding or investigation or in the parish where any act or element constituting the basis for the obstruction of justice prosecution occurred.
E. If the offender is charged with a violation of R.S. 14:110, the offense is deemed to have been committed in either of the following:
(1) The parish of the court that ordered or sentenced home incarceration, confinement, or any other legal restraint.
(2) The parish where any act or element occurs in violation of R.S. 14:110.
F. If the offender is charged with a violation of R.S. 15:561.7 for the failure to comply with the conditions of his supervised release as provided in R.S. 15:561.5, the violation is deemed to have been committed in either of the following:
(1) The parish of the court that placed the offender on supervised release.
(2) The parish where any act or element constituting the basis for the violation occurred.
Acts 2004, No. 379, §1; Acts 2006, No. 158, §1; Acts 2017, No. 164, §1, eff. June 12, 2017; Acts 2018, No. 125, §1; Acts 2024, No. 263, §1; Acts 2026, No. 123, §2.
If an offense is committed on a train, vessel, aircraft, or other public or private vehicle while in transit in this state and the exact place of the offense in this state cannot be established, the offense is deemed to have been committed in any parish through or over which the train, vessel, aircraft, or other vehicle passed, and in which the crime could have been committed.
When a river, bayou, lake, water course, or other body of water is the boundary of any parish, the jurisdiction of the court of such parish extends to the middle of such river, bayou, lake, water course, or other body of water.
An offense committed on the boundary line of two parishes or within one hundred feet thereof is deemed to have been committed in either parish.
Improper venue shall be raised in advance of trial by motion to quash, and shall be tried by the judge alone. Venue shall not be considered an essential element to be proven by the state at trial, rather it shall be a jurisdictional matter to be proven by the state by a preponderance of the evidence and decided by the court in advance of trial.
Acts 1988, No. 554, §1.
A motion for a change of venue may be filed by either the state or the defendant. It shall be filed in accordance with Article 521; or thereafter, in the discretion of the court, any time before the first witness is sworn at the trial of the merits. The motion shall be in writing, sworn to by mover or his counsel, and shall contain:
(1) Allegations of fact upon which the motion is based; and
(2) A statement that the motion is not made for the purpose of delay, but to obtain a fair and impartial trial.
A contradictory hearing shall be held upon the motion.
Amended by Acts 1970, No. 291, §1; Acts 1978, No. 735, §2.
A change of venue shall be granted when the applicant proves that by reason of prejudice existing in the public mind or because of undue influence, or that for any other reason, a fair and impartial trial cannot be obtained in the parish where the prosecution is pending.
In deciding whether to grant a change of venue the court shall consider whether the prejudice, the influence, or the other reasons are such that they will affect the answers of jurors on the voir dire examination or the testimony of witnesses at the trial.
When a change of venue is granted, the court shall transfer the case to another parish.
In a case involving a capital offense, upon motion to transfer a jury or on its own motion, if the court determines it is in the interest of justice, the court may, as an alternative to transferring the case to another parish after a change of venue is granted, select a jury in the parish to which venue would otherwise have been transferred, and thereafter, transfer such jury to the court in which the case is pending.
Acts 1991, No. 82, §1.
When a change of venue is granted, the clerk of the court in which the case is pending shall make and retain copies of all documents relating to the case. He shall deliver the original documents together with certified copies of all minute entries of the case to the clerk of the court to which the case is transferred, who shall enter the case upon the docket of the court, and the case shall be proceeded with in the same manner as if the proceedings had originally been instituted therein.
If a defendant is in custody when a change of venue is granted, the sheriff shall immediately deliver him to the sheriff of the parish to which the case is transferred, who shall hold him in custody until otherwise ordered by the court.
If a defendant has furnished bail prior to a change of venue, his obligation and that of the surety on his bond shall be the same as if the prosecution had been instituted in the court to which the case is transferred.
If a change of venue is granted to the defendant over the objection of the state, or if the court denies an application by the state for a change of venue, the state shall have the right to appeal from the ruling, within the legal delays for making a motion for an appeal, before a trial on the merits. Prior to sentence the defendant may not appeal from a ruling changing or refusing to change the venue.
Mental incapacity to proceed exists when, as a result of mental disease or defect, a defendant presently lacks the capacity to understand the proceedings against him or to assist in his defense.
The defendant's mental incapacity to proceed may be raised at any time by the defense, the district attorney, or the court. When the question of the defendant's mental incapacity to proceed is raised, there shall be no further steps in the criminal prosecution, except the institution of prosecution, until the defendant is found to have the mental capacity to proceed.
The court shall order a mental examination of the defendant when it has reasonable ground to doubt the defendant's mental capacity to proceed. Prior to the ordering of any such mental examination, the court shall appoint counsel to represent the defendant if he has not already retained counsel.
Amended by Acts 1975, No. 325, §1.
A. Within seven days after a mental examination is ordered, the court shall appoint a sanity commission to examine and report upon the mental condition of the defendant. The sanity commission shall consist of at least two and not more than three members who are licensed to practice medicine in Louisiana, who have been in the actual practice of medicine for not less than three consecutive years immediately preceding the appointment, and who are qualified by training or experience in forensic evaluations. The court may appoint, in lieu of one physician, a clinical psychologist or medical psychologist who is licensed to practice psychology in Louisiana, who has been engaged in the practice of clinical or counseling psychology for not less than three consecutive years immediately preceding the appointment, and who is qualified by training or experience in forensic evaluations. Every sanity commission shall have at least one psychiatrist as a member of the commission, unless one is not reasonably available, in which case, the commission shall have at least one clinical psychologist as a member of the commission. No more than one member of the sanity commission shall be the coroner or any of his deputies.
B. The members of the sanity commission appointed to make the examination shall have free access to the defendant at all reasonable times. The court shall subpoena witnesses to attend the examination at the request of the defendant, the commission, or any member thereof.
C. For the purpose of the mental examination, the court may order a defendant previously released on bail to appear for mental examinations and hearings in the same manner as other criminal proceedings.
D.(1) The court, in any judicial district which enters into a cooperative endeavor agreement with the local mental health unit, in lieu of appointing a sanity commission as provided in Paragraph A, may appoint the local mental health unit to examine and report on the mental condition of the defendant. If the local mental health unit is ordered to conduct the examination, it shall form a clinical team, consisting of at least two but not more than three members, to conduct the examination. The clinical team shall be composed of one or more licensed physicians with at least three years experience in the study of psychiatry in an approved United States General Psychiatry Residency Program; if only one such licensed physician is a member of the clinical team, the remaining members of the clinical team may be composed of clinical psychologists, medical psychologists, or licensed clinical social workers, who are qualified by training or experience in forensic evaluations.
(2)(a) With respect to all other provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure in which the term "sanity commission" is designated, it shall also mean and include, for the exclusive purpose of this Article, a clinical team designated by the local health unit to conduct the examination of the defendant in accordance with this Paragraph.
(b) "Local mental health unit" as used in this Paragraph shall mean a legislatively created Human Services Authority.
Acts 1975, No. 325, §1; Acts 1987, No. 577, §1; Acts 1990, No. 488, §1; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 67, §1, eff. July 7, 1994; Acts 1997, No. 1222, §1; Acts 1999, No. 1309, §10, eff. Jan. 1, 2000; Acts 2009, No. 251, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2010; Acts 2021, No. 238, §2.
A. Any juvenile transferred for criminal trial in accordance with Articles 305 and 857 of the Children's Code may seek a special sanity hearing which shall be conducted in accordance with Articles 833 through 836 of the Children's Code.
B. The determination of the juvenile's capacity or incapacity to proceed to trial shall be governed by the provisions of Articles 837 and 838 of the Children's Code. In all other cases, the provisions of Code of Criminal Procedure Articles 648 through 649.1 shall govern the determination of capacity or incapacity to proceed to trial.
Acts 2006, No. 308, §1; Acts 2012, No. 698, §2.
A.(1) The report of the sanity commission members shall address their specific findings with regard to all of the following:
(a) The defendant's capacity to understand the proceedings against him.
(b) His ability to assist in his defense.
(c) His need for inpatient hospitalization in the event he is found incompetent.
(2) The fact that the defendant claims to be unable to remember the time period surrounding the alleged offense shall not, by itself, bar a finding of competency if the defendant otherwise understands the charges against him and can assist in his defense.
B. The report of the sanity commission shall be filed in triplicate with the presiding judge within thirty days after the date of the order of appointment. The time for filing may be extended by the court. The clerk shall make copies of the report available to the district attorney and to the defendant or his counsel without cost.
Acts 1990, No. 436, §1.
The court order for a mental examination shall not deprive the defendant or the district attorney of the right to an independent mental examination by a physician or mental health expert of his choice, and such physician or mental health expert shall be permitted to have reasonable access to the defendant for the purposes of the examination.
Acts 1999, No. 1104, §1.
The issue of the defendant's mental capacity to proceed shall be determined by the court in a contradictory hearing. The report of the sanity commission is admissible in evidence at the hearing, and members of the sanity commission may be called as witnesses by the court, the defense, or the district attorney. Regardless of who calls them as witnesses, the members of the commission are subject to cross-examination by the defense, by the district attorney, and by the court. Other evidence pertaining to the defendant's mental capacity to proceed may be introduced at the hearing by the defense and by the district attorney.
A. The criminal prosecution shall be resumed unless the court determines by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant does not have the mental capacity to proceed. If the court determines that the defendant lacks mental capacity to proceed, the proceedings shall be suspended and one of the following dispositions made:
(1) If the court determines that the defendant's mental capacity is likely to be restored within ninety days by outpatient care and treatment at a treatment facility as defined by R.S. 28:2 while remaining in the custody of the criminal authorities, and if the person is not charged with a felony or a misdemeanor classified as an offense against the person and is considered by the court to be unlikely to commit crimes of violence, then the court may order outpatient care and treatment at any institution as defined by R.S. 28:2.
(2)(a) Except as otherwise provided for in Subsubparagraph (b) of this Subparagraph, if the person is charged with a felony, or with a misdemeanor violation of R.S. 14:35.3, and is considered by the court to be likely to commit crimes of violence, and the court determines that his mental capacity is likely to be restored within ninety days as a result of treatment, the court may order immediate jail-based treatment by the Louisiana Department of Health not to exceed ninety days. Otherwise, if his capacity cannot be restored within ninety days and inpatient treatment is recommended, the court shall commit the defendant to the Feliciana Forensic Facility.
(b) If a person is charged with a felony violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law, except for violations punishable under the provisions of R.S. 40:966(D) and (F) and 967(F)(1)(b) and (c), (2), and (3), and the court determines that his mental capacity cannot be restored within ninety days, the court shall release the person for outpatient competency restoration or other appropriate treatment.
(c) If a person is charged with a misdemeanor classified as an offense against a person, except for a misdemeanor violation of R.S. 14:35.3, and the court determines that his mental capacity cannot be restored within ninety days, the court shall release the person for outpatient competency restoration or other appropriate treatment.
(d) If a defendant committed to the Feliciana Forensic Facility is held in a parish jail for one hundred eighty days after the court's determination that he lacks the mental capacity to proceed, the court shall order a status conference to be held with the defense and the district attorney present, and for good cause shown and on motion of the defendant or the district attorney or on the court's own motion, the court shall order a contradictory hearing to determine whether there has been a change in the defendant's condition or other circumstances sufficient to warrant a modification of the previous order.
(e) If a defendant committed to the Feliciana Forensic Facility is held in a parish jail for one hundred eighty days after the initial status conference provided in Subsubparagraph (d) of this Subparagraph, the court shall order a contradictory hearing to determine whether to release the defendant or to order the appropriate authorities to institute civil commitment proceedings pursuant to R.S. 28:54. The defendant shall remain in custody pending such civil commitment proceedings. If the defendant is civilly committed to a treatment facility pursuant to Title 28 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, the director of the institution designated for the patient's treatment shall, in writing, notify the court and the district attorney when the patient is to be discharged or conditionally discharged, as long as the charges are pending.
B.(1) In no instance shall such custody, care, and treatment exceed the time of the maximum sentence the defendant could receive if convicted of the crime with which he is charged. At any time after commitment and on the recommendation of the director or administrator of the treatment facility that the defendant will not attain the capacity to proceed with his trial in the foreseeable future, the court shall, within sixty days and after at least ten days notice to the district attorney, defendant's counsel, and the bureau of legal services of the Louisiana Department of Health, conduct a contradictory hearing to determine whether the defendant is, and will in the foreseeable future be, incapable of standing trial and whether he is a danger to himself or others.
(2) Repealed by Acts 2008, No. 861, §2, eff. July 9, 2008.
(3) If, after the hearing, the court determines that the incompetent defendant is unlikely in the foreseeable future to be capable of standing trial, the court shall order the defendant released or remanded to the custody of the Louisiana Department of Health which, within ten days exclusive of weekends and holidays, may institute civil commitment proceedings pursuant to Title 28 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, or release the defendant. The defendant shall remain in custody pending such civil commitment proceedings. If the defendant is committed to a treatment facility pursuant to Title 28 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, the director of the institution designated for the patient's treatment shall, in writing, notify the court and the district attorney when the patient is to be discharged or conditionally discharged, as long as the charges are pending. If not dismissed without prejudice at an earlier trial, charges against an unrestorable incompetent defendant shall be dismissed on the date upon which his sentence would have expired had he been convicted and received the maximum sentence for the crime charged, or on the date five years from the date of his arrest for such charges, whichever is sooner, except for the following charges:
(a) Charges of a crime of violence as defined in R.S. 14:2(B).
(b) R.S. 14:46 (false imprisonment).
(c) R.S. 14:46.1 (false imprisonment; offender armed with dangerous weapon).
(d) R.S. 14:52 (simple arson).
(e) R.S. 14:62 (simple burglary).
(f) R.S. 14:62.3 (unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling).
(g) R.S. 14:801 (carnal knowledge of a juvenile).
(h) R.S. 14:81 (indecent behavior with juveniles).
(i) R.S. 14:81.1 (child sexual abuse materials).
(j) R.S. 14:81.2 (molestation of a juvenile or a person with a physical or mental disability).
(k) R.S. 14:89(A)(2) (crime against nature).
(l) R.S. 14:89.1(A)(2) (aggravated crime against nature).
(m) R.S. 14:92 (contributing to the delinquency of juveniles).
(n) R.S. 14:92.1 (encouraging or contributing to child delinquency, dependency, or neglect).
(o) R.S. 14:93 (cruelty to juveniles).
(p) R.S. 14:93.2.3 (second degree cruelty to juveniles).
(q) R.S. 14:93.3 (cruelty to persons with infirmities).
(r) R.S. 14:93.4 (exploitation of persons with infirmities).
(s) R.S. 14:93.5 (sexual battery of persons with infirmities).
(t) R.S. 14:102 (cruelty to animals).
(u) R.S. 14:106 (obscenity).
(v) R.S. 14:283 (video voyeurism).
(w) R.S. 14:284 (Peeping Tom).
(x) Charges against a defendant who has been convicted of a felony offense within ten years prior to the date on which he was charged for the current offense.
C. The superintendent of the forensic unit of the Feliciana Forensic Facility shall admit only those persons specified in R.S. 28:25.1 and those persons found not guilty by reason of insanity on conditional release who have a physician's emergency certificate or who seek voluntary admission pursuant to Article 658(B)(4).
Acts 1975, No. 325, §1; Acts 1979, No. 318, §1; Acts 1980, No. 612, §1; Acts 1982, No. 495, §1; Acts 1983, No. 399, §1; Acts 1987, No. 928, §1, eff. July 20, 1987; Acts 1988, No. 383, §1; Acts 1990, No. 755, §1; Acts 1992, No. 400, §1; Acts 1995, No. 800, §1; Acts 1997, No. 723, §1; Acts 2001, No. 472, §1; Acts 2008, No. 861, §§1, 2, eff. July 9, 2008; Acts 2010, No. 419, §1, eff. June 21, 2010; Acts 2014, No. 602, §2, eff. June 12, 2014; Acts 2014, No. 811, §31, eff. June 23, 2014; Acts 2017, No. 369, §5; Acts 2025, No. 261, §5.
1R.S. 14:80 changed to felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile by Acts 2001, No. 796, §1.
No superintendent of an institution shall admit a defendant found by the court to lack the mental capacity to proceed pursuant to Article 648 unless he is furnished by the court the following information:
(1) The name and address of the defendant's attorney.
(2) The crime or crimes with which the defendant is charged and the date of such charge or charges.
(3) A copy of the report of the sanity commission.
(4) Any other pertinent information concerning the defendant's health which has come to the attention of the court such as injuries sustained at the time of arrest or injuries sustained following incarceration.
(5) A copy of the defendant's criminal history record.
(6) A copy of the police report concerning the charged offense.
(7) A copy of the judgment and order specifying the nature and purpose of the commitment or recommitment to the state institution.
Acts 1975, No. 325, §2; Acts 1990, No. 754, §1; Acts 1992, No. 399, §1.
A. At any time after a defendant's commitment, if either the superintendent of the mental institution or the administrator of outreach forensic services reports to the committing court that the defendant presently has the mental capacity to proceed, the defendant, if hospitalized, shall be discharged from the mental institution and released to the custody of the sheriff of the parish from which the defendant was committed, and the court shall hold a contradictory hearing within thirty days on that issue. No defendant shall be released prior to the holding of the contradictory hearing on his release unless the office of the district attorney in charge of the prosecution of the defendant receives seven days notice of the pending release of the defendant.
B. Prior to such a hearing, the court shall appoint counsel to represent the defendant, if the defendant does not have counsel, and may order a mental examination by a sanity commission appointed in conformity with Article 644. The report of the superintendent of the mental institution or the administrator of outreach services may be stipulated to and submitted by the state and the defense in lieu of a mental examination by a sanity commission. If the committing court does not hold a hearing within thirty days, the sheriff of the parish from which the defendant was committed shall appear at the institution within seven days thereafter and shall receive and hold the defendant in custody pending further orders of the committing court. If the sheriff fails to appear with a court order and accept custody of the defendant, the superintendent of the state mental institution or the director of the mental health unit shall notify the judicial administrator and the attorney general of such fact. Thereafter the Criminal Court Fund of the parish from which the defendant was committed shall pay to the general fund of the state the sum of one hundred dollars a day until the sheriff appears and accepts custody of the defendant for the court.
C. The district attorney or the defense may apply to the court to have the proceedings resumed, on the ground that the defendant presently has the mental capacity to proceed. Upon receipt of such application the court shall hold a contradictory hearing to determine if there is reasonable ground to believe that the defendant presently has the mental capacity to proceed. The court may direct the superintendent of the mental institution where the defendant is committed or the administrator of outreach forensic services, if treatment is initiated in jail, to make a report and recommendation prior to such hearing as to whether the defendant presently has capacity to proceed, or may order an independent mental examination by a sanity commission appointed in conformity with Article 644.
D. Reports as to present mental capacity to proceed shall be filed in conformity with Article 645, and the court's determination of present mental capacity to proceed shall be made in conformity with the appropriate provisions of Articles 646 and 647.
E. If the court determines that the defendant has the mental capacity to proceed, the proceedings shall be promptly resumed.
Acts 1975, No. 325, §1; Acts 1987, No. 928, §1, eff. July 20, l987; Acts 1988, No. 383, §1; Acts 1990, No. 490, §1; Acts 1992, No. 397, §1.
When a person is returned to the committing court from an institution pursuant to Article 649 pending a sanity hearing, and the superintendent of the committing institution deems it necessary that the patient receive prescribed medication, it shall be the duty of the chief administrative officer of the parish jail to make such medication available to the person until such time as the coroner or another physician finds that the medication or its prescribed dosage is no longer necessary.
Added by Acts 1975, No. 325, §2.
When a defendant enters a combined plea of "not guilty and not guilty by reason of insanity," the court may appoint a sanity commission as provided in Article 644 to make an examination as to the defendant's mental condition at the time of the offense. The court may also order the commission to make an examination as to the defendant's present mental capacity to proceed. Mental examinations and reports under this article shall be conducted and filed in conformity with Articles 644 through 646.
When a defendant is tried upon a plea of "not guilty", evidence of insanity or mental defect at the time of the offense shall not be admissible.
The defenses available under a combined plea of "not guilty and not guilty by reason of insanity" shall be tried together.
The defendant has the burden of establishing the defense of insanity at the time of the offense by a preponderance of the evidence.
Upon the trial of the defense of insanity at the time of the offense, the members of the sanity commission may be called as witnesses by the court, the defense, or the district attorney. Regardless of who calls them as witnesses, the members of the commission are subject to cross-examination by the defense, by the district attorney, and by the court. Other evidence pertaining to the defense of insanity at the time of the offense may be introduced at the trial by the defense and by the district attorney.
When a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity is returned in a capital case, the court shall commit the defendant to a proper state mental institution or to a private mental institution approved by the court for custody, care, and treatment.
When a defendant is found not guilty by reason of insanity in any other felony case, the court shall remand him to the parish jail or to a private mental institution approved by the court and shall promptly hold a contradictory hearing at which the defendant shall have the burden of proof, to determine whether the defendant can be discharged or can be released on probation, without danger to others or to himself. If the court determines that the defendant cannot be released without danger to others or to himself, it shall order him committed to a proper state mental institution or to a private mental institution approved by the court for custody, care, and treatment. If the court determines that the defendant can be discharged or released on probation without danger to others or to himself, the court shall either order his discharge, or order his release on probation subject to specified conditions for a fixed or an indeterminate period. The court shall assign written findings of fact and conclusions of law; however, the assignment of reasons shall not delay the implementation of judgment.
Amended by Acts 1975, No. 805, §1; Acts 1982, No. 689, §1.
No superintendent of a mental institution shall admit a defendant found not guilty by reason of insanity pursuant to Article 654 unless the court furnishes the following information:
(1) The defendant's commitment order specifying not guilty by reason of insanity.
(2) A copy of the defendant's criminal history record.
(3) A police report concerning the charged offense.
(4) Victim and witness statements, if any.
(5) The name, address, and telephone number of the district attorney who prosecuted the defendant.
Acts 1990, No. 753, §1.
A.(1) When the superintendent of a mental institution is of the opinion that a person committed pursuant to Article 654 can be discharged or can be released on probation, without danger to others or to himself, he shall recommend the discharge or release of the person in a report to a review panel comprised of the person's treating physician, the clinical director of the facility to which the person is committed, and a physician, medical psychologist, or psychologist who served on the sanity commission which recommended commitment of the person. If any member of the panel is unable to serve, a physician, medical psychologist, or a psychologist engaged in the practice of clinical or counseling psychology with at least three years' experience in the field of mental health shall be appointed by the remaining members.
(2) The panel shall review all reports received promptly. After review, the panel shall make a recommendation to the court by which the person was committed as to the person's mental condition and whether he can be discharged, conditionally or unconditionally, or placed on probation, without being a danger to others or himself. If the review panel recommends to the court that the person be discharged, conditionally or unconditionally, or placed on probation, the court shall conduct a contradictory hearing following notice to the district attorney.
(3) A recommendation that the person be discharged or released on probation shall require a unanimous vote of the panel.
(4) The panel shall render specific findings of fact in support of its recommendation.
B. A person committed pursuant to Article 654 may make application to the review panel for discharge or for release on probation. Such application by a committed person may not be filed until the committed person has been confined for a period of at least six months after the original commitment. If the review panel recommends to the court that the person be discharged, conditionally or unconditionally, or placed on probation, the court shall conduct a hearing following notice to the district attorney. If the recommendation of the review panel or the court is adverse, the applicant shall not be permitted to file another application until one year has elapsed from the date of determination.
C. The superintendent of the mental institution shall, under both Paragraphs A and B of this Article, transmit a copy of this report and recommendation to the person committed or his attorney and to the district attorney of the parish from which the person was committed.
Acts 1985, No. 925, §1; Acts 1987, No. 928, §1, eff. July 20, 1987; Acts 2018, No. 532, §1.
A. Upon receipt of the superintendent's report, filed in conformity with Article 655, the review panel may examine the committed person and report, to the court promptly, whether he can be safely discharged, conditionally or unconditionally, or be safely released on probation, without danger to others or to himself.
B. The committed person or the district attorney may also retain a physician to examine the committed person for the same purpose. The physician's report shall be filed with the court.
C. Upon receipt by the superintendent of the state hospital or other treatment facility to which the person has been committed of the recommendation of the hospital-based treatment team that the person is appropriate for probated outpatient status as set forth in this Chapter, the superintendent shall immediately forward such recommendation to the administrator of the conditional release program, together with the proposed aftercare plans. The administrator or a designee shall submit to the review panel a recommended plan, if appropriate, for outpatient supervision and monitoring. The plan shall set forth any additional terms and conditions to be followed during outpatient status, if recommended.
Acts 1987, No. 928, §1, eff. July 20, 1987; Acts 1995, No. 800, §1.
After considering the report or reports filed pursuant to Articles 655 and 656, the court may either continue the commitment or hold a contradictory hearing to determine whether the committed person no longer has a mental illness as defined by Article 657.3 and can be discharged, or can be released on probation, without danger to others or to himself as defined by R.S. 28:2. At the hearing, the burden shall be upon the state to seek continuance of the confinement by proving by clear and convincing evidence that the committed person currently has a mental illness and is dangerous, except as provided in Article 657.3. After the hearing, and upon filing written findings of fact and conclusions of law, the court may order the committed person discharged, released on probation subject to specified conditions for a fixed or an indeterminate period, or recommitted to the state mental institution. A copy of the judgment and order containing the written findings of fact and conclusions of law shall be forwarded to the administrator of the forensic facility. Notice to the counsel for the committed person and the district attorney of the contradictory hearing shall be given at least thirty days prior to the hearing.
Acts 1992, No. 398, §1; Acts 1993, No. 700, §1; Acts 2017, No. 369, §5; Acts 2024, No. 43, §1.
A. At any time the court considers a recommendation from the hospital-based review panel that the person may be discharged or released on probation, it may place the insanity acquittee on conditional release if it finds the following:
(1) Based on the factors which the court shall consider pursuant to Article 657, he does not need inpatient hospitalization but needs outpatient treatment, supervision, and monitoring to prevent his condition from deteriorating to a degree that he would likely become dangerous to self and others.
(2) Appropriate outpatient treatment, supervision, and monitoring are reasonably available.
(3) There is significant reason to believe that the insanity acquittee, if conditionally released, would comply with the conditions specified.
(4) Conditional release will not present an undue risk of danger to others or self, as defined in R.S. 28:2.
B. The court shall subject a conditionally released insanity acquittee to such orders and conditions it deems will best meet the acquittee's need for treatment, supervision, and monitoring and will best serve the interests of justice and society.
C. These provisions for conditional release may also be applied to discharges of pretrial defendants found unrestorably incompetent to proceed pursuant to Article 648(B).
Acts 1995, No. 800, §1; Acts 2017, No. 369, §5.
A. Upon an application for conditional release of a person, who has been committed to a state hospital or other treatment facility pursuant to this Chapter upon the grounds that the adverse effects of a mental illness are in remission, and if after a hearing the court determines that the applicant will not likely be a danger to others or himself, as defined in R.S. 28:2, if he is under supervision and his treatment is monitored in the community, the court shall not consider the applicant to be in stable remission from the adverse effects of a mental illness until the applicant is placed with an appropriate forensic conditional release program for at least one year but not more than five years.
B. For good cause shown, placement in a conditional release program may be extended after five years in one-year increments at a yearly contradictory hearing with the state.
C. All or a substantial portion of the program shall include outpatient treatment, supervision, and monitoring.
D. At the termination of conditional release, the person may continue to receive appropriate treatment services, if recommended by the treating psychiatrist, from public or private mental health agencies, with inactive supervision provided by the division of probation and parole of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections.
Acts 1995, No. 800, §1; Acts 2017, No. 369, §5.
A. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the state may seek active supervised release by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of probation and parole, of a committed person based upon the committed person's continued dangerousness even if the committed person does not have a mental illness as defined by this Article, if both of the following conditions are satisfied:
(1) The committed person was found not guilty by reason of insanity for any of the following offenses or attempts to commit any of them:
(a) Any crime punishable by death or by life imprisonment.
(b) Any crime that is either a crime of violence as defined by R.S. 14:2(B) or a sex offense as defined by R.S. 15:541.
(2) The state proves by clear and convincing evidence that the committed person is dangerous to others or dangerous to himself as defined by R.S. 28:2. In satisfying its burden of proof, the state may not rely solely upon the nature of the crime for which the committed person was found not guilty by reason of insanity and may not rely solely upon the diagnosis of any personality disorder.
B. Upon satisfaction of the criteria for active supervised release provided in Paragraph A of this Article and consideration of any report filed pursuant to Articles 655 and 656, the court shall order the committed person to be placed on active supervised release with any special conditions recommended to the court as well as any conditions of probation provided in Article 895 et seq. for a period not to exceed three years. Such period may be extended in three-year increments upon motion of the district attorney and proof that the committed person still satisfies the criteria for active supervised release under this Article. Under no circumstances shall a committed person who is on active supervised release pursuant to this Article be subject to a probation period that is longer than the maximum term that the committed person would have received if the committed person had been convicted of the offense.
C. When the committed person is placed on active supervised release, the clerk of court shall deliver a certificate to him setting forth the conditions of his release. The committed person shall be required to agree in writing to the conditions of his release.
D. When the committed person has violated or is suspected of violating the conditions of his release, the committed person may be arrested and detained pursuant to Article 899.
E. Nothing in this Article shall be construed as abrogating or negating any other provision of this Chapter or any other provision of law relative to the continued commitment, discharge, or conditional release of a person committed pursuant to Article 654.
F. For the purposes of this Title, "mental illness" means a psychiatric disorder which has substantial adverse effects on a person's ability to function and requires care and treatment. It does not refer to a person with, solely, an intellectual disability, or who suffers solely from epilepsy or a substance-related or addictive disorder.
Acts 2024, No. 43, §1.
A. When the committed person is released on probation, which shall also be known as conditional release, the clerk of court shall deliver to him a certificate setting forth the period and the conditions of his probation. It shall be a condition of every such probation that the person released shall be recommitted if he becomes dangerous to others or to himself for reasons of mental illness, substance abuse, or intellectual disability. The probationer shall be required to agree in writing to the conditions of his probation.
B.(1) The probationer shall be under the supervision of the division of probation and parole. When the probationer violates or is about to violate the conditions of his probation, he may be arrested and detained in conformity with the applicable provisions of Article 899 of this Code.
(2) The Louisiana Department of Health shall be responsible for the community treatment and monitoring of persons placed on outpatient status under this Chapter. These services shall be available on a parish or regional basis. The department may provide treatment services directly or through contracts with private providers or local jurisdictions.
(3) The department shall designate for each parish or for each region comprised of two or more parishes a conditional release program coordinator, who shall be responsible for the provisions specified in this Chapter. The coordinator shall monitor the forensic aftercare provider's implementation of the conditional release order and the forensic aftercare provider's submission to the court of written reports on the acquittee's progress, adjustment in the community, and compliance with the order no less frequently than ninety days after admission to the program and every one hundred eighty days thereafter.
(4) If a person on conditional release or otherwise probated under this Chapter is in need of acute, i.e. short-term, hospitalization and is not charged with a new criminal offense, he may be voluntarily admitted pursuant to R.S. 28:52 or admitted by emergency certificate pursuant to R.S. 28:53 to the Feliciana Forensic Facility or to another suitable treatment facility, with subsequent notice to the court. Transportation to and from the receiving hospital may be effected by the Feliciana Forensic Facility or the sheriff of the parish of incarceration. Hospital discharge of the person under this provision shall be at the discretion of the clinical director of the facility and a hospital admission pursuant to this provision will not be grounds for revocation or recommitment under Subparagraph (C)(4) of this Article. However, the discharge of a person based on the need for indefinite hospitalization or noncompliance with treatment recommendations shall be grounds for revocation or recommitment.
(5) The division of probation and parole or the Louisiana Department of Health through the conditional release program coordinator or a designee shall immediately notify the court of any substantive violations or imminent violations of the conditions of a person's probated release and shall present recommendations to the court regarding whether the court should revoke the probation and recommit the probationer to a state mental institution or other recommendations as may be appropriate.
(6) The court, on its own motion or that of the district attorney or probation officer, or upon receiving a report recommending revocation or other disposition from the conditional release program coordinator, may cause the person to be arrested, if he is not already in custody, and shall immediately hold a hearing to consider the violations listed or transfer the case to the parish of commitment, if different from that of the arrest, at which place the hearing should be held as soon as possible.
C. If the court determines that there has been a violation or that the probationer was about to violate the conditions of release or probation it may do any of the following:
(1) Reprimand and warn the probationer.
(2) Order that supervision be intensified.
(3) Modify or add additional conditions to the probation.
(4) Revoke the probation and recommit the probationer to a state mental institution, subject to consideration for discharge or release on probation only after one year has elapsed from the date of revocation and in accordance with the procedure prescribed in Articles 655 through 657 of this Code for a first application and hearing. If the probation is revoked and the probationer recommitted, the court shall provide the hospital with the report of the probation officer or forensic aftercare provider regarding the details of the violations involved.
D. The court may completely discharge the probationer after the expiration of one year in a supervised conditional release program only on recommendation of the director of the division of probation and parole or the administrator of the conditional release program or on other proper evidence of expected outpatient compliance with any continued treatment recommendations, and after a contradictory hearing with the district attorney.
E. No person who is on outpatient conditional release status pursuant to this Chapter shall leave this state without first obtaining written approval to do so from the director of the division of probation and parole and the administrator of the conditional release program. Any person who violates the provisions of this Paragraph may be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned with or without hard labor for not more than one year, or both.
Acts 1985, No. 925, §1; Acts 1995, No. 800, §1; Acts 2014, No. 811, §31, eff. June 23, 2014.
The fees and expenses of physicians, including coroners and other physicians in the employ of the state or its political subdivisions, appointed by a court to make a mental examination and report prior to commitment shall be fixed by the court in an amount not less than the fees set forth in R.S. 13:5706 and shall be paid by the parish where the prosecution was instituted. The fee paid to the coroner or other physician in the employ of the state shall be in addition to his salary. Use of the facilities of a state mental institution in making the mental examination shall be without cost to the parish.
Acts 2001, No. 467, §1.
The custody, care, and treatment of a defendant committed under the provisions of this Title, and mental examinations and reports subsequent thereto by physicians on the medical staff of the institution, shall be without cost to the parish from which the defendant was committed. When a physician on the medical staff of the institution is called to testify at a hearing or trial concerning a mental examination made by him, he shall be entitled to a reasonable expert witness fee to be fixed by the court, and to reimbursement for traveling expenses in conformity with law, with such fees and expenses to be paid by the parish where the prosecution was instituted.
The superintendent of each mental institution and the director of each mental health unit throughout the state shall furnish progress reports every six months on each patient committed under the provisions of this Title. Copies of such reports shall be furnished to the committing court, the judicial administrator, and the attorney general of the state.
Added by Acts 1975, No. 325, §3.
A. In a criminal cause, a judge of any trial or appellate court shall be recused upon any of the following grounds:
(1) The judge is biased, prejudiced, or personally interested in the cause to such an extent that the judge would be unable to conduct a fair and impartial trial.
(2) The judge is the spouse of the accused, of the party injured, of an attorney employed in the cause, or of the district attorney; or is related to the accused or the party injured, or to the spouse of the accused or party injured, within the fourth degree; or is related to an attorney employed in the cause or to the district attorney, or to the spouse of either, within the second degree.
(3) The judge has been employed or consulted as an attorney in the cause, or has been associated with an attorney during the latter's employment in the cause.
(4) The judge is a witness in the cause.
(5) The judge performed a judicial act in the cause in another court.
(6) The judge would be unable, for any other reason, to conduct a fair and impartial trial.
B. In a criminal cause, a judge of any trial or appellate court shall also be recused when there exists a substantial and objective basis that would reasonably be expected to prevent the judge from conducting any aspect of the cause in a fair and impartial manner.
C. In any cause in which the state or a political subdivision thereof is interested, the fact that the judge is a citizen of the state or a resident of the political subdivision, or pays taxes thereto, is not a ground for recusal. In any cause in which a religious body or religious corporation is interested, the fact that a judge is a member of the religious body or religious corporation is not alone a ground for recusal.
Acts 1988, No. 515, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 1989; Acts 2022, No. 42, §1.
{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1988, NO. 515, §12.}}
A. A judge may recuse himself in any cause in which a ground for recusal exists, whether or not a motion for his recusal has been filed by a party.
B. Prior to the cause being allotted to another judge, a judge who recuses himself for any reason shall contemporaneously file in the record the order of recusal and written reasons that provide the factual basis for recusal under Article 671. The judge shall also provide a copy of the recusal and the written reasons therefor to the judicial administrator of the supreme court.
Acts 2022, No. 42, §1.
A judge has full power and authority to act, even though a ground for recusal exists, until he is recused, or a motion for his recusal is filed. The judge to whom the motion to recuse is assigned shall have full power and authority to act in the cause pending the disposition of the motion to recuse.
Acts 2010, No. 262, §2; Acts 2022, No. 42, §1.
A. A party desiring to recuse a trial judge shall file a written motion therefor assigning the ground for recusal under Article 671. The motion shall be filed not later than thirty days after discovery of the facts constituting the ground upon which the motion is based, but in all cases at least thirty days prior to commencement of the trial. In the event that the facts constituting the ground for recusal occur thereafter or the party moving for recusal could not, in the exercise of due diligence, have discovered such facts, the motion to recuse shall be filed immediately after the facts occur or are discovered, but prior to verdict or judgment.
B. If the motion to recuse sets forth facts constituting a ground for recusal under Article 671, not later than seven days after the judge's receipt of the motion from the clerk of court, the judge shall either recuse himself or refer the motion for hearing to another judge or to an ad hoc judge as provided in Article 675.
C. If the motion to recuse is not timely filed in accordance with Paragraph A of this Article or fails to set forth facts constituting a ground for recusal under Article 671, the judge may deny the motion without referring the motion to another judge or to an ad hoc judge for hearing but shall provide written reasons for the denial.
Acts 2022, No. 42, §1.
A. In a court having two judges, the judge who is sought to be recused shall refer the motion to recuse to the other judge of that court.
B. In a court having more than two judges, the motion to recuse shall be referred to another judge of the court through a random process as provided by the rules of court.
C. In a court having only one judge, the judge shall make a written request to the supreme court for the appointment of an ad hoc judge to try the motion to recuse.
D. The order of the court appointing an ad hoc judge shall be entered on the minutes of the court, and the clerk of court shall forward a certified copy of the order to the appointed ad hoc judge. The motion to recuse shall be tried promptly in a contradictory hearing in the court in which the cause is pending.
Acts 2001, No. 417, §2; Acts 2022, No. 42, §1.
A. When a judge of a court having more than two judges recuses himself or is recused after a trial of the motion, the matter shall be randomly reassigned to another judge for trial of the cause in accordance with the procedures contained in Article 675.
B. When a judge of a court having two judges recuses himself or is recused after a trial of the motion, the cause shall be tried by the other judge of that court.
C. When the judge of a court having only one judge recuses himself or is recused after a trial of the motion, the supreme court shall appoint an ad hoc judge to try the cause.
D. The ad hoc judge has the same power and authority to dispose of the cause as the recused judge would have.
Amended by Acts 1972, No. 191, §1; Acts 2001, No. 417, §2; Acts 2022, No. 42, §1.
Repealed by Acts 2022, No. 42, §2.
An ad hoc judge appointed to try a motion to recuse a judge, or appointed to try the cause, may be recused on the grounds and in the manner provided in this Chapter for the recusal of judges.
Acts 2022, No. 42, §1.
A. A party desiring to recuse a judge of a court of appeal shall file a written motion therefor assigning the ground for recusal under Article 671. When a written motion is filed to recuse a judge of a court of appeal, the judge may recuse himself or the motion shall be heard by the other judges on the panel to which the cause is assigned, or by all judges of the court, except the judge sought to be recused, sitting en banc.
B. When a judge of a court of appeal recuses himself or is recused, the court shall randomly allot another of its judges to act for the recused judge in the hearing and disposition of the cause.
C. If the motion to recuse fails to set forth facts constituting a ground for recusal under Article 671, the judge may deny the motion without a hearing but shall provide written reasons for the denial.
D. A party desiring to recuse a justice of the supreme court shall file a written motion therefor assigning the ground for recusal under Article 671. When a written motion is filed to recuse a justice of the supreme court, the justice may recuse himself or the motion shall be heard by the other justices of the court.
E. When a justice of the supreme court recuses himself or is recused by a majority of the other justices, the court may have the cause argued before and disposed of by the other justices or appoint a retired justice of the supreme court or sitting or retired judge of a district court or of a court of appeal having the qualifications of a justice of the supreme court, other than age, to sit as a member of the court in the hearing and disposition of the cause. A referred recusal motion shall be denied unless a majority of the other justices serving in the case when the motion is filed find sufficient grounds for recusal under Article 671.
Acts 1997, No. 887, §1; Acts 2022, No. 42, §1; Acts 2026, No. 276, §4, eff. May 22, 2026.
A district attorney shall be recused when he:
(1) Has a personal interest in the cause or grand jury proceeding which is in conflict with fair and impartial administration of justice;
(2) Is related to the party accused or to the party injured, or to the spouse of the accused or party injured, or to a party who is a focus of a grand jury investigation, to such an extent that it may appreciably influence him in the performance of the duties of his office; or
(3) Has been employed or consulted in the case as attorney for the defendant before his election or appointment as district attorney.
Amended by Acts 1980, No. 195, §1, eff. July 8, 1980.
A district attorney may recuse himself, whether a motion for his recusation has been filed or not, in any case in which a ground for recusation exists. A motion to recuse the district attorney shall be in writing and shall set forth the grounds therefor. The motion shall be filed in accordance with Article 521, and shall be tried in a contradictory hearing. If a ground for recusation is established the judge shall recuse the district attorney.
Amended by Acts 1978, No. 735, §2.
When a district attorney is recused, or recuses himself, the trial judge shall notify the attorney general in writing of the recusation. It shall be the duty of the attorney general to appoint a member of his staff or a district attorney of another district to act in the place of the recused district attorney. The substitute appointed for the recused district attorney shall have all powers of the recused district attorney with reference to the case.
Amended by Acts 1972, No. 652, §1; Acts 2009, No. 271, §1; Acts 2026, No. 630, §1.
When a district attorney is unable to perform his duties for any cause, other than recusation, death, or resignation or removal from office, an assistant district attorney shall act in his place. When the district attorney still holds office and there is no assistant district attorney, the trial judge shall appoint an attorney at law of that district, having the qualifications of a district attorney, to act in his place during his disability or absence. If the trial judge is unable to make the appointment, he shall certify the fact in writing to the attorney general, who shall appoint a district attorney of another district to act in place of the regular district attorney. The temporary district attorney shall have all powers of the district attorney during the time of his disability or absence.
A. Whenever the district attorney of the parish of original jurisdiction and venue is recused or requests another district attorney or the attorney general to undertake a prosecution or an investigation reasonably related to a possible prosecution and such other district attorney or the attorney general actually undertakes same, the costs of such prosecution and investigation shall be borne by the parish of original jurisdiction and venue, which shall reimburse such other district attorney or the attorney general therefor.
B. For the purposes of this Article, "costs of prosecution and investigation" include not only unreimbursed court costs but also the actual costs of travel, including mileage or transportation costs, lodging, and meals, all in accord with the travel regulations of the Division of Administration; the actual costs of experts and expert witnesses, their actual costs of travel, including mileage or transportation costs, lodging, and meals; laboratory fees, and all other actual costs of performing the prosecution and investigation.
Acts 1986, No. 895, §1.
A. If a district attorney is recused over the objection of the state, the state may apply for a review of the ruling by supervisory writs. The defendant may not appeal prior to sentence from a ruling recusing or refusing to recuse the district attorney.
B. If a judge is recused over the objection of the state or the defendant, or if a motion by the state or the defendant to recuse a judge is denied, the party's exclusive remedy is to apply for a review of the ruling by supervisory writs. A ruling recusing or refusing to recuse the judge shall not be considered on appeal.
C. Upon ruling on a motion to recuse a judge, the judge shall advise the defendant in open court or in writing that the ruling may be reviewed only by a timely filed supervisory writ to the appellate court and shall not be raised on appeal.
Acts 1997, No. 887, §1; Acts 2022, No. 42, §1.
The district attorney has the power, in his discretion, to dismiss an indictment or a count in an indictment, and in order to exercise that power it is not necessary that he obtain consent of the court. The dismissal may be made orally by the district attorney in open court, or by a written statement of the dismissal signed by the district attorney and filed with the clerk of court. The clerk of court shall cause the dismissal to be entered on the minutes of the court.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 142, §1.
After conviction, the district attorney is authorized to dismiss an indictment or count thereof only:
(1) When a new trial has been granted.
(2) When a motion in arrest of judgment has been sustained.
Acts 1983, No. 588, §1.
Dismissal by the district attorney of an indictment or of a count of an indictment, discharges that particular indictment or count. The dismissal is not a bar to a subsequent prosecution, except that:
(1) A dismissal entered without the defendant's consent after the first witness is sworn at the trial on the merits, shall operate as an acquittal and bar a subsequent prosecution for the charge dismissed; and
(2) A dismissal entered after a city court conviction has been appealed to the district court for a trial de novo, shall operate as an acquittal and bar a subsequent prosecution for the charge dismissed.
A. The state and the defendant have the right to a speedy trial.
B. The time period for filing a bill of information or indictment after arrest shall be as follows:
(1)(a) When the defendant is continued in custody subsequent to an arrest, an indictment or information shall be filed within thirty days of the arrest if the defendant is being held for a misdemeanor and within sixty days of the arrest if the defendant is being held for a felony.
(b) When the defendant is continued in custody subsequent to an arrest, an indictment shall be filed within one hundred twenty days of the arrest if the defendant is being held for a felony for which the punishment may be death or life imprisonment.
(2)(a) When the defendant is not continued in custody subsequent to arrest, an indictment or information shall be filed within ninety days of the arrest if the defendant is booked with a misdemeanor and one hundred fifty days of the arrest if the defendant is booked with a felony.
(b) Failure to institute prosecution as provided in Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph shall result in release of the defendant if, after contradictory hearing with the district attorney, just cause for the failure is not shown. If just cause is shown, the court shall reconsider bail for the defendant. Failure to institute prosecution as provided in this Subparagraph shall result in the release of the bail obligation if, after contradictory hearing with the district attorney, just cause for the delay is not shown.
C. Upon filing of a bill of information or indictment, the district attorney shall set the matter for arraignment within thirty days unless just cause for a longer delay is shown.
D.(1) A motion by the defendant for a speedy trial, in order to be valid, must be accompanied by an affidavit by defendant's counsel certifying that the defendant and his counsel are prepared to proceed to trial within the delays set forth in this Article. Except as provided in Subparagraph (3) of this Paragraph, after the filing of a motion for a speedy trial by the defendant and his counsel, the time period for commencement of trial shall be as follows:
(a) The trial of a defendant charged with a felony shall commence within one hundred twenty days if he is continued in custody and within one hundred eighty days if he is not continued in custody.
(b) The trial of a defendant charged with a misdemeanor shall commence within thirty days if he is continued in custody and within sixty days if he is not continued in custody.
(2) Failure to commence trial within the time periods provided above shall result in the release of the defendant without bail or in the discharge of the bail obligation, if after contradictory hearing with the district attorney, just cause for the delay is not shown.
(3) After a motion for a speedy trial has been filed by the defendant, if the defendant files any subsequent motion which requires a contradictory hearing, the court may suspend, in accordance with Article 580, or dismiss upon a finding of bad faith the pending speedy trial motion. In addition, the period of time within which the trial is required to commence, as set forth by Article 578, may be suspended, in accordance with Article 580, from the time that the subsequent motion is filed by the defendant until the court rules upon such motion.
E. "Just cause" as used in this Article shall include any grounds beyond the control of the State or the Court.
F. A motion for a speedy trial filed by the defendant, but not verified by the affidavit of his counsel, shall be set for contradictory hearing within thirty days.
Amended by Acts 1981, No. 181, §1; Acts 1982, No. 462, §1; Acts 1993, No. 682, §1; Acts 2007, No. 295, §1; Acts 2018, No. 259, §1; Acts 2021, No. 252, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2022.
Cases shall be set for trial by the court on motion of the state, and may be set for trial on motion of the defendant.
Courts shall adopt rules governing the procedure for setting cases for trial and giving notice thereof. The defendant shall be given notice of trial sufficiently in advance thereof so that he may summon his witnesses.
A. A defendant adversely affected may move to suppress any evidence from use at the trial on the merits on the ground that it was unconstitutionally obtained.
B. A defendant may move on any constitutional ground to suppress a confession or statement of any nature made by the defendant.
C. A motion filed under the provisions of this Article must be filed in accordance with Article 521, unless opportunity therefor did not exist or neither the defendant nor his counsel was aware of the existence of the evidence or the ground of the motion, or unless the failure to file the motion was otherwise excusable. The court in its discretion may permit the filing of a motion to suppress at any time before or during the trial.
D. On the trial of a motion to suppress filed under the provisions of this Article, the burden of proof is on the defendant to prove the ground of his motion, except that the state shall have the burden of proving the admissibility of a purported confession or statement by the defendant or of any evidence seized without a warrant.
E.(1) An evidentiary hearing on a motion to suppress shall be held only when the defendant alleges facts that would require the granting of relief. The state may file an answer to the motion. The defendant may testify in support of a motion to suppress without being subject to examination on other matters. The defendant's testimony cannot be used by the state except for the purpose of attacking the credibility of the defendant's testimony at the trial on the merits.
(2) If the defendant testifies before the jury at the trial on the merits, he can be cross-examined on the whole case.
F. A ruling prior to trial on the merits, upon a motion to suppress, is binding at the trial. Failure to file a motion to suppress evidence in accordance with this Article prevents the defendant from objecting to its admissibility at the trial on the merits on a ground assertable by a motion to suppress.
G. When a ruling on a motion to suppress a confession or statement is adverse to the defendant, the state shall be required, prior to presenting the confession or statement to the jury, to introduce evidence concerning the circumstances surrounding the making of the confession or statement for the purpose of enabling the jury to determine the weight to be given the confession or statement.
A ruling made adversely to the defendant prior to trial upon a motion to suppress a confession or statement does not prevent the defendant from introducing evidence during the trial concerning the circumstances surrounding the making of the confession or statement for the purpose of enabling the jury to determine the weight to be given the confession or statement.
Amended by Acts 1975, No. 814, §1; Acts 1978, No. 746, §1; Acts 1980, No. 431, §1; Acts 1988, No. 515, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 1989.
{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1988, NO. 515, §12.}}
Jointly indicted defendants shall be tried jointly unless:
(1) The state elects to try them separately; or
(2) The court, on motion of the defendant, and after contradictory hearing with the district attorney, is satisfied that justice requires a severance.
When the court has ordered severance of an indictment, the district attorney shall file separate indictments.
In the case of a grand jury indictment, no further action by the grand jury is required. Severed indictments shall be considered as filed on the date of the filing of the original indictment. Proceedings under the original indictment are not affected by the severance except insofar as they may be inconsistent with some other provision of this Code. The effects of a severance, as stated in this article, apply to severances under Articles 532(3) and 704.
Upon motion of a defendant, or of all defendants if there are more than one, the court may order two or more indictments consolidated for trial if the offenses and the defendants, if there are more than one, could have been joined in a single indictment. The procedure thereafter shall be the same as if the prosecution were under a single indictment.
A motion for a continuance shall be in writing and shall allege specifically the grounds upon which it is based and, when made by a defendant, must be verified by his affidavit or that of his counsel. It shall be filed at least seven days prior to the commencement of trial.
Upon written motion at any time and after contradictory hearing, the court may grant a continuance, but only upon a showing that such motion is in the interest of justice.
Amended by Acts 1978, No. 735, §2; Acts 1981, No. 440, §1.
A continuance is the postponement of a scheduled trial or hearing, and shall not be granted after the trial or hearing has commenced. A recess is a temporary adjournment of a trial or hearing that occurs after a trial or hearing has commenced.
A. A motion for a continuance based upon the absence of a witness shall state all of the following:
(1) Facts to which the absent witness is expected to testify, showing the materiality of the testimony and the necessity for the presence of the witness at the trial.
(2) Facts and circumstances showing a probability that the witness will be available at the time to which the trial is deferred.
(3) Facts showing due diligence used in an effort to procure attendance of the witness.
B. In addition to the requirements set forth in Paragraph A of this Article, when the motion for continuance is based upon the absence of a witness who is in the armed forces, the moving party, either the district attorney or the defense counsel, shall attest to facts showing that the absent witness is on active military duty in the United States Armed Forces.
Acts 2010, No. 744, §1, eff. June 29, 2010.
When a motion for a continuance is based on the absence of a material witness, and the adverse party admits that if the witness were present he would testify as stated in the motion, the court may proceed to the trial of the case. If the court is of the opinion that despite the admission, the case cannot be tried with justice to the applicant, it may require the adverse party to admit also the truth of the testimony as a condition of refusing to grant the continuance.
A motion for continuance, unless consented to, shall be tried summarily and contradictorily with the adverse party.
A motion for continuance, if timely filed, may be granted, in the discretion of the court, in any case if there is good ground therefor.
A motion for a continuance based upon peremptory grounds as provided by law shall be granted.
Amended by Acts 1982, No. 734, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1983.
When defendants are jointly indicted and a continuance is granted to one of them, the court may grant a continuance to any of the others, on his motion. However, a continuance granted to one defendant shall not deprive other jointly indicted defendants of a prompt trial unless the state can show good ground for continuance as to them.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 143, §1.
In granting the continuance, the judge shall fix the date upon which the trial or hearing shall proceed, if then practicable, except when both parties ask that no date be set.
A. Upon written motion of the defendant, the court shall order the district attorney to disclose to the defendant, and to permit or authorize the defendant to inspect and copy, photograph or otherwise reproduce any relevant written or recorded confession or statement of any nature, including recorded testimony before a grand jury, or copy thereof, of the defendant in the possession, custody, control, or knowledge of the district attorney.
B. Except as provided by Paragraph C of this Article, upon written motion of the defendant, the court shall order the district attorney to inform the defendant of the existence, but not the contents, of any oral confession or statement of any nature made by the defendant or any codefendant which the district attorney intends to offer in its case in chief at the trial, with the information as to when, where, and to whom such oral confession or statement was made.
C. Upon written motion of the defendant, the court shall order the district attorney to inform the defendant of the substance of any oral statement made by the defendant or any codefendant which the state intends to offer in its case in chief at the trial, whether before or after arrest, in response to interrogation by any person then known to the defendant or the codefendant to be a law enforcement officer.
D. Upon written motion of the defendant, the court shall order the district attorney to disclose to the defendant, and to permit or authorize the defendant to inspect and copy any written or recorded statements of any witness the state intends to call in its case in chief at the trial. For purposes of this Article: (1) "written or recorded statement of a witness" shall mean any audio or audio-video recording of an oral statement or interview of a witness, and any statement a witness writes or signs; (2) for the purposes of this Article, "trial" shall mean the phase of the case at which the state attempts to meet its burden as to guilt, and specifically does not extend to pretrial matters or hearings, or to the penalty phase in capital prosecutions. The state need not provide the defendant any written or recorded statement of its witnesses until immediately prior to the opening statement at trial.
E. Nothing in this Chapter shall be construed to require that testimony before a grand jury be recorded.
F. Nothing contained in this Chapter shall obligate the state to provide to any defendant a witness list for any trial or pretrial matter.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1; Acts 2013, No. 250, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 2013, No. 250, §2, relative to applicability.
A. Upon written motion of the defendant, the court shall order the district attorney to disclose, or to direct the appropriate law enforcement agency to disclose to the defendant, the record of arrests and convictions of the defendant, any codefendant, and any witness the state calls, or intends to call at trial.
B. The district attorney shall also disclose any inducement offered by the district attorney, or by any law enforcement officer on behalf of the district attorney, to any state witness.
C. The time for disclosure provided for by this Article shall be set by the court, provided that the district attorney shall not be required to disclose inducements or records of arrests and convictions until the commencement of trial. For any witness called by the state in its rebuttal case, the record of arrests and convictions of the rebuttal witness, and any inducement offered by the district attorney, or by any law enforcement officer on behalf of the district attorney, to secure testimony of the witness in the state's rebuttal case shall be disclosed immediately prior to the witness being sworn.
D. The provisions of Article 729.7 of this Code regarding the protection of a witness's identity shall apply to this Article.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1; Acts 2012, No. 842, §1; Acts 2013, No. 250, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 2013, No. 250, §2, relative to applicability.
Subject to the limitation of Article 723 of this Code, and except as otherwise prohibited by law, upon written motion of the defendant, the court shall order the district attorney to permit or authorize the defendant to inspect and copy, photograph or otherwise reproduce law enforcement reports created and known to the prosecutor made in connection with the particular case, and to permit or authorize the defendant or an expert working with the defendant, to inspect, copy, examine, test scientifically, photograph, or otherwise reproduce books, papers, documents, photographs, tangible objects, buildings, places, or copies or portions thereof that are within the possession, custody, or control of the state, and that are intended for use by the state as evidence in its case in chief at trial, or were obtained from or belong to the defendant.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1; Acts 2012, No. 842, §1; Acts 2013, No. 250, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 2013, No. 250, §2, relative to applicability.
A. In any criminal proceeding, any property or material that is alleged to constitute evidence of obscenity as defined in R.S. 14:106(A)(2) that is unlawfully possessed, video voyeurism as defined in R.S. 14:283, child sexual abuse materials as defined in R.S. 14:81.1, or unlawful posting of criminal activity for notoriety and publicity as defined in R.S. 14:107.4 shall remain in the care, custody, and control of the investigating law enforcement agency, the court, or the district attorney.
B. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the court shall deny any request by the defendant to copy, photograph, duplicate, or otherwise reproduce any property or material that is alleged to constitute evidence of obscenity as defined in R.S. 14:106(A)(2) that is unlawfully possessed, video voyeurism as defined in R.S. 14:283, child sexual abuse materials as defined in R.S. 14:81.1, or unlawful posting of criminal activity for notoriety and publicity as defined in R.S. 14:107.4, provided that the district attorney makes the property or material reasonably available to the defendant.
C. For purposes of this Article, the property or material shall be deemed reasonably available to the defendant if the district attorney provides ample opportunity for the inspection, viewing, and examination at the office of the district attorney of the property or material by the defendant, the defendant's attorney, and any individual the defendant may seek to qualify to furnish expert testimony at trial.
D. Any material described in Paragraph A of this Article shall be contraband and shall not be disseminated or viewed by anyone other than as provided for in this Article or for the purposes of prosecution of the related criminal offenses. The court may issue any orders it deems appropriate to ensure that the privacy concerns of the victim are addressed.
Acts 2012, No. 404, §1; Acts 2012, No. 558, §1, eff. June 5, 2012; Acts 2016, No. 82, §1; Acts 2020, No. 353, §1; Acts 2025, No. 261, §5.
A. Upon written motion of the defendant, the court shall order the district attorney to permit or authorize the defendant to inspect and copy, photograph, or otherwise reproduce any results or reports, or copies thereof, of a physical or mental examination, and of scientific tests or experiments, made in connection with or material to the particular case, that are in the possession, custody, control, or knowledge of the district attorney and intended for use at trial. If the witness preparing the report will be called as an expert, the report shall contain the witness's area of expertise, his qualifications, a list of materials upon which his conclusion is based, and his opinion and the reason therefor. If the expert witness has not reduced his results to writing, or if the expert witness's written report does not contain the information required of an expert as provided in this Article, the state must produce for the defendant a written summary containing any information required to be produced pursuant to this Article but absent from a written report, if any, including the name of the expert witness, his qualifications, a list of materials upon which his conclusion is based, and his opinion and the reason therefor.
B. In addition, upon motion of the defendant, whenever the court orders the defendant to provide urine, blood, saliva, or hair samples or samples of other bodily substances for deoxyribonucleic acid testing in a criminal case, the defendant shall be authorized to acquire one-half of the deoxyribonucleic acid sample to be tested separately by the defendant at his expense.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1; Acts 1997, No. 1074, §1; Acts 2013, No. 250, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 2013, No. 250, §2, relative to applicability.
Upon written motion of defendant, the court shall order the district attorney to inform the defendant of the state's intent to offer evidence of the commission of any other crime admissible under the authority of Code of Evidence Articles 404 and 412.2. However, that order shall not require the district attorney to inform the defendant of the state's intent to offer evidence of offenses which relates to conduct that constitutes an integral part of the act or transaction that is the subject of the present proceeding or other crimes for which the accused was previously convicted.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1. Acts 1988, No. 515, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 1989; Acts 2013, No. 250, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 2013, No. 250, §2, relative to applicability.
Upon written motion of the defendant, the court shall order the district attorney to disclose to the defendant the state's intent to use any written, recorded, or oral statements of coconspirators that the state intends to introduce in its case in chief pursuant to Code of Evidence Article 801(D)(3)(b).
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1. Acts 1988, No. 515, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 1989; Acts 2013, No. 250, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 2013, No. 250, §2, relative to applicability.
Upon written motion of the defendant, the court shall order the district attorney to permit or authorize the defendant to inspect and copy, photograph, or otherwise reproduce any written or recorded confessions or statements made by a codefendant.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1; Acts 2013, No. 250, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 2013, No. 250, §2, relative to applicability.
A. Except as specifically provided in this Chapter, this Chapter does not authorize the discovery or inspection of reports, memoranda, notes, or other internal state documents made by the district attorney or by agents of the state in connection with the investigation or prosecution of the case; or of any document, notes, or other items which contain the mental impressions of any attorney for the state or any investigator working on behalf of such attorney.
B. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary contained herein, the state shall provide the defendant with any evidence constitutionally required to be disclosed pursuant to Brady v. Maryland , 373 U.S. 83 (1963) and its progeny.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1; Acts 2013, No. 250, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 2013, No. 250, §2, relative to applicability.
When the court grants relief sought by the defendant under Article 718 of this Code, it shall upon the motion of the district attorney, condition its order by requiring the defendant to disclose to the state, and to permit or authorize the state, or an expert working with the state, to inspect, copy, examine, test scientifically, photograph, or otherwise reproduce books, papers, documents, photographs, tangible objects, buildings, places, or copies, or portions thereof, that are in the possession, custody, or control of the defendant, and that the defendant intends to use in evidence at the trial.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1; Acts 2013, No. 250, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 2013, No. 250, §2, relative to applicability
When the court grants the relief sought by the defendant pursuant to Article 719 of this Code, it shall, upon the written motion of the state, condition its order by requiring the defendant to disclose to the state, and to permit or authorize the state, or an expert working with the state, to inspect and copy, photograph, or otherwise reproduce, and disclose to the district attorney any results of reports, or copies thereof, of physical and mental examinations and of scientific tests or experiments, made in connection with the particular case, that are in the possession, custody, control, or knowledge of the defendant, and intended for use at trial. If the witness preparing the report will be called as an expert, the report shall contain the witness's area of expertise, his qualifications, a list of materials upon which his conclusion is based, and his opinion and the reason therefor. If the expert witness has not reduced his results or reports to writing, or if the expert witness's written report does not contain the information required of an expert as provided in this Article, the defendant must produce for the state a written summary containing any information required to be produced pursuant to this Article but absent from a written report, if any, including the name of the expert witness, his qualifications, a list of materials upon which his conclusion is based, and his opinion and the reason therefor.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1; Acts 2013, No. 250, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 2013, No. 250, §2, relative to applicability.
A. If the defendant moves, pursuant to Article 717 of this Code, for disclosure of the records of arrests and convictions of witnesses to be called by the state in its case in chief, the defendant shall disclose to the district attorney, prior to those witnesses being sworn, the name and date of birth of the witnesses to be called by the defendant in his case in chief.
B.(1) If the defendant moves, pursuant to Article 716(D) of this Code, for disclosure of statements of witnesses to be called by the state in its case in chief, the defendant shall, upon motion by the state, disclose to the district attorney, and permit or authorize the district attorney to inspect and copy any written or recorded statements of any witness the defendant intends to call at trial.
(2) For purposes of this Article:
(a) "Trial" shall mean the phase of the case at which the defense responds to the state's attempt to meet its burden as to guilt, and specifically does not extend to pretrial matters or hearings, or to the penalty phase in capital prosecutions.
(b) "Written or recorded statement of a witness" shall mean any audio or audio-video recording of an oral statement or interview of a witness, and any statement a witness writes or signs.
Acts 2012, No. 842, §1; Acts 2013, No. 250, §1; Acts 2014, No. 791, §§21, 23.
NOTE: See Acts 2013, No. 250, §2, relative to applicability.
A. If a defendant intends to introduce testimony relating to a mental disease, defect, or other condition bearing upon the issue of whether he had the mental state required for the offense charged, he shall not later than ten days prior to trial or such reasonable time as the court may permit, notify the district attorney in writing of such intention and file a copy of such notice with the clerk. The court may for cause shown allow late filing of the notice or grant additional time to the parties to prepare for trial or make such other orders as may be appropriate.
B. If there is a failure to give notice as required by Subsection A of this Article, the court may exclude the testimony of any witness offered by the defendant on the issue of mental condition.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1.
A. If a defendant intends to introduce documents or testimony relating to a medical condition or related treatment on the basis of an affirmative defense, he shall notify the district attorney in writing of such intention and file a copy of the notice with the clerk not later than ten days prior to trial or in a reasonable time as the court may permit. The court may, for cause shown, allow late filing of the notice or grant additional time to the parties to prepare for trial or issue any other orders as may be appropriate. Upon motion of either party, the court shall order that such records be filed under seal. Nothing in this Article shall be construed to relieve a defendant of any obligation imposed pursuant to Article 725.
B. If the defendant fails to provide notice as required by Paragraph A of this Article, the court may exclude the introduction of any documents or testimony of any witness offered by the defendant on the issue of medical condition or related treatment.
Acts 2026, No. 177, §2.
A. Upon written demand of the district attorney stating the time, date, and place at which the alleged offense was committed, the defendant shall serve within ten days, or at such different time as the court may direct, upon the district attorney a written notice of his intention to offer a defense of alibi. Such notice by the defendant shall state the specific place or places at which the defendant claims to have been at the time of the alleged offense and the names and addresses of the witnesses upon whom he intends to rely to establish such alibi.
B. Within ten days thereafter, but in no event less than ten days before trial, unless the court otherwise directs, the district attorney shall serve upon the defendant or his attorney a written notice stating the names and addresses of the witnesses upon whom the state intends to rely to establish the defendant's presence at the scene of the alleged offense and any other witnesses to be relied on to rebut testimony of any of the defendant's alibi witnesses.
C. If prior to or during trial, a party learns of an additional witness whose identity, if known, should have been included in the information furnished under Subsection A or B, the party shall promptly notify the other party or his attorney of the existence and identity of such additional witness.
D. Upon the failure of either party to comply with the requirements of this rule, the court may exclude the testimony of any undisclosed witness offered by such party as to the defendant's absence from or presence at, the scene of the alleged offense. This rule shall not limit the right of the defendant to testify in his own behalf.
E. For good cause shown, the court may grant an exception to any of the requirements of Subsections A through D of this Section.
F. Evidence of an intention to rely upon an alibi defense, later withdrawn, or of statements made in connection with such intention, is not admissible in any civil or criminal proceeding against the person who gave notice of the intention.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1.
Except as specifically provided in this Chapter, this Chapter does not authorize the discovery or inspection of reports, memoranda, notes, or other internal documents made by the defendant or by agents of the defendant in connection with the investigation or defense of the case; or of any document, notes, or other items which contain the mental impressions of any attorney for the defendant or any investigator working on behalf of such attorney.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1; Acts 2013, No. 250, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 2013, No. 250, §2, relative to applicability.
A motion for discovery by a defendant under this Chapter may be filed in accordance with Article 521 or within such reasonable time as the court may permit. The motion shall include all relief sought under this Chapter. A subsequent motion may be considered before trial, but only upon a showing that such motion would be in the interest of justice.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1. Amended by Acts 1978, No. 735, §2.
A. A motion for discovery shall not be denied without a contradictory hearing unless it appears on the face of the motion that, as a matter of law, the moving party is not entitled to the relief sought.
B. Upon a sufficient showing by either party, the court may at any time vacate, restrict or defer an order for discovery, or make such other order as is appropriate.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1.
An order of the court granting relief under this Chapter shall specify the time, place, and manner of making the discovery and inspection and may prescribe such terms and conditions as are appropriate.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1.
If, subsequent to compliance with an order issued pursuant to this Chapter and prior to or during trial, a party discovers additional evidence or decides to use additional evidence and such evidence is or may be, subject to discovery or inspection under the order issued, he shall promptly notify the other party and the court of the existence of the additional evidence, so that the court may modify its previous order or allow the other party to make an appropriate motion for additional discovery or inspection.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1.
The court may by special order or pursuant to local rules require the district attorney and defense counsel to participate in a pretrial conference for the purpose of:
(1) Disposing of discovery motions without formal hearing when there is no objection and no prior voluntary compliance with the provisions hereof; and
(2) Consideration of such other matters as may aid in the prompt and fair disposition of the charge.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1.
A. If at any time during the course of the proceedings it is brought to the attention of the court that a party has failed to comply with this Chapter or with an order issued pursuant to this Chapter, the court may order such party to permit the discovery or inspection, grant a continuance, order a mistrial on motion of the defendant, prohibit the party from introducing into evidence the subject matter not disclosed, or enter such other order, other than dismissal, as may be appropriate.
B. In addition to the sanctions authorized in Part A hereof, if at any time prior or subsequent to final disposition the court finds that either the state through the district attorney or assistant district attorney or the defendant or his counsel has willfully failed to comply with this Chapter or with an order issued pursuant to this Chapter, such failure shall be deemed to be a constructive contempt of court.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1.
The rules of this Chapter shall be applied in all criminal cases tried in the district, parish, and city courts. They shall be applicable following the institution of prosecution by the return of a grand jury indictment, the filing of a bill of information, or the filing of an affidavit charging an offense. However, the rules of this Chapter do not apply in city and parish courts to cases in which prosecution is instituted by affidavit for violations of city or parish ordinances defining traffic offenses.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 515, §1; Acts 2012, No. 842, §1.
A. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the district attorney or the defendant may delete or excise from any information required to be disclosed herein any information which identifies a witness if such party believes the witness's safety may be compromised by the disclosure. If a party objects to the deletion or excision, he must do so by written motion. The court shall maintain the deletion or excision if, at an ex parte proceeding which shall be recorded and maintained under seal, the party excising or deleting such information makes a prima facie showing that the witness's safety may be compromised by the disclosure.
B. If the information excised by a party includes the substance, or any part thereof, of any written or recorded statement of the witness, that party must provide the excised substance, or any part thereof, to the other party immediately prior to the witness's testimony at the trial.
C. If a judge finds that the party excising or deleting such information has failed to present prima facie proof to support the deletion or excision of information related to a witness, then upon the motion of either party, the court shall order an automatic stay of all matters related to the disclosure of information about the witness and maintain all proceedings under seal during the time while the moving party seeks supervisory review to the appropriate reviewing courts with appellate jurisdiction, including the Louisiana Supreme Court.
D. The rules of evidence shall not be applicable to the ex parte proceedings conducted pursuant to this Article.
Acts 2013, No. 250, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 2013, No. 250, §2, relative to applicability.
A. The court shall issue subpoenas for the compulsory attendance of witnesses at hearings or trials when requested to do so by the state or the defendant. Clerks of court may issue subpoenas except as provided in Article 739.
B. The court and the clerks of court are authorized to place their signatures by electronic means on all subpoenas issued pursuant to this Chapter.
Amended by Acts 1980, No. 286, §1; Acts 2001, No. 54, §1; Acts 2007, No. 29, §1; Acts 2010, No. 58, §2.
A subpoena may order a person to produce at the trial or hearing, books, papers, documents, or any other tangible things in his possession or under his control, if a reasonably accurate description thereof is given; but the court shall vacate or modify the subpoena if it is unreasonable or oppressive.
A. The Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of state police, the office of the attorney general, any agency that is a member of the Department of Justice Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, or the sheriff's office investigating any sex offense as defined in R.S. 15:541 where the victim is a minor, or the offender reasonably believes that the victim is a minor, shall have the administrative authority to issue in writing and cause to be served a subpoena requiring the production and testimony described in Paragraph B of this Article upon reasonable cause to believe that an Internet service account, or online identifier as defined in R.S. 15:541(20), has been used in the commission of the offense, or in the exploitation or attempted exploitation of children.
B. Except as provided in Paragraph C of this Article, a subpoena issued under this Article may require the production of the following records or other documentation relevant to the investigation:
(1) Electronic mail address.
(2) Internet username.
(3) Internet protocol address.
(4) Name of account holder.
(5) Billing and service address.
(6) Telephone number.
(7) Account status.
(8) Method of access to the Internet.
(9) Automatic number identification records if access is by modem.
C. The following information shall not be subject to disclosure pursuant to an administrative subpoena issued pursuant to the provisions of this Article but shall be subject to disclosure pursuant to other lawful process:
(1) In-transit electronic communications.
(2) Account memberships related to Internet groups, newsgroups, mailing lists, or specific areas of interest.
(3) Account passwords.
(4) Account content, including electronic mail in any form, address books, contacts, financial records, web surfing history, Internet proxy content, or files or other digital documents stored with the account or pursuant to use of the account.
D. A subpoena issued pursuant to this Article shall describe the objects required to be produced and shall prescribe a return date with a reasonable period of time within which the objects can be assembled and made available.
E. If no case or proceeding arises from the production of records or other documentation pursuant to this Section and the time limitation for initiation of prosecution has expired, the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of state police, the sheriff's office, or the office of the attorney general shall destroy the records and documentation.
F. Except as provided in this Article, any information, records, or data reported or obtained pursuant to a subpoena authorized by the provisions of this Article shall remain confidential and shall not be disclosed unless in connection with a criminal case related to the subpoenaed materials.
G. Any administrative subpoena issued pursuant to this Article shall comply with the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 2703(c)(2).
Acts 2010, No. 514, §1.
A. The Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of state police, the office of the attorney general, the police department, or the sheriff's office investigating any offense or attempt to commit any offense described in Subparagraphs (1) and (2) of this Paragraph shall have the administrative authority to issue in writing and cause to be served a subpoena requiring the production and testimony described in Paragraph B of this Article upon reasonable cause to believe that an internet service account, or online identifier as defined in R.S. 15:541, has been used in the commission or attempted commission of the following:
(1) A person is a victim of human trafficking pursuant to R.S. 14:46.2, or the offender reasonably believes that the person is a victim of human trafficking.
(2) A person is a victim of trafficking of children for sexual purposes pursuant to R.S. 14:46.3, or the offender reasonably believes that the person is a minor.
B. Except as provided in Paragraph C of this Article, a subpoena issued under this Article may require the production of the following records or other documentation relevant to the investigation:
(1) Electronic mail address.
(2) Internet username.
(3) Internet protocol address.
(4) Name of account holder.
(5) Billing and service address.
(6) Telephone number.
(7) Account status.
(8) Method of access to the internet.
(9) Automatic number identification records if access is by modem.
C. The following information shall not be subject to disclosure pursuant to an administrative subpoena issued pursuant to the provisions of this Article but shall be subject to disclosure pursuant to other lawful process:
(1) In-transit electronic communications.
(2) Account memberships related to internet groups, newsgroups, mailing lists, or specific areas of interest.
(3) Account passwords.
(4) Account content, including electronic mail in any form, address books, contacts, financial records, web surfing history, internet proxy content, or files or other digital documents stored with the account or pursuant to use of the account.
D. A subpoena issued pursuant to this Article shall describe the objects required to be produced and shall prescribe a return date with a reasonable period of time within which the objects can be assembled and made available.
E. If no case or proceeding arises from the production of records or other documentation pursuant to this Section and the time limitation for initiation of prosecution has expired, the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of state police, the office of the attorney general, or the sheriff's office shall destroy the records and documentation.
F. Except as provided in this Article, any information, records, or data reported or obtained pursuant to a subpoena authorized by the provisions of this Article shall remain confidential and shall not be disclosed unless in connection with a criminal case related to the subpoenaed materials.
G. Any administrative subpoena issued pursuant to this Article shall comply with the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 2703(c)(2).
Acts 2021, No. 18, §1.
A subpoena shall state the name of the court and the title of the case and shall command the attendance of a witness at a time and place specified.
Acts 1986, No. 505, §1.
A. The sheriff of any parish in which the witness may be found or of the parish in which the proceeding is pending shall serve the subpoena and make a return thereof without delay.
B. When the attorney general is involved in the conduct of a criminal case, investigators who are employed by the attorney general and who are commissioned law enforcement officers may serve any subpoena or subpoena duces tecum which is issued in that case. If an investigator who is employed by the attorney general serves a subpoena or a subpoena duces tecum under this Article, the investigator shall execute the return of service provided for in Article 736.
C. When the district attorney is involved in the investigation or prosecution of a criminal case, investigators who are employed by that district attorney and who are P.O.S.T. certified commissioned law enforcement officers may serve any subpoena or subpoena duces tecum which is issued in that case. Each investigator who serves a subpoena or subpoena duces tecum under the provisions of this Article shall execute the return of service required by Article 736.
Acts 2001, No. 304, §1; Acts 2001, No. 441, §1; Acts 2004, No. 499, §1.
A. Unless otherwise directed by the state or defendant, subpoenas shall be served by domiciliary service, personal service, or United States mail as provided in Paragraph B. Personal service is made when the sheriff tenders the subpoena to the witness. Domiciliary service is made when the sheriff leaves the subpoena at the dwelling house or usual abode of the witness with a person of suitable age and discretion residing therein as a member of the domiciliary establishment of the witness.
B.(1) The criminal sheriff for the parish of Orleans and all other sheriffs throughout the state may serve all subpoenas directed to him to be served by mailing the said subpoenas in the United States Post Office, by either certified mail, return receipt requested, or first class mail to the addressee at the address listed on the subpoena.
(2) Service by first class mail shall include a request that the enclosed return form be signed by the addressee and mailed to the sheriff. If a signed return is not received by the sheriff, the subpoena shall be served by domiciliary or personal service as provided in Paragraph A.
(3) Service by mail shall be considered personal service if the certified return receipt or the return form is signed by the addressee. Service by mail shall be considered domiciliary service if the certified return receipt or the return form is signed by anyone other than the addressee.
C. The criminal sheriff of the parish of Orleans and all other sheriffs throughout the state are hereby authorized to make service of subpoenas to law enforcement officers through the law enforcement officer's ranking officers or their designated representative, which, upon service thereof, shall have the same legal effect as if domiciliary service had been made upon the law enforcement officer named therein. This service shall be made at the district stations or departmental headquarters of said law enforcement agency. Service may consist of individual subpoenas or may consist of lists which include officer's name and badge number, case title, name of court, and date of commanded appearance. Such lists may be served by the sheriff or his deputies by means of electronic transfer to printing devices located in the district stations or departmental headquarters. The ranking officer, or his designated representative, shall sign for such subpoenas or indicate receipt by electronic verification code, and shall be required to notify the law enforcement officer named therein of receipt of the subpoenas or list.
D. This type of subpoena service shall be known as departmental subpoena service of law enforcement officers, and shall not be construed to replace domiciliary or personal service for said officers, but shall be an additional method of service.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 512, §1; Acts 1970, No. 116, §1; Acts 1974, No. 641, §1; Acts 1988, No. 294, §1; Acts 1989, No. 338, §1.
A. The sheriff shall endorse on a copy of the subpoena the date, place, type of service, and sufficient other data to show service in compliance with law. When the witness cannot be found, the sheriff must set out in his return every fact that in his opinion justifies the return. He shall sign and return the copy promptly after the service to the court that issued the subpoena. The return, when received by the clerk, shall form part of the record and shall be considered prima facie correct.
B. The criminal sheriff for the Parish of Orleans when serving subpoenas under the provisions of Paragraph A of Article 735 of the Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure shall endorse on a copy of the subpoena the date and time of mailing, and shall attach the return receipt of delivery from the United States Post Office showing the disposition of the envelope bearing the subpoena. He shall return the copy and the attached receipt to the court that issued the subpoena. The return, when received by the clerk, shall form part of the record and shall be considered prima facie correct and shall constitute sufficient basis for an action to cite persons for contempt for failure to appear in response thereto.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 511, §1.
Contumacious failure to comply with a subpoena, proof of service of which appears of record, constitutes a direct contempt of the court which issued the subpoena, and the court may order the witness attached and brought to court immediately.
If an order of attachment is issued, it may be executed in any parish by the sheriff of the parish from which the attachment was issued, or by the sheriff of the parish where the witness is found.
At a trial or hearing, each defendant in a misdemeanor case shall be allowed to summon six witnesses at the expense of the parish, and in a felony case sixteen witnesses. A defendant shall have the right of compulsory process for additional witnesses at his own expense.
Acts 2001, No. 1119, §1.
If a defendant is indigent and unable to pay for witnesses desired by him in addition to those summoned at the expense of the parish, he shall make a sworn application to the court for the additional witnesses. The application must allege that the testimony is relevant and material and not cumulative and that the defendant cannot safely go to trial without it.
The court shall make a private inquiry into the facts, and if satisfied that the defendant is entitled to the privilege, it shall render an order permitting the defendant to subpoena additional witnesses at the expense of the parish. If the application is denied, the court shall state the reasons for the denial in writing, which shall become part of the record.
No subpoena or order compelling discovery shall issue to compel the attendance of a member of the Louisiana Legislature, or legislative employee, except in strict conformity with the provision of R.S. 13:3667.1 and no subpoena or order compelling discovery shall issue to compel the attendance of a member or former member of the Louisiana Legislature, or legislative employee, except in strict conformity with the provision of R.S. 13:3667.3. For purposes of this Article, "legislative employee" means the clerk of the House of Representatives, the secretary of the Senate, and employees of the House of Representatives, the Senate, and the Legislative Bureau.
Acts 2006, No. 690, §3, eff. June 29, 2006; Acts 2008, No. 374, §2, eff. June 21, 2008; Acts 2012, No. 519, §2.
If a person in any state, which by its laws has made provision for commanding persons within its borders to attend and testify in criminal prosecutions or grand jury investigations commenced or about to commence in this state, is a material witness in a prosecution pending in a court of record in this state, or in a grand jury investigation which has commenced or is about to commence, a judge of such court may issue a certificate under the seal of the court stating these facts and specifying the number of days the witness shall be required. This certificate shall be presented to a judge of a court of record in the county (parish) in which the witness is found.
If the certificate recommends that the witness be taken into immediate custody and delivered to an officer of this state to assure his attendance in this state, the judge may direct that the witness be forthwith brought before him. The judge being satisfied of the desirability of custody and delivery, for which determination the certificate shall be prima facie proof, may order that the witness be forthwith taken into custody and delivered to an officer of this state. The order shall be sufficient authority for the officer to take the witness into custody and hold him unless and until he may be released by bail, recognizance, or order of the judge issuing the certificate.
If the witness is summoned to attend and testify in this state he shall be tendered the sum of ten cents a mile for each mile and five dollars for each day that he is required to travel and attend as a witness. A witness who has appeared in accordance with the provisions of the summons shall not be required to remain within the state a longer period of time than the period mentioned in the certificate, unless otherwise ordered by the court. If the witness fails without good cause to attend and testify as directed in the summons, he shall be punished in the manner provided for the punishment of any witness who disobeys a summons issued from a court of record of this state.
If a judge of a court of record in any state which by its laws has made provision for commanding persons within that state to attend and testify in this state, certifies under seal of court that there is a criminal prosecution pending in that court, or that a grand jury investigation has commenced or is about to commence, that a person being within this state is a material witness in the prosecution or grand jury investigation, and that his presence will be required for a specified number of days, upon presentation of the certificate to any judge of a court of record in the parish (county) in which the person is, the judge shall fix a time and place for a hearing and shall make an order directing the witness to appear at a time and place certain for the hearing.
If at a hearing the judge determines that the witness is material and necessary, that it will not cause undue hardship to the witness to be compelled to attend and testify in the prosecution or grand jury investigation in the other state, and that the laws of the state in which the prosecution is pending, or grand jury investigation has commenced or is about to commence, will give to him protection from arrest and the service of civil and criminal process, he shall issue a summons, with a copy of the certificate attached, directing the witness to attend and testify in the court where the prosecution is pending, or where a grand jury investigation has commenced or is about to commence at a time and place specified in the summons. In any such hearing the certificate shall be prima facie evidence of all the facts stated therein.
If the certificate recommends that the witness be taken into immediate custody and delivered to an officer of the requesting state to assure his attendance in the requesting state, the judge may, in lieu of notification of the hearing, direct that the witness be forthwith brought before him for the hearing. The judge at the hearing being satisfied of the desirability of custody and delivery, for which determination the certificate shall be prima facie proof of desirability may, in lieu of issuing subpoena or summons, order that the witness be forthwith taken into custody and delivered to an officer of the requesting state.
If the witness, who is summoned as above provided, after being paid or tendered by some properly authorized person the sum of ten cents a mile for each mile and five dollars for each day, that he is required to travel and attend as a witness, fails without good cause to attend and testify as directed in the summons, he shall be punished in the manner provided by law for the punishment of any witness who disobeys a summons issued from a court of record in this state.
If a person comes into this state in obedience to a summons directing him to attend and testify in this state, he shall not, while in this state pursuant to such summons or order, be subject to arrest or the service of process, civil or criminal, in connection with matters which arose before his entrance into this state under the summons.
If a person passes through this state while going to another state in obedience to a summons or order to attend and testify in that state or while returning therefrom, he shall not, while so passing through this state be subject to arrest, or the service of process, civil or criminal, in connection with matters which arose before his entrance into this state under the summons or order.
"Witness" as used in Articles 741 through 743 shall include a person whose testimony is relevant and material and desired in any proceeding or investigation by a grand jury or in a criminal action, prosecution, or proceeding.
"State" shall include any territory of the United States and the District of Columbia.
Articles 741 through 744 shall be so interpreted and construed as to effect their general purpose to make uniform the law of the states which enact similar provisions.
A jury trial commences when the first prospective juror is called for examination. A trial by a judge alone commences when the first witness is sworn.
In the case of a homicide, and with prior court approval, one member of the victim's family shall be authorized to possess in the courtroom, during the trial of the case a photograph of the deceased victim that is not larger than eight by ten inches and is not inflammatory in nature. Nothing in this Article shall preclude the admission into evidence of a photograph of the victim that the court deems admissible.
Acts 1999, No. 1066, §1.
Sessions of court shall be held at the parish courthouse and, if there is more than one courthouse in a parish, sessions may be held at any such courthouse, or sessions may be held at places within the parish other than the courthouse or courthouses in the discretion of the court:
(1) To take the testimony of witnesses who are so incapacitated that they cannot attend the trial in the parish courthouse;
(2) To allow the jury or judge to view the place where the crime or any material part thereof is alleged to have occurred, or to view an object which is admissible in evidence but which is difficult to produce in court. At this view, the court shall not permit the taking of evidence except in connection with the place or object; or
(3) When the courthouse in which the sessions are usually held is unsuitable for use, or there is no courthouse.
Amended by Acts 1972, No. 354, §1.
Trials and hearings may commence or continue on a holiday or half-holiday in the discretion of the court.
The exclusion of witnesses is governed by Louisiana Code of Evidence Article 615.
Acts 1986, No. 968, §1; Acts 1988, No. 515, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 1989.
{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1988, NO. 515, §12.}}
The normal order of trial shall be as follows:
(1) The selection and swearing of the jury;
(2) The reading of the indictment;
(3) The reading of the defendant's plea on arraignment;
(4) The opening statements of the state and of the defendant;
(5) The presentation of the evidence of the state, and of the defendant, and of the state in rebuttal. The court in its discretion may permit the introduction of additional evidence prior to argument;
(6) The argument of the state, the defendant, and the state in rebuttal;
(7) The court's charge;
(8) The announcement of the verdict or mistrial in jury cases, or of the judgment in nonjury cases; and
(9) The discharge of the jury in jury cases.
When there is more than one defendant, the court shall determine the order of trial as between them.
A defendant may waive his opening statement.
The opening statement of the state shall explain the nature of the charge, and set forth, in general terms, the nature of the evidence by which the state expects to prove the charge.
The state shall not, in the opening statement, advert in any way to a confession or inculpatory statement made by the defendant unless the statement has been previously ruled admissible in the case.
Acts 1995, No. 1278, §1.
Unless the defendant has been granted pretrial discovery, if the state intends to introduce a confession or inculpatory statement in evidence, it shall so advise the defendant in writing prior to beginning the state's opening statement. If it fails to do so a confession or inculpatory statement shall not be admissible in evidence.
Amended by Acts 1982, No. 735, §1.
Evidence not fairly within the scope of the opening statement of the state shall not be admitted in evidence.
If the state offers evidence that was inadvertently and in good faith omitted from the opening statement, the court, in its discretion may admit the evidence if it finds that the defendant is not taken by surprise or prejudiced in the preparation of his defense.
Upon motion of a defendant, a mistrial shall be ordered when a remark or comment, made within the hearing of the jury by the judge, district attorney, or a court official, during the trial or in argument, refers directly or indirectly to:
(1) Race, religion, color or national origin, if the remark or comment is not material and relevant and might create prejudice against the defendant in the mind of the jury;
(2) Another crime committed or alleged to have been committed by the defendant as to which evidence is not admissible;
(3) The failure of the defendant to testify in his own defense; or
(4) The refusal of the judge to direct a verdict.
An admonition to the jury to disregard the remark or comment shall not be sufficient to prevent a mistrial. If the defendant, however, requests that only an admonition be given, the court shall admonish the jury to disregard the remark or comment but shall not declare a mistrial.
In the following cases, upon the request of the defendant or the state, the court shall promptly admonish the jury to disregard a remark or comment made during the trial, or in argument within the hearing of the jury, when the remark is irrelevant or immaterial and of such a nature that it might create prejudice against the defendant, or the state, in the mind of the jury:
(1) When the remark or comment is made by the judge, the district attorney, or a court official, and the remark is not within the scope of Article 770; or
(2) When the remark or comment is made by a witness or person other than the judge, district attorney, or a court official, regardless of whether the remark or comment is within the scope of Article 770.
In such cases, on motion of the defendant, the court may grant a mistrial if it is satisfied that an admonition is not sufficient to assure the defendant a fair trial.
The judge in the presence of the jury shall not comment upon the facts of the case, either by commenting upon or recapitulating the evidence, repeating the testimony of any witness, or giving an opinion as to what has been proved, not proved, or refuted.
Neither the state nor the defendant can be controlled by the court as to the order in which evidence shall be adduced. The procedure for laying a foundation is provided in the Louisiana Code of Evidence.
Acts 1988, No. 515, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 1989.
{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1988, NO. 515, §12.}}
The argument shall be confined to evidence admitted, to the lack of evidence, to conclusions of fact that the state or defendant may draw therefrom, and to the law applicable to the case.
The argument shall not appeal to prejudice.
The state's rebuttal shall be confined to answering the argument of the defendant.
A mistrial may be ordered, and in a jury case the jury dismissed, when:
(1) The defendant consents thereto;
(2) The jury is unable to agree upon a verdict;
(3) There is a legal defect in the proceedings which would make any judgment entered upon a verdict reversible as a matter of law;
(4) The court finds that the defendant does not have the mental capacity to proceed;
(5) It is physically impossible to proceed with the trial in conformity with law; or
(6) False statements of a juror on voir dire prevent a fair trial.
Upon motion of a defendant, a mistrial shall be ordered, and in a jury case the jury dismissed, when prejudicial conduct in or outside the courtroom makes it impossible for the defendant to obtain a fair trial, or when authorized by Article 770 or 771.
A mistrial shall be ordered, and in a jury case the jury dismissed, when the state and the defendant jointly move for a mistrial.
If a judge orders a mistrial, then upon motion of either the state or the defendant, the court shall order an automatic twenty-four-hour stay of all proceedings in which either the state or the defendant may take an emergency writ application to the appropriate reviewing courts with appellate jurisdiction, including the Louisiana Supreme Court. The jury shall not be released pending the stay unless both the state and defendant agree to release the jury.
Acts 2004, No. 413, §1; Acts 2011, No. 87, §1.
Before a witness is permitted to testify he shall be sworn, in accordance with Article 14.
A record of the trial proceedings shall be made in accordance with other provisions of law.
In a trial by the judge alone the court shall enter a judgment of acquittal on one or more of the offenses charged, on its own motion or on that of defendant, after the close of the state's evidence or of all the evidence, if the evidence is insufficient to sustain a conviction.
If the court denies a defendant's motion for a judgment of acquittal at the close of the state's case, the defendant may offer its evidence in defense.
Amended by Acts 1975, No. 527, §1.
A. A defendant charged with a misdemeanor in which the punishment, as set forth in the statute defining the offense, may be a fine in excess of two thousand five hundred dollars or imprisonment for more than six months must be tried by a jury of six jurors, all of whom shall concur to render a verdict.
B. The defendant charged with any other misdemeanor shall be tried by the court without a jury.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 635, §1; Acts 1974, Ex.Sess., No. 23, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1975; Acts 1975, 1st Ex.Sess., No. 16, §1, eff. Jan. 28, 1975; Acts 1979, No. 56, §1; Acts 1986, No. 852, §1, eff. July 10, 1986; Acts 1988, No. 202, §1; Acts 2026, No. 192, §1, eff. May 18, 2026.
A. A defendant charged with an offense other than one punishable by death may knowingly and intelligently waive a trial by jury and elect to be tried by the judge.
B.(1) The defendant shall exercise his right to waive trial by jury in accordance with Article I, Section 17 of the Constitution of Louisiana. The waiver shall be by written motion filed in the district court not later than forty-five days prior to the date the case is set for trial. The motion shall be signed by the defendant and shall also be signed by defendant's counsel unless the defendant has waived his right to counsel.
(2) If a defendant files a motion pursuant to this Paragraph in a district court with three or more judges who are assigned criminal matters within respective divisions or sections, the case shall be randomly reassigned among the remaining judges who are assigned criminal matters within all divisions or sections immediately following the filing of the motion.
(3) Within ten days of service of notice of the defendant filing a written motion to waive the jury, the prosecuting authority may file a written waiver of reassignment, in which case the matter shall not be reassigned.
(4) When a defendant waives trial by jury in accordance with this Article and the waiver results in reassignment, the filing of that waiver shall constitute an interruption of the time periods provided in Article 701, and the time periods shall begin to run anew.
C. With the consent of the district attorney the defendant may waive trial by jury within forty-five days prior to the commencement of trial.
D. A waiver of trial by jury is irrevocable and cannot be withdrawn by the defendant.
Amended by Acts 1974, Ex.Sess., No. 24, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1975; Acts 1975, 1st Ex.Sess., No. 16, §1, eff. Jan. 28, 1975; Acts 1985, No. 801, §1; Acts 2013, No. 343, §1, eff. June 17, 2013; Acts 2026, No. 455, §1, See Act; Acts 2026, No. 541, §1.
NOTE: Acts 2026, No. 455, effectiveness was contingent upon a constitutional amendment which was not enacted.
When a case is tried without a jury the state or the defendant may request the court to charge itself in accordance with written charges presented to the court. The requested charges shall be governed by the rules of procedure relative to requested charges in jury cases.
A. A case in which punishment may be capital shall be tried by a jury of twelve jurors, all of whom must concur to render a verdict. A case for an offense committed prior to January 1, 2019, in which punishment is necessarily confinement at hard labor shall be tried by a jury composed of twelve jurors, ten of whom must concur to render a verdict. A case for an offense committed on or after January 1, 2019, in which the punishment is necessarily confinement at hard labor shall be tried before a jury of twelve persons, all of whom must concur to render a verdict. A case in which the punishment may be confinement at hard labor shall be tried by a jury composed of six jurors, all of whom must concur to render a verdict.
B. Trial by jury may be knowingly and intelligently waived by the defendant except in capital cases.
Amended by Acts 1974, Ex.Sess., No. 25, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1975; Acts 1975, 1st Ex.Sess., No. 16, §1, eff. Jan. 28, 1975; Acts 1979, No. 56, §2; Acts 2018, No. 493, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2019, if const. amend. is ratified.
A. The court may excuse a member of the petit jury venire at any time prior to the time he is sworn as a juror to try a particular case. The panel shall be selected from the remaining members of the petit jury venire. The court, either on its own motion, or that of the state or a defendant, may order the attachment of an absent and unexcused petit jury venireman.
B. If jury service, whether criminal or civil, would result in undue hardship or extreme inconvenience, the district court may excuse a person from such service either prior to or after his selection for the general venire, jury pool, or jury wheel. The court may take such action on its own initiative or on recommendation of an official or employee designated by the court.
C. No person or group of persons shall be automatically excused.
D. In the event a person is excused because jury service would result in undue hardship or extreme inconvenience, the court may order that person's name be placed again in the general venire or in a central jury pool.
Amended by Acts 1976, No. 212, §2; Acts 1977, No. 378, §1.
In selecting a panel, names shall be drawn from the petit jury venire indiscriminately and by lot in open court and in a manner to be determined by the court.
In those judicial district courts, including the Criminal District Court for the parish of Orleans, wherein use of a jury pool has been authorized by law, the petit jury panel shall be selected by random, indiscriminate choice in a manner to be determined by the rules of the court in which the jury panel is selected.
Amended by Acts 1977, No. 556, §1, eff. July 15, 1977.
A. In a parish other than Orleans having more than one division of court, holding petit jury terms simultaneously, when a petit jury venire of one division is or is about to be exhausted before a trial jury is impaneled, the judge of that division, with the consent of the judge of a division that has not exhausted its petit jury venire, may order the petit jury venire of the latter division or such portion thereof not being used by the latter division, to report to his division to serve as tales jurors. The names of the petit jury veniremen so ordered to report shall be drawn as provided by Article 784 for examination as prospective trial jurors. Those who are impaneled as trial jurors shall serve as though regularly selected as tales jurors. Those who are not selected as trial jurors shall be ordered to report back to the division of court in which they were previously serving as petit jury veniremen.
B. In all other instances, except as provided in Article 409.1 of this code, when the petit jury venire is or is about to be exhausted before a trial jury is impaneled, the judge may order the secretary of the jury commission or the clerk of court to draw indiscriminately and by lot such number of tales jurors from the general venire box as in the opinion of the court may be necessary to complete the impaneling of the trial jury.
C. Immediately after the drawing of tales jurors, they shall be summoned to attend court at such time as the court may direct, and shall be subject to the same duties as petit jurors.
D. In parishes other than Orleans, the judge may order the summoning of tales jurors from among the bystanders or persons in or about the courthouse, in place of the drawing of tales jurors.
E. When called, tales jurors shall be selected for completion of the panel in accordance with Article 784.
Amended by Acts 1975, No. 406, §1; Acts 1975, No. 696, §1.
The court, the state, and the defendant shall have the right to examine prospective jurors. The scope of the examination shall be within the discretion of the court. A prospective juror, before being examined, shall be sworn to answer truthfully questions asked him relative to his qualifications to serve as a juror in the case.
The court may disqualify a prospective petit juror from service in a particular case when for any reason doubt exists as to the competency of the prospective juror to serve in the case.
A. After the examination provided by Article 786, a prospective juror may be tendered first to the state, which shall accept or challenge him. If the state accepts the prospective juror, he shall be tendered to the defendant, who shall accept or challenge him. When a prospective juror is accepted by the state and the defendant, he shall be sworn immediately as a juror. This Article is subject to the provisions of Articles 795 and 796.
B. If the court does not require tendering of jurors, it shall by local rule provide for a system of simultaneous exercise of challenges.
Acts 1983, No. 603, §1.
A. The court may direct that not more than six jurors in addition to the regular panel be called and impaneled to sit as alternate jurors. Alternate jurors, in the order in which they are called, shall replace jurors who become unable to perform or disqualified from performing their duties. Alternate jurors shall be drawn in the same manner, shall have the same qualifications, shall be subject to the same examination and challenges for cause, shall take the same oath, and shall have the same functions, powers, facilities, and privileges as the principal jurors. If the court determines that alternate jurors are desirable in the case, the court shall determine the number to be chosen. The regular peremptory challenges allowed by law shall not be used against the alternate jurors. The court shall determine how many additional peremptory challenges shall be allowed, and each defendant shall have an equal number of such challenges. The state shall have as many peremptory challenges as the defense. The additional peremptory challenges may be used only against alternate jurors. Except in capital cases, an alternate juror who does not replace a principal juror may be discharged when the jury retires to consider its verdict.
B. In a capital case, at the conclusion of the guilt phase of the trial, alternate jurors that have not replaced principal jurors shall not be discharged, but shall be sequestered from other members of the jury until the jury has reached a verdict. If a sentencing hearing is mandated, the alternate jurors will be returned to the jury and will hear the evidence presented at the sentencing hearing and will be available to replace principal jurors.
C. If the court, as provided in Paragraph A, replaces a principal juror with an alternate juror after deliberations have begun, the court shall order the jury to begin deliberations anew.
Acts 1995, No. 364, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1273, §1.
When selection of jurors and alternate jurors has been completed, and all issues properly raised under Article 795 have been resolved, the jurors shall then be sworn together to try the case in a just and impartial manner, each to the best of his judgment, and to render a verdict according to the law and the evidence.
Acts 1990, No. 524, §1.
A. A jury is sequestered by being kept together in the charge of an officer of the court so as to be secluded from outside communication, except as permitted by R.S. 18:1307.2.
B. In capital cases, after each juror is sworn he shall be sequestered, unless the state and the defense have jointly moved that the jury not be sequestered.
C.(1) In noncapital cases, the jury shall be sequestered during active deliberations and may be sequestered at any time upon order of the court.
(2) At any time after the court's charge, and after notice to the parties and affording the parties an opportunity to be heard on the record outside the presence of the jury, the court may declare the deliberations to be in recess and may then direct the jury to suspend its deliberations, to separate without sequestration, and to return for continued deliberations on the next day of operation of the court. Before each recess, the court shall admonish the jury as provided in Subparagraph (3) of this Paragraph and direct it to not resume its deliberations until all twelve jurors have reassembled in the designated place at the termination of the declared recess.
(3)(a) Upon the court's charge to suspend deliberations and to separate without sequestration, the court shall admonish the jury as follows:
(i) Deliberations shall be conducted only in the jury room when all jurors are present. All deliberations shall cease and shall not resume until all of the jurors have returned to the jury room.
(ii) During the recess, jurors shall not converse with any person about anything related to the case.
(iii) Jurors remain under obligation to not request, accept, agree to accept, or discuss with any person regarding the receiving or accepting of any payment or benefit in return for supplying information concerning the trial.
(iv) Jurors shall promptly report directly to the court any incident within their knowledge involving an attempt by any person to improperly influence any member of the jury.
(v) Jurors shall not visit or view the premises or place where the charged crime was allegedly committed or any other premises or place involved in the case.
(vi) Jurors shall not read, view, or listen to any accounts or discussions of the case reported by newspapers, television, radio, the internet, or any other news media outlet.
(vii) Jurors shall not attempt to research any fact, issue, or law related to the case, whether by discussion with others, by research in a library or on the internet, or by any other means or source.
(b) Upon the jurors returning from any recess, the court shall verify with each juror on the record that he followed the admonition.
Amended by Acts 1981, No. 475, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1172, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1277, §1; Acts 2023, No. 75, §1.
When the jury has retired, the jurors shall select a foreman who shall preside over their deliberations and sign the verdict.
A. Except as provided in Paragraph B of this Article, a juror must rely upon his memory in reaching a verdict. He shall not be permitted to refer to notes or to have access to any written evidence. Testimony shall not be repeated to the jury. Upon the request of a juror and in the discretion of the court, the jury may take with it or have sent to it any object or document received in evidence when a physical examination thereof is required to enable the jury to arrive at a verdict.
B. A juror shall be permitted to take notes when agreement to granting such permission has been made between the defendant and the state in open court but not within the presence of the jury. The court shall provide the needed writing implements. Jurors may, but need not, take notes and such notes may be used during the jury's deliberations but shall not be preserved for review on appeal. The trial judge shall ensure the confidentiality of the notes during the course of trial and the jury's deliberation and shall cause the notes to be destroyed immediately upon return of the verdict.
C. The lack of consent by either the defendant or the state to allow a juror to take notes during a trial shall not be communicated to the jury.
Acts 2001, No. 465, §1.
A. The court may, and at the request of the state or a defendant shall, remove the jury from the courtroom when the court hears matters to be decided by the court alone. The court may remove the jury from the courtroom at any time when considered in the best interest of justice.
B. The removal of the jury when the court is asked to make rulings on evidentiary matters is controlled by the Louisiana Code of Evidence.
Acts 1988, No. 515, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 1989.
{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1988, NO. 515, §12.}}
A.(1) The identity, name, address, telephone number, email address, image, or likeness of a juror shall not be a public record unless released pursuant to Paragraph B of this Article.
(2) The provisions of Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph shall not apply if a list of jurors is submitted to a local government.
B. Upon motion by any person and finding of good cause by the court, information collected by the court or by a prosecuting attorney during the jury selection process about a person who serves as a juror, including the juror's name, home address, or other identifying information, may be disclosed in whole or in part as the court deems necessary.
C. Whoever intentionally violates the provisions of Paragraph A of this Article shall be fined not more than one thousand dollars, or imprisoned for not more than six months, or both. The provisions of this Paragraph shall not apply to a public body.
Acts 2026, No. 284, §1.
A. A juror shall not be challenged for cause after having been temporarily accepted pursuant to Article 788(A) unless the challenging party shows that the cause was not known to him prior to that time.
B.(1) Peremptory challenges shall be exercised prior to the swearing of the jury panel.
(2) Peremptory challenges of jurors shall be made and communicated to the court in a side bar conference of the judge, the attorneys conducting the examination and selection of jurors, and the defendant in a case in which the defendant chooses to represent himself. The conference shall be conducted in a manner that only the court, the attorneys, and the defendant in a case in which the defendant chooses to represent himself, are aware of the challenges made until the court announces the challenges without reference to any party or attorney in the case.
C. No peremptory challenge made by the state or the defendant shall be motivated in substantial part on the basis of the race or sex of the juror. If an objection is made that a challenge was motivated in substantial part on the basis of race or sex, and a prima facie case supporting that objection is made by the objecting party, the court shall demand a satisfactory race or sex neutral reason for the exercise of the challenge. Such demand and disclosure shall be made outside of the hearing of any juror or prospective juror. The court shall then determine whether the challenge was motivated in substantial part on the basis of race or sex.
D. The court shall allow to stand each peremptory challenge exercised for a race or sex neutral reason either apparent from the examination or disclosed by counsel when required by the court. The provisions of Paragraph C of this Article and this Paragraph shall not apply when both the state and the defense have exercised a challenge against the same juror.
E. The court shall allow to stand each peremptory challenge for which a satisfactory racially neutral or sex neutral reason is given. Those jurors who have been peremptorily challenged and for whom no satisfactory racially neutral or sex neutral reason is apparent or given may be ordered returned to the panel, or the court may take such other corrective action as it deems appropriate under the circumstances. The court shall make specific findings regarding each such challenge.
Amended by Acts 1986, No. 323, §1; Acts 1990, No. 547, §1; Acts 1990, No. 713, §1; Acts 1993, No. 1019, §1; Acts 2008, No. 669, §1; Acts 2019, No. 235, §1; Acts 2026, No. 814, §27.
If it is discovered after a juror has been accepted and sworn, that he is incompetent to serve, the court may, at any time before the first witness is sworn, order the juror removed and the panel completed in the ordinary course.
The state or the defendant may challenge a juror for cause on the ground that:
(1) The juror lacks a qualification required by law;
(2) The juror is not impartial, whatever the cause of his partiality. An opinion or impression as to the guilt or innocence of the defendant shall not of itself be sufficient ground of challenge to a juror, if he declares, and the court is satisfied, that he can render an impartial verdict according to the law and the evidence;
(3) The relationship, whether by blood, marriage, employment, friendship, or enmity between the juror and the defendant, the person injured by the offense, the district attorney, or defense counsel, is such that it is reasonable to conclude that it would influence the juror in arriving at a verdict;
(4) The juror will not accept the law as given to him by the court; or
(5) The juror served on the grand jury that found the indictment, or on a petit jury that once tried the defendant for the same or any other offense.
It is good cause for challenge on the part of the state, but not on the part of the defendant, that:
(1) The juror is biased against the enforcement of the statute charged to have been violated, or is of the fixed opinion that the statute is invalid or unconstitutional;
(2) The juror tendered in a capital case who has conscientious scruples against the infliction of capital punishment and makes it known:
(a) That he would automatically vote against the imposition of capital punishment without regard to any evidence that might be developed at the trial of the case before him;
(b) That his attitude toward the death penalty would prevent or substantially impair him from making an impartial decision as a juror in accordance with his instructions and his oath; or
(c) That his attitude toward the death penalty would prevent him from making an impartial decision as to the defendant's guilt; or
(3) The juror would not convict upon circumstantial evidence.
Amended by Acts 1968, Ex.Sess., No. 13, §1, emerg. eff. Dec. 27, 1968, at 1:00 P.M; Acts 1990, No. 366, §1.
In trials of offenses punishable by death or necessarily by imprisonment at hard labor, each defendant shall have twelve peremptory challenges, and the state twelve for each defendant. In all other cases, each defendant shall have six peremptory challenges, and the state six for each defendant.
Acts 1983, No. 495, §1; Acts 1985, No. 952, §1.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, and specifically notwithstanding the provisions of Article 788, in the jury selection process, the state and the defendant may exercise all peremptory challenges available to each side, respectively, prior to the full complement of jurors being seated and before being sworn in by the court, and the state or the defendant may exercise any remaining peremptory challenge to one or more of the jurors previously accepted. No juror shall be sworn in until both parties agree on the jury composition or have exercised all challenges available to them, unless otherwise agreed to by the parties.
Acts 2006, No. 71, §1.
A. A defendant may not assign as error a ruling refusing to sustain a challenge for cause made by him, unless an objection thereto is made at the time of the ruling. The nature of the objection and grounds therefor shall be stated at the time of objection.
B. The erroneous allowance to the state of a challenge for cause does not afford the defendant a ground for complaint, unless the effect of such ruling is the exercise by the state of more peremptory challenges than it is entitled to by law.
Acts 1983, No. 181, §1.
A. The court shall charge the jury after the presentation of all evidence and arguments. The court shall reduce its charge to writing if it is requested to do so by either a defendant or the state prior to the swearing of the first witness at the trial on the merits. The court's written charge shall be read to the jury. The court shall deliver a copy thereof to the defendant and to the state prior to reading it to the jury.
B.(1) After such written charge is read to the jury, a copy of the written charge shall be delivered to the jury if such delivery is consented to by both the defendant and the state in open court but not in the presence of the jury.
(2) The lack of consent by either the defendant or the state to the delivery of the written charge to the jury shall not be communicated to the jury.
C. A party may not assign as error the giving or failure to give a jury charge or any portion thereof unless an objection thereto is made before the jury retires or within such time as the court may reasonably cure the alleged error. The nature of the objection and grounds therefor shall be stated at the time of objection. The court shall give the party an opportunity to make the objection out of the presence of the jury.
Amended by Acts 1982, No. 458, §1; Acts 2001, No. 310, §1.
The court shall charge the jury:
(1) As to the law applicable to the case;
(2) That the jury is the judge of the law and of the facts on the question of guilt or innocence, but that it has the duty to accept and to apply the law as given by the court; and
(3) That the jury alone shall determine the weight and credibility of the evidence.
When a count in an indictment sets out an offense which includes other offenses of which the accused could be found guilty under the provisions of Article 814 or 815, the court shall charge the jury as to the law applicable to each offense.
When a defendant has specially pleaded insanity in accordance with Article 552, the court shall charge the jury with respect to the law applicable thereto.
A. In all cases the court shall charge the jury that:
(1) A person accused of crime is presumed by law to be innocent until each element of the crime, necessary to constitute his guilt, is proven beyond a reasonable doubt;
(2) It is the duty of the jury, in considering the evidence and in applying to that evidence the law as given by the court, to give the defendant the benefit of every reasonable doubt arising out of the evidence or out of the lack of evidence in the case; and
(3) It is the duty of the jury if not convinced of the guilt of a defendant beyond a reasonable doubt, to find him not guilty.
The court may, but is not required to, define "the presumption of innocence" or "reasonable doubt" or give any other or further charge upon the same than that contained in this article.
B. When there are several grades of an offense contained in a single count, the court shall charge the jury as to each grade of which the defendant could be found guilty. The court shall in that case also charge the jury that if it has a reasonable doubt as to any or all grades of the offense charged it shall find the defendant not guilty of that grade, or all grades of the offense, as the case may be.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 144, §1.
The court shall charge the jury that if it acquits a defendant on account of a plea of insanity it shall state that the defendant was found not guilty by reason of insanity.
The court shall not charge the jury concerning the facts of the case and shall not comment upon the facts of the case, either by commenting upon or recapitulating the evidence, repeating the testimony of any witness, or giving an opinion as to what has been proved, not proved, or refuted.
The state and the defendant shall have the right before argument to submit to the court special written charges for the jury. Such charges may be received by the court in its discretion after argument has begun. The party submitting the charges shall furnish a copy of the charges to the other party when the charges are submitted to the court.
A requested special charge shall be given by the court if it does not require qualification, limitation, or explanation, and if it is wholly correct and pertinent. It need not be given if it is included in the general charge or in another special charge to be given.
If the jury or any member thereof, after having retired to deliberate upon the verdict, desires further charges, the officer in charge shall bring the jury into the courtroom, and the court shall in the presence of the defendant, his counsel, and the district attorney, further charge the jury. The further charge may be verbal, but shall be in writing if requested by any juror. No charge shall be reduced to writing at the request of a juror pursuant to this Article unless consent is obtained from both the defendant and the state in open court but not within the presence of the jury. The lack of consent by either the defendant or the state shall not be communicated to the jury. A copy of the court's written charge shall be delivered to the defendant, the state, and the jury.
Acts 2001, No. 310, §1.
After charging the jury, the judge shall give the jury a written list of the verdicts responsive to each offense charged, with each separately stated. The list shall be taken into the jury room for use by the jury during its deliberation.
When a verdict has been agreed upon, the foreman shall write the verdict on the back of the list of responsive verdicts given to the jury and shall sign it. There shall be no formal requirement as to the language of the verdict except that it shall clearly convey the intention of the jury.
The foreman of the jury shall deliver the verdict to the judge in open court.
If the verdict is correct in form and responsive to the indictment, the court shall order the clerk to receive the verdict, to read it to the jury, and to ask: "Is that your verdict?" If the jury answer "Yes," the court shall order the clerk to record the verdict and shall discharge the jury.
A. In all cases, the court shall order the clerk to poll the jury if requested by the state or the defendant. The poll shall be conducted in writing by applying the procedures of Paragraph B of this Article and shall be done in open court.
B.(1) In cases in which a verdict was reached, the procedure for the written polling of the jury shall require that the clerk hand to each juror a separate piece of paper containing the name of the juror and the words "Is this your verdict?" Each juror shall write on the slip of paper the words "Yes" or "No" along with his signature. The clerk shall collect the slips of paper, make them available for inspection by the court and counsel, and record the results.
(2) If a sufficient number of jurors as required by law to reach a verdict answer "yes" the clerk shall so inform the court. Upon verification of the results, the court shall order the clerk to record the verdict and order the jury discharged. If an insufficient number required to find a verdict answer "Yes," the court may remand the jury for further deliberation, or the court may declare a mistrial in accordance with Article 775. The polling slips may be placed under seal upon order of the court, which shall state the specific reasons for placing the polling slips under seal. If so ordered the polling slips shall not be released to the public without a subsequent order of the court authorizing their release. If the court orders the release of the polling slips, the names of the jurors shall be redacted.
C. In cases for which no verdict could be reached and a mistrial has been declared under Article 775(2), the court shall order the clerk to poll the jury if requested by the state or the defendant. The poll shall be conducted in writing by applying the procedures of Paragraph D of this Article and shall be done in open court.
D. The procedure for the written polling of the jury shall require that the clerk hand to each juror a separate piece of paper containing the name of the juror and the words "What was your verdict?". Each juror shall write on the slip of paper the words "guilty" or "not guilty" or "guilty of a lesser offense" along with his signature. The clerk shall collect the slips of paper, make them available for inspection by the court and counsel, and record the results. The polling slips may be placed under seal upon order of the court, which shall state the specific reasons for placing the polling slips under seal. If so ordered, the polling slips shall not be released to the public without a subsequent order of the court authorizing their release. If the court orders the release of the polling slips, the names of the jurors shall be redacted.
Amended by Acts 1975, No. 475, §1; Acts 2018, No. 335, §1; Acts 2025, No. 76, §1.
If the court finds that the verdict is incorrect in form or is not responsive to the indictment, it shall refuse to receive it, and shall remand the jury with the necessary oral instructions. In such a case the court shall read the verdict, and record the reasons for refusal.
A. The only responsive verdicts which may be rendered when the indictment charges the following offenses are:
Guilty.
Guilty of second degree murder.
Guilty of manslaughter.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted second degree murder.
Guilty of attempted manslaughter.
Guilty of aggravated battery.
Guilty of aggravated assault with a firearm.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of manslaughter.
Guilty of negligent homicide.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted manslaughter.
Guilty of aggravated battery.
Guilty of aggravated assault with a firearm.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of negligent homicide.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of aggravated battery.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of negligent homicide.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of negligent injuring.
Guilty of operating a vehicle while intoxicated or impaired.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of vehicular negligent injuring.
Guilty of negligent injuring.
Guilty of operating a vehicle while intoxicated or impaired.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted first degree rape.
Guilty of second degree rape.
Guilty of attempted second degree rape.
Guilty of third degree rape.
Guilty of attempted third degree rape.
Guilty of sexual battery.
Guilty of attempted sexual battery.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted first degree rape.
Guilty of second degree rape.
Guilty of attempted second degree rape.
Guilty of third degree rape.
Guilty of attempted third degree rape.
Guilty of sexual battery of a child under the age of thirteen.
Guilty of attempted sexual battery of a child under the age of thirteen.
Guilty of sexual battery.
Guilty of attempted sexual battery.
Guilty of molestation of a juvenile or a person with a physical or mental disability with a victim under the age of thirteen.
Guilty of attempted molestation of a juvenile or a person with a physical or mental disability with a victim under the age of thirteen.
Guilty of molestation of a juvenile or a person with a physical or mental disability.
Guilty of attempted molestation of a juvenile or a person with a physical or mental disability.
Guilty of indecent behavior with a juvenile with a victim under the age of thirteen.
Guilty of attempted indecent behavior with a juvenile with a victim under the age of thirteen.
Guilty of indecent behavior with a juvenile.
Guilty of attempted indecent behavior with a juvenile.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted second degree rape.
Guilty of attempted third degree rape.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted second degree rape.
Guilty of third degree rape.
Guilty of attempted third degree rape.
Guilty of sexual battery.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted third degree rape.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted third degree rape.
Guilty of sexual battery.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of second degree battery.
Guilty of simple battery.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted disarming of a peace officer.
Guilty of battery of a police officer.
Guilty of aggravated assault.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of aggravated battery.
Guilty of second degree battery.
Guilty of simple battery.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of simple battery.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of simple assault.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted aggravated kidnapping.
Guilty of second degree kidnapping.
Guilty of attempted second degree kidnapping.
Guilty of simple kidnapping.
Guilty of attempted simple kidnapping.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted second degree kidnapping.
Guilty of attempted simple kidnapping.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted simple kidnapping.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted armed robbery.
Guilty of first degree robbery.
Guilty of attempted first degree robbery.
Guilty of simple robbery.
Guilty of attempted simple robbery.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted first degree robbery.
Guilty of attempted simple robbery.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted first degree robbery.
Guilty of simple robbery.
Guilty of attempted simple robbery.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted simple robbery.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty.
Guilty of theft of property having a value of twenty-five thousand dollars or more.
Guilty of theft of property having a value of five thousand dollars or more, but less than twenty-five thousand dollars.
Guilty of theft of property having a value of one thousand dollars or more, but less than five thousand dollars.
Guilty of theft of property having a value of less than one thousand dollars.
Guilty of attempted theft of property having a value of twenty-five thousand dollars or more.
Guilty of attempted theft of property having a value of five thousand dollars or more, but less than twenty-five thousand dollars.
Guilty of attempted theft of property having a value of one thousand dollars or more, but less than five thousand dollars.
Guilty of attempted theft of property having a value of less than one thousand dollars.
Guilty of unauthorized use of movables having a value in excess of one thousand dollars.
Guilty of unauthorized use of movables having a value of one thousand dollars or less.
Not guilty.
Guilty of attempted theft of property having a value of twenty-five thousand dollars or more.
Guilty of attempted theft of property having a value of five thousand dollars or more, but less than twenty-five thousand dollars.
Guilty of attempted theft of property having a value of one thousand dollars or more, but less than five thousand dollars.
Guilty of attempted theft of property having a value of less than one thousand dollars.
Guilty of attempted unauthorized use of movables having a value in excess of one thousand dollars.
Guilty of attempted unauthorized use of movables having a value of one thousand dollars or less.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of simple arson where the damage amounted to five hundred dollars or more.
Guilty of simple arson where the damage amounted to less than five hundred dollars.
The simple arson verdicts are responsive only if the words "belonging to another and with damage amounting to __________ dollars" are included in the indictment.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted simple arson where the damage would have amounted to five hundred dollars or more.
Guilty of attempted simple arson where the damage would have amounted to less than five hundred dollars.
The attempted simple arson verdicts are responsive only if the words "belonging to another and with damage that would have amounted to __________ dollars" are included in the indictment.
Not guilty.
Guilty of simple arson where the damage done amounted to five hundred dollars or more.
Guilty of simple arson where the damage done amounted to less than five hundred dollars.
Not guilty.
Guilty of attempted arson where the damage would have amounted to five hundred dollars or more.
Guilty of attempted simple arson where the damage would have amounted to less than five hundred dollars.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of simple criminal damage to property where the damage amounted to fifty thousand dollars or more.
Guilty of simple criminal damage to property where the damage amounted to one thousand dollars or more, but less than fifty thousand dollars.
Guilty of simple criminal damage to property where the damage amounted to less than one thousand dollars.
The simple criminal damage to property verdicts are responsive only if the words "belonging to another and with damage amounting to __________ dollars" are included in the indictment.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted simple criminal damage to property where the damage would have amounted to fifty thousand dollars or more.
Guilty of attempted simple criminal damage to property where the damage would have amounted to one thousand dollars or more, but less than fifty thousand dollars.
Guilty of attempted simple criminal damage to property where the damage would have amounted to less than one thousand dollars.
The attempted simple criminal damage to property verdicts are responsive only if the words "belonging to another and with damage that would have amounted to __________ dollars" are included in the indictment.
Not guilty.
Guilty of simple criminal damage to property where the damage done amounted to fifty thousand dollars or more.
Guilty of simple criminal damage to property where the damage done amounted to one thousand dollars or more, but less than fifty thousand dollars.
Guilty of simple criminal damage to property where the damage done amounted to less than one thousand dollars.
Not guilty.
Guilty of attempted simple criminal damage to property where the damage would have amounted to fifty thousand dollars or more.
Guilty of attempted simple criminal damage to property where the damage would have amounted to one thousand dollars or more, but less than fifty thousand dollars.
Guilty of attempted simple criminal damage to property where the damage would have amounted to less than one thousand dollars.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted aggravated burglary.
Guilty of simple burglary.
Guilty of attempted simple burglary.
Guilty of simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling.
Guilty of attempted simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling.
Guilty of unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling.
Guilty of attempted unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted simple burglary.
Guilty of attempted simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling.
Guilty of attempted unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted simple burglary.
Guilty of unauthorized entry of a place of business.
Guilty of attempted unauthorized entry of a place of business.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling.
Guilty of unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling.
Guilty of attempted unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of flight from an officer.
Not guilty.
Guilty of contaminating water supplies when the act foreseeably endangered the life or health of human beings.
Guilty of contaminating water supplies when the act did not foreseeably endanger the life or health of human beings.
Not guilty.
Guilty of attempted contamination of water supplies when the act would foreseeably endanger the life or health of human beings.
Guilty of attempted contamination of water supplies when the act would not foreseeably endanger the life or health of human beings.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted production, manufacture, distribution or dispensation of controlled dangerous substances.
Guilty of possession of controlled dangerous substances.
Guilty of attempted possession of controlled dangerous substances.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted possession of controlled dangerous substances with intent to produce, manufacture, distribute, or dispense.
Guilty of possession of controlled dangerous substances.
Guilty of attempted possession of controlled dangerous substances.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted possession of controlled dangerous substances.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted possession of cocaine.
Guilty of possession of drug paraphernalia.
Not guilty.
The possession of drug paraphernalia verdict is responsive only if there is evidence of drug paraphernalia, as defined in R.S. 40:1021, in the charged offense of possession of cocaine.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted possession of controlled dangerous substances.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of possession of controlled dangerous substances.
Guilty of attempted possession of controlled dangerous substances.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted possession of controlled dangerous substances.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted creation or distribution of counterfeit controlled dangerous substances.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted possession of counterfeit controlled dangerous substances with intent to distribute.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted cruelty to persons with infirmities.
Guilty of simple battery.
Guilty of assault.
Guilty of negligent injuring.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted solicitation of crime against nature.
Guilty of prostitution.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted second degree kidnapping.
Guilty of any predicate sex offense or offenses alleged in the indictment or bill of information.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of attempted aggravated kidnapping of a child.
Guilty of any predicate sex offense or offenses alleged in the indictment.
Not guilty.
Guilty.
Guilty of menacing.
Not guilty.
B.(1) Except as provided in Paragraph A of this Article, responsive verdicts in any other cases arising under the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law shall be governed by Article 815 of this Code.
(2) For purposes of this Article and Article 815, for any offense arising under the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law that is graded according to the weight of the substance, the responsive verdicts shall include grades of the offense that are based upon lesser weights than the weight of the substance that is charged in the indictment.
C. Upon motion of the state or the defendant, or on its own motion, the court shall exclude a responsive verdict listed in Paragraph A if, after all the evidence has been submitted, the evidence, viewed in a light most favorable to the state, is not sufficient reasonably to permit a finding of guilty of the responsive offense.
D. Where an offense is graded according to property value or amount of damage, the responsive verdicts shall not include a grade of the offense that is greater than the property value or amount of damage charged in the indictment.
Amended by Acts 1973, No. 126, §1; Acts 1975, No. 334, §1; Acts 1975, No. 335, §1; Acts 1975, No. 336, §§1, 2; Acts 1976, No. 85, §1; Acts 1978, No. 247, §1; Acts 1982, No. 763, §1. Amended by Acts 1983, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 28, §1; Acts 1983, No. 633, §1; Acts 1983, No. 635, §1; Acts 1985, No. 791, §1; Acts 1985, No. 799, §1; Acts 1986, No. 646, §1; Acts 1988, No. 926, §1; Acts. 1988, No. 927, §1; Acts 1988, No. 928, §1; Acts 1991, No. 465, §1; Acts 1992, No. 307, §1; Acts 1995, No. 403, §2, eff. June 17, 1995; Acts 1997, No. 400, §1; Acts 1997, No. 558, §1; Acts 1997, No. 865, §1; Acts 2001, No. 321, §1; Acts 2001, No. 1093, §1; Acts 2003, No. 164, §1; Acts 2003, No. 623, §1; Acts 2003, No. 720, §1; Acts 2004, No. 739, §1; Acts 2006, No. 52, §1; Acts 2006, No. 235, §1; Acts 2010, No. 396, §2; Acts 2014, No. 61, §1; Acts 2014, No. 255, §§2, 4, and 5; Acts 2014, No. 811, §31, eff. June 23, 2014; Acts 2015, No. 184, §6; Acts 2018, No. 680, §1; Acts 2022, No. 173, §2; Acts 2022, No. 493, §2; Acts 2026, No. 103, §2; Acts 2026, No. 812, §3.
In all cases not provided for in Article 814, the following verdicts are responsive:
(1) Guilty;
(2) Guilty of a lesser and included grade of the offense even though the offense charged is a felony, and the lesser offense a misdemeanor; or
(3) Not Guilty.
In addition to the responsive verdicts in Articles 814 and 815, a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity is responsive if a defendant has specially pleaded insanity in accordance with Article 552.
A. Except as provided in Paragraph B of this Article, any qualification of or addition to a verdict of guilty, beyond a specification of the offense as to which the verdict is found, is without effect upon the finding.
B. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, in addition to a specification of the offense as to which the verdict is found pursuant to Paragraph A of this Article, any fact that increases the maximum or mandatory minimum penalty for a crime, other than the fact of a prior conviction, may be submitted to the jury, and the verdict may include a specific finding of fact as to that issue.
Amended by Acts 1972, No. 502, §1; Acts 1973, No. 125, §1; Acts 2019, No. 326, §1, eff. June 11, 2019.
If there is more than one defendant on trial, the verdict shall name each defendant and the finding as to him.
If there is more than one count in an indictment, the jury must find a verdict as to each count, unless it cannot agree on a verdict as to a count.
All provisions of this Chapter regulating the responsiveness and effect of verdicts shall apply to cases tried without a jury.
A. The defendant may move for a post verdict judgment of acquittal following the verdict. A motion for a post verdict judgment of acquittal must be made and disposed of before sentence.
B. A post verdict judgment of acquittal shall be granted only if the court finds that the evidence, viewed in a light most favorable to the state, does not reasonably permit a finding of guilty.
C. If the court finds that the evidence, viewed in a light most favorable to the state, supports only a conviction of a lesser included responsive offense, the court, in lieu of granting a post verdict judgment of acquittal, may modify the verdict and render a judgment of conviction on the lesser included responsive offense.
D. If a post verdict judgment of acquittal is granted or if a verdict is modified, the state may seek review by invoking the supervisory jurisdiction of or by appealing to the appropriate appellate court.
E. If the appellate court finds that the evidence, viewed in a light most favorable to the state, supports only a conviction of a lesser included responsive offense, the court, in lieu of granting a post verdict judgment of acquittal, may modify the verdict and render a judgment of conviction on the lesser included responsive offense.
Added by Acts 1982, No. 144, §1.
A.(1) Should the court on its own motion or on motion of the defendant consider setting aside a guilty verdict or a plea of guilty or, after the sentence is imposed, consider amending or modifying the sentence imposed, the district attorney shall be notified and the motion shall be tried contradictorily with the district attorney unless the district attorney waives such contradictory hearing.
(2) Such motions include but are not limited to motions for a new trial, motions in arrest of judgment, motions for amendment, modification, or reconsideration of sentence, and motions for modification of conditions of probation or termination of probation.
B. Additionally, if at any time after sentence is imposed, the defendant seeks the production of all or any portion of the district attorney's file in a criminal proceeding, the request for production shall be presented by written motion, which shall be tried contradictorily with the district attorney.
C. Each motion to set aside a guilty verdict or plea of guilty and each motion to amend or modify a sentence imposed shall be filed, considered, and decided in compliance with Code of Criminal Procedure Articles 881 and 881.1.
Acts 1997, No. 1321, §1; Acts 2001, No. 937, §1.
A. Except as may be provided by local rules of court in accordance with Articles 522, 551, and 562, a defendant charged with a felony shall be present at all of the following:
(1) At arraignment.
(2) When a plea of guilty, not guilty, or not guilty and not guilty by reason of insanity is made.
(3) At the calling, examination, challenging, impaneling, and swearing of the jury, and at any subsequent proceedings for the discharge of the jury or of a juror.
(4) At all times during the trial when the court is determining and ruling on the admissibility of evidence.
(5) In trials by jury, at all proceedings when the jury is present, and in trials without a jury, at all times when evidence is being adduced.
(6) At the rendition of the verdict or judgment, unless he voluntarily absents himself.
B. Repealed by Acts 2020, No. 160, §2.
Acts 1990, No. 543, §1; Acts 1990, No. 593, §1; Acts 1997, No. 1015, §1; Acts 2017, No. 406, §1; Acts 2020, No. 160, §2.
A. A defendant initially present for the commencement of trial shall not prevent the further progress of the trial, including the return of the verdict, and shall be considered to have waived his right to be present if his counsel is present or if the right to counsel has been waived and either of the following occur:
(1) He voluntarily absents himself after the trial has commenced, whether or not he has been informed by the court of his obligation to be present during the trial.
(2) After being warned by the court that disruptive conduct will cause him to be removed from the courtroom, he persists in conduct which justifies his exclusion from the courtroom.
B. Repealed by Acts 2020, No. 160, §2.
Acts 1990, No. 543, §1; Acts 1990, No. 593, §1; Acts 1997, No. 718, §1; Acts 2017, No. 406, §1; Acts 2020, No. 160, §2.
A. The court may permit an unrepresented or pro se defendant charged with a misdemeanor to be arraigned, enter his plea of guilty, or be tried, in his absence.
B.(1) A plea of not guilty of a misdemeanor may be allowed to be entered through counsel of record.
(2) A plea of not guilty of a misdemeanor shall be allowed to be entered through counsel of record in the absence of the defendant by the filing of a sworn affidavit in advance of the scheduled arraignment date.
C. The sworn affidavit referenced in Subparagraph (B)(2) of this Article shall include the caption of the case and summons number, citation number or docket number as applicable, and state as follows:
AFFIDAVIT ACCEPTING SERVICE AND
WAIVER OF PRESENCE
BEFORE ME, the undersigned authority, did personally come and appear, ____________(CLIENT'S NAME), who after being duly sworn did depose and say:
Affiant acknowledges that he is the defendant in the above captioned criminal matter; that he is aware of all charges pending against him in this matter and that he has retained the services of ____________ (ATTORNEY(S) or LAW FIRM) to represent him in these proceedings;
Affiant is aware that he is scheduled to be in court on the ______ day of ____, 20 at ___ o'clock and that he has the right to be present on that day but expressly wishes to waive this right and to have his legal counsel appear on his behalf;
Affiant is aware that in his absence, additional court dates could be scheduled in these proceedings and he hereby appoints his above named legal counsel as his agent(s) to accept service of notice to appear for those dates on his behalf, that he accepts service of those dates through his counsel and that he expressly waives his appearance for those dates and authorizes his counsel to appear on his behalf;4.
Affiant understands that the court, in its sole discretion, may revoke its acceptance of this waiver and require that affiant personally appear in open court on subsequent court dates; that his counsel will also be notified; that a notice of appearance will be mailed to affiant at his address of record and that affiant's failure to appear at the subsequent court date could result in the issuance of an arrest warrant, a revocation of appearance bond and/or is punishable as contempt of court;
Finally, Affiant acknowledges that his current address is: _______________(Street, Apt/Lot No, City, State and Zip Code); and authorizes the court to use this address for all notices, unless changed in writing by affiant.
Affiant
SWORN TO AND SUBSCRIBED BEFORE ME, notary, this ____ day of ____, 20.
NOTARY PUBLIC
Acts 1990, No. 543, §1; Acts 1990, No. 593, §1; Acts 1997, No. 1015, §1; Acts 2017, No. 406, §1; Acts 2020, No. 160, §2; Acts 2021, No. 235, §1; Acts 2022, No. 446, §1.
The defendant has a right to be present, but his presence is not essential to the validity of any of the following proceedings in a criminal prosecution:
(1) The making, hearing of, or ruling on a preliminary motion or application addressed to the court;
(2) The making, hearing of, or ruling on a motion or application addressed to the court during the trial when the jury is not present; except as provided in Clause (4) of Article 831; and
(3) The making, hearing of, or ruling on a motion or application made after his conviction.
A. Except as provided in Paragraph B of this Article, in felony cases the defendant shall always be present when sentence is pronounced and, in misdemeanor cases, the defendant shall be present when sentence is pronounced unless excused by the court. If a sentence is improperly pronounced in the defendant's absence, he shall be resentenced when his presence is secured.
B. Nothing in this Article prohibits the court, by local rule, from providing for a defendant's appearance at the pronouncement of sentence by simultaneous audio-visual transmission in accordance with the provisions of Article 562.
Amended by Acts 2020, No. 160, §1.
When a corporation, partnership, or other association is a defendant, the requirements of this Title are fulfilled if its counsel is present.
A. An irregularity or error cannot be availed of after verdict unless it was objected to at the time of occurrence. A bill of exceptions to rulings or orders is unnecessary. It is sufficient that a party, at the time the ruling or order of the court is made or sought, makes known to the court the action which he desires the court to take, or of his objections to the action of the court, and the grounds therefor.
B. The requirement of an objection shall not apply to the court's ruling on any written motion.
C. The necessity for and specificity of evidentiary objections are governed by the Louisiana Code of Evidence.
Amended by Acts 1974, No. 207, §1; Acts 1988, No. 515, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 1989.
{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1988, NO. 515, §12.}}
If an objection has been made when more than one defendant is on trial, it shall be presumed, unless the contrary appears, that the objection has been made by all the defendants.
Amended by Acts 1974, No. 207, §1.
In felony cases, in cases involving violation of an ordinance enacted pursuant to R.S. 14:143(B), and on motion of the court, the state, or the defendant in other misdemeanor cases tried in a district, parish, or city court, the clerk or court stenographer shall record all of the proceedings, including the examination of prospective jurors, the testimony of witnesses, statements, rulings, orders, and charges by the court, and objections, questions, statements, and arguments of counsel.
Amended by Acts 1974, No. 207, §1; Acts 1975, No. 118, §1, eff. July 7, 1975; Acts 2001, No. 944, §3.
A. The party appealing shall file with the appellate court a written designation of those errors which are to be urged on appeal and furnish a copy to the trial judge and all counsel. This assignment of errors shall be filed in accordance with the uniform rules of the appropriate appellate court.
B. If the appellant fails to comply with these provisions and fails to secure an extension in accordance with Article 916(1), the trial judge on his own motion or motion of the clerk or any party or upon referral by the appellate court and after hearing shall either:
(1) Extend the time within which the assignment of errors shall be filed.
(2) Impose a fine not to exceed five hundred dollars upon the appellant or his attorney or both if the failure is found by the court to be arbitrary and capricious.
C. If the record is not lodged in the appellate court within sixty days after the motion for the appeal is made or within the extended time granted by the proper court or if the record is lodged in the appellate court without an assignment of errors, the appellate court may adjudge the appellant, his attorney, or both guilty of contempt of court and impose a punishment authorized by law.
D. The trial judge may submit such per curiam comments as he desires.
Amended by Acts 1974, No. 207, §1; Acts 1980, No. 537, §1; Acts 1981, No. 296, §1; Acts 1984, No. 527, §1; Acts 1997, No. 642, §1.
Repealed by Acts 1982, No. 143, §3
A. The motion for a new trial is based on the supposition that injustice has been done the defendant, and, unless such is shown to have been the case the motion shall be denied, no matter upon what allegations it is grounded.
B. The court, on motion of the defendant, shall grant a new trial whenever any of the following occur:
(1) The verdict is contrary to the law and the evidence.
(2) The court's ruling on a written motion, or an objection made during the proceedings, shows prejudicial error.
(3) New and material evidence that, notwithstanding the exercise of reasonable diligence by the defendant, was not discovered before or during the trial, is available, and if the evidence had been introduced at the trial it would probably have changed the verdict or judgment of guilty.
(4) The defendant has discovered, since the verdict or judgment of guilty, a prejudicial error or defect in the proceedings that, notwithstanding the exercise of reasonable diligence by the defendant, was not discovered before the verdict or judgment.
(5) The court is of the opinion that the ends of justice would be served by the granting of a new trial, although the defendant may not be entitled to a new trial as a matter of strict legal right.
(6) The defendant is a victim of human trafficking or trafficking of children for sexual purposes and the acts for which the defendant was convicted were committed by the defendant as a direct result of being a victim of the trafficking activity.
Amended by Acts 1974, No. 207, §1; Acts 2014, No. 564, §6.
A motion for a new trial shall be in writing, shall state the grounds upon which it is based, and shall be tried contradictorily with the district attorney.
A. Except as otherwise provided by this Article, a motion for a new trial must be filed and disposed of before sentence. The court, on motion of the defendant and for good cause shown, may postpone the imposition of sentence for a specified period in order to give the defendant additional time to prepare and file a motion for a new trial.
B. When the motion for a new trial is based on Article 851(B)(3) of this Code, the motion may be filed within one year after verdict or judgment of the trial court, although a sentence has been imposed or a motion for a new trial has been previously filed. However, if an appeal is pending, the court may hear the motion only on remand of the case.
C. When the motion for a new trial is based on Article 851(B)(6) of this Code, the motion may be filed within three years after the verdict or judgment of the trial court, although a sentence has been imposed or a motion for new trial has been previously filed. However, if an appeal is pending, the court may hear the motion only on remand of the case.
Acts 2014, No. 564, §6.
A motion for a new trial based on ground (3) of Article 851 shall contain allegations of fact, sworn to by the defendant or his counsel, showing:
(1) That notwithstanding the exercise of reasonable diligence by the defendant, the new evidence was not discovered before or during the trial;
(2) The names of the witnesses who will testify and a concise statement of the newly discovered evidence;
(3) The facts which the witnesses or evidence will establish; and
(4) That the witnesses or evidence are not beyond the process of the court, or are otherwise available.
The newly discovered whereabouts or residence of a witness do not constitute newly discovered evidence.
A motion for a new trial based on ground (4) of Article 851 shall contain allegations of fact sworn to by the defendant or his counsel, showing:
(1) The specific nature of the error or defect complained of; and
(2) That, notwithstanding the exercise of reasonable diligence by the defense, the error or defect was not discovered before or during the trial.
A motion for new trial based on Article 851(B)(6) of this Code shall be available only to persons convicted of violating R.S. 14:82, 83.3, 83.4, 89, or 89.2 prior to August 1, 2014, and shall contain allegations of fact sworn to by the defendant or counsel of the defendant, showing that the defendant was convicted of the offense which was committed as a direct result of being a victim of human trafficking or trafficking of children for sexual purposes, or a victim of an offense which would constitute human trafficking or trafficking of children for sexual purposes regardless of the date of conviction. The motion shall provide information showing a rational and causal connection between the acts for which the defendant was convicted and the acts upon which the defendant bases his status as a victim.
Acts 2014, No. 564, §6.
A motion for a new trial shall urge all grounds known and available to the defendant at the time of the filing of the motion. However, the court may permit the defendant to supplement his original motion by urging an additional ground, or may permit the defendant to file an additional motion for a new trial, prior to the court's ruling on the motion.
The effect of granting a new trial is to set aside the verdict or judgment and to permit retrial of the case with as little prejudice to either party as if it had never been tried.
Neither the appellate nor supervisory jurisdiction of the supreme court may be invoked to review the granting or the refusal to grant a new trial, except for error of law.
The court shall arrest the judgment only on one or more of the following grounds:
(1) The indictment is substantially defective, in that an essential averment is omitted;
(2) The offense charged is not punishable under a valid statute;
(3) The court is without jurisdiction of the case;
(4) The tribunal that tried the case did not conform with the requirements of Articles 779, 780 and 782 of this code;
(5) The verdict is not responsive to the indictment, or is otherwise so defective that it will not form the basis of a valid judgment;
(6) Double jeopardy, if not previously urged; or
(7) The prosecution was not timely instituted, if not previously urged.
(8) The prosecution was for a capital offense or for an offense punishable by life imprisonment, but was not instituted by a grand jury indictment.
Improper venue may not be urged by a motion in arrest of judgment.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 145, §1; Acts 1974, Ex.Sess., No. 26, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1975.
A motion in arrest of judgment shall be in writing, shall state the ground upon which it is based, and shall be tried contradictorily with the district attorney.
A motion in arrest of judgment must be filed and disposed of before sentence. The court, on motion of the defendant and for cause shown, may postpone the imposition of sentence for a specified period in order to give the defense additional time to prepare and file a motion in arrest of judgment.
If the judgment is arrested because of a defect in the indictment, the indictment shall be dismissed and the defendant shall be discharged as to that indictment. However, a new indictment may be filed within the time limitation stated in Article 576.
If the judgment is arrested because the court is without jurisdiction of the case, the defendant shall be discharged, but may be tried by a court of proper jurisdiction.
If the judgment is arrested because the wrong type of tribunal tried the case, or because the verdict is not responsive to the indictment or is otherwise fatally defective, the defendant shall be remanded to custody or bail to await a new trial.
If the judgment is arrested on any other ground, the defendant shall be discharged.
A. A sentence is the penalty imposed by the court on a defendant upon a plea of guilty, upon a verdict of guilty, or upon a judgment of guilt. Sentence shall be pronounced orally in open court and recorded in the minutes of the court.
B.(1)(a) In every judgment of guilty of a felony or of one of the misdemeanors enumerated in Subparagraph (2) of this Paragraph, the sheriff shall cause to be attached to the bill of information or indictment the fingerprints of the defendant against whom such judgment is rendered.
(b)(i) Beneath such fingerprints shall be appended a certificate to the following effect:
"I hereby certify that the above and foregoing fingerprints on this bill are the fingerprints of the defendant, and that they were placed thereon by said defendant this ______ day of ______, ______."
(ii) The certificate shall be signed by the sheriff or other law enforcement officer who has custody of the defendant.
(2) In addition to judgments of guilty of a felony, the sheriff shall cause the fingerprints of the defendant to be so attached for every judgment of guilty of the following misdemeanors:
(a) First or second offense operating a vehicle while intoxicated in violation of R.S. 14:98.
(b) First offense possession of marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol, or chemical derivatives thereof, pursuant to a sentence imposed under R.S. 40:966(D)(1).
(c) A first or second offense involving drug paraphernalia pursuant to a sentence imposed under R.S. 40:1035(A) and (B).
(d) First or second offense theft pursuant to a sentence imposed under R.S. 14:67(B)(3) and first or second offense theft of goods pursuant to a sentence imposed under R.S. 14:67.10(B)(3).
(e) First offense prostitution pursuant to a sentence imposed under R.S. 14:82(B)(1).
(f) First or second offense of domestic abuse battery in violation of R.S. 14:35.3.
(g) First offense of failure to pay a child support obligation in violation of R.S. 14:75.
(h) A conviction for violation of protective orders (R.S. 14:79).
C. The certificate required by Paragraph B of this Article shall be admissible in evidence in the courts of this state as prima facie evidence that the fingerprints appearing thereon are the fingerprints of the defendant against whom the judgment of guilty of a felony or one of the enumerated misdemeanors was rendered.
Amended by Acts 1978, No. 302, §1; Acts 1979, No. 297, §1; Acts 1997, No. 852, §1; Acts 2003, No. 311, §1; Acts 2010, No. 513, §1.
If part of the sentence contains an order for the purpose of preventing violent or threatening acts or harassment against, contact or communication with, or physical proximity to, another person in order to prevent domestic abuse or dating violence, the judge shall cause to have prepared a Uniform Abuse Prevention Order, as provided in R.S. 46:2136.2(C), shall sign such order, and shall immediately forward it to the clerk of court for filing on the day that the order is issued. The clerk of the issuing court shall transmit the Uniform Abuse Prevention Order to the Judicial Administrator's Office, Louisiana Supreme Court, for entry into the Louisiana Protective Order Registry, as provided in R.S. 46:2136.2(A), by facsimile transmission or direct electronic input as expeditiously as possible, but no later than the end of the next business day after the order is filed with the clerk of court. The clerk of the issuing court shall also send a copy of the Uniform Abuse Prevention Order, as provided in R.S. 46:2136.2(C), or any modification thereof, to the chief law enforcement officer of the parish where the person or persons protected by the order reside by facsimile transmission or direct electronic input as expeditiously as possible, but no later than the end of the next business day after the order is filed with the clerk of court. A copy of the Uniform Abuse Prevention Order shall be retained on file in the office of the chief law enforcement officer until otherwise directed by the court.
Acts 1997, No. 1156, §3; Acts 2003, No. 750, §2; Acts 2014, No. 317, §6.
Prior to the imposition of a sentence, the court may inquire and receive response, orally or in writing, whether the convicted defendant is currently serving in or is a veteran of the armed forces of the United States. If the convicted defendant is currently serving in the military or is a veteran, the court may order a presentence investigation pursuant to Article 875(F) to determine whether military and veteran resources are available.
Acts 2013, No. 29, §1.
A valid sentence must rest upon a valid and sufficient:
(1) Statute;
(2) Indictment; and
(3) Verdict, judgment, or plea of guilty.
If a defendant is convicted of a felony, at least three days shall elapse between conviction and sentencing. If a motion for a new trial or in arrest of judgment is filed, sentence shall not be imposed until after the motion is overruled. If the defendant expressly waives a delay provided in this Article or pleads guilty, sentence may be imposed immediately.
Acts 2026, No. 634, §1.
Sentence shall be imposed without unreasonable delay. If a defendant claims that the sentence has been unreasonably delayed, he may invoke the supervisory jurisdiction of the appellate court.
Acts 1993, No. 975, §1.
A.(1) If a defendant is convicted of a felony offense or a misdemeanor offense that has been reduced from a felony, the court may order the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, division of probation and parole, to make a presentence investigation. All such reports shall be made within sixty days of conviction except that when the defendant is released on bond pending imposition of sentence, such reports shall be made within ninety days of conviction. In making the investigation, the probation officer shall inquire into the circumstances attending the commission of the offense, the defendant's history of delinquency or criminality, his family situation and background, economic and employment status, education, and personal habits.
(2) The probation officer shall also indicate specifically those resources available in the community which could provide needed assistance to the defendant should he be released on probation and shall inquire into other matters deemed relevant by the officer or ordered investigated by the court. The court may postpone imposition of sentence until the report is received.
(3) Local and state law enforcement agencies and mental and correctional institutions shall furnish to the probation officer criminal records and such other information and data as the probation officer requests. The defendant's pretrial and post-conviction disciplinary records shall be furnished to the probation officer and included in the presentence investigation. The court may order a physical and mental examination of the defendant.
(4)(a) If the court orders a presentence investigation to be conducted, the court shall simultaneously order the defendant to pay to the department an amount not to exceed one hundred fifty dollars to defray the cost of conducting the presentence investigation and preparing presentence investigation reports. The order to pay shall be included in the judgment.
(b) The amount to be paid by the defendant pursuant to this Subparagraph shall be determined by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections and shall be based on the defendant's ability to pay. In making this determination, the department may consider such factors as the defendant's income, property owned by the defendant, outstanding obligations of the defendant, and the number and ages of any dependents of the defendant.
B. If a defendant is convicted or pleads guilty to an offense involving a victim, the court shall require that a victim impact statement be included in the presentence report. The victim impact statement shall include factual information as to whether the victim or his family has suffered, as a result of the offense, any monetary loss, medical expense, physical impairment, and any other information deemed relevant. The district attorney may also file a victim impact statement with the court.
C.(1) The court may also make a written request of any juvenile court for an abstract containing only the delinquent acts of a convicted defendant currently before the requesting judge. The request shall be promptly complied with; provided, however, not more than ten days, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays, shall lapse before the requested information is deposited in the mail, addressed to the requesting court. The court may postpone imposition of sentence until the report is received.
(2) The requesting court shall not copy, duplicate or otherwise reproduce such juvenile records, and these records shall be deposited in the mail and addressed to the issuing juvenile court within seventy-two hours, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays, after sentencing.
(3) Failure to comply with the provisions of this Subsection shall subject the violating court to disciplinary action by the Supreme Court of Louisiana upon receipt by the judicial administrator of the supreme court of a written complaint, subsequently substantiated.
D. If the defendant is sentenced to imprisonment, a copy of the report shall be transmitted by the division of probation and parole to the institution to which he is committed.
E.(1) If a defendant is convicted of a second or subsequent violation of the Controlled Dangerous Substances Law as provided in R.S. 40:982, the court may order that the defendant submit to a chemical test to determine the presence or use of any controlled dangerous substance. The result of any such test shall be a part of the presentence investigation report.
(2) Any test so ordered shall be conducted at the cost of the defendant. The court's order shall include guidelines that will assure a test approved by the court and protection for the chain of custody for the test results.
(3) The test results shall be used exclusively by the court for guidance in determining the sentence or conditions of release of the defendant. Thereafter, the court shall order that this part of the record be sealed, to be opened pursuant only to court order. To this end, the test results shall not be duplicated by the court for any reason, provided that the defendant and his counsel shall have access to them prior to sentencing. Under no circumstances shall the information contained in the results be used as evidence or as the basis of any additional charge against the defendant.
F. If a convicted defendant is currently serving in the military or is a veteran and has been diagnosed as having a mental illness by a qualified psychiatrist or clinical psychologist or physician, the court may order a presentence investigation pursuant to this Article. In conducting the presentence investigation, the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, division of probation and parole, in addition to the requirements of Paragraphs A through E of this Article, shall:
(1) Consult with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs, or another agency or person with suitable knowledge or experience, for the purpose of providing the court with information regarding treatment options available to the convicted defendant, including federal, state, and local programming.
(2) Consider the treatment recommendations of any diagnosing or treating mental health professionals together with the treatment options available to the defendant in imposing a sentence.
Acts 1974, No. 110, §1; Acts 1975, No. 354, §1; Acts 1978, No. 380, §1; Acts 1983, No. 277, §1; Acts 1986, No. 482, §1; Acts 1989, No. 16, §1; Acts 1990, No. 1028, §1; Acts 2010, No. 562, §1; Acts 2011, No. 220, §1; Acts 2013, No. 29, §1.
A. The purpose of imposing financial obligations on an offender who is convicted of a criminal offense is to hold the offender accountable for his action, to compensate victims for any actual pecuniary loss or costs incurred in connection with a criminal prosecution, to defray the cost of court operations, and to provide services to offenders and victims. These financial obligations should not create a barrier to the offender's successful rehabilitation and reentry into society. Financial obligations in excess of what an offender can reasonably pay undermine the primary purpose of the justice system which is to deter criminal behavior and encourage compliance with the law. Financial obligations that cause undue hardship on the offender should be waived, modified, or forgiven. Creating a payment plan for the offender that is based upon the ability to pay, results in financial obligations that the offender is able to comply with and often results in more money collected. Offenders who are consistent in their payments and in good faith try to fulfill their financial obligations should be rewarded for their efforts.
B. For purposes of this Article, "financial obligations" shall include any fine, fee, cost, restitution, or other monetary obligation authorized by this Code or by the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950 and imposed upon the defendant as part of a criminal sentence, incarceration, or as a condition of the defendant's release on probation or parole.
C.(1) Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, prior to ordering the imposition or enforcement of any financial obligations as defined by this Article, the court shall conduct a hearing to determine whether payment in full of the aggregate amount of all the financial obligations to be imposed upon the defendant would cause substantial financial hardship to the defendant or his dependents. The court may consider, among other factors, whether any victim of the crime has incurred a substantial financial hardship as a result of the criminal act or acts and whether the defendant is employed. The court may delay the hearing to determine substantial financial hardship for a period not to exceed ninety days, in order to permit either party to submit relevant evidence.
(2) The defendant or the court may waive the judicial determination of a substantial financial hardship required by the provisions of this Paragraph. If the court waives the hearing on its own motion, the court shall provide reasons, entered upon the record, for its determination that the defendant is capable of paying the fines, fees, and penalties imposed without causing a substantial financial hardship.
D.(1) If the court determines that payment in full of the aggregate amount of all financial obligations imposed upon the defendant would cause substantial financial hardship to the defendant or his dependents, the court shall do either of the following:
(a) Waive all or any portion of the financial obligations, except as provided in Paragraph E of this Article.
(b) Order a payment plan that requires the defendant to make a monthly payment to fulfill the financial obligations.
(2)(a) The amount of each monthly payment for the payment plan ordered pursuant to the provisions of Subsubparagraph (1)(b) of this Paragraph shall be determined by the court after considering all relevant factors, including but not limited to the defendant's average gross daily income for an eight-hour work day.
(b) If the court has ordered restitution, half of the defendant's monthly payment shall be distributed toward the defendant's restitution obligation.
(c) Except as provided in Paragraph E of this Article, during any periods of unemployment, homelessness, or other circumstances in which the defendant is unable to make the monthly payment, the court or the defendant's probation and parole officer is authorized to impose a payment alternative, including but not limited to substance abuse treatment, education, job training, or community service.
(3) If, after the initial determination of the defendant's ability to fulfill his financial obligations, the defendant's circumstances and ability to pay his financial obligations change, the state, the defendant, or the defendant's attorney may file a motion with the court to reevaluate the defendant's circumstances and determine, in the same manner as the initial determination, whether a modification of the monthly financial obligation imposed pursuant to this Article is appropriate under the circumstances.
E. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Article or any other provision of law to the contrary, a court may not waive nor forgive restitution due to a crime victim unless the victim to whom restitution is due consents to such an action.
F. If, at the termination or end of the defendant's term of supervision, any restitution ordered by the court remains outstanding, the balance of the unpaid restitution shall be reduced to a civil money judgment in favor of the person to whom restitution is owed, which may be enforced in the same manner as provided for the execution of judgments in the Code of Civil Procedure. For any civil money judgment ordered under this Article, the clerk shall send notice of the judgment to the last known address of the person to whom the restitution is ordered to be paid.
G. The provisions of this Article shall apply only to defendants convicted of offenses classified as felonies under applicable law.
H. Notwithstanding any provision of this Article or any other law to the contrary, if the financial obligations imposed upon a defendant would cause substantial financial hardship to the defendant or his dependents, the court shall not order that the defendant be incarcerated for his inability to meet those financial obligations. This provision shall apply to defendants convicted of traffic offenses, misdemeanor offenses, or felonies under applicable law.
Acts 2022, No. 219, §§1, 2; Acts 2022, No. 391, §§1, 2.
A. An adult who is charged with an offense committed at the time he was a child for which the time limitation for the institution of prosecution pursuant to Code of Criminal Procedure Article 571 has not lapsed and for which he was subject to prosecution as an adult due to his age at the time the offense was committed shall be prosecuted as an adult in the appropriate court exercising criminal jurisdiction. If convicted, he shall be punished as an adult as provided by law.
B. An adult who is charged with an offense committed at the time he was a child for which the time limitation for the institution of prosecution pursuant to Code of Criminal Procedure Article 571 has not lapsed and for which he was not subject to prosecution as an adult due to his age at the time the offense was committed shall be prosecuted as an adult in the appropriate court exercising criminal jurisdiction. If convicted, he may be committed to the custody of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections to be confined in secure placement for a period of time as determined by the court not to exceed the maximum amount of confinement he could have been ordered to serve had he been adjudicated for the offense as a child at the time the offense was committed.
Acts 2008, No. 670, §2; Acts 2010, No. 805, §2.
A. The presentence and postsentence investigation reports shall be privileged and shall not be disclosed directly or indirectly to anyone other than the sentencing court, the victim or the victim's designated family member, as defined in R.S. 46:1842, the prosecutor, members of the division of probation and parole within the office of adult services, the officer in charge of the institution to which the defendant is committed, the committee on parole, the probation or the parole officer if the defendant is placed on probation or released on parole, medical authorities directly involved in the defendant's rehabilitation or treatment if the defendant is committed to a hospital or a substance abuse program, the Board of Pardons, and the governor or his representative. However, this Article shall not require the disclosure of sources of confidential information.
B. Before imposing sentence the court may advise the defendant or his counsel of the factual contents and conclusions of any presentence investigation report. The sources of confidential information shall not, however, be disclosed. If the defendant contests any information contained in the presentence report, the court shall provide the district attorney the same access to the report as was given to the defendant or his counsel. The district attorney may respond to the defendant's contentions concerning the information in the presentence report.
C. The presentence investigation report, edited to protect sources of confidential information, shall be made a part of the record if the defendant seeks post-conviction relief only on the grounds of an excessive sentence imposed by the court.
Acts 1985, No. 200, §1, eff. July 6, 1985; Acts 1985, No. 384, §1; Acts 1992, No. 300, §1; Acts 1999, No. 148, §1; Acts 1999, No. 783, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 2000.
A sentence shall not be set aside on the ground that it inflicts cruel or unusual punishment unless the statute under which it is imposed is found unconstitutional.
A.(1) If an offender is indicted on or after August 1, 2017, for the crime of first degree murder (R.S. 14:30) where the offender was under the age of eighteen years at the time of the commission of the offense, the district attorney may file a notice of intent to seek a sentence of life imprisonment without possibility of parole within one hundred eighty days after the indictment. If the district attorney timely files the notice of intent, a hearing shall be conducted after conviction and prior to sentencing to determine whether the sentence shall be imposed with or without parole eligibility. If the court determines that the sentence shall be imposed with parole eligibility, the offender shall be eligible for parole pursuant to R.S. 15:574.4(E). If the district attorney fails to timely file the notice of intent, the sentence shall be imposed with parole eligibility and the offender shall be eligible for parole pursuant to R.S. 15:574.4(E) without the need of a judicial determination pursuant to this Article. If the court determines that the sentence shall be imposed without parole eligibility, the offender shall not be eligible for parole.
(2) If an offender is indicted on or after August 1, 2026, for the crime of second degree murder (R.S. 14:30.1) where the offender was under the age of eighteen years at the time of the commission of the offense, the district attorney may file a notice of intent to seek a sentence of life imprisonment without possibility of parole within one hundred eighty days after the indictment. If the district attorney timely files the notice of intent, a hearing shall be conducted after conviction and prior to sentencing to determine whether the sentence shall be imposed with or without parole eligibility. If the court determines that the sentence shall be imposed with parole eligibility, the offender shall be eligible for parole pursuant to R.S. 15:574.4(G). If the district attorney fails to timely file the notice of intent, the sentence shall be imposed with parole eligibility and the offender shall be eligible for parole pursuant to R.S. 15:574.4(G) without the need of a judicial determination pursuant to this Article. If the court determines that the sentence shall be imposed without parole eligibility, the offender shall not be eligible for parole.
B.(1) If an offender was indicted prior to August 1, 2017, for the crime of first degree murder (R.S. 14:30) or second degree murder (R.S. 14:30.1) where the offender was under the age of eighteen years at the time of the commission of the offense and a hearing was not held pursuant to this Article prior to August 1, 2017, to determine whether the offender's sentence should be imposed with or without parole eligibility, the district attorney may file a notice of intent to seek a sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole within ninety days of August 1, 2017. If the district attorney timely files the notice of intent, a hearing shall be conducted to determine whether the sentence shall be imposed with or without parole eligibility. If the court determines that the sentence shall be imposed with parole eligibility, the offender shall be eligible for parole pursuant to R.S. 15:574.4(G). If the district attorney fails to timely file the notice of intent, the offender shall be eligible for parole pursuant to R.S. 15:574.4(E) without the need of a judicial determination pursuant to the provisions of this Article. If the court determines that the sentence shall be imposed without parole eligibility, the offender shall not be eligible for parole.
(2) If an offender was indicted prior to August 1, 2017, for the crime of first degree murder (R.S. 14:30) or second degree murder (R.S. 14:30.1) where the offender was under the age of eighteen years at the time of the commission of the offense and a hearing was held pursuant to this Article prior to August 1, 2017, the following shall apply:
(a) If the court determined at the hearing that was held prior to August 1, 2017, that the offender's sentence shall be imposed with parole eligibility, the offender shall be eligible for parole pursuant to R.S. 15:574.4(G).
(b) If the court determined at the hearing that was held prior to August 1, 2017, that the offender's sentence shall be imposed without parole eligibility, the offender shall not be eligible for parole.
C. At the hearing, the prosecution and defense shall be allowed to introduce any aggravating and mitigating evidence that is relevant to the charged offense or the character of the offender, including but not limited to the facts and circumstances of the crime, the criminal history of the offender, the offender's level of family support, social history, and such other factors as the court may deem relevant. The admissibility of expert witness testimony in these matters shall be governed by Chapter 7 of the Code of Evidence.
D. The sole purpose of the hearing is to determine whether the sentence shall be imposed with or without parole eligibility. The court shall state for the record the considerations taken into account and the factual basis for its determination. A reviewing court shall give paramount consideration to the information considered by the trier of fact that rendered the original sentence. In cases where a juvenile offender was originally sentenced to death after the court considered but rejected youth as a mitigating factor, a reviewing court shall not substitute its judgment for the judgment of the trier of fact unless the trier of fact clearly abused its discretion and could not have reasonably reached that result.
Acts 2013, No. 239, §2; Acts 2017, No. 277, §2; Acts 2026, No. 585, §1.
If a defendant who has been convicted of an offense is sentenced to imprisonment, the court shall impose a determinate sentence.
A. A defendant shall receive credit toward service of his sentence for time spent in actual custody prior to the imposition of sentence.
B. A defendant shall receive credit only for time in actual custody and only once during any calendar month when consecutive sentences are imposed.
C. No defendant shall receive credit for any time served prior to the commission of the crime.
D. A defendant shall not receive credit for time served under home incarceration.
E. A defendant shall not receive overlapping jail credit, except in the instance of concurrent sentences and then only for time spent in jail on the instant felony.
F. A defendant shall not receive overlapping jail credit when consecutive sentences are imposed for multiple counts or charges, regardless if the sentence imposed is subsequently corrected pursuant to Article 881.5. Credit for time spent in actual custody shall be applied to only one of the consecutive sentences imposed.
G. Any overlapping jail credit that is awarded in violation of this Article is null, void, and of no effect.
Amended by Acts 1970, No. 285, §1; Acts 1997, No. 788, §1; Acts 2006, No. 174, §2; Acts 2011, No. 186, §1; Acts 2026, No. 134, §1.
A. Although the sentence imposed is legal in every respect, the court may amend or change the sentence, within the legal limits of its discretion, prior to the beginning of execution of the sentence.
B.(1) After commencement of execution of sentence, in felony cases in which the defendant has been sentenced to imprisonment without hard labor and in misdemeanor cases, the sentencing judge may reduce the sentence or may amend the sentence to place the defendant on supervised probation. Should the court consider any motion amending or changing the sentence imposed, either prior to or after execution of the sentence, the district attorney shall be notified and, if such motion is filed by the defendant, it shall be tried contradictorily with the district attorney, unless the district attorney waives such contradictory hearing.
(2) Such motions include but are not limited to motions for a new trial, motions in arrest of judgment, motions for amendment, modification, or reconsideration of sentence, and motions for modification of conditions of probation or termination of probation.
(3) If a sentence is reduced or amended, a copy of the minute entry reflecting the judgment reducing or amending the sentence shall be furnished to the district attorney and the arresting law enforcement agency.
C. If the sentence imposed by the court is consecutive to a sentence imposed in a different criminal proceeding, for purposes of this Article only, commencement of the execution of sentence begins when the defendant is remanded by the sentencing court to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, to begin serving either the imposed sentence or a prior sentence to which the imposed sentence is consecutive.
Acts 1987, No. 59, §1; Acts 1997, No. 1321, §1.
A.(1) In felony cases, within thirty days following the imposition of sentence or within such longer period as the trial court may set at sentence, the state or the defendant may make or file a motion to reconsider sentence.
(2) In misdemeanor cases, the defendant may file a motion to reconsider sentence at any time following commencement or execution of such sentence. The court may grant the motion and amend the sentence, even following completion of execution of the sentence, to impose a lesser sentence which could lawfully have been imposed.
(3) In the event a defendant alleges mutual mistake in that the sentence imposed upon conviction pursuant to Code of Criminal Procedure Article 893 was in error and the prosecuting authority, the court, and the defendant intended that the imposition of sentence was to be deferred pursuant to Code of Criminal Procedure Article 893(E), such defendant may file a motion to reconsider the sentence for the sole purpose of considering that issue. Such motion shall be filed within two years of the date of successful completion of the probation imposed by the court. If the court finds that a mutual mistake exists and that the defendant was in all other respects eligible for the benefits of Code of Criminal Procedure Article 893(E), the defendant shall be entitled to the benefits thereof, in accordance with law.
(4) In cases when a defendant has successfully completed probation pursuant to the provisions of Code of Criminal Procedure Article 895(B)(3), the defendant may file a motion to reconsider the sentence for the purpose of determining whether the sentence should be set aside and the prosecution dismissed pursuant to the provisions of Code of Criminal Procedure Article 893. Such motion shall be filed within two years of the date of successful completion of the probation imposed by the court. If the court finds that the defendant is eligible for the benefits of Code of Criminal Procedure Article 893(E), then the court with the concurrence of the district attorney may set aside the conviction and dismiss prosecution in accordance with law.
B. The motion shall be oral at the time of sentence or shall be in writing thereafter and shall set forth the specific grounds on which the motion is based.
C. If a motion is made or filed under Paragraph A of this Article, the trial court may resentence the defendant despite the pendency of an appeal or the commencement of execution of the sentence.
D. The trial court may deny a motion to reconsider sentence without a hearing, but may not grant a motion to reconsider without a contradictory hearing. If the court denies the motion without a hearing, the party who made or filed the motion may proffer the evidence it would have offered in support of the motion.
E. Failure to make or file a motion to reconsider sentence or to include a specific ground upon which a motion to reconsider sentence may be based, including a claim of excessiveness, shall preclude the state or the defendant from raising an objection to the sentence or from urging any ground not raised in the motion on appeal or review.
Acts 1991, No. 38, §1; eff. Jan. 1, 1992; Acts 2003, No. 167, §1; Acts 2008, No. 395, §1, eff. June 21, 2008; Acts 2009, No. 168, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 1991, No. 38, §3, for special effective date.
A.(1) The defendant may appeal or seek review of a sentence based on any ground asserted in a motion to reconsider sentence. The defendant also may seek review of a sentence which exceeds the maximum sentence authorized by the statute under which the defendant was convicted and any applicable statutory enhancement provisions.
(2) The defendant cannot appeal or seek review of a sentence imposed in conformity with a plea agreement which was set forth in the record at the time of the plea.
B. The state may appeal or seek review of a sentence:
(1) If the sentence imposed was not in conformity with:
(a) Mandatory requirements of the statute under which the defendant was convicted, or any other applicable mandatory sentence provision; or
(b) The applicable enhancement provisions under the Habitual Offender Law, R.S. 15:529.1; and
(2) If the state objected at the time the sentence was imposed or made or filed a motion to reconsider sentence under this Article.
Acts 1991, No. 38, §1.
{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1991, NO. 38, §3, FOR SPECIAL EFFECTIVE DATE.}}
In reviewing a sentence the appellate court may consider the record of the case which shall include any evidence or relevant information introduced at preliminary hearings, hearings on motions, arraignments, or sentencing proceedings, and any relevant information included in a presentence investigation report filed into the record at sentencing. In order to preserve confidentiality, in appropriate cases, the court may order that the presentence report, or any portion thereof, be held under seal.
Acts 1991, No. 38, §1.
{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1991, NO. 38, §3, FOR SPECIAL EFFECTIVE DATE.}}
A. If the appellate court finds that a sentence must be set aside on any ground, the court shall remand for resentence by the trial court. The appellate court may give direction to the trial court concerning the proper sentence to impose.
B. In the interest of justice, the appellate court may remand the case for resentencing before a judge other than the judge who imposed the initial sentence.
C. If necessary to an appropriate disposition of a motion to reconsider sentence, the appellate court may remand the case to the trial court with instructions to supplement the record or to hold an evidentiary hearing.
D. The appellate court shall not set aside a sentence for excessiveness if the record supports the sentence imposed.
Acts 1991, No. 38, §1; Acts 1995, No. 942, §1.
{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1991, NO. 38, §3, FOR SPECIAL EFFECTIVE DATE.}}
On motion of the state or the defendant, or on its own motion, at any time, the court may correct a sentence imposed by that court which exceeds the maximum sentence authorized by law.
Acts 1991, No. 38, §1.
{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1991, NO. 38, §3, FOR SPECIAL EFFECTIVE DATE.}}
A. Upon motion of the state, the sentencing court may reduce the defendant's sentence if, after sentencing, the defendant provided substantial assistance in furtherance of the investigation or prosecution of another person.
B. In evaluating whether the defendant has provided substantial assistance pursuant to the provisions of this Article, the sentencing court may consider the defendant's presentence or postsentence assistance in furtherance of the investigation or prosecution.
C. If the sentencing court makes a determination to reduce the sentence to a time period which is less than the minimum sentence provided by law, that sentence shall not be imposed without the consent of the district attorney.
D. For purposes of this Article, "sentencing" means the oral announcement of the sentence.
Acts 2011, No. 349, §1.
A. Prior to any defendant receiving a reduction of sentence pursuant to Code of Criminal Procedure Article 881.6, the prosecuting attorney shall enter into a memorandum of understanding with the defendant. Such memorandum of understanding shall be in writing.
B. The memorandum of understanding shall be signed by the following:
(1) The prosecuting attorney or his designee.
(2) The defendant.
(3) The tutor or legal guardian of the defendant, if the defendant is a minor.
(4) The attorney representing the defendant, if the defendant is represented by counsel.
C. The memorandum of understanding shall not be considered a grant of immunity from criminal prosecution.
D. The memorandum of understanding shall include the entirety of the agreement between the state and the defendant and shall include the following information:
(1) A statement that the state may move for the defendant to receive a reduction of sentence in return for the defendant providing substantial assistance in furtherance of the investigation or prosecution of another person.
(2) A statement that the sentencing court shall examine information provided by the state in determining the nature and extent of the assistance provided by the defendant and the reduction of sentence.
(3) A statement that the sentencing court shall not be permitted to reduce the defendant's sentence to a time period which is less than the minimum sentence provided by law without the consent of the district attorney.
(4) A statement that the memorandum of understanding constitutes the entirety of the agreement between the state and the defendant and that the district attorney shall not recommend a reduction of the defendant's sentence for assistance not described in the memorandum of understanding nor to any greater extent than that which is described in the memorandum of understanding.
(5) A statement that the sentencing court may choose not to grant the motion for reduction of sentence or accept any sentencing recommendation made by the state.
E. The memorandum of understanding shall detail the responsibilities agreed to by the defendant relating to any substantial assistance provided by the defendant in the furtherance of an investigation or prosecution of another person and any possible reduction of sentence, including but not limited to the following:
(1) A requirement that the defendant provide complete and truthful information to all law enforcement officials related to all relevant investigations.
(2) A statement of the substance of the proposed testimony of the witness.
F. The memorandum of understanding shall detail the responsibilities agreed to by the state relating to the reduction of sentence, including but not limited to the following:
(1) The circumstances under which the state will move for a reduction of sentence pursuant to Code of Criminal Procedure Article 881.6, including the nature and level of assistance the defendant is required to provide before the state will move for such reduction of sentence.
(2) The range of the sentencing recommendation that the state agrees to make to the sentencing court in a motion for reduction of sentence and that the district attorney shall make no other recommendation than that which is described in the memorandum of understanding.
(3) The reduction of sentence the state will recommend for each particular instance of assistance or form of assistance when the defendant provides assistance in more than one investigation or prosecution.
(4) The circumstances in which the district attorney shall consent to a reduction of sentence to a time period that is less than the minimum sentence provided by law.
G. When the defendant meets his obligation as described in the memorandum of understanding, the state shall move for a reduction of sentence in accordance with the memorandum of understanding. The memorandum of understanding shall be filed into the criminal record.
Acts 2011, No. 349, §1.
A. An illegal sentence may be corrected at any time by the court that imposed the sentence or by an appellate court on review.
B. A sentence may be reviewed as to its legality on the application of the defendant or of the state:
(1) In an appealable case by appeal; or
(2) In an unappealable case by writs of certiorari and prohibition.
C. Nothing in this Article shall be construed to deprive any defendant of his right, in a proper case, to the writ of habeas corpus.
Amended by Acts 1984, No. 587, §1.
If the defendant is convicted of two or more offenses based on the same act or transaction, or constituting parts of a common scheme or plan, the terms of imprisonment shall be served concurrently unless the court expressly directs that some or all be served consecutively. Other sentences of imprisonment shall be served consecutively unless the court expressly directs that some or all of them be served concurrently. In the case of the concurrent sentence, the judge shall specify, and the court minutes shall reflect, the date from which the sentences are to run concurrently.
Amended by Acts 1977, No. 397, §1.
A. The sentencing court may specify that the sentence imposed be served concurrently with a sentence imposed by a federal court or a court of any other state and that service of the concurrent terms of imprisonment in a federal correctional institution or a correctional institution of another state shall be in satisfaction of the sentence imposed in this state in the manner and to the same extent as if the defendant had been committed to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections for the term of years served in a federal correctional institution or a correctional institution of another state. When serving a concurrent sentence in a federal correctional institution or a correctional institution of another state, the defendant shall receive credit for time served as allowed under the laws of this state.
B. Whenever sentence is imposed under the provisions of this Article, the court shall order that the defendant be remanded to the custody of the sheriff of the parish in which the defendant was convicted in the event that the terms of imprisonment to which the defendant is sentenced in the foreign jurisdiction terminates prior to the date on which the sentence imposed in this state is to terminate. If the defendant completes the term of imprisonment during his incarceration in the other jurisdiction, the department shall forward a copy of the discharge papers to the sheriff in the parish of conviction and to the appropriate authorities having physical custody of the defendant.
C. In every case where a sentence at hard labor is imposed under the provisions of this Article, the court shall order that a certified copy of the Uniform Sentencing Commitment Order in the format authorized by the Louisiana Supreme Court be forwarded to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections. If the department needs information relating to the sentence not provided in the Uniform Sentencing Commitment Order, it may request that information from the court.
Added by Acts 1976, No. 490, §1; Acts 1991, No. 138, §2; Acts 2017, No. 98, §1, eff. December 1, 2017.
{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1991, NO. 138, §§4 AND 5, FOR SPECIAL EFFECTIVE DATE AND APPLICABILITY PROVISIONS.}}
A. In all cases in which the court finds an actual pecuniary loss to a victim, or in any case where the court finds that costs have been incurred by the victim in connection with a criminal prosecution, the trial court shall order the defendant to provide restitution to the victim as a part of any sentence that the court shall impose.
B. Additionally, if the defendant agrees as a term of a plea agreement, the court shall order the defendant to provide restitution to other victims of the defendant's criminal conduct, although those persons are not the victim of the criminal charge to which the defendant pleads. Such restitution to other persons may be ordered pursuant to Article 895 or 895.1 of this Code or any other provision of law permitting or requiring restitution to victims.
C. The court shall order that all restitution payments be made by the defendant to the victim through the court's designated intermediary, and in no case shall the court order the defendant to deliver or send a restitution payment directly to a victim, unless the victim consents.
D. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, if the defendant is found to be indigent and therefore unable to make restitution in full at the time of conviction, the court may order a periodic payment plan pursuant to the provisions of Article 875.1.
Acts 1999, No. 783, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 2000; Acts 1999, No. 988, §1; Acts 2007, No. 22, §1; Acts 2010, No. 160, §1; Acts 2014, No. 180, §1; Acts 2017, No. 260, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2018, No. 137, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2018, No. 668, §4, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2019, No. 253, §2; Acts 2021, No. 313, §3A, see Act.
A. If a sentence imposed includes a fine or costs, the sentence shall provide that in default of payment thereof the defendant shall be imprisoned for a specified period not to exceed one year; provided that where the maximum prison sentence which may be imposed as a penalty for a misdemeanor is six months or less, the total period of imprisonment upon conviction of the offense, including imprisonment for default in payment of a fine or costs, shall not exceed six months for that offense.
B. The provisions of this Article do not apply if the court has determined, pursuant to the provisions of Article 875.1, that payment in full of the aggregate amount of all financial obligations imposed upon the defendant would cause substantial financial hardship to the defendant or his dependents. In such cases, the provisions of Article 875.1 shall apply.
Amended by Acts 1968, Ex.Sess., No. 12, §1, emerg. eff. Dec. 27, 1968 at 11:00 A.M; Acts 2017, No. 260, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2018, No. 137, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2018, No. 668, §4, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2019, No. 253, §2; Acts 2021, No. 313, §3A, see Act.
A defendant who has been imprisoned for default in the payment of a fine, or fine and costs, under a sentence imposed pursuant to Article 884, may, at any time before expiration of the term of imprisonment, obtain his release by paying to his custodian all of the costs imposed and a sum of money that bears the same proportion to the imposed fine as the term of alternate imprisonment yet to run bears to the whole of such term of imprisonment.
Amended by Acts 1970, No. 293, §1.
A. When a fine is levied against a person convicted of any criminal offense, including any violation of the Louisiana Highway Regulatory Act or any municipal or parish ordinance regulating traffic, and the court grants the defendant an extension of time to pay the fine, if at the expiration of the extended period granted by the court, the defendant shows that he is financially unable to pay the fine, the judge of the court having jurisdiction shall grant the person an extension of time, not to exceed one hundred eighty days, in which to pay the fine, or offer the person, in lieu of paying the fine, the alternative of performing community service as set by the judge.
B. If, at the expiration of the one-hundred-eighty-day period granted by the judge pursuant to Paragraph A of this Article, the judge determines that the defendant has either willfully not paid the fine or has not performed the community service, the judge may do either of the following:
(1) For any offense that involves the operation of any motor vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, or other means of conveyance as a necessary element of proof in the commission of the offense, order the person's driver's license to be surrendered to the sheriff or official of the court collecting fines, and the sheriff or official of the court designated to collect fines shall forward the license to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections.
(2) Grant the person an extension of time to either pay the fine or perform the community service.
C. If the person's license is surrendered pursuant to Subparagraph (B)(1) of this Article, upon receipt of the defendant's surrendered driver's license, the department shall suspend the driver's license of the defendant. The suspension shall begin when the department receives written notification from the court, and the department shall send immediate written notification to the defendant informing him of the suspension of driving privileges.
D. The department shall not reinstate, return, reissue, or renew a driver's license in its possession pursuant to this Article until payment of the fine and any additional administrative cost, fee, or penalty required by the judge having the jurisdiction and any other cost, fee, or penalty required by the department in accordance with R.S. 32:414(H) or other applicable cost, fee, or penalty provision.
E. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, if the person against whom the fine is levied is financially unable to pay the fine, the provisions of this Article shall not apply and the judge of the court shall not order that the person's driver's license be surrendered for failure to pay such fine, unless the court determines that the defendant is financially able but has willfully refused to pay the fine, or to perform the community service ordered as an alternative to the fine pursuant to the provisions of this Article.
Acts 2003, No. 364, §1; Acts 2017, No. 260, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2018, No. 137, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2018, No. 668, §4, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2019, No. 111, §1; Acts 2019, No. 253, §1.
NOTE: See Acts 2021, No. 313, §§ 3B and 4.
A. In the event of nonpayment of a fine, nonpayment of restitution to the victim, or nonpayment of a fine and costs, within sixty days after the sentence was imposed, and if no appeal is pending, the court which imposed the sentence may sign a judgment against the defendant in a sum equal to the fine or restitution plus judicial interest to begin sixty days after the sentence was imposed plus all costs of the criminal proceeding and subsequent proceedings necessary to enforce the judgment in either civil or criminal court, or both. Collection of the judgment may be enforced in either criminal or civil court, or both, in the same manner as a money judgment in a civil case. In addition, particular courts may provide by court rule for enforcement by the filing of an offset claim against the defendant, in accordance with R.S. 47:299.1 through 299.20.
B. The provisions of Paragraph A of this Article shall apply to all fines and costs due and owing, regardless of whether they become due and owing prior to September 6, 1991.
Acts 1989, No. 191, §2; Acts 1991, No. 85, §1; Acts 1999, No. 140, §1; Acts 1999, No. 783, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 2000.
If a civil judgment is signed in accordance with Article 886, the judgment shall be executory upon rendition by the court provided the defendant was notified at the time of sentencing of the possible rendition of a civil judgment in the event of his failure to pay the fine and costs. In all other cases, the judgment shall be executory immediately upon service of the notice of judgment upon the defendant in accordance with Code of Civil Procedure Article 1913.
Acts 1991, No. 85, §1.
A. A defendant who is convicted of an offense or is the person owing a duty of support in a support proceeding shall be liable for all costs of the prosecution or proceeding, whether or not costs are assessed by the court, and such costs are recoverable by the party or parties who incurred the expense. However, such defendant or person shall not be liable for costs if acquitted or if the prosecution or proceeding is dismissed. In addition, any judge of a district court, parish court, city court, traffic court, juvenile court, family court, or magistrate of a mayor's court within the state shall be authorized to suspend court costs.
B. All processes of the court shall issue without the payment of advance costs.
C. In addition to the costs provided in Paragraph A of this Article, a person convicted of a violation of R.S. 14:98 or 98.6, or any municipal or parochial ordinance defining the offense of operating a motor vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, vessel, or other motorized means of conveyance under the influence of alcohol or drugs, who was subjected to a blood, breath, or urine analysis for alcohol or any controlled dangerous substance listed in R.S. 40:964, Schedule I, II, III, IV, or V, shall be assessed an additional one hundred twenty-five dollars as special costs. Such costs shall be paid in the following manner: seventy-five dollars to the governing authority owning the instrument used to perform the analysis, and fifty dollars to the governing authority whose agency performed the analysis. If the office of state police performed or participated in a blood, breath, or urine analysis for which these costs are assessed, that portion of the costs applicable to the office of state police shall be forwarded to the applied technology unit within the office of state police and forwarded for disposition in accordance with R.S. 40:1379.7. In the event the person is unable to pay the fine when assessed, the court may allow payment within certain time limits, based on the person's ability to pay such costs.
D. In addition to the costs provided in Paragraphs A and C, a person convicted of a violation of R.S. 14:98, R.S. 14:98.1, or of any municipal or parochial ordinance defining the offense of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, shall be assessed an additional fifty dollars as special costs to be used to defray expenses of administering conditions of probation or of incarceration. If the offender is incarcerated, such costs shall be paid to the sheriff or other custodian of the facility in which the offender is incarcerated. If the offender is placed on probation as provided in R.S. 14:98(B) or (C) or R.S. 14:98.1(D) or (E), the court may order the apportionment and payment of all or a part of such costs to the agencies or persons responsible for administering the prescribed substance abuse program, driver improvement program, or community service activities. In addition, the person convicted of a violation of R.S. 14:98, R.S. 14:98.1, or of any such municipal or parochial ordinance shall be assessed costs of the witness fee provided by R.S. 15:255.
E. Repealed by Acts 2009, No. 440, §2.
F.(1)(a) In addition to the costs provided in Paragraphs A, C, D, G, and H of this Article, a person convicted of a felony, a misdemeanor, or ordinance of any local government, including a traffic felony, a traffic misdemeanor, or a local traffic violation, shall be assessed an additional three dollars as a special court cost, provided that such additional cost shall be one dollar in mayor's courts in municipalities with a population of one hundred or less in the most recent federal decennial census. Such special costs shall be imposed by all courts, including mayor's courts and magistrate courts, shall not be suspended, and shall be used for implementation of the master plan for the development of a trial court case management information system and for the fast-tracked prototype development of the criminal disposition component of the system in order to define and meet the needs of clerks of court, trial court judges, law enforcement and corrections officials, the supreme court, the legislature, and the general public, for coordination with and implementation of related technology projects as provided for pursuant to the authority of R.S. 39:100.211, and for the implementation of an integrated juvenile justice information system for use in all courts exercising juvenile court jurisdiction. The proceeds of the special cost shall be deposited in the state treasury monthly on or before the tenth day of each calendar month.
(b) After compliance with the requirements of Article VII, Section 9(B) of the Constitution of Louisiana, relative to the Bond Security and Redemption Fund, and prior to monies being placed in the state general fund, an amount equal to that deposited in the state treasury, as required in this Paragraph, shall be credited to the special fund created in the state treasury known as the Trial Court Case Management Information Fund. The disbursement of the proceeds from the fund shall be made on the warrant of the judicial administrator of the supreme court drawn on the state treasury. The monies in this fund shall be used solely for the purposes identified in this Paragraph, including necessary and associated administrative expenses. All unexpended and unencumbered monies in this fund at the end of the fiscal year shall remain in this fund. All monies in this fund shall be invested by the state treasurer in the same manner as monies in the general fund with interest earned on the investment of these monies credited to this fund following compliance with the requirements of Article VII, Section 9(B) of the Constitution of Louisiana, relative to the Bond Security and Redemption Fund.
(c) The administrator of the Trial Court Case Management Information Fund shall coordinate and cooperate with the Integrated Criminal Justice Information System Policy Board to improve case management data-related systems. The administrator may also coordinate and cooperate with the legislative auditor or otherwise contract to investigate compliance with the obligations to remit costs pursuant to this Paragraph. The trial court shall not waive, set aside, or redirect such costs for any other purpose.
(d) The amounts authorized in Subsubparagraph (a) of this Subparagraph may be modified to account for inflation by considering the change, if any, in the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) as published by the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, or its successor, since it was originally enacted; provided that any modifications approved shall be made only in whole increments of fifty cents, any subsequent adjustments shall be approved and calculated in the same manner by measuring the inflation increase, if any, from the date of the immediately preceding adjustment, and the total amount of adjustment pursuant to this Subsubparagraph shall not exceed four dollars. Any modification pursuant to this Subsubparagraph shall be implemented by the supreme court only after approval following a favorable recommendation by the Judicial Council that it meets all applicable Judicial Council guidelines.
(2) In Jefferson Parish, in addition to the costs in Paragraphs A, C, D, and E, a person convicted of an offense against the state of Louisiana shall be assessed a special court cost in the following amounts: in the case of a misdemeanor, an additional twenty-five dollars, and in the case of a felony, an additional fifty dollars. The amount so assessed shall be collected on behalf of the clerk of court's office, in the manner that fines are collected in criminal cases. The funds shall be transmitted to the clerk of court's office to be used by the clerk in his discretion to defray the expenses of his office.
(3) In Natchitoches Parish, in addition to the costs in Paragraphs A, C, D, E, G, and H and Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph, a person convicted of an offense against the state of Louisiana, including a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, shall be assessed a special court cost in the amount of ten dollars in any prosecution initiated by the district attorney. Such special costs shall be imposed by the Tenth Judicial District Court and the City Court of Natchitoches. The amount so assessed shall be collected on behalf of the parish sheriff's office, in the manner that fines are collected in criminal cases. The funds shall be paid into the treasury of the parish and deposited into the Criminal Court Fund pursuant to R.S. 15:571.11, which statute shall govern the disposition of the additional court costs.
G. In addition to the costs provided in Paragraphs A, C, D, E, and F, a person convicted of a violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law may be assessed an additional one hundred dollars as special costs of court. Such special costs shall be imposed by all courts and shall be used for the development or maintenance of Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) programs. The amount so assessed shall be collected on behalf of the parish sheriff's office, to be distributed among agencies providing the D.A.R.E. programs based upon the number of programs each agency offers within the public and private educational systems of the parish.
H. In addition to the costs provided in Paragraphs A, C, D, E, F, and G, a person convicted of a felony, a misdemeanor, or ordinance of any local government may be assessed additional reasonable costs to cover the costs expended by the sheriff, marshal, constable, or municipal police in the execution of a bench warrant, or a fugitive warrant, or both. An itemized statement of expenses shall be prepared and submitted for review and assessment by the court at the time of sentencing. Such costs shall be paid to the sheriff, marshal, constable, or municipal police as reimbursement of expenses incurred in the execution of such warrant.
Amended by Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 109, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1064, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1276, §1; Acts 1997, No. 1296, §1, eff. July 15, 1997; Acts 1999, No. 705, §1; Acts 1999, No. 1255, §1; Acts 2001, No. 1200, §1; Acts 2009, No. 440, §2; Acts 2011, No. 23, §1; Acts 2018, No. 198, §1; Acts 2026, No. 697, §1, eff. July 1, 2026.
Costs and any fine imposed shall be payable immediately except as provided in Article 875.1 relative to the determination of the defendant's ability to pay; provided, however, that in cases involving the violation of any traffic law or ordinance, the court having jurisdiction may grant the defendant five judicial days after rendition of judgment to pay any costs and any fine imposed.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 368, §1; Acts 2017, No. 260, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2018, No. 137, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2018, No. 668, §4, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2019, No. 253, §2; Acts 2021, No. 313, §§3A and 5B.
The collection and disposition of fines, costs, and forfeitures shall be as provided by law.
A. A sentence of imprisonment in the state penitentiary shall be served in conformity with the applicable provisions of Title 15 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950 that govern the state penitentiary.
B. Except in misdemeanor cases, any other sentence of imprisonment subjects the defendant to confinement, and to labor unless otherwise specified.
C. In all misdemeanor cases in which a sentence of imprisonment is imposed and the sentencing court has ordered the defendant to report to the sheriff for participation in a court-approved workday release program during the term of imprisonment, the defendant shall be subjected to confinement and costs as provided for in R.S. 15:708.
Acts 1986, No. 704, §1.
A. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, if a felony or misdemeanor offense specifies a sentence with a minimum term of confinement or a minimum fine, or that the sentence shall be served without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence, the court, upon conviction, in sentencing the offender shall impose the sentence as provided in the penalty provisions for that offense, unless one of the following occurs:
(1) The defendant pled guilty pursuant to a negotiated plea agreement with the prosecution and the court, which specifies that the sentence shall be served with benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence or specifies a reduced fine or term of confinement.
(2) In cases resulting in trial, the prosecution, the defendant, and the court entered into a post-conviction agreement, which specifies that the sentence shall be served with benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence or specifies a reduced fine or term of confinement.
B. If such agreements are entered into between the prosecution and the defendant, the court, at sentencing, shall not impose a lesser term of imprisonment, lesser fine, or lesser period of sentence served without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence than that expressly provided for under the terms of the plea or post-conviction agreement.
C. No plea or post-conviction agreement shall provide parole eligibility at a time earlier than that provided in R.S. 15:574.4.
D. The provisions of this Article shall not apply to a sex offense as defined in R.S. 15:541 or to any of the following crimes of violence:
(1) R.S. 14:28.1 (Solicitation for murder).
(2) R.S. 14:30 (First degree murder).
(3) R.S. 14:30.1 (Second degree murder).
(4) R.S. 14:31 (Manslaughter).
(5) R.S. 14:34.6 (Disarming of a peace officer).
(6) R.S. 14:34.7 (Aggravated second degree battery).
(7) R.S. 14:37.1 (Assault by drive-by shooting).
(8) R.S. 14:37.4 (Aggravated assault with a firearm).
(9) R.S. 14:42 (Aggravated or first degree rape).
(10) R.S. 14:42.1 (Forcible or second degree rape).
(11) R.S. 14:43 (Simple or third degree rape).
(12) R.S. 14:43.1 (Sexual battery).
(13) R.S.14:43.2 (Second degree sexual battery).
(14) R.S. 14:43.5 (Intentional exposure to AIDS virus).
(15) R.S. 14:44 (Aggravated kidnapping).
(16) R.S. 14:44.1 (Second degree kidnapping).
(17) R.S. 14:46.2 (Human trafficking).
(18) R.S.14:46.3 (Trafficking of children for sexual purposes).
(19) R.S.14:51 (Aggravated arson).
(20) R.S. 14:62.8 (Home invasion).
(21) R.S. 14:64 (Armed robbery).
(22) R.S. 14:64.4 (Second degree robbery).
(23) R.S. 14:64.3 (Armed robbery; use of firearm).
(24) R.S. 14:64.2 (Carjacking).
(25) R.S. 14:78.1 (Aggravated incest).
(26) R.S. 14:93.2.3 (Second degree cruelty to juveniles).
(27) R.S.14:128.1 (Terrorism).
(28) R.S. 14:34 (Aggravated battery).
(29) R.S. 14:37 (Aggravated assault).
(30) R.S. 14:34.1 (Second Degree Battery)
(31) R.S. 14:35.3 (Domestic Abuse Battery)
(32) R.S. 14:40.2 (Stalking)
(33) R.S. 14:64.1 (First Degree Robbery)
(34) R.S. 14:32.5 (Feticide)
E. At the time the sentence is imposed pursuant to this Article, the Uniform Commitment Sentencing Order shall specify that the sentence is imposed pursuant to the provisions of this Article.
Acts 2012, No. 160, §1, eff. May 17, 2012; Acts 2014, No. 634, §1; Acts 2015, No. 184, §6.
A. When a defendant has been convicted of a felony, and upon a determination that a defendant has the ability and resources available to pay an additional fine and that such a fine would not unduly burden the defendant's dependents, the court may impose as an additional fine or as a component of a fine the expected costs to the state of any imprisonment ordered by the court and prescribe the manner in which the fine shall be enforced and paid.
B. The additional fine or component of the fine may be imposed contingent upon the defendant's ability to pay the fine while incarcerated from any future sources of income the defendant may receive while incarcerated.
C. The Department of Public Safety and Corrections may determine the amount due the state in cases where the defendant is confined in a penal or correctional institution under the supervision of the department and render statements thereof, and such sworn statements shall be considered prima facie evidence of the amount due. If the defendant is committed to the department and confined in a parish jail or institution as provided for in R.S. 15:824(B), the amount of the additional fine or component of the fine shall be equal to the amount paid by the department to the parish sheriff or governing authority of those parishes in which the governing authority operates the parish jail, for keeping and feeding the individual in the parish jail.
D. The amount of reimbursement in accordance with this Article shall not be in excess of the per capita cost of care for maintaining inmates in the state correctional facility in which the inmate is housed. The funds collected from the fines imposed pursuant to this Article shall be distributed to the entity that expended the funds. However, ten percent of the funds shall go to the Crime Victims' Compensation Fund as provided in R.S. 46:1816.
Acts 1997, No. 751, §1; Acts 2026, No. 684, §10.
A. Except as provided in Paragraph C of this Article, when a defendant is sentenced for any offense, or the attempt to commit any offense, defined or enumerated as a crime of violence in R.S. 14:2(B), the district attorney may make a written recommendation to the court that the offense should not be designated as a crime of violence only for the following purposes:
(1) The defendant's eligibility for suspension or deferral of sentence pursuant to Article 893.
(2) The defendant's eligibility for participation in a drug division probation program pursuant to R.S. 13:5304.
B. In the absence of a written recommendation by the district attorney as provided in Paragraph A of this Article, the offense shall be designated as a crime of violence as a matter of law.
C. The following crimes of violence enumerated in R.S. 14:2(B) shall always be designated by the court in the minutes as a crime of violence:
(1) Solicitation for murder.
(2) First degree murder.
(3) Second degree murder.
(4) Manslaughter.
(5) Aggravated or first degree rape.
(6) Forcible or second degree rape.
(7) Simple or third degree rape.
(8) Sexual battery.
(9) Second degree sexual battery.
(10) Intentional exposure to AIDS virus.
(11) Aggravated kidnapping.
(12) Second degree kidnapping.
(13) Aggravated arson.
(14) Armed robbery.
(15) Assault by drive-by shooting.
(16) Carjacking.
(17) Terrorism.
(18) Aggravated second degree battery.
(19) Aggravated assault with a firearm.
(20) Armed robbery; use of firearm; additional penalty.
(21) Second degree robbery.
(22) Disarming of a peace officer.
(23) Second degree cruelty to juveniles.
(24) Aggravated crime against nature.
(25) Trafficking of children for sexual purposes.
(26) Human trafficking.
(27) Home invasion.
Acts 2016, No. 509, §1; Acts 2017, No. 196, §1.
A. For purposes of this Article, a firearm or other dangerous weapon either used in the commission of a felony offense or the use of which constitutes an element of a felony offense may be declared to be crime-related contraband which may be seized by a law enforcement officer in the course of an arrest or issuance of summons or may be seized by order of court pursuant to other provisions of law. The district attorney of the parish where the arrest or seizure occurred may petition the district court to forfeit to the seizing agency an item or thing seized, or may petition the court for seizure, upon a showing that the item or thing seized or to be seized constitutes crime-related contraband.
B. Forfeiture under this Article may be initiated within sixty days of receipt or publication of notice of seizure. The law enforcement agency effecting the seizure shall send notice to the registered owner if known and possessor of the item or thing by certified mail, return receipt requested, at the address provided to the law enforcement agency by any known or believed registered owner or possessor; and if returned unclaimed, notice shall be by an advertisement placed for publication by the seizing agency in the official journal of the parish of the place of seizure.
C. The notice provided for in Paragraph B must state or contain all of the following:
(1) A description of the item or thing to be forfeited.
(2) The name of the registered or believed owner, if any.
(3) A statement regarding the nature and circumstances surrounding the forfeiture.
(4) That the seizing law enforcement agency seeks to forfeit the described item or thing.
(5) That a claim to the item must be made within sixty days from date of receipt or publication of notice in order to interrupt or prevent the forfeiture.
D. The claimant of the item or thing to be forfeited must file a written affidavit with the court wherein the petition was filed within the time period provided for in Paragraph C of this Article. The affidavit shall allege or establish the owner's or possessor's lack of knowledge or lack of duty to know that the thing or item was used or intended for use in the commission of an offense. The claimant must also be legally entitled to the ownership or possession of the thing or item and must establish, to the satisfaction of the court, proof of ownership or dominion. If no legitimate claim is made within sixty days, the thing or item shall be declared crime-related contraband by the court and all rights, title, and interest to the thing or item seized shall be transferred to and vested with the seizing law enforcement agency making the seizure. Discretion as to the disposition of crime-related contraband which is a firearm or dangerous weapon shall rest with the court.
E. In addition to ordering the forfeiture of a firearm or dangerous weapon as crime-related contraband as otherwise provided in this Article or by any other provision of law, when a court sentences a defendant, it may order the forfeiture of any weapon used in connection with the offense or found in the possession or under the immediate control of the defendant at the time of the arrest. The court may provide for the destruction, sale, or other disposition of the weapons forfeited.
Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 21, §1.
A. The sheriff shall prepare a statement indicating the amount of time a defendant has spent in custody prior to conviction when the defendant has been convicted of a felony and is committed to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, has been convicted of a misdemeanor and sentenced for a term of one year or more to any penal institution, or has been ordered committed to any mental institution or mental hospital. The sheriff shall retain a copy of the statement and submit the original to the sheriff of the parish to which the defendant is sentenced.
B.(1) When a sheriff's statement is required pursuant to Paragraph A of this Article, the clerk of court shall also prepare the following documents:
(a) A copy of the indictment under which the defendant was convicted.
(b) A copy of the Uniform Sentencing Commitment Order in the format authorized by the Louisiana Supreme Court which shall include the name and address of the judge, the district attorney, and the defense attorney who participated in the sentencing trial. If the department needs information relating to the sentence not provided in the Uniform Sentencing Commitment Order, it may request that information from the court.
(2) The clerk shall retain a copy of the statement and documents and send the original to the sheriff of the parish to which the defendant has been sentenced, where they shall be preserved. The documents, or copies thereof, shall be made available to the governor, the pardon board, and the parole committee.
C.(1) All statements and documents required by this Article shall physically accompany any defendant when said defendant is transferred to a penal institution or a mental institution or mental hospital. Said documents and statements shall be tendered to the officer in charge of the institution at the time that the defendant is presented for admittance thereto.
(2) For defendants who have been convicted of a felony and committed to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, all statements and documents required by this Article shall be submitted electronically in accordance with R.S. 15:1228.10.
D. Failure to comply with the provisions of this Article shall not affect the validity of a prosecution, conviction, or sentence.
Amended by Acts 1975, No. 731, §1; Acts 1977, No. 608, §1; Acts 1978, No. 179, §1; Acts 1982, No. 543, §1; Acts 1987, No. 98, §1; Acts 2011, No. 186, §1; Acts 2017, No. 36, §1; Acts 2017, No. 98, §1, eff. December 1, 2017; Acts 2025, No. 46, §1.
A. Whenever, in a misdemeanor case, a person is convicted of violating any law of this state that regulates traffic or any parish or municipal ordinance that regulates traffic, or when a child is decreed by a court to be a traffic violator, regardless of any sentence imposed, the court imposing sentence may order the person or child to attend and participate in a driver education, training, or improvement program approved by the court or the violator may choose a program approved by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of motor vehicles as provided and pursuant to the conditions in R.S. 32:402.2.
B. Notwithstanding the provision of any other law to the contrary, upon conviction for the first time only of a misdemeanor offense under Title 32 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950 that regulates traffic or of any similar parish or municipal ordinance that regulates traffic, the court may suspend the sentence for such offense and order the defendant to attend, at his cost, a driver education, training, or improvement program as provided for in Paragraph A of this Article.
C. Upon completion by the defendant of the driver program, the court may set the conviction aside and dismiss the prosecution.
D. All driver improvement courses under this Article shall include instruction on railroad and highway grade crossing safety.
E. The court in its discretion may defer sentencing and allow the defendant ninety days to present a certificate of course completion as evidence that, subsequent to the alleged act, the person has successfully completed a driver education, training, or improvement course as provided in Paragraph A of this Article when all of the following conditions are met:
(1) The person, except as provided in Paragraph G of this Article, enters a plea in person or in writing of nolo contendere or guilty and presents to the court an oral request or a written request, in person or by mail postmarked on or before the appearance date on the citation, to take a driving course.
(2) The court enters judgment on the defendant's plea of nolo contendere or guilty at the time the plea is made, but defers the imposition of the whole or any part of the sentence for ninety days.
(3) The defendant has a valid driver's license or permit.
(4) The defendant's driving record as maintained by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections does not indicate successful completion of a driver's education, training, or improvement course under this Article within the two years immediately preceding the date of the alleged offense.
(5) The defendant files an affidavit with the court stating that he is not in the process of taking a course under this Article and he has not completed a course under this Article that is not yet reflected on his driving record.
(6) The offense charged is for a misdemeanor offense under Title 32 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, except when the offense involves speeding twenty-five miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit at the place where the alleged offense occurred.
F. A written request to take a driving course under Subparagraph E(1) of this Article is timely if it is postmarked on or before the appearance date on the citation.
G. A court shall not require a minor who is sixteen years of age or younger to enter a plea of nolo contendere or guilty under Subparagraph E(1) of this Article.
H.(1) When a person complies with Paragraph E of this Article and a certificate of course completion is accepted by the court, the court shall set the conviction aside and dismiss the charge, but the court may only dismiss one charge for completion of each course.
(2) When a charge is dismissed under this Paragraph, the charge shall not be part of the person's driving record or used for any purpose; however, the court shall report that the person has successfully completed the driving course and the date of completion to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections for inclusion in his driving record. The report shall indicate that the course was taken under the provisions of this Article to determine eligibility to take a subsequent course under such provisions.
(3) No insurance company shall increase the premium or cancel an insured's policy merely because of an offense dismissed under this Article or because the insured completed a driving course under this Article.
I. The court may require the person requesting a driving course to pay a fee set by the court at an amount that does not exceed ten dollars to cover the cost of administering this Article. Fees collected by a municipal court shall be deposited in the municipal treasury. Fees collected by other courts shall be deposited in the criminal court fund of the parish in which the court is located. If the person requesting a driving course does not take the course, he is not entitled to a refund of the court fee. In addition to the cost of the driving course, the person shall pay any fines and costs for the driving offense.
J. The authority vested in courts by this Article is in addition to any authority granted by other laws with respect to persons convicted of traffic violations and children decreed to be traffic violators.
Acts 1972, No. 224, §1; Acts 1985, No. 150, §1; Acts 1990, No. 834, §1; Acts 1991, No. 485, §§1 and 2; Acts 1993, No. 225, §2, eff. July 1, 1993; Acts 1995, No. 1091, §1; Acts 1996, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 93, §1; Acts 1997, No. 1336, §1.
When a person is convicted of violating any felony provision of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law, the court imposing sentence shall determine if the defendant possesses a license to practice a trade, occupation, or profession in this state and, if so, the court shall cause notice of the conviction to be forwarded to the appropriate licensing authority.
Acts 1989, No. 81, §1.
When a treaty is in effect between the United States and a foreign country providing for the transfer of a convicted offender who is a citizen or national of the foreign country to the foreign country or the transfer of a citizen of the United States convicted as an offender in the foreign country to the United States, the governor is authorized, subject to the terms of such treaty, to act on behalf of the state and to consent to the transfer of such convicted offenders under the provisions of Article IV, Section 5(A) of the Constitution of Louisiana.
Acts 1990, No. 514, §1, eff. July 18, 1990.
A.(1)(a) When it appears that the best interest of the public and of the defendant will be served, the court, after a first, second, or third conviction of a noncapital felony, may suspend, in whole or in part, the imposition or execution of either or both sentences, where suspension is allowed under the law, and in either or both cases place the defendant on probation under the supervision of the division of probation and parole. The court shall not suspend the sentence of a second or third conviction of R.S. 14:73.5. Except as provided in Paragraphs H and I of this Article, the period of probation shall be specified and shall not be more than five years.
(b) The court shall not suspend the sentence of a second or third conviction of R.S. 14:81.1 or 81.2. If the court suspends the sentence of a first conviction of R.S. 14:81.1 or 81.2, the period of probation shall be specified and shall not be more than five years.
(2) The court shall not suspend the sentence of a conviction for an offense that is designated in the court minutes as a crime of violence pursuant to Article 890.3, except a first conviction for an offense with a maximum prison sentence of ten years or less that was not committed against a family member or household member as defined by R.S. 14:35.3, or dating partner as defined by R.S. 46:2151. The period of probation shall be specified and shall not be more than five years.
(3) The suspended sentence shall be regarded as a sentence for the purpose of granting or denying a new trial or appeal.
(4) Supervised release as provided for by Chapter 3-E of Title 15 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950 shall not be considered probation and shall not be limited by the five-year period for probation provided for by the provisions of this Paragraph.
(5) In determining whether to suspend the imposition or execution of sentence and place a defendant on probation, the court may consider, among other relevant factors, whether the defendant is pregnant at the time of sentencing and whether participation in a medically appropriate prenatal care program, residential treatment program, or substance use disorder treatment program would serve the interests of justice and public safety, consistent with existing law.
B.(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, when it appears that the best interest of the public and of the defendant will be served, the court, after a fourth or subsequent conviction of a noncapital felony may suspend, in whole or in part, the imposition or execution of the sentence upon consent of the district attorney.
(2) After a third or fourth conviction of operating a vehicle while intoxicated pursuant to R.S. 14:98, the court may suspend, in whole or in part, the imposition or execution of the sentence when the defendant was not offered such alternatives prior to his fourth conviction of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and the following conditions exist:
(a) The district attorney consents to the suspension of the sentence.
(b) The court orders the defendant to do any of the following:
(i) Enter and complete a program provided by the drug division of the district court pursuant to R.S. 13:5301 et seq.
(ii) Enter and complete an established driving while intoxicated court or sobriety court program.
(iii) Enter and complete a mental health court program established pursuant to R.S. 13:5351 et seq.
(iv) Enter and complete a Veterans Court program established pursuant to R.S. 13:5361 et seq.
(v) Enter and complete a reentry court program established pursuant to R.S. 13:5401.
(vi) Reside for a minimum period of one year in a facility which conforms to the Judicial Agency Referral Residential Facility Regulatory Act, R.S. 40:2851 et seq.
(vii) Enter and complete the Swift and Certain Probation Pilot Program established pursuant to R.S. 13:5371 et seq.
(c) The defendant does not meet the requirements set forth in Paragraph F of this Article.
(3) When suspension is allowed under this Paragraph, the defendant shall be placed on probation under the supervision of the division of probation and parole. If the defendant has been sentenced to complete a specialty court program as provided in Subsubparagraph (2)(b) of this Paragraph, the defendant may be placed on probation under the supervision of a probation office, agency, or officer designated by the court, other than the division of probation and parole of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections. The period of probation shall be specified and shall not be more than five years, except as provided in Paragraph H of this Article. The suspended sentence shall be regarded as a sentence for the purpose of granting or denying a new trial or appeal.
C. If the sentence consists of both a fine and imprisonment, the court may impose the fine and suspend the sentence or place the defendant on probation as to the imprisonment.
D. Except as otherwise provided by law, the court shall not suspend a felony sentence after the defendant has begun to serve the sentence.
E.(1)(a) When it appears that the best interest of the public and of the defendant will be served, the court may defer, in whole or in part, the imposition of a sentence after conviction of a first offense noncapital felony under the conditions set forth in this Paragraph. When a conviction is entered under this Paragraph, the court may defer the imposition of sentence and place the defendant on probation under the supervision of the division of probation and parole.
(b) The court shall not defer a sentence under this provision for an offense or an attempted offense that is designated in the court minutes as a crime of violence pursuant to Article 890.3 or that is defined as a sex offense by R.S. 15:541, involving a child under the age of seventeen years or for a violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law that is punishable by a term of imprisonment of more than ten years or for a violation of R.S. 40:966(A), 967(A), 968(A), 969(A), or 970(A).
(2) Upon motion of the defendant, if the court finds at the conclusion of the probationary period that the probation of the defendant has been satisfactory, the court may set the conviction aside and dismiss the prosecution. The dismissal of the prosecution shall have the same effect as acquittal, except that the conviction may be considered as a first offense and provide the basis for subsequent prosecution of the party as a habitual offender except as provided in R.S. 15:529.1(C)(3). The conviction may be considered as a prior offense for purposes of any other law or laws relating to cumulation of offenses. Dismissal under this Paragraph shall occur only twice with respect to any person.
(3)(a) When a case is accepted into a drug court division probation program pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 13:5304 and at the conclusion of the probationary period the court finds that the defendant has successfully completed all conditions of probation, the court with the concurrence of the district attorney may set aside the conviction and dismiss prosecution, whether the defendant's sentence was suspended under Paragraph A of this Article or deferred under Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph. The dismissal of prosecution shall have the same effect as an acquittal, except that the conviction may be considered as a first offense and provide the basis for subsequent prosecution of the party as a habitual offender except as provided in R.S. 15:529.1(C)(3). The conviction may be considered as a prior offense for purposes of any other law or laws relating to cumulation of offenses.
(b) The court may extend the provisions of this Paragraph to any person who has previously successfully completed a drug court program and satisfactorily completed all other conditions of probation.
(c) Dismissal under this Paragraph shall have the same effect as an acquittal for purposes of expungement under the provisions of Title XXXIV of this Code and may occur only twice with respect to any person.
(4) When a defendant, who has been committed to the custody of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections to serve a sentence in the intensive incarceration program pursuant to the provisions of Article 895(B)(3), has successfully completed the intensive incarceration program as well as successfully completed all other conditions of parole or probation, and if the defendant is otherwise eligible, the court with the concurrence of the district attorney may set aside the conviction and dismiss prosecution, whether the defendant's sentence was suspended under Paragraph A of this Article or deferred under Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph. The dismissal of prosecution shall have the same effect as an acquittal, except that the conviction may be considered as a first offense and provide the basis for subsequent prosecution of the party as a habitual offender except as provided in R.S. 15:529.1(C)(3). The conviction may be considered as a prior offense for purposes of any other law or laws relating to cumulation of offenses. Dismissal under this Subparagraph shall have the same effect as an acquittal for purposes of expungement under the provisions of Title XXXIV of this Code and may occur only twice with respect to any person.
F.(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, when it appears that the best interest of the public and of the defendant will be served, after the conviction of a defendant considered suitable for a drug or specialty court program pursuant to Article 904, the court may suspend, in whole or in part, the imposition or execution of the sentence when all of the following conditions are met:
(a) The district attorney consents to the suspension of sentence.
(b) There is an available drug or specialty court program recognized by the Louisiana Supreme Court.
(c) The court orders the defendant to enter and complete any drug or specialty court program recognized by the Louisiana Supreme Court.
(2) If the district attorney does not consent to the suspension of the sentence, the district attorney shall file his objection with written reasons into the record.
(3) If the district attorney files an objection into the record, or if the court determines that a specialty court program is not available for the defendant, the court may sentence the defendant to any sentence provided for the offense by law.
(4) When suspension of sentence is allowed pursuant to this Paragraph, the defendant may be placed on probation under the supervision of the division of probation and parole, or under the supervision of a probation office, agency, or officer designated by the court. The period of probation shall be specified and shall not exceed three years, except as provided in Paragraph H of this Article. The suspended sentence shall be regarded as a sentence for the purpose of granting or denying a motion for new trial or appeal.
(5) Upon motion of the defendant, if the court finds at the conclusion of the probationary period that the probation of the defendant has been satisfactory, the court may set the conviction aside and dismiss the prosecution. The dismissal of the prosecution shall have the same effect as an acquittal, except that the conviction may be considered as a first offense and provide the basis for a subsequent prosecution of the party as a habitual offender, except as provided in R.S. 15:529.1(C)(3). The conviction also may be considered as a prior offense for purposes of any other provision of law relating to cumulation of offenses. Dismissal pursuant to this Paragraph shall occur only once with respect to any person.
G. Nothing contained in this Section shall be construed as being a basis for destruction of records of the arrest and prosecution of any person convicted of a felony.
H. If the court, with the consent of the district attorney, orders a defendant to enter and complete a program provided by the drug division of the district court pursuant to R.S. 13:5301, an established driving while intoxicated court or sobriety court program, a mental health court program established pursuant to R.S. 13:5351 et seq., a Veterans Court program established pursuant to R.S. 13:5361 et seq., a reentry court established pursuant to R.S. 13:5401, or the Swift and Certain Probation Pilot Program established pursuant to R.S. 13:5371, the court may place the defendant on probation for a period of not more than eight years if the court determines that successful completion of the program may require that period of probation to exceed the five-year limit. The period of probation as initially fixed or as extended shall not exceed eight years.
I.(1) If a defendant is placed on supervised probation, the division of probation and parole shall submit to the court a compliance report when requested by the court, or when the division of probation and parole considers it necessary to have the court make a determination with respect to modification of terms or conditions of probation, termination of probation, revocation of probation, or other purpose proper under any provision of law.
(2) For purposes of this Paragraph:
(a) "Compliance" means the full completion of the terms and conditions of probation as imposed by the sentencing judge.
(b) "Compliance report" means a report generated and signed by the division of probation and parole that contains clear and concise information relating to the defendant's performance and may contain a recommendation as to early termination.
(3) After a review of the compliance report, if it is the recommendation of the division of probation and parole that the defendant is in compliance with the conditions of probation, in accordance with the compliance report, the court may terminate probation at such time as "satisfactorily completed", absent a showing of cause for a denial.
(4) Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 897(A), the court may terminate probation at any time as "satisfactorily completed" upon the final determination that the defendant is in compliance with the terms and conditions of probation.
(5) If the court determines that the defendant has failed to successfully complete the terms and conditions of probation, the court may extend the probation for a period not to exceed two years for the purpose of allowing the defendant additional time to complete the terms of probation, additional conditions, the extension of probation, or the revocation of probation.
(6) Absent extenuating circumstances, the court shall, within ten days of receipt of the compliance report, make an initial determination as to the issues presented and shall transmit the decision to the probation officer. The court shall disseminate the decision to the defendant, the division of probation and parole, and the prosecuting agency within ten days of receipt. The parties shall have ten days from receipt of the initial determination of the court to seek an expedited contradictory hearing for the purpose of challenging the court's determination. If no challenge is made within ten days, the court's initial determination shall become final and shall constitute a valid order of the court.
Amended by Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 100, §1; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 123, §1; Acts 1995, No. 990, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1251, §4; Acts 1996, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 5, §1, eff. April 23, 1996; Acts 1997, No. 696, §1; Acts 2001, No. 403, §5 eff. June 15, 2001; Acts 2001, No. 1206, §3; Acts 2006, No. 242, §2; Acts 2006, No. 581, §1; Acts 2008, No. 104, §1; Acts 2009, No. 168, §1; Acts 2010, No. 801, §2, eff. June 30, 2010; Acts 2015, No. 199, §1; Acts 2016, No. 509, §1; Acts 2016, No. 676, §2, eff. June 17, 2016; Acts 2017, No. 280, §1, eff. Nov. 1, 2017; Acts 2018, No. 508, §1; Acts 2018, No. 668, §2; Acts 2019, No. 386, §2; Acts 2020, No. 70, §1; Acts 2021, No. 61, §1; Acts 2022, No. 615, §2; Acts 2024, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 4, §1, eff. July 1, 2024; Acts 2024, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 8, §1, eff. April 29, 2024; Acts 2024, No. 648, §1; Acts 2026, No. 520, §2, eff. May 29, 2026.
NOTE: Acts 2008, No. 104, §2, provides that the provisions of the Act are remedial and therefore shall apply retroactively.
A. If the district attorney intends to move for imposition of sentence under the provisions of Article 893.3, he shall file a motion within a reasonable period of time prior to commencement of trial of the felony or specifically enumerated misdemeanor in which the firearm was used.
B. The motion shall contain a plain, concise, and definite written statement of the essential facts constituting the basis for the motion and shall specify the provisions of this Chapter under which the district attorney intends to proceed.
Added by Acts 1981, No. 139, §1; Acts 1988, No. 319, §1; Acts 1999, No. 575, §1.
A.(1) If a motion was filed by the state in compliance with Article 893.1, a determination shall be made as to all of the following:
(a) Whether a firearm was discharged, or used during the commission of the felony or specifically enumerated misdemeanor, or actually possessed during the commission of any of the following:
(i) A felony which is a crime of violence as defined by R.S. 14:2(B).
(ii) Felony theft.
(iii) Simple burglary.
(iv) Simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling.
(v) Unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling.
(vi) Production, manufacturing, distribution, dispensing, or possession with intent to produce, manufacture, distribute, or dispense a controlled dangerous substance in violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law.
(vii) A specifically enumerated misdemeanor.
(b) Whether the mandatory minimum sentencing provisions of Article 893.3 have been shown to be applicable.
(2) Such determination is a specific finding of fact to be submitted to the jury and proven by the state beyond a reasonable doubt.
B. If a motion was filed by the state in compliance with Article 893.1 and the case is resolved pursuant to a plea agreement, the district attorney and the defendant may stipulate that the provisions of Article 893.3 are applicable. Any such stipulation shall identify for the court all of the following:
(1) The specific provision of Article 893.3 that applies.
(2) The specific underlying felony or specifically enumerated misdemeanor within Article 893.3 that applies.
Acts 1988, No. 319, §1; Acts 1999, No. 575, §1; Acts 2019, No. 326, §1, eff. June 11, 2019; Acts 2021, No. 349, §1; Acts 2025, No. 52, §1, eff. June 4, 2025.
A. If the finder of fact finds beyond a reasonable doubt or a plea agreement is reached that includes a stipulation pursuant to Article 893.2(B) that the offender actually possessed a firearm during the commission of the felony or specifically enumerated misdemeanor for which he was convicted, the court shall impose a term of imprisonment of not less than two years nor more than the maximum term of imprisonment provided for the underlying offense; however, if the maximum sentence for the underlying offense is less than two years, the court shall impose the maximum sentence.
B. If the finder of fact finds beyond a reasonable doubt or a plea agreement is reached that includes a stipulation pursuant to Article 893.2(B) that the offender actually used a firearm in the commission of the felony or specifically enumerated misdemeanor for which he was convicted, the court shall impose a term of imprisonment of not less than five years nor more than the maximum term of imprisonment provided for the underlying offense; however, if the maximum sentence for the underlying offense is less than five years, the court shall impose the maximum sentence.
C. If the finder of fact finds beyond a reasonable doubt or a plea agreement is reached that includes a stipulation pursuant to Article 893.2(B) that the offender actually discharged a firearm in the commission of the felony or specifically enumerated misdemeanor for which he was convicted, the court shall impose a term of imprisonment of not less than ten years nor more than the maximum term of imprisonment provided for the underlying offense; however, if the maximum sentence for the underlying offense is less than ten years, the court shall impose the maximum sentence.
D. If the finder of fact finds beyond a reasonable doubt or a plea agreement is reached that includes a stipulation pursuant to Article 893.2(B) that a firearm was actually used or discharged by the defendant during the commission of the felony for which he was convicted, and thereby caused bodily injury, the court shall impose a term of imprisonment of not less than fifteen years nor more than the maximum term of imprisonment provided for the underlying offense; however, if the maximum sentence for the underlying felony is less than fifteen years, the court shall impose the maximum sentence.
E.(1)(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, if the finder of fact has determined or a plea agreement is reached that includes a stipulation pursuant to Article 893.2(B) that the defendant committed a felony with a firearm as provided in this Article, and the crime is considered a violent felony as defined in this Paragraph, the court shall impose a minimum term of imprisonment of not less than ten years nor more than the maximum term of imprisonment provided for the underlying offense. In addition, if the firearm is discharged during the commission of such a violent felony, the court shall impose a minimum term of imprisonment of not less than twenty years nor more than the maximum term of imprisonment provided for the underlying offense.
(b) A "violent felony" for the purposes of this Paragraph is: second degree sexual battery, aggravated burglary, carjacking, armed robbery, second degree kidnapping, manslaughter, or forcible or second degree rape.
(2) A sentence imposed under this Paragraph shall be without benefit of parole, probation or suspension of sentence.
F. A sentence imposed under the provisions of this Article shall not be suspended and shall be imposed in the same manner as provided in the felony for which the defendant was convicted.
G. A defendant sentenced under the provisions of this Article shall not be eligible for parole during the period of the mandatory minimum sentence.
H. If the court finds that a sentence imposed under provisions of this Article would be excessive, the court shall state for the record the reasons for such finding and shall impose the most severe sentence which is not excessive.
I. For the purpose of this Article, "firearm" is defined as an instrument used in the propulsion of shot, shell, or bullets by the action of gunpowder exploded within.
J. For purposes of this Article, the specifically enumerated misdemeanors to which these sentencing provisions are applicable shall be:
(1) R.S. 14:79, violation of a protective order, involving an assault or battery of the person protected.
(2) R.S. 14:67, theft.
(3) R.S. 14:35, simple battery.
(4) R.S. 14:37, aggravated assault.
(5) R.S. 14:40.2, stalking.
(6) R.S. 14:35.3, domestic abuse battery.
Acts 1988, No. 319, §1; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 41, §1; Acts 1999, No. 575, §1; Acts 2004, No. 676, §3; Acts 2007, No. 41, §1; Acts 2015, No. 184, §6; Acts 2019, No. 326, §1, eff. June 11, 2019; Acts 2025, No. 52, §1, eff. June 4, 2025.
The provisions of Article 893.3 shall not apply to a conviction for a felony in which criminal negligence is an element of the offense unless the firearm was actually used or discharged during the commission of the offense.
Acts 1988, No. 319, §1; Acts 1999, No. 575, §1.
A. Except as otherwise prohibited by law, the court may suspend, in whole or in part, the imposition or execution of sentence if:
(1) The defendant has not previously been convicted of a felony.
(2) The maximum term of imprisonment for the offense is thirty years or less.
(3) The court imposes a period of court-approved community service of not less than two nor more than five years.
(4) The court specifies in written form in the court record the reason for the imposition of community service in lieu of imprisonment.
B. An offender sentenced under the provisions of this Article shall be subject to all conditions of supervised probation imposed by the court or as set forth by law. The offender may have his probation revoked or modified as provided by law and shall not be allowed credit for time spent doing community service or for the time elapsed during suspension of the sentence.
Acts 1990, No. 462, §1; Acts 1991, No. 406, §1.
A.(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Article to the contrary, when a defendant has been convicted of a misdemeanor, except criminal neglect of family, or stalking, the court may suspend the imposition or the execution of the whole or any part of the sentence imposed, provided suspension is not prohibited by law, and place the defendant on unsupervised probation or probation supervised by a probation office, agency, or officer designated by the court, other than the division of probation and parole of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, upon such conditions as the court may fix. Such suspension of sentence and probation shall be for a period of two years or such shorter period as the court may specify.
(2) When a suspended sentence in excess of six months is imposed, the court may place the defendant on probation under the supervision of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, division of probation and parole, for a period of not more than two years and under such conditions as the court may specify.
(3) When a defendant has been convicted of the misdemeanor offense of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, second offense, the court may suspend the imposition or the execution of the whole or any part of the sentence imposed and place the defendant on unsupervised or supervised probation upon such conditions as the court may fix, where suspension is not prohibited under the law. Such suspension of sentence and probation shall be for a period of two years or such shorter period as the court may specify.
(4) The court may suspend, reduce, or amend a misdemeanor sentence after the defendant has begun to serve the sentence.
(5) At the time that any defendant petitions the court to set aside any plea for operating a vehicle while intoxicated pursuant to this Article, the court shall order the clerk of court to mail to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of motor vehicles, a certified copy of the record of the plea, fingerprints of the defendant, and proof of the requirements as set forth in Code of Criminal Procedure Article 556.1 which shall include the defendant's date of birth, social security number, and driver's license number. An additional fifty dollar court cost shall be assessed at this time against the defendant and paid to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of motor vehicles, for the costs of storage and retrieval of the records.
(6) When a case is assigned to the drug division probation program pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 13:5304, with the consent of the district attorney, the court may place the defendant on probation for a period of not more than eight years if the court determines that successful completion of the program may require that the period of probation exceed the two-year limit. If necessary to assure successful completion of the drug division probation program, the court may extend the duration of the probation period. The period of probation as initially fixed or as extended shall not exceed eight years.
(7) When a case is assigned to an established driving while intoxicated court or sobriety court program certified by the Louisiana Supreme Court Drug Court Office, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, with the consent of the district attorney, the court may place the defendant on probation for a period of not more than eight years if the court determines that the successful completion of the program may require that the period of probation exceed the two-year limit. If necessary to assure successful completion of the driving while intoxicated court or sobriety court program, the court may extend the duration of the probation period. The period of probation as initially fixed or as extended shall not exceed eight years.
B.(1) When the imposition of sentence has been deferred by the court, as authorized by this Article, and the court finds at the conclusion of the period of deferral that the defendant has not been convicted of any other offense during the period of the deferred sentence, and that no criminal charge is pending against him, the court may set the conviction aside and dismiss the prosecution. However, prior to setting aside any conviction and dismissing the prosecution for any charge for operating a vehicle while intoxicated, the court shall require proof in the form of a certified letter from the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of motor vehicles, that the requirements of Subparagraph (A)(5) of this Article have been complied with.
(2) The dismissal of the prosecution shall have the same effect as an acquittal, except that the conviction may be considered as a prior offense and provide the basis for subsequent prosecution of the party as a multiple offender. Discharge and dismissal under this provision for the offense of operating a vehicle while intoxicated may occur only once with respect to any person during a ten-year period.
(3) Discharge and dismissal pursuant to the provisions of this Subparagraph may occur on a single subsequent prosecution and conviction which occurs during the ten-year period provided for in Subparagraph (B)(2) of this Article if the following conditions are met:
(a) The offender has successfully completed a driving while intoxicated court or sobriety court program pursuant to Subparagraph (A)(7) of this Article.
(b) The conditions imposed by the court pursuant to the provisions of Subparagraph (A)(3) of this Article have been met.
C. Nothing contained herein shall be construed as being a basis for destruction of records of the arrest and prosecution of any person convicted of a misdemeanor.
D.(1) The Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of motor vehicles, shall serve as a repository for the records referred to in Subparagraph (A)(5) of this Article for any plea for operating a vehicle while intoxicated entered pursuant to the provisions of this Article. The department shall maintain records for a period of ten years. The department shall respond by certified mail to a request by any court, prosecuting agency, or defendant seeking certified copies of the records or verification that the records are in the possession of the department.
(2) The records maintained by the department pursuant to this Article shall be confidential, except as otherwise provided in this Article. Certified copies of the records maintained by the department shall be admissible only in a subsequent prosecution for operating a vehicle while intoxicated and shall not be used for any other purpose.
(3)(a) The Department of Insurance is hereby authorized to expend from any surplus it derives from a fiscal year an amount not to exceed three hundred thousand dollars to the office of motor vehicles to fully implement and maintain the electronic database established in this Paragraph.
(b) The Department of Insurance is further authorized to enter into cooperative endeavor agreements with the Louisiana State Supreme Court, any district attorney's office, or any clerk of court's office for training and usage of the database created by this Paragraph.
Acts 1972, No. 514, §1; Acts 1972, No. 651, §1; Acts 1975, No. 608, §1; Acts 1978, No. 570, §3; Acts 1982, No. 270, §1; Acts 1986, No. 184, §1; Acts 1987, No. 59, §1; Acts 1989, No. 35, §1; Acts 1990, No. 89, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1251, §4; Acts 1996, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 5, §1, eff. April 23, 1996; Acts 1999, No. 1168, §1; Acts 2004, No. 730, §1; Acts 2007, No. 62, §2; Acts 2008, No. 451, §1, eff. June 25, 2008; Acts 2012, No. 670, §1; Acts 2015, No. 199, §1; Acts 2021, No. 124, §1.
NOTE: Acts 1996, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 5, §1, adding Article 894(B) was retroactive to Aug. 15, 1995.
A. When a defendant has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor, the court should impose a sentence of imprisonment if any of the following occurs:
(1) There is an undue risk that during the period of a suspended sentence or probation the defendant will commit another crime.
(2) The defendant is in need of correctional treatment or a custodial environment that can be provided most effectively by his commitment to an institution.
(3) A lesser sentence will deprecate the seriousness of the defendant's crime.
B. The following grounds, while not controlling the discretion of the court, shall be accorded weight in its determination of suspension of sentence or probation:
(1) The offender's conduct during the commission of the offense manifested deliberate cruelty to the victim.
(2) The offender knew or should have known that the victim of the offense was particularly vulnerable or incapable of resistance due to extreme youth, advanced age, disability, or ill health.
(3) The offender offered or has been offered or has given or received anything of value for the commission of the offense.
(4) The offender used his or her position or status to facilitate the commission of the offense.
(5) The offender knowingly created a risk of death or great bodily harm to more than one person.
(6) The offender used threats of or actual violence in the commission of the offense.
(7) Subsequent to the offense, the offender used or caused others to use violence, force, or threats with the intent to influence the institution, conduct, or outcome of the criminal proceedings.
(8) The offender committed the offense in order to facilitate or conceal the commission of another offense.
(9) The offense resulted in a significant permanent injury or significant economic loss to the victim or his family.
(10) The offender used a dangerous weapon in the commission of the offense.
(11) The offense involved multiple victims or incidents for which separate sentences have not been imposed.
(12) The offender was persistently involved in similar offenses not already considered as criminal history or as a part of a multiple offender adjudication.
(13) The offender was a leader or his violation was in concert with one or more other persons with respect to whom the offender occupied a position of organizer, a supervisory position, or any other position of management.
(14) The offense was a major economic offense.
(15) The offense was a controlled dangerous substance offense and the offender obtained substantial income or resources from ongoing drug activities.
(16) The offense was a controlled dangerous substance offense in which the offender involved juveniles in the trafficking or distribution of drugs.
(17) The offender committed the offense in furtherance of a terrorist action.
(18) The offender foreseeably endangered human life by discharging a firearm during the commission of an offense which has, as an element, the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force against the person or property of another, and which, by its very nature, involves a substantial risk that physical force may be used in the course of committing the offense.
(19) The offender used a firearm or other dangerous weapon while committing or attempting to commit an offense which has, as an element, the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force against the person or property of another, and which by its very nature, involves a substantial risk that physical force may be used in the course of committing the offense.
(20) The offender used a firearm or other dangerous weapon while committing or attempting to commit a controlled dangerous substance offense.
(21) Any other relevant aggravating circumstances.
(22) The defendant's criminal conduct neither caused nor threatened serious harm.
(23) The defendant did not contemplate that his criminal conduct would cause or threaten serious harm.
(24) The defendant acted under strong provocation.
(25) There were substantial grounds tending to excuse or justify the defendant's criminal conduct, though failing to establish a defense.
(26) The victim of the defendant's criminal conduct induced or facilitated its commission.
(27) The defendant has compensated or will compensate the victim of his criminal conduct for the damage or injury that he sustained.
(28) The defendant has no history of prior delinquency or criminal activity or has led a law-abiding life for a substantial period of time before the commission of the instant crime.
(29) The defendant's criminal conduct was the result of circumstances unlikely to recur.
(30) The defendant is particularly likely to respond affirmatively to probationary treatment.
(31) The imprisonment of the defendant would entail excessive hardship to himself or his dependents.
(32) The defendant has voluntarily participated in a pretrial drug testing program.
(33) Whether the defendant is pregnant at the time of sentencing and whether an alternative sentence involving community-based supervision and participation in a prenatal care, maternal health, or substance use disorder treatment program would be appropriate, consistent with existing law.
(34) The defendant is a victim of domestic abuse, human trafficking, trafficking of children for sexual purposes, or sexual assault and there was a rational, causal, and temporally proximate connection between the defendant's victimization and the instant offense.
(35) Any other relevant mitigating circumstance.
C. The court shall state for the record the considerations taken into account and the factual basis therefor in imposing sentence.
D. Immediately following the imposition of a felony sentence pursuant to this Article, the sentencing court shall advise the offender in open court whether the sentence imposed was enhanced pursuant to R.S. 15:529.1 et seq., Article 893.3, or any other relevant provision of law.
E. All victims of felonies who provide a written request to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, which includes a mailing address, are entitled to receive a written report of the prospective term of imprisonment of their offenders. The Department of Public Safety and Corrections shall furnish to the victim within ninety days of commitment a report which includes the following information, in a format to be determined by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections:
(1) The prospective release date of the offender should his sentence be subject to diminution of sentence for good behavior, to the extent that the report shall advise the offender that he may be released upon serving the certain percentage of his sentence as provided for by law.
(2) The prospective parole eligibility date of the offender should he be eligible for parole pursuant to R.S. 15:574.4 et seq., to the extent that the report shall advise the offender that he may be eligible for release upon serving a certain percentage of his sentence as provided by law.
F. However, no sentence shall be declared unlawful or inadequate for failure to comply with the provisions of Paragraph D.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 635, §1; Acts 1986, No. 704, §1; Acts 1987, No. 500, §1; Acts 1991, No. 22, §1; Acts 1995, No. 942, §1; Acts 1997, No. 750, §1; Acts 1997, No. 1199, §§1, 2; Acts 2010, No. 350, §1; Acts 2026, No. 520, §2 eff. May 29, 2026; Acts 2026, No. 526, §2.
NOTE: See Acts 1991, No. 22, §2, for special effective date.
A. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, a defendant may be placed on home incarceration under the following conditions:
(1) The defendant is eligible for probation or was convicted of a misdemeanor or a felony punishable with or without hard labor.
(2) In felony cases, either:
(a) The Department of Public Safety and Corrections, through the division of probation and parole, recommends home incarceration of the defendant and specific conditions of that home incarceration; or
(b) The district attorney recommends home incarceration.
(3) The court determines, after a contradictory hearing, that home incarceration of the defendant is more suitable than imprisonment or supervised probation without home incarceration and would serve the best interests of justice. The court may order home incarceration either in lieu of, or in addition to, a term of imprisonment. When the court sentences a defendant, it may order the defendant to serve any portion of the sentence under home incarceration.
B.(1) A defendant ordered to home incarceration shall be supervised and may be subject to any of the conditions of probation. Every provider of home incarceration supervision or electronic monitoring services shall submit information to the court, the sheriff of the parish, and the Department of Public Safety and Corrections. The Department of Public Safety and Corrections is authorized to establish regulations to develop a uniform reporting format and procedures for providers of home incarceration in order to promote efficiency and uniformity in data collection. Information provided shall include but not be limited to:
(a) An annual report indicating the services offered, areas served, number of defendants served, number of defendants who successfully completed home incarceration and the number of defendants terminated and the reasons for termination, and credentials or qualifications of the provider.
(b) A monthly report including the name, date of birth, and offense of conviction for every defendant supervised.
(2) Failure to comply with the provisions of this Paragraph may subject the provider to forfeiture of its authority to do business.
C. The court shall specify the conditions of home incarceration. The conditions may include any condition reasonably related to implementing or monitoring the home incarceration, including curfew, electronic or telephone monitoring, home visitation by persons designated by the court, and limitation of the defendant's activities outside of the home.
D. The defendant shall be given a certificate setting forth the conditions of his home incarceration and shall be required to agree in writing to the conditions.
E. Within thirty days of issuing the order placing the defendant on home incarceration, the court shall cause the minute entry to be sent by the clerk of court to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections and the sheriff of the parish or chief law enforcement officer of a municipality where the defendant is to serve the home incarceration. The minute entry shall include all available contact information of the home incarceration or electronic monitoring provider.
F. The court may require the defendant to obtain employment and may require the defendant to pay a reasonable supervision fee to the supervising agency to defray the cost of his home incarceration supervision.
G. The court may, at any time during the period of home incarceration, modify, change, or add to the conditions of such incarceration.
H. The period of home incarceration shall be for a period of not more than four years in felony cases and for a period not to exceed six months in misdemeanor cases.
I. If the defendant violates the conditions of home incarceration, the court, on motion of the state or its own motion, may, after contradictory hearing modify or impose a sentence of imprisonment.
J. In the event of revocation and sentence to imprisonment, the defendant shall not receive credit for time served under home incarceration.
K. The provisions of this Article shall not be applicable to a defendant who has been convicted of any second violation of any state or local driving-while-intoxicated law committed within five years of the commission of any prior driving-while-intoxicated violation until the defendant has first served a minimum of forty-eight consecutive hours of imprisonment.
L. Paragraphs A and H of this Article shall not apply to a defendant who has been convicted of any third or subsequent violation of any state law or local ordinance prohibiting driving while intoxicated committed within five years of the commission of any prior driving-while-intoxicated violation. Such defendants shall be subject to home incarceration as provided for in R.S. 14:98.
Acts 1988, No. 321, §1; Acts 1989, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 10, §1, eff. March 13, 1989; Acts 1991, No. 431, §1; Acts 1992, No. 653, §1, eff. July 2, 1992; Acts 1997, No. 663, §1; Acts 2001, No. 1163, §1; Acts 2009, No. 159, §1; Acts 2010, No. 812, §1; Acts 2011, No. 168, §1.
A. Before sentencing a defendant who has been convicted of a violation of a sex offense as defined in R.S. 15:541, the office of the district attorney shall notify the clerk of court of the name and the address of the victim, and the clerk of court shall give written notice of the date and time of sentencing at least three days prior to the hearing, when the sentencing is not immediately following the finding of guilt, to the victim or the victim's parent or guardian, unless the victim, parent, or guardian has advised the office of the district attorney in writing that such notification is not desired.
B. The victim or the victim's parent or guardian who desires to do so shall be given a reasonable opportunity to attend the hearing and to be heard.
Acts 1992, No. 962, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1290, §3; Acts 2001, No. 1206, §3.
Probation shall neither be revoked nor extended based solely upon the defendant's inability to pay fines, fees, or restitution to the victim.
Acts 2006, No. 823, §1; Acts 2010, No. 808, §1; Acts 2017, No. 260, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2018, No. 137, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2018, No. 668, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2019, §4, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2021, No. 313, §§3B and 4, see Act.
TRANSMITTAL OF RECORDS OF DWI PLEA PURSUANT TO ARTICLE 894
DATE
OFFICE OF MOTOR VEHICLES
P.O. BOX 64886
BATON ROUGE, LA 70896
NAME_____________________DRIVERS LICENSE#____________________
DATE OF BIRTH:OFFENSE DATE:___________
SS#DOCKET NO:__
TICKET NO:______________________
☐ Attached is a certified copy of the court minutes, original/certified copy of fingerprints, and proof of the requirements as set forth in the Code of Criminal Procedure Article 556.1, as well as a $50.00 money order or certified funds made payable to the office of motor vehicles, in reference to the above named defendant.
NOTE: Do not use this form to submit records of a DWI expungement pursuant to Code of Criminal Procedure Article 984.
Acts 2015, No. 200, §2.
A. Nothing in this Article shall be construed to authorize the suspension of sentence or probation for any offense for which such relief is otherwise prohibited by law. This Article shall not be interpreted to expand or modify eligibility for probation or suspension of sentence.
B. For any defendant who is pregnant at the time of sentencing and is otherwise eligible for suspension of sentence or probation under existing law, the court may consider the provisions of this Article.
C. For a defendant described in Paragraph B of this Article, the court may suspend the imposition or execution of sentence and place the defendant on probation in accordance with existing law, and may require, as a condition of probation, that the defendant:
(1) Participate in and successfully complete a court-approved prenatal care program, pregnancy support program, or maternal health program.
(2) Participate in and successfully complete a residential or outpatient substance use disorder treatment program, including medically supervised detoxification when appropriate.
(3) Comply with all recommended prenatal and postnatal medical care.
(4) Participate in parenting education, life skills training, or case management services as deemed appropriate by the court.
(5) Comply with any additional conditions of probation authorized by law.
D. In determining whether to impose a sentence pursuant to this Article, the court shall consider public safety, the nature of the offense, the criminal history of the defendant, and the availability of appropriate programs.
E. The Louisiana Department of Health shall maintain and make available to courts, upon request, a list of publicly and privately available programs that may satisfy the requirements of this Article.
Acts 2026, No. 520, §2, eff. May 29, 2026
A. When the court places a defendant on probation, it shall require the defendant to refrain from criminal conduct and to pay a supervision fee to defray the costs of probation supervision. The court may also impose any specific conditions reasonably related to his rehabilitation, including that the defendant do any of the following that are deemed appropriate to the circumstances of the particular case:
(1) Make a full and truthful report at the end of each month;
(2) Meet his specified family responsibilities, including any obligations imposed in a court order of child support;
(3) Report to the probation officer as directed;
(4) Permit the probation officer to visit him at his home or elsewhere;
(5) Devote himself to an approved employment or occupation;
(6) Refrain from owning or possessing firearms or other dangerous weapons;
(7) Make reasonable reparation or restitution to the aggrieved party for damage or loss caused by his offense in an amount to be determined by the court;
(8) Refrain from frequenting unlawful or disreputable places or consorting with disreputable persons;
(9) Remain within the jurisdiction of the court and get the permission of the probation officer before making any change in his address or his employment; and
(10) Devote himself to an approved reading program at his cost if he is unable to read the English language.
(11) Perform community service work.
(12) Submit himself to available medical, psychiatric, mental health, or substance abuse examination or treatment or both when deemed appropriate and ordered to do so by the probation and parole officer.
(13)(a) Agree to searches of his person, his property, his place of residence, his vehicle, or his personal effects, or any or all of them, at any time, by the probation or parole officer assigned to him or by any probation or parole officer who is subsequently assigned or directed by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections to supervise the person, whether the assignment or directive is temporary or permanent, with or without a warrant of arrest or with or without a search warrant, when the probation officer or the parole officer has reasonable suspicion to believe that the person who is on probation is engaged in or has been engaged in criminal activity.
(b) For those persons who have been convicted of a "sex offense" as defined in R.S. 15:541, agree to searches of his person, his property, his place of residence, his vehicle, or his personal effects, or any or all of them, at any time, by a law enforcement officer, duly commissioned in the parish or municipality where the sex offender resides or is domiciled, designated by his agency to supervise sex offenders, with or without a warrant of arrest or with or without a search warrant, when the officer has reasonable suspicion to believe that the person who is on probation is engaged in or has been engaged in criminal activity for which the person has not been charged or arrested while on probation.
(14) Waive extradition to the state of Louisiana from any jurisdiction in or outside of the United States and agree not to contest any effort by any jurisdiction for the return to the state of Louisiana.
B.(1) In felony cases, an additional condition of the probation may be that the defendant shall serve a term of imprisonment without hard labor for a period not to exceed two years.
(2) In felony cases assigned to the drug division probation program pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 13:5304, the court may impose as a condition of probation that the defendant successfully complete the intensive incarceration program established pursuant to R.S. 15:574.4.4. If the defendant is not accepted into the intensive incarceration program or fails to successfully complete the intensive incarceration program, the court shall reconsider the sentence imposed as provided in Article 881.1.
(3) In felony cases, an additional condition of the probation may be that the defendant be ordered to be committed to the custody of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections and be required to serve a sentence of not more than twelve months without diminution of sentence in the intensive incarceration program pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 15:574.4.4. Upon successful completion of the program, the defendant shall return to supervised probation for a period of time as ordered by the court, subject to any additional conditions imposed by the court and under the same provisions of law under which the defendant was originally sentenced. If an offender is denied entry into the intensive incarceration program for physical or mental health reasons or for failure to meet the department's suitability criteria, the department shall notify the sentencing court, and the offender shall be resentenced in accordance with the provisions of Article 881.1.
C. In cases of violations of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law, the court may order the suspension or restriction of the defendant's driving privileges, if any, for all or part of the period of probation. In such cases, a copy of the order shall be forwarded to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, which shall suspend the defendant's driver's license or issue a restricted license in accordance with the orders of the court. Additionally, the court may order the defendant to:
(1) Submit to and pay all costs for drug testing by an approved laboratory at the direction of his probation officer.
(2) Perform not less than one hundred sixty hours nor more than nine hundred sixty hours of community service work.
D. The court may, in lieu of the monthly supervision fee provided for in Paragraph A, require the defendant to perform a specified amount of community service work each month if the court finds the defendant is unable to pay the supervision fee provided for in Paragraph A.
E. Before the court places a sexual offender on probation, it shall order the offender who has not previously been tested to submit to a blood and saliva test in accordance with R.S. 15:535. All costs shall be paid by the offender. Serial sexual offenders sentenced pursuant to R.S. 15:537(B) shall not be eligible for parole or probation.
F. In cases of any violation of Subpart (A)(1) of Part V of Chapter 1 of Title 14 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950 or R.S. 14:92(7), the court may order the defendant to submit to psychological evaluation and, if indicated, order him to obtain psychiatric or psychological counseling for all or part of the period of probation. All costs shall be paid by the defendant.
G. Before the court places the defendant on probation, it shall determine if the defendant has a high school degree or its equivalent and, if the defendant does not, it shall order the defendant to take a reading proficiency test. If the defendant scores below a sixth grade level on the reading proficiency test, the court shall condition probation upon the defendant's enrolling in and attending an adult education or reading program until he attains a sixth grade reading level or until his term of probation expires, whichever occurs first. All costs shall be paid by the defendant. If the court finds that there are no adult education or reading programs in the parish in which the defendant is domiciled, the defendant is unable to afford such a program, or attendance would create an undue hardship on the defendant, the court may suspend this condition of probation. The provisions of this Paragraph shall not apply to those defendants who are mentally, physically, or by reason of age, infirmity, dyslexia or other such learning disorders unable to participate.
H.(1) In cases where the defendant has been convicted of or adjudication has been deferred or withheld for the perpetration or attempted perpetration of a sex offense as defined in R.S. 15:541, and probation is permitted by law and when the court places a defendant on probation, the court shall order the offender to register as a sex offender and to provide notification in accordance with the provisions of R.S. 15:540 et seq.
(2) The defendant must state under oath where he will reside after sentencing and that he will advise the court of any subsequent change of address during the probationary period.
(3) No offender who is the parent, stepparent, or has legal custody and physical custody of the child who is the victim shall be released on probation unless the victim has received psychological counseling prior to the offender's release if the offender is returning to the residence or community in which the child resides. Such psychological counseling shall include an attempt by the health care provider to ease the psychological impact upon the child of the notice required under Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph, including assisting the child in coping with potential insensitive comments and actions by the child's neighbors and peers. The cost of such counseling shall be paid by the offender.
(4) Repealed by Acts 2007, No. 460, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 2008.
(5) The court may order that the conditions of probation as provided for in Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph shall apply for each subsequent change of address made by the defendant during the probationary period.
I.(1) In cases where the defendant has been convicted of or where adjudication has been deferred or withheld for the perpetration or attempted perpetration of a sex offense as defined in R.S. 15:541 and the victim of that offense is a minor, the court may, if the department has the equipment and appropriately trained personnel, as an additional condition of probation, authorize the use of truth verification examinations to determine if the defendant has violated a condition of probation. If ordered by the court as a condition of probation, the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, division of probation and parole, is hereby authorized to administer a truth verification examination pursuant to the court order and the provisions of this Paragraph.
(2) Any examination conducted pursuant to the provisions of this Paragraph shall be subsequent to an allegation that the defendant has violated a condition of probation or at the discretion of the probation officer who has reason to believe that the defendant has violated a condition of probation.
(3) The truth verification examination shall be conducted by a trained and certified polygraphist or voice stress examiner.
(4) The results of the truth verification examination may be considered in determining the level of supervision and treatment needed by the defendant and in the determination of the probation officer as to whether the defendant has violated a condition of probation; however, such results shall not be used as evidence in court to prove that a violation of a condition of probation has occurred.
(5) The sexual offender may request a second truth verification examination to be conducted by a trained and certified polygraphist or voice stress examiner of his choice. The cost of the second examination shall be borne by the offender.
(6) For purposes of this Article:
(a) "Polygraph examination" shall mean an examination conducted with the use of an instrument or apparatus for simultaneously recording cardiovascular pressure, pulse and respiration, and variations in electrical resistance of the skin.
(b) "Truth verification examination" shall include a polygraph examination or a voice stress analysis.
(c) "Voice stress analysis" shall mean an examination conducted with the use of an instrument or apparatus which records psychophysiological stress responses that are present in a human voice when a person suffers psychological stress in response to a stimulus.
J. The defendant shall be given a certificate setting forth the conditions of his probation and shall be required to agree in writing to the conditions.
K. In cases where the defendant has been convicted of an offense involving criminal sexual activity, the court shall order as a condition of probation that the defendant successfully complete a sex offender treatment program. As part of the sex offender treatment program, the offender shall participate with a victim impact panel or program providing a forum for victims of criminal sexual activity and sex offenders to share experiences on the impact of the criminal sexual activity in their lives. The Department of Public Safety and Corrections shall establish guidelines to implement victim impact panels where, in the judgment of the licensed professional responsible for the sexual treatment program, appropriate victims are available, and shall establish guidelines for other programs where such victims are not available. All costs for the sex offender treatment program shall be paid by the offender.
L. A conviction for any offense involving criminal sexual activity as provided for in Paragraph H of this Article, includes a conviction for an equivalent offense under the laws of another state. Criminal sexual offenders under the supervision and legal authority of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections pursuant to the terms and conditions of the interstate compact agreement provided for in R.S. 15:574.31 et seq. shall be notified of the registration requirements provided for in this Article at the time the department accepts supervision and has legal authority of the individual.
M.(1) In all cases where the defendant has been convicted of an offense of domestic abuse as provided in R.S. 46:2132(3) to a family or household member as provided in R.S. 46:2132(4), or of an offense of dating violence as provided in R.S. 46:2151(C) to a dating partner as provided in R.S. 46:2151(B), the court shall order that the defendant submit to and successfully complete a court-approved course of counseling or therapy related to family or dating violence, for all or part of the period of probation. If the defendant has already completed such a counseling program, said counseling requirement shall be required only upon a finding by the court that such counseling or therapy would be effective in preventing future domestic abuse or dating violence.
(2) All costs for the counseling or therapy shall be paid by the offender. In addition, the court may order that the defendant pay an amount not to exceed one thousand dollars to a family violence program located in the parish where the offense of domestic abuse occurred.
N. If a defendant is injured or suffers other loss in the performance of community service work required as a condition of probation, neither the state nor any political subdivision, nor any officer, agent, or employee of the state or political subdivision shall be liable for any such injury or loss, unless the injury or loss was caused by the gross negligence or intentional acts of the officer, agent, or employee of the state or political subdivision. No provision of this Paragraph shall negate any requirement that an officer, agent, or employee secure proper and appropriate medical assistance for a defendant who is injured while performing community service work and in need of immediate medical attention.
O.(1) Any mentor of an offender on probation under the supervision of any court division created pursuant to R.S. 13:5304, 5354, 5366, or 5401 shall not be liable for any injury or loss caused or suffered by an offender that arises out of the performance of duties as a mentor, unless the injury or loss was caused by the gross negligence or intentional acts of the mentor.
(2) Neither the court nor any officer, agent, or employee of the court shall be liable for any injury or loss to the offender, the mentor, or any third party for the actions of the mentor or the offender.
(3) As provided in this Subsection, "mentor" means a person approved by the court who volunteers to provide support and personal, educational, rehabilitation, and career guidance to the offender during probation and who has either completed a court-approved mentor training program or who has successfully completed his sentence pursuant to R.S. 13:5304, 5354, 5366, or 5401.
(4) Nothing in this Subparagraph shall affect the vicarious liability of the employer pursuant to Civil Code Article 2320 or the ability of an employee to file a claim for workers' compensation.
P.(1) When a defendant who is on probation is employed by another person or entity, the probation officer who supervises the defendant shall schedule meetings, which are required as a condition of the defendant's probation, at such times and locations that take into consideration and accommodate the work schedule of the defendant.
(2) To comply with the provisions of Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph, in lieu of requiring the defendant to appear in-person for the required reporting or meetings, the probation officer may utilize technology portals, including cellular telephone and other electronic communication devices, that allow simultaneous voice and video communication in real time between the defendant and the probation officer. Such technology may also be used for required reporting or meetings of a defendant on probation who is self-employed at the discretion of the defendant's probation officer and in accordance with any rules promulgated by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections pursuant to this Paragraph.
(3) The Department of Public Safety and Corrections shall promulgate rules in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act to implement the provisions of this Paragraph. The rules promulgated by the department pursuant to this Paragraph shall include but are not limited to minimum standards and guidelines for the authorized technology and how it may be used as well as standards for determining the eligibility and suitability of defendants on probation to meet their reporting requirements through the use of such technology. The eligibility and suitability standards shall include consideration of the severity of the defendant's underlying criminal conviction, criminal history, supervision level, and past supervision history.
Amended by Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 57, §1, eff. July 7, 1994; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 58, §2, eff. July 7, 1994; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 70, §2; Acts 1995, No. 605, §1, eff. June 18, 1995; Acts 1995, No. 906, §1; Acts 1995, No. 928, §2; Acts 1995, No. 1266, §1, eff. June 29, 1995; Acts 1995, No. 1290, §3; Acts 1995, No. 1291, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1303, §2; Acts 1997, No. 134, §1; Acts 1997, No.137, §1; Acts 1997, No. 520, §1; Acts 1997, No. 602, §1; Acts 1997, No. 1148, §1, eff. July 14, 1997; Acts 1999, No. 1150, §2; Acts 1999, No. 1157, §1; Acts 1999, No. 1209, §2; Acts 2001, No. 1206, §3; Acts 2003, No. 750, §2; Acts 2007, No. 460, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 2008; Acts 2008, No. 655; Acts 2008, No. 451, §1, eff. June 25, 2008; Acts 2009, No. 168, §1; Acts 2009, No. 362, §1; Acts 2012, No. 705, §2; Acts 2014, No. 271, §1; Acts 2016, No. 655, §1; Acts 2018, No. 351, §1; Acts 2020, No. 98, §2; Acts 2026, No. 531, §2.
A.(1) When a court places the defendant on probation, it shall, as a condition of probation, order the payment of restitution in cases where the victim or his family has suffered any direct loss of actual cash, any monetary loss pursuant to damage to or loss of property, or medical expense. The court shall order restitution in a reasonable sum not to exceed the actual pecuniary loss to the victim in an amount certain. However, any additional or other damages sought by the victim and available under the law shall be pursued in an action separate from the establishment of the restitution order as a civil money judgment provided for in Subparagraph (2) of this Paragraph. If the court has determined, pursuant to the provisions of Article 875.1, that payment in full of the aggregate amount of all financial obligations imposed upon the defendant would cause substantial financial hardship to the defendant or his dependents, restitution payments shall be made pursuant to the provisions of Article 875.1.
(2)(a) The order to pay restitution together with any order to pay costs or fines, as provided in this Article, is deemed a civil money judgment in favor of the person to whom restitution, costs, or fines is owed, if the defendant is informed of his right to have a judicial determination of the amount and is provided with a hearing. In addition to proceedings by the court which orders the restitution, cost, or fine, the judgment may be enforced in the same manner as a money judgment in a civil case. Likewise, the judgment may be filed as a lien as provided by law for judgment creditors. Prior to the enforcement of the restitution order, or order for costs or fines, the defendant shall be notified of his right to have a judicial determination of the amount of restitution, cost, or fine. Such notice shall be served personally by the district attorney's office of the respective judicial district in which the restitution, cost, or fine is ordered.
(b) In addition to the powers under R.S. 13:1336, the Criminal District Court for the Parish of Orleans shall have the authority to order the payment of restitution as provided in this Paragraph. The enforcement of the judgment for restitution shall be filed in the Civil District Court for the Parish of Orleans.
(3) The court which orders the restitution shall provide written evidence of the order which constitutes the judgment.
(4) The court may suspend payment of any amount awarded hereunder and may suspend recordation of any judgment hereunder during the pendency of any civil suit instituted to recover damages, from said defendant brought by the victim or victims which arises out of the same act or acts which are the subject of the criminal offense contemplated hereunder.
(5) The amount of any judgment by the court hereunder, shall be credited against the amount of any subsequent civil judgment against the defendant and in favor of the victim or victims, which arises out of the same act or acts which are the subject of the criminal offense contemplated hereunder.
B. When a court suspends the imposition or the execution of a sentence and places the defendant on probation, it may, as a condition of probation, order the defendant to pay an amount of money toward any or all of the following:
(1) To the office of the district public defender for that court.
(2) To the criminal court fund to defray the costs of operation of that court.
(3) To the sheriff and clerk of court for costs incurred.
(4) To a law enforcement agency for the reasonable costs incurred in arresting the defendant, in felony cases involving the distribution of or intent to distribute controlled dangerous substances.
(5) To the victim to compensate him for his loss and inconvenience. Such an amount may be in addition to any amounts ordered to be paid by the defendant under Paragraph A herein.
(6) To a duly incorporated crime stoppers organization for the reasonable costs incurred in obtaining information which leads to the arrest of the defendant.
(7) To a local public or private nonprofit agency involved in drug abuse prevention and treatment for supervising a treatment program ordered by the court for a particular defendant, provided that such agency is qualified as a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of the United States. Any nonprofit agency receiving money under the provisions of this Paragraph must be licensed by the Louisiana Department of Health in the supervision of drug abuse prevention and treatment.
(8) To the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, division of probation and parole, for the full cost of extradition in cases where extradition of the defendant is warranted. The court may establish a payment plan based upon the defendant's ability to pay.
C.(1) When the court places the defendant on supervised probation, it shall order as a condition of probation a monthly fee of not less than sixty nor more than one hundred ten dollars payable to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections or such other probation office, agency, or officer as designated by the court, to defray the cost of supervision which includes salaries for probation and parole officers. If the probation supervision services are rendered by an agency other than the department, the fee may be ordered payable to that agency. These fees are only to supplement the level of funds that would ordinarily be available from regular state appropriations or any other source of funding.
(2) When the court places the defendant on unsupervised probation, it shall order as a condition of probation a monthly fee of not more than one dollar payable to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections or such other probation office, agency, or officer as designated by the court.
D. The court may, in lieu of the monthly supervision fee provided for in Paragraph C of this Article, require the defendant to perform a specified amount of community service work each month if the court finds the defendant is unable to pay the minimum supervision fee provided for in Paragraph C of this Article.
E. When the court places any defendant convicted of a violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law, R.S. 40:966 through 1034, on any type of probation, it shall order as a condition of probation a fee of not less than fifty nor more than one hundred dollars, payable to the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Criminal Justice to be credited to the Drug Abuse Education and Treatment Dedicated Fund Account and used for the purposes provided in R.S. 15:1224.
F. When the court places the defendant on supervised probation, it shall order as a condition of probation the payment of a monthly fee of eleven dollars. The monthly fee established in this Paragraph shall be in addition to the fee established in Paragraph C of this Article and shall be collected by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections and shall be transmitted, deposited, appropriated, and used in accordance with the following provisions:
(1) The monthly fee established in this Paragraph shall be deposited immediately upon receipt in the state treasury.
(2) After compliance with the requirements of Article VII, Section 9(B) of the Constitution of Louisiana relative to the Bond Security and Redemption Fund, and prior to monies being placed in the state general fund, the treasurer shall credit an amount equal to that deposited as required by Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph to a special agency account to be retained for future appropriation as provided in this Article which is hereby created in the state treasury to be known as the "Sex Offender Registry Technology Dedicated Fund Account". The monies in this account shall be used solely as provided in Subparagraph (3) of this Paragraph and only in the amounts appropriated by the legislature. Monies deposited into this account shall be categorized as fees and self-generated revenue for the sole purpose of reporting related to the executive budget, supporting documents, and general appropriations bills and shall be available for annual appropriations by the legislature.
(3) The monies in the Sex Offender Registry Technology Dedicated Fund Account shall be appropriated as follows:
(a) For Fiscal Year 2006-2007, the amount of one hundred ninety thousand dollars to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of state police, to be used in the administration of programs for the registration of sex offenders in compliance with federal and state laws, and support of community notification efforts by local law enforcement agencies. For Fiscal Years 2007-2008 through 2009-2010, the amount to be appropriated under this Subparagraph shall be twenty-five thousand dollars. For Fiscal Years 2010-2011, and thereafter, the amount to be appropriated to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of state police, shall be twenty-five thousand dollars for the purposes of maintaining and administering the programs for the registration of sex offenders pursuant to this Subparagraph and special law enforcement initiatives.
(b) For Fiscal Year 2010-2011 and each year thereafter, an amount equal to fifteen percent of the total residual monies available for appropriation from the account shall be appropriated to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of adult services, division of probation and parole.
(c) For Fiscal Year 2010-2011 through Fiscal Year 2013-2014, residual monies available for appropriation after satisfying the requirements of Subsubparagraphs (a) and (b) of this Subparagraph shall be appropriated to the Department of Justice, office of the attorney general. Of that residual amount, one hundred fifty thousand dollars shall be allocated to the office of the attorney general of which fifty thousand dollars shall be allocated for personnel and other costs to assist and monitor sheriff participation in utilization of the computer system, and one hundred thousand dollars of which shall be allocated to the cost of maintenance of the computer system which shall interface with the computer systems of the sheriffs of the parishes for registration of sex offenders and child predators.
(d) For Fiscal Year 2014-2015, and thereafter, residual monies available for appropriation after satisfying the requirements of Subsubparagraphs (a) and (b) of this Subparagraph shall be appropriated to the Department of Justice, office of the attorney general. Of that residual amount, two hundred and fifty thousand dollars shall be allocated to the office of the attorney general of which one hundred and fifty thousand dollars shall be allocated for personnel and other costs to assist and monitor sheriff participation in utilization of the computer system and the administration of the sex offender and child predator registration and notification laws as set forth in R.S. 15:540 et seq., and one hundred thousand dollars of which shall be allocated to the cost of maintenance of the computer system of the sheriffs of the parishes for registration of sex offenders and child predators.
(e) After providing for the allocations in Subsubparagraphs (a), (b), (c), and (d) of this Subparagraph, the remainder of the residual monies in the Sex Offender Registry Technology Dedicated Fund Account shall, pursuant to an appropriation to the office of the attorney general, be distributed to the sheriff of each parish, based on the population of convicted sex offenders, sexually violent predators, and child predators who are residing in the parish and who are active sex offender registrants or active child predator registrants in the respective parishes according to the State Sex Offender and Child Predator Registry. These funds shall be used to cover the costs associated with sex offender registration and compliance. Population data necessary to implement the provisions of this Subparagraph shall be as compiled and certified by the undersecretary of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections on the first day of June of each year. No later than thirty days after the Revenue Estimating Conference recognizes the prior year account balance, the office of the attorney general shall make these distributions, which are based on the data certified by the undersecretary of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, to the recipient sheriffs who are actively registering offenders pursuant to this Paragraph.
Acts 1983, No. 13, §1; Acts 1984, No. 940, §1; Acts 1984, No. 136, §1; Acts 1985, No. 863, §1, eff. July 23, 1985; Acts 1986, No. 745, §1; Acts 1987, No. 59, §1; Acts 1988, No. 208, §1; Acts 1989, No. 832, §1; Acts 1990, No. 53, §1; Acts 1990, No. 89, §1; Acts 1990, No. 188, §1; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 60, §1; Acts 1998, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 138, §1; Acts 1999, No. 587, §1; Acts 2000, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 84, §1; Acts 2001, No. 964, §1; Acts 2006, No. 502, §1; Acts 2006, No. 663, §4, eff. June 29, 2006; Acts 2007, No. 460, §1, eff. July 11, 2007; Acts 2010, No. 760, §1; Acts 2011, No. 218, §1; Acts 2011, No. 219, §1; Acts 2014, No. 524, §5; Acts 2014, No. 631, §1; Acts 2016, No. 601, §5, eff. June 17, 2016; Acts 2017, No. 260, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2018, No. 137, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2018, No. 267, §2; Acts 2018, No. 612, §19, eff. July 1, 2020; Acts 2018, No. 668, §4, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2019, No. 404, §§1, 14,15, and 19 eff. July 1, 2020; Acts 2019, No. 253, §2; Acts 2021, No. 125, §1; Acts 2021, No. 313, §§3A and 5B, see Act; Acts 2026, No. 531, §2; Acts 2026, No. 862, §9.
A. In all cases in which the defendant has been convicted of a crime which involves the illegal taking of wild birds, wild quadrupeds, or fish or other aquatic life in violation of the provisions of Title 56 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950 or of any rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, or any rules and regulations adopted by the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission, the court shall, as a condition of probation, order civil restitution to the state of Louisiana, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation Fund, for the value of the said wild birds, wild quadrupeds, or fish or other aquatic life illegally taken. This restitution shall be in accordance with a schedule of wildlife and aquatic life species values promulgated by the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act.
B. If any assessment of civil penalties has been paid in full to the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, then the court shall not order the restitution provided for in Paragraph A as a condition of probation.
Acts 1988, No. 169, §1; Acts 2001, No. 804, §1.
The collection of the supervision fee imposed pursuant to Articles 895 and 895.1 shall be suspended upon the transfer of an offender to another state for probation supervision in that state, pursuant to the provisions of the interstate compact for out of state parolee supervision as provided in R.S. 15:574.14.
Acts 1991, No. 119, §2.
A. Legislative intent
(1) The legislature hereby declares that the intention of the legislature in enacting the provisions of this Article is to establish a procedure for raising revenue for the funding of certain operations of certified crime stoppers organizations and to ensure that the procedure established in this Article complies with the requirements of the Louisiana Constitution, and the pronouncements of the Louisiana Supreme Court concerning those requirements, which govern the collection and expenditure of statutory assessments, including fees and costs of court, which are imposed in criminal cases.
(2) The legislature hereby recognizes the pronouncements of the Louisiana Supreme Court which hold that in order to comply with the requirements of the Louisiana Constitution, revenues which are raised through statutory assessments, including fees and costs of court, which are imposed in criminal cases must reasonably be related to the costs of administering the criminal justice system. The legislature hereby declares that the crime stoppers activities of paying rewards, of operating hotlines, and of obtaining information on criminal activities are directly related to the administration of the criminal justice system and that the revenues which are raised under the provisions of this Article and which are used for those purposes are directly related to the costs of administering the criminal justice system.
(3) The legislature hereby declares that the intention of the legislature in enacting the provisions of this Article which require certified crime stoppers organizations which apply for these funds to be certified to the local courts by the local sheriff or chief of police, and the provisions of this Article which exclude statewide officials from certifying statewide organizations under the provisions of this Article, is to provide that local revenues which are raised through local courts will be subject to local control in order to ensure that those revenues will be expended for purposes which are directly related to the costs of administering the local criminal justice system.
B. As used in this Article, the following words shall have the following meanings ascribed to them:
(1) "Certified crime stoppers organization" means an organization which is certified as a certified crime stoppers organization by a certifying officer in accordance with the provisions of this Article.
(2) "Certifying officer" means a sheriff or a chief of police who is authorized by the provisions of this Article to certify one or more organizations as certified crime stoppers organizations. "Certifying officer" does not include any official other than a sheriff or a chief of police who is authorized by the provisions of this Article to certify one or more organizations as certified crime stoppers organizations and specifically does not include any statewide official.
(3) "Court" means any district court or any parish court, city court, mayor's court, magistrate court, traffic court, or other trial court of limited jurisdiction which has jurisdiction over criminal or traffic matters.
(4) "Criminal offense" means any violation of any felony or misdemeanor criminal law or any violation of any criminal ordinance.
(5) "Privileged communication" means a statement by any person, in any manner whatsoever, to a certified crime stoppers organization for the purpose of reporting alleged criminal activity.
(6) "Traffic offense" means any violation of any traffic law or any traffic ordinance.
C. The sheriff in each parish, other than the parish of Orleans, may certify one or more organizations as certified crime stoppers organizations for the district court for that parish and for each other court in that parish for which the sheriff serves as executive officer.
D. The chief of the police department in each municipality, other than the city of New Orleans, which has a municipal, city, mayor's, magistrate, traffic, or other trial court of limited jurisdiction which has jurisdiction over criminal or traffic matters may certify one or more organizations as certified crime stoppers organizations for each court in that municipality.
E. In the parish of Orleans and the city of New Orleans, the chief of the New Orleans Police Department may certify one or more organizations as certified crime stoppers organizations for the Criminal District Court for the parish of Orleans, or for each trial court of limited jurisdiction in that parish and municipality which has jurisdiction over criminal or traffic matters, or for any combination of those courts.
F. In order to be certified as a certified crime stoppers organization for the purposes of this Article, the organization:
(1) Must be incorporated as a not-for-profit corporation.
(2) Must be qualified by the United States Internal Revenue Service as a not-for-profit corporation for the purposes of the United States Internal Revenue Code.
(3) Must be incorporated for the purpose of accepting funds raised under the provisions of this Article and for expending those funds for the purposes set forth in Paragraph L of this Article.
(4) Must be incorporated for the purpose of accepting funds from sources other than this Article, including donations to the organization, and for expending those funds for any lawful purpose, including the purposes set forth in Paragraph L of this Article.
(5) Must be incorporated for the purpose of forwarding to the appropriate law enforcement agency any and all information concerning criminal activity which the organization receives from any source.
(6) Must establish and follow written standard operating procedures, directives, and policies.
(7) Should enter into a written agreement or memorandum of understanding with each law enforcement agency with which the organization has a relationship. Each written agreement or memorandum of understanding should define the procedures which should be used in the relationship and the duties and responsibilities of each of the parties to the relationship.
(8) Should not have voting members of the board of directors of the organization who are active law enforcement officers, or representatives or employees of the criminal justice system, or government employees or officials.
(9) Must establish procedures for determining fair rewards, for the payment of those rewards, and for protecting the anonymity of the persons who provide information and receive awards.
(10) Must pay rewards for information which leads to the arrest of a suspect, or the filing of criminal charges, by indictment or bill of information, against a suspect. The payment of a reward by the organization should not require a criminal conviction of a suspect.
(11) Must maintain statistical data as to:
(a) The number and the amounts of rewards that are paid by the organization.
(b) The results which are obtained through the use of the information which was provided to law enforcement agencies by the organization, including the number and nature of the criminal charges which were filed, the type and the value of any controlled dangerous substances which were seized, and the type and the value of any stolen property which was recovered.
G. Each certifying officer shall use the following guidelines in determining which organizations, if any, to certify as certified crime stoppers organizations:
(1) The length of time for which the organization has existed.
(2) The relationship of the board of directors of the organization to the community which will be served by the organization.
(3) The demonstrated ability of the organization to raise funds for crime stoppers purposes.
(4) The demonstrated ability of the organization to use the funds which it raises to obtain information which leads to arrests or indictments, or both, for violations of criminal laws or ordinances.
H. Each certifying officer who certifies more than one organization as a certified crime stoppers organization shall determine how the funds raised through the courts for which those organizations are certified shall be allocated between or among those organizations. Each certifying officer shall use the guidelines set forth in Paragraph G of this Article in determining how those funds shall be allocated. In addition, when a certifying officer certifies an organization as a certified crime stoppers organization and that organization exists for the purpose of obtaining information about a specific type of criminal activity, the certifying officer may determine that only funds which are raised from convictions for violations of that specific type of criminal activity shall be allocated to that organization.
I. When a defendant in a criminal or traffic matter is convicted of any criminal offense or of any traffic offense in any court for which the appropriate certifying officer has certified one or more organizations as certified crime stoppers organizations, the court shall assess an additional cost of court for each offense for which the defendant is convicted. This cost of court shall be in the amount of two dollars and shall be in addition to all other fines, penalties, and costs imposed by the court. The court shall not suspend the payment of this cost of court.
J. The court shall pay the proceeds from the additional cost of court to the certified crime stoppers organization each month. If an appropriate certifying officer has certified more than one organization as a certified crime stoppers organization for a court, the court shall distribute the proceeds from the additional cost of court between or among those certified crime stoppers organizations in accordance with the determination of the allocation of those funds by the appropriate certifying officer.
K. All funds received by a certified crime stoppers organization under this Article shall be deposited into a separate account and shall be kept separate and apart from the other funds of the certified crime stoppers organization.
L. All funds received by a certified crime stoppers organization under this Article shall be used solely for the purposes of paying rewards to individuals who provide information on criminal activity to the certified crime stoppers organization, for the operation of a hot line used for receiving that information, and for other purposes which are directly related to obtaining information on criminal activities.
M. All funds received by a certified crime stoppers organization from sources other than this Article, including donations to the organization, may be expended for any lawful purpose, including the purposes set forth in Paragraph L above.
N. The legislative auditor shall have oversight over all funds which are raised, allocated, distributed, and expended under the provisions of this Article.
O. No person shall be required to disclose, by way of testimony or otherwise, a privileged communication between a person who submits a report of alleged criminal activity to a certified crime stoppers organization and the person who accepts the report on behalf of a certified crime stoppers organization or to produce, under subpoena, any records, documentary evidence, opinions, or decisions relating to such privileged communication in connection with any criminal case or proceeding or by way of any discovery procedure.
P. Any person arrested or charged with a criminal offense may petition the court for an in-camera inspection of the records of a privileged communication concerning such person made to a certified crime stoppers organization. The petition shall allege facts showing that such records would provide evidence which would be favorable to the defendant and which would be relevant to the issues of the guilt or punishment of the defendant. If the court determines that the defendant is entitled to all or any part of such records, the court may order production and disclosure as it deems appropriate.
Q. The provisions of this Article are not intended and shall not be interpreted to adversely affect any party to any communication which is a privileged communication under the provisions of R.S. 15:477.1, regardless of whether the communication was made to a certified crime stoppers organization which is certified under the provisions of this Article or to a crime stoppers organization which is not certified under the provisions of this Article.
Acts 1991, No. 921, §1; Acts 2002, No. 50, §1; H.C.R. No. 190, 2003 R.S., eff. June 21, 2003; Acts 2004, No. 337, §1.
A. Restitution recovery division. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, each district attorney may establish a special division in the office designated as the "restitution recovery division" for the administration, collection, and enforcement of victim restitution, victim compensation assessments, probation fees, and payments in civil or criminal proceedings ordered by the court and payable to the state or to crime victims, judgments entered which have not been otherwise vacated, or judicial relief given from the operation of the order or judgment.
B. Notification to district attorneys of nonpayment of restitution. The Department of Public Safety and Corrections, division of probation and parole, may notify the district attorney in writing when any probation fees, victim's restitution, victim's compensation, or like payments to any civil or criminal proceeding ordered by the court to be paid to the division have not been paid or are in default for a period of ninety days or more, and the default has not been vacated. Upon written notification to the district attorney, the restitution recovery division of the office of the district attorney may collect or enforce the collection of any funds that have not been paid or that are in default which, at the discretion of the district attorney, are appropriate to be processed.
C. Compliance enforcement. (1) Except as provided in Subparagraph (2) of this Paragraph, the district attorney may take all lawful action necessary to require compliance with court-ordered payments, including filing a petition for revocation of probation, filing a petition to show cause for contempt of court, or institution of any other civil or criminal proceedings which may be authorized by law or by rule of court. In addition, the district attorney may issue appropriate notices to inform the defendant of his noncompliance and of the penalty for noncompliance. In the event that the district attorney institutes any other civil or criminal proceedings pursuant to this Paragraph, the defendant shall be charged costs of court and such costs shall be added to the amount due.
(2) If a court authorizes a payment plan to collect financial obligations associated with a criminal case and the defendant fails to make a payment, the court shall serve the defendant with a citation for a rule to show cause why the defendant should not be found in contempt of court for failure to comply with the payment plan. This citation shall include the following notice:
"If you make a payment toward the above listed fines and fees on or before ____________, you will not have to come to court for this matter.
IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING THE HEARING ON THE RULE TO SHOW CAUSE FOR PROOF OF SATISFACTION OF FINANCIAL OBLIGATION:"
(a) At the rule to show cause hearing, the court will evaluate your ability to pay the fines and fees listed above.
(b) You are ordered to bring any documentation or information that you want the court to consider in determining your ability to pay.
(c) Your failure to make a payment toward the ordered financial obligation may result in your incarceration only if the court finds, after a hearing, that you had the ability to pay and willfully refused to do so.
(d) You have the right to be represented by counsel (attorney/lawyer) of your choice. If you cannot afford counsel, you have the right to be represented by a court-appointed lawyer at no cost to you. However, you must apply for a court-appointed lawyer at least seven (7) days before this court date by going to the public defender's office. There is a forty-dollar ($40) application fee.
(e) If you are unable to make a payment toward the ordered financial obligation, you may request payment alternatives including but not limited to community service, a reduction of the amount owed, or both.
(f) During the hearing, you will have a meaningful opportunity to explain why you have not paid the above-listed amounts by presenting evidence and testimony."
(3) If after the hearing provided for by Subparagraph (2) of this Paragraph, the court continues to authorize a payment plan, the defendant shall be served with the same notice provided for in Subparagraph (2) of this Paragraph regarding the consequences and due process for the willful failure to pay.
D. Collection fee. As provided for in Paragraph A of this Article, when an amount payable to the state or to a crime victim has not been satisfied in accordance with Article 888, or when a matter has been transferred to the district attorney as provided in Paragraph B of this Article, the district attorney may assess a collection fee of twenty percent of the funds due, which shall be added to the amount of funds due. Any fees collected pursuant to this Paragraph shall be distributed to the district attorney's restitution recovery division to be expended for lawful purposes for the operation of the office of the district attorney. Funds provided to the district attorney by this provision shall not reduce the amount payable to the district attorney under any other provision of law or reduce or affect the amounts of funding allocated by law to the budget of the district attorney. The funds shall be audited as other state funds are audited. This provision shall not affect the right of the office of the district attorney to proceed with the prosecution of any violation as currently provided by law.
E. Intent. The provisions of this Article are supplemental to any procedures for the enforcement and collection of any sums or forfeitures ordered by the court and shall not be construed to repeal any law not in direct conflict with this provision.
Acts 2009, No. 164, §1; Acts 2012, No. 531, §1, eff. June 5, 2012; Acts 2017, No. 260, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2018, No. 137, §1, eff. Aug 1, 2018; Acts 2018, No. 668, §4, eff. Aug. 1, 2018; Acts 2019, No. 253, §2; Acts 2021, No. 313, §§3A and 5B, see Act.
Repealed by Acts 2024, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 7, §2.
A. The court may, at any time during the probation period, modify, change, or discharge the conditions of probation when either of the following occur:
(1) The state has previously provided written verification that it has no opposition to a modification, change, or discharge of the conditions of probation.
(2) A contradictory hearing with the state, set by the court, has been held. The court shall provide notice of the hearing to the state at least fifteen days prior to the hearing date.
B. The court may, at any time during the probation period, impose additional conditions of probation authorized by Article 895 of this Code without a contradictory hearing with the state.
Acts 2014, No. 275, §1.
A. In a felony case, other than for a conviction of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, vehicular homicide, or first degree vehicular negligent injuring, the court may terminate the defendant's probation, early or as unsatisfactory, and discharge him at any time after the expiration of one year of probation when either of the following occur:
(1) The state has previously provided written verification that it has no opposition to the termination of the probation.
(2) A contradictory hearing with the state, set by the court, has been held. The court shall provide notice of the hearing to the state at least fifteen days prior to the hearing date.
B. In a misdemeanor case, other than for a conviction of vehicular negligent injuring, the court may terminate the defendant's suspended sentence or probation and discharge him at any time when all of the following conditions are met:
(1) The termination or discharge is ordered in open court.
(2) The state is present at the time the termination or discharge is ordered and has been afforded an opportunity to participate in a contradictory hearing on the matter.
Acts 2014, No. 275, §1; Acts 2024, No. 648, §1.
Upon completion of the period of suspension of sentence or probation, or an earlier discharge of the defendant pursuant to Article 897, the defendant shall have satisfied the sentence imposed. Where part of a sentence is suspended, this provision shall not apply until the unsuspended part has been satisfied.
A. At any time during probation and suspension of sentence the court may issue a warrant for the arrest of a defendant for violation of any of the conditions of probation, or may issue a summons to appear to answer to a charge of violation or threatened violation.
The warrant of arrest may be executed by any peace officer and shall direct that the defendant be returned to the custody of the court or to a designated detention facility. The summons shall be personally served upon the defendant.
B. If a probation officer has reasonable cause to believe that a defendant has violated or is about to violate a condition of his probation or that an emergency exists so that awaiting an order of the court would create an undue risk to the public or to the probationer, the probation officer may arrest the defendant without a warrant, or may authorize a peace officer to do so. The authorization may be in writing or oral, but if not written, shall be subsequently confirmed by a written statement. The written authorization or subsequent confirmation delivered with the defendant to the official in charge of a parish jail or other place of detention shall be sufficient authority for the detention of the defendant. The probation officer shall immediately notify the proper court of the arrest and shall submit a written report showing in what manner the defendant violated, or was about to violate, a condition of his probation.
C. The court may grant bail to a defendant who is arrested under this article.
D. When a warrant for a defendant's arrest or a summons for defendant's appearance is issued under Paragraph A or a detainer is issued under Paragraph B of this Article, the running of the period of probation shall cease as of the time the warrant, summons, or detainer is issued.
E. Within ten days following the arrest of an offender pursuant to the provisions of this Article, the court shall determine if there is probable cause to detain him pending a final violation hearing and shall consider whether to allow the offender bail pending the final hearing. The determination of probable cause may be made without a formal hearing and may be conducted through the use of affidavits.
F. Probation officers shall be deemed to be peace officers and shall have the same powers with respect to criminal matters and the enforcement of the law relating thereto as sheriffs, constables, and police officers have in their respective jurisdictions. They have all the immunities and defenses now or hereafter made available to sheriffs, constables, and police officers in any suit brought against them in consequence of acts done in the course of their employment.
Amended by Acts 1974, No. 109, §1; Acts 1977, No. 464, §1; Acts 1985, No. 930, §1, eff. July 23, 1985; Acts 2010, No. 352, §1; Acts 2010, No. 924, §1, eff. July 2, 2010.
A. At the time of sentencing, the court may make a determination as to whether a defendant is eligible for the imposition of administrative sanctions as provided in this Article. If authorized to do so by the sentencing court, each time a defendant violates a condition of his probation, a probation agency may use administrative sanctions to address a technical violation committed by a defendant when all of the following occur:
(1) The defendant, after receiving written notification of the right to a hearing before a court and the right to counsel provides a written waiver of a probation violation hearing.
(2) The defendant admits to the violation or affirmatively chooses not to contest the violation alleged in the probation violation report.
(3) The defendant consents to the imposition of administrative sanctions by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections.
B. The department shall promulgate rules to implement the provisions of this Article to establish the following:
(1) A system of structured, administrative sanctions which shall be imposed for technical violations of probation and which shall take into consideration the following factors:
(a) The severity of the violation behavior.
(b) The prior violation history.
(c) The severity of the underlying criminal conviction.
(d) The criminal history of the probationer.
(e) Any special circumstances, characteristics, or resources of the probationer.
(f) Protection of the community.
(g) Deterrence.
(h) The availability of appropriate local sanctions, including but not limited to jail, treatment, community service work, house arrest, electronic surveillance, restitution centers, work release centers, day reporting centers, or other local sanctions.
(2) Procedures to provide a probationer with written notice of the right to a probation violation hearing to determine whether the probationer violated the conditions of probation alleged in the violation report and the right to be represented by counsel at state expense at that hearing if financially eligible.
(3) Procedures for a probationer to provide written waiver of the right to a probation violation hearing, to admit to the violation or affirmatively choose not to contest the violation alleged in the probation violation report, and to consent to the imposition of administrative sanctions by the department.
(4) The level and type of sanctions that may be imposed by probation officers and other supervisory personnel.
(5) The level and type of violation behavior that warrants a recommendation to the court that probation be revoked.
(6) Procedures notifying the probationer, the district attorney, the defense counsel of record, and the court of probation of a violation admitted by the probationer and the administrative sanctions imposed.
(7) Such other policies and procedures as are necessary to implement the provisions of this Article and to provide adequate probation supervision.
C. If the administrative sanction imposed pursuant to the provisions of this Article is jail confinement, the confinement shall not exceed ten days per violation and shall not exceed a total of sixty days per year.
D. For purposes of this Article, "technical violation" means any violation of a condition of probation, except for an allegation of a subsequent criminal act. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, if the subsequent alleged criminal act is misdemeanor possession of marijuana or tetrahydrocannabinol, or chemical derivatives thereof, as provided in R.S. 40:966(E)(1), it shall be considered a "technical violation".
Acts 2011, No. 104, §2; Acts 2014, No. 633, §1; Acts 2017, No. 280, §1, eff. November 1, 2017; Acts 2024, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 8, §1.
Repealed by Acts 2024, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 8, §3.
A. After an arrest pursuant to Article 899, the court shall cause a defendant who continues to be held in custody to be brought before it within thirty days for a hearing. If a summons is issued pursuant to Article 899, or if the defendant has been admitted to bail, the court shall set the matter for a violation hearing within a reasonable time. The hearing may be informal or summary. The defendant may choose, with the court's consent, to appear at the violation hearing and stipulate the revocation by simultaneous audio-visual transmission in accordance with the provisions of Article 562. If the court decides that the defendant has violated, or was about to violate, a condition of his probation, it may:
(1) Reprimand and warn the defendant.
(2) Order that supervision be intensified.
(3) Add additional conditions to the probation.
(4) Order the defendant, as an additional condition of probation, to be committed to a community rehabilitation center operated by, or under contract with, the Department of Public Safety and Corrections for a period of time not to exceed six months, without benefit of parole or good time, if:
(a) There is bed space available.
(b) The offender has been sentenced to the department, and the sentence has been suspended pursuant to Article 893.
(c) Such commitment does not extend the period of probation beyond the maximum period of probation provided by law.
(d) The violation of probation did not involve the commission of another felony.
(e) The placement in a community rehabilitation center is recommended by the division of probation and parole.
(5) Order that the probation be revoked. In the event of revocation the defendant shall serve the sentence suspended, with or without credit for the time served on probation at the discretion of the court. If the imposition of sentence was suspended, the defendant shall serve the sentence imposed by the court at the revocation hearing.
(6)(a) Notwithstanding the provisions of Subparagraph (5) of this Paragraph, any defendant who has been placed on probation by the drug division probation program pursuant to R.S. 13:5304, and who has had his probation revoked under the provisions of this Article for a technical violation of drug division probation as determined by the court, may be ordered to be committed to the custody of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections and be required to serve a sentence of not more than twelve months without diminution of sentence in the intensive incarceration program pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 15:574.4.4. Upon successful completion of the program, the defendant shall return to active, supervised probation with the drug division probation program for a period of time as ordered by the court, subject to any additional conditions imposed by the court and under the same provisions of law under which the defendant was originally sentenced. If an offender is denied entry into the intensive incarceration program for physical or mental health reasons or for failure to meet the department's suitability criteria, the department shall notify the sentencing court for resentencing in accordance with the provisions of Article 881.1.
(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of Subparagraph (5) of this Paragraph, any defendant who has been placed on probation by the court for the conviction of an offense other than a crime of violence as defined in R.S. 14:2(B) or of a sex offense as defined by R.S. 15:541, and who has been determined by the court to have committed a technical violation of his probation, may be required to serve a sentence of not more than ninety days without diminution of sentence. If the sentence is to be served in a custodial substance abuse treatment program, the defendant may be required to serve a sentence of not more than one hundred eighty days without diminution of sentence.
(c) The defendant shall be given credit for time served prior to the revocation hearing for time served in actual custody while being held for a technical violation in a local detention facility, state institution, or out-of-state institution pursuant to Article 880. The term of the revocation for a technical violation shall begin on the date the court orders the revocation. Upon completion of the imposed sentence for the technical revocation, the defendant shall return to active and supervised probation for a period equal to the remainder of the original period of probation subject to any additional conditions imposed by the court. The provisions of this Subparagraph shall apply only to the defendant's first revocation for a technical violation.
(d) A "technical violation", as used in this Paragraph, means any violation of a condition of probation that may be addressed by an administrative sanction authorized by the court pursuant to Article 899.1.
(e) None of the following, unless deemed a technical violation by the court when its discretion is permitted, shall be considered a technical violation nor addressed by administrative sanctions:
(i) Being arrested for, charged with, or convicted of any of the following:
(aa) A felony.
(bb) A violation of any provision of Title 40 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, except for misdemeanor possession of marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol, or chemical derivatives thereof as provided in R.S. 40:966(C)(2) or any prohibited act involving drug paraphernalia as provided in R.S. 40:1023, which shall be considered a "technical violation".
(cc) Any intentional misdemeanor directly affecting the person.
(dd) Any criminal act that is a violation of a protective order, pursuant to R.S. 14:79, issued against the offender to protect a family member or household member as defined by R.S. 14:35.3 or dating partner as defined by R.S. 46:2151.
(ee) At the discretion of the court, any attempt to commit any intentional misdemeanor directly affecting the person.
(ff) At the discretion of the court, any attempt to commit any other misdemeanor.
(ii) Being in possession of a firearm or other prohibited weapon.
(iii) At the discretion of the court, failing to appear at any court hearing.
(iv) Absconding from the jurisdiction of the court.
(v) At the discretion of the court, failing to satisfactorily complete a drug court program if ordered to do so as a special condition of probation.
(vi) At the discretion of the court, failing to report to the probation officer for more than one hundred twenty consecutive days.
(7) Extend the period of probation, provided the total amount of time served by the defendant on probation for any one offense shall not exceed the maximum period of probation provided by law.
B. When a defendant has been committed to a community rehabilitation center pursuant to Subparagraph (A)(4) of this Article, upon written request of the department that an offender be removed for violating the rules or regulations of the community rehabilitation center, the court shall cause the defendant to be brought before it and order that probation be revoked with credit for the time served in the community rehabilitation center.
C. The department may pay a per diem for offenders placed in a community rehabilitation center pursuant to the provisions of Subparagraph (A)(4) of this Article.
D. When a court considers the revocation of probation, the court shall consider aggravating and mitigating circumstances in the case, including but not limited to the circumstances stated in Article 894.1. If the court revokes the probation of the defendant, the court shall issue oral or written reasons for revocation which shall be entered into the record. The oral or written reasons for revocation shall state the allegations made by the probation officer concerning a violation or threatened violation of the conditions of probation, the findings of the court concerning those allegations, the factual basis or bases for those findings, and the aggravating circumstances, or mitigating circumstances, or both, considered by the court.
Amended by Acts 1979, No. 90, §1; Acts 1991, No. 96, §1; Acts 1995, No. 335, §1; Acts 1997, No. 1323, §1; Acts 2006, No. 113, §1; Acts 2007, No. 402, §1; Acts 2009, No. 182, §1; Acts 2010, No. 352, §1; Acts 2011, No. 33, §1; Acts 2014, No. 271, §1; Acts 2014, No. 633, §1; Acts 2016, No. 213, §1; Acts 2017, No. 280, §1, eff. November 1, 2017; Acts 2017, No. 406, §1; Acts 2018, No. 668, §2; Acts 2024, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 8, §1; Acts 2025, No. 72, §1; Acts 2026, No. 622, §1.
A. In addition to the grounds for revocation of probation enumerated in Article 900, a defendant who is on probation for a felony who subsequently commits and is convicted of a felony under the laws of this state, another state, the United States, or the District of Columbia, and which if committed in this state would be a felony, shall have his probation revoked as of the date of the commission of the felony or final conviction of the felony.
B. When a defendant who is under a suspended sentence or on probation for a misdemeanor commits or is convicted of any offense under the laws of this state, a political subdivision thereof, another state or a political subdivision thereof, the United States, or the District of Columbia, his suspended sentence or probation may be revoked as of the date of the commission or final conviction of the offense.
C. In cases of revocation provided for in this Article:
(1) No credit shall be allowed for time spent on probation or for the time elapsed during suspension of the sentence.
(2) When the new conviction is a Louisiana conviction, the court shall specify in the minutes whether the sentence shall run consecutively or concurrently with the sentence for the new conviction.
(3) The defendant may be given credit for time served prior to the revocation hearing for time served in actual custody while being held for a probation violation in a local detention facility, state institution, or out-of-state institution pursuant to Article 880.
D. The provisions of this Article shall not apply to a defendant who, as an additional condition for the violation of his probation, has been ordered to complete a drug or specialty court program. A defendant who is eligible for revocation of probation pursuant to Paragraph A of this Article and does not successfully complete such court-ordered drug or specialty court program shall have his probation revoked as of the date of the commission of the felony or final conviction of the felony.
Amended by Acts 1975, No. 331, §1; Acts 1977, No. 397, §2; Acts 1981, No. 439, §1; Acts 2016, No. 214, §1; Acts 2025, No. 72, §1.
A. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, when a defendant, who is a first offender on probation with a suspended sentence for a term of seven years or less at hard labor, or a second offender on probation and having never served time in a state prison, has his probation revoked for any reason other than a subsequent felony conviction, the court, upon the recommendation of the division of probation and parole, may order that the offender be committed to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections and be considered for participation in the intensive incarceration program as provided for in R.S. 15:574.4.4 or 574.5. If the offender committed to the custody of the department participates in an intensive incarceration program of an eligible parish, the department shall reimburse the sheriff's office of the parish conducting the program in the amount appropriated by the legislature.
B. If the imposition of the sentence was suspended, the defendant shall serve the sentence imposed by the court at the revocation hearing. If the defendant is a first offender and receives a sentence of seven years or less at hard labor, or a second offender on probation and having never served time in a state prison, the court, upon recommendation of the division of probation and parole, may order that the offender be committed to the department and be considered for participation in the intensive incarceration program as provided for in R.S. 15:574.4.4 or 574.5. If the offender committed to the custody of the department participates in an intensive incarceration program as provided for in R.S. 15:574.5, the department shall reimburse the sheriff's office of the parish conducting the program in the amount appropriated by the legislature.
Acts 1990, No. 83, §1; Acts 2019, No. 369, §3.
A. Upon the rendering of a guilty verdict or judgment, the district attorney, with the written consent of the division of probation and parole, may, by ex parte motion, stating the belief that the defendant is a drug addict, whether the crime charged is related to drug abuse or not, request the court to order the division of probation and parole to conduct a presentence investigation for the purpose of determining whether or not the defendant is a drug addict. The presentence investigation may be ordered in the discretion of the court.
B. Upon receiving the report of the presentence investigation, the court may, in its discretion, if it finds probable cause from such report to believe the defendant to be a drug addict, order a contradictory hearing for the purpose of making a judicial determination of such issue.
C. If, at such contradictory hearing, the court finds that the defendant is a drug addict, and it is the court's desire to suspend any sentence which it may impose and place the defendant on probation, it may require as a condition of probation that the defendant submit to urinalysis or any acknowledged recognized test given at reasonable intervals, not to exceed once a week, and at reasonable times in accordance with the request of the division of probation and parole. If the defendant refuses to submit to the tests, the sentencing court may revoke the probation. If the defendant submits to the tests, upon the first instance of a test proving positive for the presence of a controlled dangerous substance, as defined in R.S. 40:963, the sentencing court may commit the defendant to a medical clinic for treatment for a period not to exceed the period of probation. Upon a second positive result, the sentencing court shall revoke the probation and impose the sentence.
D. If the conviction is for a violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law, and the sentence consists of both a fine and imprisonment, the court, if it wishes to suspend the sentence and place the defendant on probation, may, with the consent of the defendant, order that the defendant enter a residential drug treatment facility licensed in accordance with R.S. 40:1058.1 et seq., or R.S. 40:2100 et seq., or one operated by the federal government, and approved by the court. The defendant's consent in such cases shall include consent to pay the cost of treatment for the duration of time ordered by the court. The court may, in its discretion, also suspend the payment of the applicable fine in an amount equal to all or some portion of the cost of the ordered treatment. Upon the successful completion of the treatment program and the termination of probation, the court may order that the fine be reduced in accordance with any amount by which it was reduced. However, if the defendant does not successfully complete the treatment program, or otherwise violates the conditions of probation, the court shall include among any orders issued, that the defendant pay the entire fine imposed by the court. Nothing in this Paragraph shall be construed to grant a defendant a right to probation in cases in which probation is otherwise denied by law.
Acts 1972, No. 177, §1; Acts 1990, No. 1035, §1.
A. The secretary of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections is authorized to establish a substance abuse probation program within the department.
B. The program shall provide counseling and treatment for defendants with substance abuse disorders, or defendants with co-occurring mental illness and substance abuse disorders, who are sentenced to substance abuse probation pursuant to the provisions of Article 903.2.
C. The department may enter into cooperative endeavors or contracts with local governmental entities or the office of behavioral health, training facilities, and service providers to provide for substance abuse treatment and counseling and mental health treatment for defendants participating in the program.
D. The department shall adopt rules and guidelines as it deems necessary for the administration and implementation of this program.
E. The provisions of this Article shall be implemented only to the extent that funds are available within the department for this purpose and to the extent that is consistent with available resources and appropriate classification criteria.
Acts 2013, No. 389, §1; Acts 2015, No. 199, §2; Acts 2018, No. 431, §1.
NOTE: Pursuant to the Section 2 of Act No. 199 of the 2015 R.S., the provisions of Articles 903 through 903.3 enacted by Section 4 of Act No. 389 of the 2013 R.S. shall become null, void, and have no effect on August 1, 2020, and thereafter.
A. In order to be eligible for the substance abuse probation program, the defendant must be charged with a violation of a statute of this state relating to the use and possession of or possession with intent to distribute any narcotic drugs, coca leaves, marijuana, stimulants, depressants, or hallucinogenic drugs, or where there is a significant relationship between the use of alcohol or drugs and the crime before the court.
B. The provisions of this Article shall not apply to any defendant who has been convicted of a crime of violence as defined in R.S. 14:2(B), except for a first conviction of an offense with a maximum prison sentence of ten years or less that was not committed against a family member or household member as defined by R.S. 14:35.3, or against a dating partner as defined by R.S. 46:2151, or a sex offense as defined in R.S. 15:541, or any defendant who has participated in or declined to participate in a drug division probation program as provided for in R.S. 13:5301 et seq.
Acts 2013, No. 389, §1; Acts 2015, No. 199, §2; Acts 2017, No. 280, §1, eff. November 1, 2017.
NOTE: Pursuant to the Section 2 of Act No. 199 of the 2015 R.S., the provisions of Articles 903 through 903.3 enacted by Section 4 of Act No. 389 of the 2013 R.S. shall become null, void, and have no effect on August 1, 2020, and thereafter
A. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, a court shall suspend a sentence and order an eligible defendant to participate in a substance abuse probation program provided by the department pursuant to Article 903 if the district attorney agrees that the defendant should be sentenced to a substance abuse probation and the court finds all of the following:
(1) The court has reason to believe that the defendant suffers from an addiction to a controlled dangerous substance or any other mental health disorder.
(2) The defendant is likely to respond to the substance abuse probation program.
(3) The available substance abuse probation program is appropriate to meet the needs of the defendant.
(4) The defendant does not pose a threat to the community, and it is in the best interest of justice to provide the defendant with treatment as opposed to incarceration or other sanctions.
B.(1) The court shall order the department to assign an authorized evaluator to prepare a suitability report. The suitability report shall delineate the nature and degree of the treatment necessary to address the defendant's drug or alcohol dependency or addiction or mental health disorder, the reasonable availability of such treatment, and the defendant's appropriateness for the program. The district attorney and the defendant's attorney shall have an opportunity to provide relevant information to the evaluator to be included in the report.
(2) The authorized evaluator shall examine the defendant, using standardized testing and evaluation procedures, and shall provide to the court and the district attorney the results of the examination and evaluation along with its recommendation as to whether the defendant is a suitable candidate for the substance abuse probation program.
(3) If the court determines that the defendant should be enrolled in the substance abuse probation program, the court shall suspend the execution of the sentence and place the defendant on supervised probation under the terms and conditions of the substance abuse probation program.
(4) The defendant shall be required to participate in alcohol and drug testing at his own expense, unless the court determines that he is indigent. If the court determines that the defendant is indigent, it may order the defendant to perform supervised work for the benefit of the community in lieu of paying all or a part of the costs related to the drug and alcohol testing. The work shall be performed for and under the supervising authority of a parish, municipality, or other political subdivision or agency of the state or a charitable organization that renders service to the community or its residents.
C. If the judge fails to make all of the determinations provided for in Paragraph A of this Article, or if the district attorney does not agree that the defendant should be sentenced to substance abuse probation, the court shall impose the appropriate sentence provided by law.
D.(1) If the defendant violates any condition of his probation or if the defendant would benefit from an adjustment to the probation or treatment program, the defendant, the treatment supervisor, the probation officer, the district attorney, or the court, on its own motion, may file a motion to modify the terms and conditions of the probation or file a motion to revoke the defendant's probation. After a contradictory hearing on the motion, the court may do either of the following:
(a) Modify the conditions of probation, including ordering the defendant to participate in a drug division probation program pursuant to R.S. 13:5301 et seq.
(b) Revoke the defendant's probation and execute the sentence.
(2) A defendant placed on probation pursuant to the provisions of this Article shall be subject to the administrative sanctions provided for in Article 899.1.
(3) If the defendant's probation is revoked, the defendant shall be required to serve the suspended sentence and shall receive credit for time served in any correctional facility for commission of the crime as otherwise allowable by law.
E. The provisions of Article 893(A) and (E)(1)(b) which prohibit the court from suspending or deferring the imposition of sentences for violations of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law or for violations of R.S. 40:966(A), 967(A), 968(A), 969(A), or 970(A) shall not apply to defendants who otherwise meet the eligibility criteria for substance abuse probation programs as authorized by this Article.
F. The provisions of this Article shall not be construed to limit the authority of the court to defer a sentence for a violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law as otherwise provided by law.
Acts 2013, No. 389, §1; Acts 2018, No. 431, §1.
NOTE: Pursuant to the Section 2 of Act No. 199 of the 2015 R.S., the provisions of Articles 903 through 903.3 enacted by Section 4 of Act No. 389 of the 2013 R.S. shall become null, void, and have no effect on August 1, 2020, and thereafter.
A. A defendant who is placed under the supervision of the substance abuse probation program shall pay the cost of the treatment program to which he is assigned and the cost of any additional supervision that may be required to the extent of his financial resources as determined by the substance abuse treatment program.
B. If the defendant does not have the financial resources to pay all the related costs of the probation program, the court may do either of the following:
(1) To the extent practicable, arrange for the defendant to be assigned to a treatment program funded by the state or federal government.
(2) With the recommendation of the treatment program, order the defendant to perform supervised work for the benefit of the community in lieu of paying all or a part of the costs related to his treatment and supervision. The work shall be performed for and under the supervising authority of a parish, municipality, or other political subdivision or agency of the state or a charitable organization that renders service to the community or its residents.
Acts 2013, No. 389, §1.
NOTE: Pursuant to the Section 2 of Act No. 199 of the 2015 R.S., the provisions of Articles 903 through 903.3 enacted by Section 4 of Act No. 389 of the 2013 R.S. shall become null, void, and have no effect on August 1, 2020, and thereafter.
A. A defendant shall be assessed for suitability for participation in a drug or specialty court program if all of the following criteria are met:
(1) The defendant meets the statutory eligibility requirements for participation in a drug or specialty court program.
(2) There is a relationship between the use of alcohol or drugs and the offense before the court.
(3) The defendant has tested positive on a drug test and has been screened and determined suitable pursuant to Article 320(D), or the defendant has been screened and determined suitable upon request of the defendant or as ordered by the court.
B.(1) A defendant who meets the criteria set forth in Paragraph A of this Article shall be assessed by a licensed treatment professional designated by the court. Treatment professionals shall be credentialed or licensed by the state of Louisiana and possess sufficient experience in working with clients who have alcohol or drug abuse or addiction issues or mental illness.
(2) The designated treatment professional shall perform an assessment of the defendant, utilizing validated assessment tools, to determine whether the defendant is suitable for a treatment program and shall report the results of the assessment and evaluation to the court, the district attorney, the defendant, and counsel for the defendant along with a recommendation as to whether or not the defendant is suitable for a drug or specialty court program.
(3) The court shall inform the defendant that the designated treatment professional may request that the defendant provide the following information to the court:
(a) Information regarding prior criminal charges.
(b) Education, work experience, and training.
(c) Family history, including residence in the community.
(d) Medical and mental health history, including any psychiatric or psychological treatment or counseling.
(e) Any other information reasonably related to the success of the treatment program.
C.(1) All records and information provided by the defendant to the designated treatment professional for the purposes of screening or assessment shall be considered confidential and shall not be disclosed, without the consent of the defendant, to any person who is not connected with the treatment professional, treatment facility, district attorney, counsel for the defendant, or the court.
(2) The provisions of Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph shall not restrict the use of records and information for the purposes of research or evaluation of the mandatory screening procedures or the effectiveness of any drug or specialty court program, provided that the records or information shall not be published or otherwise disseminated in any manner that discloses the name or identifying information of the defendant.
D. No statement or any information obtained therefrom, that is made to any designated treatment professional with respect to a specific offense with which the defendant is charged, shall be admissible in any civil or criminal action or proceeding, except for the purposes of determining the suitability or eligibility of the defendant for a drug or specialty court program.
Acts 2024, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 4, §1, eff. July 1, 2024.
A. Following a verdict or plea of guilty in a capital case, a sentence of death may be imposed only after a sentencing hearing as provided herein.
B. Following a conviction by trial or guilty plea in a capital case, on joint motion of the state and the defendant, the court may impose a sentence of life imprisonment without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence without conducting a sentencing hearing. The court may refuse to grant the joint motion and order that a sentencing hearing be conducted.
C. If a sentencing hearing will be conducted, the hearing shall not commence sooner than twelve hours after a verdict or plea of guilty, except on joint motion of the state and the defendant.
Added by Acts 1976, No. 694, §1. Acts 1993, No. 935, §1; Acts 1995, No. 434, §1.
A. Except as provided in Paragraph B of this Article, the sentencing hearing shall be conducted before the same jury that determined the issue of guilt. The order of sequestration shall remain in effect until the completion of the sentencing hearing.
B. If an error occurs only during the sentencing hearing which would necessitate the declaration of a mistrial, or the granting of a new trial by the trial court, or if an appellate court finds an error that occurred only in the sentencing hearing which would necessitate a remand and a new trial, then the trial court shall be empowered to empanel a new jury under the same procedure set out in Chapter 3 of Title XXVI of this Code for determining only the issue of penalty, and the rule of sequestration shall apply to the new jury so empanelled.
Added by Acts 1976, No. 694, §1. Amended by Acts 1977, No. 105, §1.
A. The sentencing hearing shall focus on the circumstances of the offense, the character and propensities of the offender, and the victim, and the impact that the crime has had on the victim, family members, friends, and associates. The victim or his family members, friends, and associates may decline the right to testify but, after testifying for the state, shall be subject to cross-examination. The hearing shall be conducted according to the rules of evidence. Evidence relative to aggravating or mitigating circumstances shall be relevant irrespective of whether the defendant places his character at issue. Insofar as applicable, the procedure shall be the same as that provided for trial in the Code of Criminal Procedure. The jury may consider any evidence offered at the trial on the issue of guilt. The defendant may testify in his own behalf. In the event of retrial, the defendant's testimony shall not be admissible except for the purposes of impeachment.
B. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary, the court shall instruct the jury that under the provisions of the state constitution, the governor is empowered to grant a reprieve, pardon, or commutation of sentence following conviction of a crime, and the governor may, in exercising such authority, commute or modify a sentence of life imprisonment without benefit of parole to a lesser sentence including the possibility of parole, and may commute a sentence of death to a lesser sentence of life imprisonment without benefit of parole. The court shall also instruct the jury that under this authority the governor may allow the release of an offender either by reducing a life imprisonment or death sentence to the time already served by the offender or by granting the offender a pardon. The defense may argue or present evidence to the jury on the frequency and extent of use by the governor of his authority. The provisions of this Paragraph shall not be construed to require that members of the Board of Pardons attend sentencing hearings for capital cases.
Added by Acts 1976, No. 694, §1. Acts 1993, No. 436, §1; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 14, §1; Acts 1995, No. 551, §1; Acts 1999, No. 783, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 2000; Acts 2001, No. 280, §1; Acts 2012, No. 106, §1.
A sentence of death shall not be imposed unless the jury finds beyond a reasonable doubt that at least one statutory aggravating circumstance exists and, after consideration of any mitigating circumstances, determines that the sentence of death should be imposed. The court shall instruct the jury concerning all of the statutory mitigating circumstances. The court shall also instruct the jury concerning the statutory aggravating circumstances but may decline to instruct the jury on any aggravating circumstance not supported by evidence. The court may provide the jury with a list of the mitigating and aggravating circumstances upon which the jury was instructed.
Added by Acts 1976, No. 694, §1; Acts 1985, No. 231, §1; Acts 1988, No. 779, §1, eff. July 18, 1988.
A. The following shall be considered aggravating circumstances:
(1) The offender was engaged in the perpetration or attempted perpetration of aggravated or first degree rape, forcible or second degree rape, aggravated kidnapping, second degree kidnapping, aggravated burglary, aggravated arson, aggravated escape, assault by drive-by shooting, armed robbery, first degree robbery, second degree robbery, simple robbery, cruelty to juveniles, second degree cruelty to juveniles, or terrorism.
(2) The victim was a fireman or peace officer engaged in his lawful duties.
(3) The offender has been previously convicted of an unrelated murder, aggravated or first degree rape, aggravated burglary, aggravated arson, aggravated escape, armed robbery, or aggravated kidnapping.
(4) The offender knowingly created a risk of death or great bodily harm to more than one person.
(5) The offender offered or has been offered or has given or received anything of value for the commission of the offense.
(6) The offender at the time of the commission of the offense was imprisoned after sentence for the commission of an unrelated forcible felony.
(7) The offense was committed in an especially heinous, atrocious or cruel manner.
(8) The victim was a witness in a prosecution against the defendant, gave material assistance to the state in any investigation or prosecution of the defendant, or was an eye witness to a crime alleged to have been committed by the defendant or possessed other material evidence against the defendant.
(9) The victim was a correctional officer or any employee of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections who, in the normal course of his employment was required to come in close contact with persons incarcerated in a state prison facility, and the victim was engaged in his lawful duties at the time of the offense.
(10) The victim was under the age of twelve years or sixty-five years of age or older.
(11) The offender was engaged in the distribution, exchange, sale, or purchase, or any attempt thereof, of a controlled dangerous substance listed in Schedule I, II, III, IV, or V of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law.
(12) The offender was engaged in the activities prohibited by R.S. 14:107.1(C)(1).
(13) The offender has knowingly killed two or more persons in a series of separate incidents.
B. For the purposes of Paragraph (A)(2) herein, the term "peace officer" is defined to include any constable, marshal, deputy marshal, sheriff, deputy sheriff, local or state policeman, commissioned wildlife enforcement agent, federal law enforcement officer, jail or prison guard, parole officer, probation officer, judge, attorney general, assistant attorney general, attorney general's investigator, district attorney, assistant district attorney, or district attorney's investigator.
Added by Acts 1976, No. 694, §1. Amended by Acts 1979, No. 74, §2, eff. June 29, 1979; Acts 1985, No. 515, §2; Acts 1985, No. 748, §1; Acts 1987, No. 655, §1; Acts 1987, No. 862, §1; Acts 1989, No. 371, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1179, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1274, §1; Acts 2006, No. 86, §1; Acts 2009, No. 79, §1, eff. June 18, 2009; Acts 2015, No. 184, §6.
The following shall be considered mitigating circumstances:
(a) The offender has no significant prior history of criminal activity;
(b) The offense was committed while the offender was under the influence of extreme mental or emotional disturbance;
(c) The offense was committed while the offender was under the influence or under the domination of another person;
(d) The offense was committed under circumstances which the offender reasonably believed to provide a moral justification or extenuation for his conduct;
(e) At the time of the offense the capacity of the offender to appreciate the criminality of his conduct or to conform his conduct to the requirements of law was impaired as a result of mental disease or defect or intoxication;
(f) The youth of the offender at the time of the offense;
(g) The offender was a principal whose participation was relatively minor;
(h) Any other relevant mitigating circumstance.
Added by Acts 1976, No. 694, §1.
A. Notwithstanding any other provisions of law to the contrary, no person with an intellectual disability shall be subjected to a sentence of death.
B. Any capital defendant who claims to have an intellectual disability shall file written notice thereof within the time period for filing of pretrial motions as provided by Article 521 of this Code.
C.(1) Any defendant in a capital case making a claim of intellectual disability shall prove the allegation by a preponderance of the evidence. The jury shall try the issue of intellectual disability of a capital defendant during the capital sentencing hearing unless the state and the defendant agree that the issue is to be tried by the judge. If the state and the defendant agree, the issue of intellectual disability of a capital defendant may be tried prior to trial by the judge alone.
(2) Any pretrial determination by the judge that a defendant does not have an intellectual disability shall not preclude the defendant from raising the issue at the penalty phase, nor shall it preclude any instruction to the jury pursuant to this Article.
D. Once the issue of intellectual disability is raised by the defendant, and upon written motion of the district attorney, the defendant shall provide the state, within time limits set by the court, any and all medical, correctional, educational, and military records, raw data, tests, test scores, notes, behavioral observations, reports, evaluations, and any other information of any kind reviewed by any defense expert in forming the basis of his opinion that the defendant has an intellectual disability.
E. By filing a notice relative to a claim of intellectual disability under this Article, the defendant waives all claims of confidentiality and privilege to, and is deemed to have consented to the release of, any and all medical, correctional, educational, and military records, raw data, tests, test scores, notes, behavioral observations, reports, evaluations, expert opinions, and any other such information of any kind or other records relevant or necessary to an examination or determination under this Article.
F. When a defendant makes a claim of intellectual disability under this Article, the state shall have the right to an independent psychological and psychiatric examination of the defendant. A psychologist or medical psychologist conducting such examination must be licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Examiners of Psychologists or the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners, whichever is applicable. If the state exercises this right, and upon written motion of the defendant, the state shall provide the defendant, within time limits set by the court, any and all medical, correctional, educational, and military records, and all raw data, tests, test scores, notes, behavioral observations, reports, evaluations, and any other information of any kind reviewed by any state expert in forming the basis of his opinion that the defendant does not have an intellectual disability. If the state fails to comply with any such order, the court may impose sanctions as provided by Article 729.5 of this Code.
G. If the defendant making a claim of intellectual disability fails to comply with any order issued pursuant to Paragraph D of this Article, or refuses to submit to or fully cooperate in any examination by experts for the state pursuant to either Paragraph D or F of this Article, upon motion by the district attorney, the court shall neither conduct a pretrial hearing concerning the issue of intellectual disability nor instruct the jury of the prohibition of executing defendants with intellectual disabilities.
H.(1) "Intellectual disability", formerly referred to as "mental retardation", is a disability characterized by all of the following deficits, the onset of which must occur during the developmental period:
(a) Deficits in intellectual functions such as reasoning, problem solving, planning, abstract thinking, judgment, academic learning, and learning from experience, confirmed by both clinical assessment and individualized, standardized intelligence testing.
(b) Deficits in adaptive functioning that result in failure to meet developmental and sociocultural standards for personal independence and social responsibility; and that, without ongoing support, limit functioning in one or more activities of daily life including, without limitation, communication, social participation, and independent living, across multiple environments such as home, school, work, and community.
(2) A diagnosis of one or more of the following conditions does not necessarily constitute an intellectual disability:
(a) Autism.
(b) Behavioral disorders.
(c) Cerebral palsy and other motor deficits.
(d) Difficulty in adjusting to school.
(e) Emotional disturbance.
(f) Emotional stress in home or school.
(g) Environmental, cultural, or economic disadvantage.
(h) Epilepsy and other seizure disorders.
(i) Lack of educational opportunities.
(j) Learning disabilities.
(k) Mental illness.
(l) Neurological disorders.
(m) Organic brain damage occurring after age eighteen.
(n) Other disabling conditions.
(o) Personality disorders.
(p) Sensory impairments.
(q) Speech and language disorders.
(r) A temporary crisis situation.
(s) Traumatic brain damage occurring after age eighteen.
Acts 2003, No. 698, §1; Acts 2009, No. 251, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2010; Acts 2014, No. 811, §31, eff. June 23, 2014; Acts 2021, No. 238, §2.
A sentence of death shall be imposed only upon a unanimous determination of the jury. If the jury unanimously finds the sentence of death inappropriate, it shall render a determination of a sentence of life imprisonment without benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence.
Added by Acts 1976, No. 694, §1; Acts 1988, No. 779, §1, eff. July 18, 1988.
The form of jury determination shall be as follows:
"Having found the below listed statutory aggravating circumstance or circumstances and, after consideration of the mitigating circumstances offered, the jury unanimously determines that the defendant should be sentenced to death.
Aggravating circumstance or circumstances found:
s/_____________________________________________
Foreman"
or
"The jury unanimously determines that the defendant should be sentenced to life imprisonment without benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence.
s/_____________________________________________
Foreman"
Added by Acts 1976, No. 694, §1; Acts 1988, No. 779, §1, eff. July 18, 1988.
The court shall sentence the defendant in accordance with the determination of the jury. If the jury is unable to unanimously agree on a determination, the court shall impose a sentence of life imprisonment without benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence.
Added by Acts 1976, No. 694, §1; Acts 1988, No. 779, §1, eff. July 18, 1988.
The Supreme Court of Louisiana shall review every sentence of death to determine if it is excessive. The court by rules shall establish such procedures as are necessary to satisfy constitutional criteria for review.
Added by Acts 1976, No. 694, §1.
Appeal is the exercise of the right of the state or the defendant to have a judgment or ruling reviewed by the proper appellate court. An appeal bond is not required.
A. Only a final judgment or ruling is appealable.
B. The state cannot appeal from a verdict of acquittal. Adverse judgments or rulings from which the state may appeal include, but are not limited to, judgments or rulings on:
(1) A motion to quash an indictment or any count thereof;
(2) A plea of time limitation;
(3) A plea of double jeopardy;
(4) A motion in arrest of judgment;
(5) A motion to change the venue;
(6) A motion to recuse; and
(7) Repealed by Acts 1968, No. 146, §1.
C. The judgments or rulings from which the defendant may appeal include, but are not limited to:
(1) A judgment which imposes sentence;
(2) A ruling upon a motion by the state declaring the present insanity of the defendant; and
(3) Repealed by Acts 1968, No. 146, §1.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 146, §1.
A.(1) The defendant may appeal to the supreme court from a judgment in a capital case in which a sentence of death actually has been imposed.
(2) Except as provided in Code of Criminal Procedure Article 905.9, such defendant may waive his right of appeal. The defendant shall be informed, both in writing and orally, of this right to waive appeal upon appointment of appellate counsel.
B.(1) The defendant may appeal to the court of appeal from a judgment in a criminal case triable by jury, except as provided in Paragraph A or Subparagraph (2) of this Paragraph.
(2) An appeal from a judgment in a criminal case triable by jury from a city court located in the Nineteenth Judicial District, except as provided in Paragraph A of this Article, shall be taken to the Nineteenth Judicial District in the parish of East Baton Rouge.
C.(1) In all other cases not otherwise provided by law, the defendant has the right of judicial review by application to the court of appeal for a writ of review. This application shall be accompanied by a complete record of all evidence upon which the judgment is based unless the defendant intelligently waives the right to cause all or any portion of the record to accompany the application.
(2) An application for review by the defendant shall not suspend the execution of sentence, unless the defendant is admitted to postconviction bail.
Added by Acts 1974, Ex.Sess., No. 28, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1975. Amended by Acts 1980, No. 516, §1, eff. July 1, 1982; Acts 1986, No. 443, §1; Acts 2001, No. 1134, §2; Acts 2010, No. 674, §1, eff. Oct. 1, 2010.
A. An appeal by the state suspends the ruling or judgment from which the appeal is taken, except when the ruling or judgment requires the release of the defendant.
B. An appeal by the defendant shall not suspend the execution of sentence, unless the defendant is admitted to postconviction bail.
Amended by Acts 1982, No. 736, §1.
A. A motion for an appeal may be made orally in open court or by filing a written motion with the clerk. The motion shall be entered in the minutes of the court.
B. The motion for an appeal must be made no later than:
(1) Thirty days after the rendition of the judgment or ruling from which the appeal is taken.
(2) Thirty days from the ruling on a motion to reconsider sentence filed pursuant to Article 881.1, should such a motion be filed.
Amended by Acts 1982, No. 143, §1. Acts 1993, No. 490, §1, eff. June 10, 1993; Acts 2003, No. 949, §1.
A. The party making the motion for appeal shall, at the time the motion is made, request the transcript of that portion of the proceedings necessary, in light of the assignment of errors to be urged. Not later than five days after the motion, the opposing party may designate in writing the transcript of that portion or portions of the proceedings necessary to oppose the appeal.
B. A transcript of any portion of the proceedings which does not relate to anticipated assignment of errors shall not be furnished to a party for purposes of appeal and shall not result in delay of preparation of the appeal record.
C.(1) An attorney who requests a transcript in accordance with this Article must certify there are good grounds for such request in light of the assignment of errors to be urged.
(2) Except in indigent cases, the costs for preparing the transcript must be paid to the court reporter or the appropriate agency and the costs as required for filing the appeal must be paid in the appellate court, both within twenty days of the mailing of notice, including the payment of any additional costs owed upon notice.
(3) Where applicable, if the appellant or appellant's counsel fails to pay the estimated cost for preparing the record including the transcript within the time specified, the trial judge, on his own motion or upon motion by the clerk or by any party, and after a hearing, may do one of the following:
(a) Extend the time within which the costs may be paid not to exceed thirty days with or without penalty to the appellant or his attorney.
(b) Impose a fine not to exceed five hundred dollars upon the appellant or his attorney, or both.
(c) Dismiss the appeal.
D. The trial court or the appellate court may designate additional portions of the transcript of the proceedings which it feels are necessary for full and fair review of the assignment of errors.
Added by Acts 1982, No. 143, §1. Acts 1984, No. 937, §2.
{{NOTE: SEE ALSO ACTS 1984, NO. 937, §3 AND ACTS 1984, NO. 838, §1.}}
A. When a motion for an appeal is made in conformity with Articles 912, 914, and 914.1 the trial court shall grant or deny the motion within seventy-two hours, exclusive of legal holidays, after the motion is made. The return date shall be seventy-five days from the date the motion for appeal is granted, unless the trial judge fixes a lesser period. When a motion for an appeal has been timely made, the appeal shall not be affected by any fault or omission on the part of the trial court.
B. The minute clerk for each section of the trial court shall forward a copy of the notice of appeal to the clerk of the trial court and to the court reporters responsible for preparing the necessary transcripts, within twenty-four hours, exclusive of legal holidays, of the date the appeal is ordered. The clerk of the trial court shall forward a copy of the notice of appeal to the sheriff having custody of the defendant, to the appropriate appellate court, and to each party, within seven days of the date the appeal is ordered. The party moving for the appeal must forward notice that a motion for appeal has been made to the appropriate appellate court within seven days of the date the motion is made. Failure of the minute clerk, the clerk of court, or the party moving for the appeal, to provide notice shall not affect the validity of the appeal.
Amended by Act 1974, No. 207, §1; Acts 1982, No. 143, §1; Acts 1988, No. 525, §1; Acts 1999, No. 706, §1.
A. The trial court may grant one extension of the return date of not more than thirty days. An extension may not be granted after the return date has passed. The extension may be granted only upon proof presented by the moving party that additional time is necessary due to extenuating circumstances beyond the control of the moving party and that, without the extension, an unusual and undue hardship would be created. A copy of the extension shall be filed with the appellate court and the clerk of the trial court.
B. Subsequent extensions may be granted by the appellate court for sufficient cause or at the request of the court reporter as provided in Article 919. When a subsequent extension is granted by the appellate court, notice thereof shall be given by mail by the clerk of the trial court to all parties. Failure of the clerk of the trial court to mail such notice shall not affect the validity of the appeal nor will any error or defect which is not imputable to the appellant affect the validity of the appeal.
Acts 1988, No. 525, §1.
The jurisdiction of the trial court is divested and that of the appellate court attaches upon the entering of the order of appeal. Thereafter, the trial court has no jurisdiction to take any action except as otherwise provided by law and to:
(1) Extend the return day of the appeal, the time for filing assignments of error, or the time for filing per curiam comments in accordance with Articles 844 and 919.
(2) Correct an error or deficiency in the record.
(3) Correct an illegal sentence or take other appropriate action pursuant to a properly made or filed motion to reconsider sentence.
(4) Take all action concerning bail permitted by Title VIII.
(5) Furnish per curiam comments.
(6) Render an interlocutory order or a definitive judgment concerning a ministerial matter not in controversy on appeal.
(7) Impose the penalty provided by Article 844.
(8) Sentence the defendant pursuant to a conviction under the Habitual Offender Law as set forth in R.S. 15:529.1.
Amended by Acts 1968, No. 147, §1; Acts 1974, No. 207, §1; Acts 1984, No. 527, §1; Acts 1986, No. 851, §1; Acts 1991, No. 38, §2; Acts 1997, No. 642, §1.
{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1991, NO. 38, §3, FOR SPECIAL EFFECTIVE DATE FOR PARAGRAPH (3).}}
The clerk of the trial court shall prepare the record on appeal and lodge it with the appellate court on or before the return date or any extension thereof. The clerk of the trial court shall prepare the record in accordance with the rules of the appellate court. Failure of the Clerk to prepare and lodge the record on appeal either correctly or timely shall not prejudice the appeal, unless such defect or delay is imputable to the appellant.
Amended by Acts 1984, No. 528, §1; Acts 1988, No. 525, §1.
A. All records and supplemental records prepared for filing in any appellate court shall be certified and dated by the clerk upon completion. The certification shall include the date any transcript was received for inclusion in the record.
B. All transcripts or parts thereof completed for inclusion in the record shall be dated and certified by the court reporter who prepares them. The date of certification by the court reporter shall be the date on which the transcript was completed and furnished to the clerk for inclusion in the record.
Acts 1988, No. 525, §1.
A. Each court reporter assigned to prepare any transcript necessary to complete the appeal record shall deliver the transcript to the clerk of the trial court who has the duty of preparing the record for appeal five days before the return date.
B. Whenever the court reporter cannot deliver the transcript to the clerk of the trial court five days before the return date, the reporter shall file a request for an extension of the return date with the trial court or the appellate court as provided by Article 915.1. Whenever a court reporter has not delivered a transcript five days before the return date, the clerk of the trial court shall file a certificate with the court of appeal, not later than seven days after the return date, advising that the record is ready for lodging except for the lack of delivery of the transcript. In such certificate, the clerk shall include the name and address of each reporter who has failed to deliver a transcript and whether any of the court reporters have requested an extension of the return date.
C. Upon the request of the appellate court when the transcript has not been delivered to the clerk of court, but the record is otherwise ready for lodging, the record shall be lodged. The clerk of the trial court shall include with the record a certificate stating the name and address of each court reporter who is required to prepare and deliver a transcript. Thereafter, the appellate court may issue appropriate orders to any named reporter to expedite the preparation and delivery of any necessary transcripts.
Amended by Acts 1980, No. 537, §1. Acts 1984, No. 524, §1; Acts 1987, No. 726, §1; Acts 1988, No. 525, §1; Acts 1999, No. 706, §1.
A. Failure of any person to comply with Articles 914 through 919 may subject such person to contempt of court. Such contempt charges may be initiated by the trial court or by the appellate court on the court's own motion or by motion of any party.
B. In any court where the duty of preparing the appellate record is delegated to, or assumed by, an official other than the clerk of court, by court rule or by custom, all of the provisions applicable to the clerk of court regarding the preparation of such a record are equally applicable to such court official.
Acts 1988, No. 525, §1.
The following matters and no others shall be considered on appeal:
(1) An error designated in the assignment of errors; and
(2) An error that is discoverable by a mere inspection of the pleadings and proceedings and without inspection of the evidence.
Amended by Acts 1974, No. 207, §1.
A judgment or ruling shall not be reversed by an appellate court because of any error, defect, irregularity, or variance which does not affect substantial rights of the accused.
Amended by Acts 1979, No. 86, §1.
A. In addition to the requirements regarding transmission of notice of judgment and copies of decisions under the Uniform Rules of Louisiana Courts of Appeal, when a decision in an appellate court in a criminal appeal is rendered, the clerk of court shall transmit a notice or copy of the decision to the clerk of court from which the appeal was taken and to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections.
B. When a decision of the supreme court is rendered in a criminal appeal, the clerk of court shall transmit a notice or copy of the decision to the clerk of court from which the appeal was taken and to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections.
Acts 2014, No. 600, §1.
A. Within fourteen days of rendition of the judgment of the supreme court or any appellate court, in term time or out, a party may apply to the appropriate court for a rehearing. The court may act upon the application at any time.
B. A judgment rendered by the supreme court or other appellate court becomes final when the delay for applying for a rehearing has expired and no application therefor has been made.
C. If an application for a rehearing has been made timely, a judgment of the appellate court becomes final when the application is denied.
D. If an application for a writ of review is timely filed with the supreme court, the judgment of the appellate court from which the writ of review is sought becomes final when the supreme court denies the writ.
Acts 1983, No. 451, §1; Acts 1993, No. 976, §1.
When a decision of an appellate court becomes final, the clerk of court shall transmit a certified copy of the decree to the court from which the appeal was taken. When the judgment is received by the lower court, it shall be filed and executed.
As used in this Title:
(1) "Application for post conviction relief" means a petition filed by a person in custody after sentence following conviction for the commission of an offense seeking to have the conviction and sentence set aside.
(2) "Custody" means detention or confinement, or probation or parole supervision, after sentence following conviction for the commission of an offense.
(3) "DNA testing" means any method of testing and comparing deoxyribonucleic acid that would be admissible under the Louisiana Code of Evidence.
(4) "Post conviction relief" means a procedure that allows an individual who has been convicted of a crime in this state to challenge the legality of his confinement. It is a form of post conviction habeas corpus and is a collateral action to test the detention of a criminal defendant after his sentence and conviction have become final.
(5) "Shell petition" means a petition that does not contain fully briefed claims for relief.
(6) "Unknown sample" means a biological sample from an unknown donor constituting evidence of the commission of an offense or tending to prove the identity of the perpetrator of an offense.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 429, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1981; Acts 2001, No. 1020, §1; Acts 2025, No. 393, §1.
An application for post conviction relief shall not be entertained if the petitioner may appeal the conviction and sentence which he seeks to challenge, or if an appeal is pending.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 429, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1981.
Applications for post conviction relief shall be filed in the parish in which the petitioner was convicted.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 429, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1981.
A. An application for post conviction relief shall be by written petition addressed to the district court for the parish in which the petitioner was convicted. A copy of the judgment of conviction and sentence shall be annexed to the petition, or the petition shall allege that a copy has been demanded and refused.
B. The petition shall allege all of the following:
(1) The name of the person in custody and the place of custody, if known, or if not known, a statement to that effect.
(2) That the person is actually in custody, and the name of the place of custody, if known.
(3) The name of the custodian, if known, or if not known, a designation or description of him as far as possible.
(4) A statement of the grounds upon which relief is sought, alleged in good faith and specifying with reasonable particularity the factual basis for such relief.
(5) A statement of all prior applications for writs of habeas corpus or for post conviction relief filed by or on behalf of the person in custody in connection with his present custody.
(6) All errors known or discoverable by the exercise of due diligence.
C. The application shall be signed by the petitioner and be accompanied by his affidavit that the allegations contained in the petition are true to the best of his information and belief.
D. The petitioner shall use the uniform application for post conviction relief approved by the Supreme Court of Louisiana. If the petitioner fails to use the uniform application, the court may provide the petitioner with the uniform application and require its use.
E. The petition and any successive petitions shall be served upon both the attorney general and the district attorney for the parish where the defendant was convicted.
F.(1) An individual shall be eligible for post conviction relief if he meets both of the following:
(a) He is currently serving a sentence of imprisonment or is on probation or parole pursuant to a conviction.
(b) He is in actual custody or under supervision of the division of probation and parole.
(2) An application for post conviction relief filed after the petitioner has completed his sentence shall be dismissed.
(3) Any claim alleged in an application that is procedurally barred or is frivolous on its face shall be dismissed.
G. Inexcusable failure of the petitioner to comply with the provisions of this Article may be a basis for dismissal of his application.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 429, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1981; Acts 2025, No. 393, §1.
A.(1) Prior to August 31, 2030, a person convicted of a felony may file an application under the provisions of this Article for post-conviction relief requesting DNA testing of an unknown sample secured in relation to the offense for which the person was convicted. On or after August 31, 2030, a petitioner may request DNA testing under the rules for filing an application for post-conviction relief as provided in Article 930.4 or 930.8.
(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph, in cases in which the defendant has been sentenced to death prior to August 15, 2001, the application for DNA testing under the provisions of this Article may be filed at any time.
B. An application filed under the provisions of this Article shall comply with the provisions of Article 926 and shall allege all of the following:
(1) A factual explanation of why there is an articulable doubt, based on competent evidence whether or not introduced at trial, as to the guilt of the petitioner in that DNA testing will resolve the doubt and establish the innocence of the petitioner.
(2) The factual circumstances establishing the timeliness of the application.
(3) The identification of the particular evidence for which DNA testing is sought.
(4) That the applicant is factually innocent of the crime for which he was convicted, in the form of an affidavit signed by the petitioner under penalty of perjury.
C. In addition to any other reason established by legislation or jurisprudence, and whether based on the petition and answer or after contradictory hearing, the court shall dismiss any application filed pursuant to this Article unless it finds all of the following:
(1) There is an articulable doubt based on competent evidence, whether or not introduced at trial, as to the guilt of the petitioner and there is a reasonable likelihood that the requested DNA testing will resolve the doubt and establish the innocence of the petitioner. In making this finding the court shall evaluate and consider the evidentiary importance of the DNA sample to be tested.
(2) The application has been timely filed.
(3) The evidence to be tested is available and in a condition that would permit DNA testing.
D. Relief under this Article shall not be granted when the court finds that there is a substantial question as to the integrity of the evidence to be tested.
E. Relief under this Article shall not be granted solely because there is evidence currently available for DNA testing but the testing was not available or was not done at the time of the conviction.
F. Once an application has been filed and the court determines the location of the evidence sought to be tested, the court shall serve a copy of the application on the district attorney and the law enforcement agency which has possession of the evidence to be tested, including but not limited to sheriffs, the office of state police, local police agencies, and crime laboratories. If the court grants relief under this Article and orders DNA testing the court shall also issue such orders as are appropriate to obtain the necessary samples to be tested and to protect their integrity. The testing shall be conducted by a laboratory mutually agreed upon by the district attorney and the petitioner. If the parties cannot agree, the court shall designate a laboratory to perform the tests that is accredited in forensic DNA analysis by an accrediting body that is a signatory to the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation Mutual Recognition Arrangements for Testing Laboratories (ILAC MRA) and requires conformance to an accreditation program based on the international standard ISO/IEC 17025 with an accreditation scope in the field of forensic science testing in the discipline of biology, and that is compliant with the current version of the Federal Bureau of Investigations Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories.
G. If the court orders the testing performed at a private laboratory, the district attorney shall have the right to withhold a sufficient portion of any unknown sample for purposes of his independent testing. Under such circumstances, the petitioner shall submit DNA samples to the district attorney for purposes of comparison with the unknown sample retained by the district attorney. A laboratory selected to perform the analysis shall, if possible, retain and maintain the integrity of a sufficient portion of the unknown sample for replicate testing. If after initial examination of the evidence, but before actual testing, the laboratory decides that there is insufficient evidentially significant material for replicate tests, then it shall notify the district attorney in writing of its finding. If the petitioner and district attorney cannot agree, the court shall determine which laboratory as required by Paragraph F of this Article is best suited to conduct the testing and shall fashion its order to allow the laboratory conducting the tests to consume the entirety of the unknown sample for testing purposes if necessary.
H.(1) The results of the DNA testing ordered under this Article shall be filed by the laboratory with the court and served upon the petitioner and the district attorney. The court may, in its discretion, order production of the underlying facts or data and laboratory notes.
(2) After service of the application on the district attorney and the law enforcement agency in possession of the evidence, no evidence shall be destroyed that is relevant to a case in which an application for DNA testing has been filed until the case has been finally resolved by the court.
(3) After service of the application on the district attorney and the law enforcement agency in possession of the evidence, the clerks of court of each parish and all law enforcement agencies, including but not limited to district attorneys, sheriffs, the office of state police, local police agencies, and crime laboratories, shall preserve until August 31, 2030, all items of evidence in their possession which are known to contain biological material that can be subjected to DNA testing, in all cases that, as of August 15, 2001, have been concluded by a verdict of guilty or a plea of guilty.
(4) In all cases in which the defendant has been sentenced to death prior to August 15, 2001, the clerks of court of each parish and all law enforcement agencies, including but not limited to district attorneys, sheriffs, the office of state police, local police agencies, and crime laboratories shall preserve, until the execution of sentence is completed, all items of evidence in their possession which are known to contain biological material that can be subjected to DNA testing.
(5) Notwithstanding the provisions of Subparagraphs (3) and (4) of this Paragraph, after service of the application on the district attorney and the law enforcement agency in possession of the evidence, the clerks of court of each parish and all law enforcement agencies, including but not limited to district attorneys, sheriffs, the office of state police, local police agencies, and crime laboratories may forward for proper storage and preservation all items of evidence described in Subparagraph (3) of this Paragraph to a laboratory that is accredited by an accrediting body that is a signatory to the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation Mutual Recognition Arrangements for Testing Laboratories (ILAC MRA) and requires conformance to an accreditation program based on the international standard ISO/IEC 17025 with an accreditation scope in the field of forensic science testing in the discipline of biology, and that is compliant with the current version of the Federal Bureau of Investigations Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories.
(6) Except in the case of willful or wanton misconduct or gross negligence, no clerk of court or law enforcement officer or law enforcement agency, including but not limited to any district attorney, sheriff, the office of state police, local police agency, or crime laboratory which is responsible for the storage or preservation of any item of evidence in compliance with either the requirements of Subparagraph (3) of this Paragraph or R.S. 15:621 shall be held civilly or criminally liable for the unavailability or deterioration of any such evidence to the extent that adequate or proper testing cannot be performed on the evidence.
I. The DNA profile of the petitioner obtained under this Article shall be sent by the district attorney to the state police for inclusion in the state DNA data base established pursuant to R.S. 15:605. The petitioner may seek removal of his DNA record pursuant to R.S. 15:614.
J. The petitioner, in addition to other service requirements, shall mail a copy of the application requesting DNA testing to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, Corrections Services, office of adult services. If the court grants relief under this Article, the court shall mail a copy of the order to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, Corrections Services, office of adult services. The Department of Public Safety and Corrections, Corrections Services, office of adult services, shall keep a copy of all records sent to them pursuant to this Subsection and report to the legislature before January 1, 2003, on the number of petitions filed and the number of orders granting relief.
K. There is hereby created in the state treasury a special fund designated as the DNA Testing Post-Conviction Relief for Indigents Fund. The fund shall consist of money specially appropriated by the legislature. No other public money may be used to pay for the DNA testing authorized under the provisions of this Article. The fund shall be administered by the office of the state public defender. The fund shall be segregated from all other funds and shall be used exclusively for the purposes established under the provisions of this Article. If the court finds that a petitioner under this Article is indigent, the fund shall pay for the testing as authorized in the court order.
Acts 2001, No. 1020, §1; Acts 2003, No. 823, §1; Acts 2006, No. 120, §1; Acts 2008, No. 297, §1; Acts 2011, No. 250, §2, eff. July 1, 2011; Acts 2014, No. 266, §1; Acts 2019, No. 156, §1; Acts 2024, No. 290, §1.
A. A petitioner who has been convicted of an offense may seek post conviction relief on the grounds that he is factually innocent of the offense for which he was convicted. A petitioner's first claim of factual innocence pursuant to this Article that would otherwise be barred from review on the merits by the time limitation provided in Article 930.8 or the procedural objections provided in Article 930.4 shall not be barred if the claim is contained in an application for post conviction relief filed on or before December 31, 2022, and if the petitioner was convicted after a trial completed to verdict. This exception to Articles 930.4 and 930.8 shall apply only to the claim of factual innocence brought under this Article and shall not apply to any other claims raised by the petitioner. An application for post conviction relief filed pursuant to this Article by a petitioner who pled guilty before August 1, 2025, or nolo contendere to the offense of conviction or filed by any petitioner after December 31, 2022, shall be subject to Articles 930.4 and 930.8. A petitioner who pled guilty to the offense of conviction on or after August 1, 2025, shall not be entitled to assert a claim of factual innocence.
B.(1)(a) To assert a claim of factual innocence under this Article, a petitioner shall present new, reliable, and noncumulative evidence that would be legally admissible at trial and that was not known or discoverable at or prior to trial and that is either:
(i) Scientific, forensic, physical, or nontestimonial documentary evidence.
(ii) Testimonial evidence that is corroborated by evidence of the type described in Item (i) of this Subsubparagraph.
(b) To prove entitlement to relief under this Article, the petitioner shall present evidence that satisfies all of the criteria in Subsubparagraph (a) of this Subparagraph and that, when viewed in light of all of the relevant evidence, including the evidence that was admitted at trial and any evidence that may be introduced by the state in any response that it files or at any evidentiary hearing, proves by clear and convincing evidence that, had the new evidence been presented at trial, no rational juror would have found the petitioner guilty beyond a reasonable doubt of either the offense of conviction or of any felony offense that was a responsive verdict to the offense of conviction at the time of the conviction.
(2) A recantation of prior sworn testimony may be considered if corroborated by the evidence required by Subsubparagraph (1)(a) of this Paragraph. However, a recantation of prior sworn testimony cannot form the sole basis for relief pursuant to this Article and shall not be sufficient to overcome the presumption of a valid conviction.
(3) If the petitioner pled guilty before August 1, 2025, or nolo contendere to the offense of conviction, in addition to satisfying all of the criteria in this Paragraph and in any other applicable provision of law, the petitioner shall show both of the following to prove entitlement to relief:
(a) That, by reliable evidence, he consistently maintained his innocence until his plea of guilty or nolo contendere.
(b) That he could not have known of or discovered his evidence of factual innocence prior to pleading guilty or nolo contendere.
C.(1) A grant of post conviction relief pursuant to this Article shall not prevent the petitioner from being retried for the offense of conviction, for a lesser offense based on the same facts, or for any other offense.
(2) If the petitioner waives his right to a jury trial and elects to be tried by a judge, the district judge who granted post conviction relief pursuant to this Article shall be recused and the case shall be allotted to a different judge in accordance with applicable law and rules of court.
(3) If the district judge denied post conviction relief pursuant to this Article and an appellate court later reversed the ruling of the district judge and granted post conviction relief pursuant to this Article, and if the petitioner waives his right to a jury trial and elects to be tried by a judge, upon the petitioner's motion the district judge who denied post conviction relief shall be recused and the case shall be allotted to a different judge in accordance with applicable law and rules of court.
Acts 2021, No. 104, §1; Acts 2025, No. 393, §1.
A. Upon motion of the state or the petitioner, the district court may order the testing or examination of any evidence relevant to the offense of conviction in the custody and control of the clerk of court, the state, or the investigating law enforcement agency.
B. If the motion is made by the petitioner and the state does not expressly consent to the testing or examination, a motion made under this Article shall be granted only following a contradictory hearing at which the petitioner shall establish that good cause exists for the testing or examination. If the state does not expressly consent to the testing or examination and the motion made under this Article is granted following the contradictory hearing, the district attorney and investigating law enforcement agency shall not be ordered to bear any of the costs associated with the testing or examination.
Acts 2021, No. 104, §1.
By raising any claim of ineffective assistance of counsel, the defendant waives the attorney-client privilege as to any information necessary to allow the state to rebut the claim.
Acts 2025, No. 393, §1.
A.(1) The court shall conduct a preliminary review of all petitions for post-conviction relief for compliance with the limitations for relief established in this Title. In conducting its review of the application, the court shall consider, among other things, all of the following:
(a) Whether the petitioner was in custody at the time the application for post-conviction relief was filed.
(b) Whether the application is timely pursuant to Article 930.8.
(c) Whether the application states adequate factual or legal grounds for relief.
(d) Whether the application states legal grounds for relief that are not meritorious.
(e) Whether the application states factual grounds which, if established, do not entitle the petitioner to relief.
(f) Whether the application states factual grounds that, if true, entitle the petitioner to relief but are so contradicted by the court record that the court is satisfied that the factual allegations are untrue.
(g) Whether each claim in the application is procedurally barred or frivolous on its face.
(2) If it is evident from the petition and any attached exhibits that the petitioner is not entitled to relief, the court shall dismiss the application. If the application is not dismissed, the judge shall order an answer pursuant to Paragraph B of this Article. The fact that the court has not dismissed the application upon preliminary review shall not preclude the district attorney or the attorney general from subsequently raising objections on any of the grounds listed in Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph or any other grounds provided by law.
B. If an application is not dismissed pursuant to Paragraph A of this Article, the court shall order the custodian, through the district attorney in the parish in which the defendant was convicted, to file any procedural objections he may have, or an answer on the merits if there are no procedural objections, within a specified period not in excess of sixty days. If the district attorney waives or does not file procedural objections, the response shall be provided to the attorney general concurrent with filing. The court's order shall include a copy of the application for post conviction relief and the attorney general shall have thirty days to file objections. If procedural objections are filed by the district attorney or the attorney general, no answer on the merits of the claim nor any hearing on the merits shall be ordered until such objections have been considered and rulings thereon have become final.
C. In any order of the court requiring a response by the district attorney or attorney general pursuant to this Article, the court shall render specific rulings dismissing any claim which, if established as alleged, would not entitle the petitioner to relief and shall order a response only as to such claim or claims which, if established as alleged, would entitle the petitioner to relief.
D. If the court orders an answer filed, the court need not order production of the petitioner except as provided in Article 930.
E. Subject to the provisions of Article 930.4(F), if the application is successive or supplemental to a previous application, the court shall send notice to the attorney general.
F. If the court has determined that the application cannot be summarily dismissed, the court shall determine after an answer is filed whether an evidentiary hearing is necessary and shall set a status conference within sixty days.
Acts 1990, No. 523, §1; Acts 2025, No. 393, §1.
A. After filing an application for post conviction relief, the petitioner is responsible for seeking a ruling on his application and pursuing his claims. Failure to actively seek a ruling on an application for post conviction relief after it has been filed shall constitute abandonment of the application, resulting in the dismissal of the application.
B. An application for post conviction relief shall be deemed to be abandoned when the petitioner fails to file any pleading in furtherance of disposition of the application for a period of two years following the filing of the application, irrespective of the stage of the proceedings.
C. This Article shall be operative without a formal order when an abandonment of an application pursuant to Paragraph B of this Article has occurred. On ex parte motion of the district attorney or the attorney general, accompanied by an affidavit that states that action has not been timely taken, the court shall enter a formal order of dismissal as of the date of the application's abandonment.
D. If the petitioner has a shell petition pending as of July 1, 2025, he shall submit a fully-briefed petition to the court no later than July 1, 2026, unless a shorter period of time has been established by the court. Any application for post conviction relief filed before July 1, 2023, shall be dismissed, set for a hearing, or otherwise adjudicated no later than July 1, 2026, unless the court has good cause to establish a later date, provided however that the claims shall be fully adjudicated no later than January 1, 2027. The district attorney or the attorney general shall have a right to seek mandamus to enforce this Paragraph.
E. For the purposes of this Article, "pleading in furtherance of disposition of the application" means a filing that seeks the trial court's ruling on the merits of the application or a claim asserted therein, such as a motion to set the case on the docket, a motion seeking an order, or an application for writ of mandamus seeking a ruling on the application.
Acts 2025, No. 393, §1.
A. A petitioner shall file an unexhausted claim in the state district court for the parish in which the petitioner was convicted within thirty days of the granting of a stay from a federal court if all of the following have occurred:
(1) The petitioner failed to raise a claim for post conviction relief in state district court.
(2) The petitioner raised a claim for post conviction relief in a petition for a federal habeas corpus proceeding.
(3) A federal court stayed the habeas corpus proceeding to allow the petitioner to exhaust the claim in state district court.
B. An application that raises an unexhausted claim shall establish all of the following:
(1) That the petitioner had good cause for failing to raise the claim in prior post conviction applications.
(2) That the claim is not plainly without merit.
(3) That the petitioner has not intentionally engaged in any dilatory litigation tactics.
C. The failure of the petitioner to satisfy any requirement in Paragraph A or B of this Article shall result in dismissal of the application.
D. The provisions of Articles 926 and 927.1 shall apply to any application that is filed pursuant to this Article.
E. The state district court shall expedite its consideration and resolution of an unexhausted claim.
F. If any party invokes the supervisory jurisdiction of the Louisiana Supreme Court to review the state district court's resolution of the unexhausted claim, the Louisiana Supreme Court shall give priority consideration to and expedite its review of the claim.
Acts 2026, No. 104, §1.
Repealed by Acts 2025, No. 393, §3.
A. If the court determines that the factual and legal issues can be resolved based upon the application and answer, and supporting documents, including relevant transcripts, depositions, and other reliable documents submitted by either party or available to the court, the court may grant or deny relief without further proceedings.
B. For good cause, oral depositions of the petitioner and witnesses may be taken under conditions specified by the court. The court may authorize requests for admissions of fact and of genuineness of documents. In such matters, the court shall be guided by the Code of Civil Procedure.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 429, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1981.
A. An evidentiary hearing for the taking of testimony or other evidence shall be ordered within the time period provided in Article 930.11 whenever there are questions of fact which cannot properly be resolved pursuant to Articles 928 and 929. The petitioner, in absence of an express waiver, is entitled to be present at such hearing, unless the only evidence to be received is evidence as permitted pursuant to Paragraph B of this Article, and the petitioner has been or will be provided with copies of such evidence and an opportunity to respond thereto in writing.
B. Duly authenticated records, transcripts, depositions, documents, or portions thereof, or admissions of facts may be received in evidence.
C. No evidentiary hearing on the merits of a claim shall be ordered or conducted, nor shall any proffer of evidence be received over the objection of the respondent, and no ruling upon procedural objections to the petition shall purport to address the merits of the claim over the objection of the respondent, unless the court has first ruled upon all procedural objections raised by the respondent within the time period provided in Article 930.11, and such rulings have become final. Any language in a ruling on procedural objections raised by the respondent which purports to address the merits of the claim shall be deemed as null, void, and of no effect.
Acts 1990, No. 523, §1; Acts 2025, No. 393, §1.
A copy of the judgment granting or denying relief and written or transcribed reasons for the judgment shall be furnished to the petitioner, the district attorney, and the custodian.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 429, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1981.
The petitioner in an application for post conviction relief shall have the burden of proving that relief should be granted. The state has no burden of proof in a post conviction relief proceeding.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 429, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1981; Acts 2025, No. 393, §1.
If the petitioner is in custody after sentence for conviction for an offense, relief shall be granted only on the following grounds:
(1) The conviction was obtained in violation of the constitution of the United States or the state of Louisiana.
(2) The court exceeded its jurisdiction.
(3) The conviction or sentence subjected him to double jeopardy.
(4) The limitations on the institution of prosecution had expired.
(5) The statute creating the offense for which he was convicted and sentenced is unconstitutional.
(6) The conviction or sentence constitute the ex post facto application of law in violation of the constitution of the United States or the state of Louisiana.
(7) The results of DNA testing performed pursuant to an application granted under Article 926.1 proves by clear and convincing evidence that the petitioner is factually innocent of the crime for which he was convicted.
(8) The petitioner is determined by clear and convincing evidence to be factually innocent under Article 926.2.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 429, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1981; Acts 2001, No. 1020, §1; Acts 2021, No. 104, §1.
A. Any claim for relief which was fully litigated in an appeal from the proceedings leading to the judgment of conviction and sentence shall not be considered.
B. If the application alleges a claim of which the petitioner had knowledge and failed to raise in the proceedings leading to conviction, the court shall deny relief.
C. If the application alleges a claim which the petitioner raised in the trial court and failed to pursue on appeal, the court shall deny relief.
D. If the application alleges a claim seeking to apply a new rule of criminal procedure that has been held by the United States Supreme Court and the Louisiana Supreme Court to be nonretroactive, the court shall deny relief.
E. A successive application shall be dismissed if it fails to raise a new or different claim.
F. A successive application shall be dismissed if it raises a new or different claim that was inexcusably omitted from a prior application.
G. Any attempt or request by a petitioner to supplement or amend the application shall be subject to all of the limitations and restrictions set forth in this Article. In addition to serving the district attorney for the jurisdiction where the underlying conviction was obtained, any subsequent, successive, amending, or supplemental application shall be served by the petitioner on the district attorney and the attorney general. If the court subsequently orders any hearing on the application, the court shall send notice to the district attorney and attorney general at least sixty days in advance of the hearing date.
H. The limitations set forth in this Article shall be jurisdictional and shall not be waived or excused by the court or the district attorney.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 429, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1981; Acts 2013, No. 251, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2014; Acts 2021, No. 104, §1; Acts 2024, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 10, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2024; Acts 2025, No. 393, §1; Acts 2026, No. 54, §1.
A. If a court grants relief under an application for post conviction relief, the court shall order that the petitioner be held in custody pending a new trial.
B. In such a case, the petitioner shall be entitled to bail on the offense as though he has not been convicted of the offense.
C. The provisions of Paragraph B of this Article do not apply until a judgment granting post-conviction relief becomes final. If relief is granted, the effect of that judgment shall be stayed until either of the following occurs:
(1) The time period to invoke the supervisory jurisdiction of the Louisiana Supreme Court has expired.
(2) The Louisiana Supreme Court, after receipt of a timely application, has taken final action on the matter.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 429, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1981; Acts 2025, No. 393, §1; Acts 2026, No. 54, §1.
A. The petitioner may invoke the supervisory jurisdiction of the court of appeal if the trial court dismisses the application or otherwise denies relief on an application for post conviction relief. No appeal lies from a judgment dismissing an application or otherwise denying relief.
B. The district attorney and the attorney general shall have a right to suspensively appeal any order granting post conviction relief.
C. Repealed by Acts 2025, No. 393, §3.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 429, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1981; Acts 1985, No. 233, §1; Acts 2025, No. 393, §§1, 3.
A. If the petitioner is indigent and alleges a claim which, if established, would entitle him to relief, the court may appoint counsel.
B. The court may appoint counsel for an indigent petitioner when it orders an evidentiary hearing, authorizes the taking of depositions, or authorizes requests for admissions of fact or genuineness of documents, when such evidence is necessary for the disposition of procedural objections raised by the respondent.
C. The court shall appoint counsel for an indigent petitioner when it orders an evidentiary hearing on the merits of a claim, or authorizes the taking of depositions or requests for admissions of fact or genuineness of documents for use as evidence in ruling upon the merits of the claim.
Acts 1990, No. 523, §1.
A. No application for post conviction relief, including applications which seek an out-of-time appeal, shall be considered if it is filed more than two years after the judgment of conviction and sentence has become final under the provisions of Article 914 or 922, unless any of the following apply:
(1) The application alleges, and the petitioner proves or the state admits, that the facts upon which the claim is predicated were not known to the petitioner or his prior attorneys. Further, the petitioner shall prove that he exercised diligence in attempting to discover any post conviction claims that may exist. "Diligence" for the purposes of this Article is a subjective inquiry that shall take into account the circumstances of the petitioner. Those circumstances shall include but are not limited to the educational background of the petitioner, the petitioner's access to formally trained inmate counsel, the financial resources of the petitioner, the age of the petitioner, the mental abilities of the petitioner, or whether the interests of justice will be served by the consideration of new evidence. New facts discovered pursuant to this exception shall be submitted to the court within two years of discovery. If the petitioner pled guilty or nolo contendere to the offense of conviction and is seeking relief pursuant to Article 926.2 and five years or more have elapsed since the petitioner pled guilty or nolo contendere to the offense of conviction, the petitioner shall not be eligible for the exception provided for by this Subparagraph.
(2)(a) Facts that were known to any attorney for the petitioner shall be presumed to have been known by the petitioner unless the petitioner rebuts this presumption by clear and convincing evidence. Facts that were contained in the record of the court proceedings concerning the conviction challenged in the application shall be deemed to have been known by the petitioner. The provisions of this Subparagraph are applicable if the petitioner proves both of the following:
(i) That the petitioner exercised due diligence in attempting to discover any post conviction claims or facts upon which any claims may be based.
(ii) That exceptional circumstances exist, the interest of justice will be served by consideration of the claim based upon the previously unknown facts, and the newly discovered facts in support of the claim are sufficiently compelling that manifest injustice will result if the claim is not considered.
(b) The petitioner shall have the burden of proving the provisions of this Subsubparagraph by clear and convincing evidence.
(3) The claim asserted in the petition is based upon a final ruling of an appellate court establishing a theretofore unknown interpretation of constitutional law and petitioner establishes that this interpretation is retroactively applicable to his case, and the petition is filed within one year of the finality of such ruling.
(4) The application would already be barred by the provisions of this Article, but the application is filed on or before August 1, 2027, and the date on which the application was filed is within two years after the judgment of conviction and sentence has become final.
(5) The petitioner qualifies for the exception to timeliness in Article 926.1.
(6) The petitioner qualifies for the exception to timeliness in Article 926.2.
B.(1) When the petitioner has been sentenced to death, all appellate review of post-conviction relief applications, including supervisory review of post-conviction relief applications, shall be filed directly with the Louisiana Supreme Court.
(2) When an execution warrant has been issued, any application for post-conviction relief that contains a new claim, pleading, or other legal matter shall be filed no later than forty-five days prior to the execution date of the petitioner. A ruling on such application shall be issued no later than twenty-one days prior to the execution date of the petitioner. The exclusive means of review shall be a writ application filed directly with the Louisiana Supreme Court within seven days of the ruling on the application.
C. An application for post conviction relief which is timely filed, or which is allowed under an exception to the time limitation as set forth in Paragraph A of this Article, shall be dismissed upon a showing by the state of prejudice to its ability to respond to, negate, or rebut the allegations of the petition caused by events not under the control of the state which have transpired since the date of original conviction, if the court finds, after a hearing limited to that issue, that the state's ability to respond to, negate, or rebut such allegations has been materially prejudiced thereby. When the petitioner fails to timely seek a hearing that is allowed by law or fails to pursue claims for a period of two years after filing an application, the delay caused by inaction shall be presumed as prejudicial. The petitioner shall bear the burden of rebutting the presumption of prejudice. A final judgment dismissing an application based upon prejudice shall be a final adjudication of state post conviction claims in the application for purposes of exhaustion of state court remedies and federal habeas corpus proceedings.
D. At the time of sentencing, the trial court shall inform the defendant of the prescriptive period for post-conviction relief either verbally or in writing. If a written waiver of rights form is used during the acceptance of a guilty plea, the notice required by this Paragraph may be included in the written waiver of rights.
E. Any attempt or request by a petitioner to supplement or amend the application shall be subject to all of the limitations and restrictions as set forth in this Article.
F. All of the limitations set forth in this Article shall be jurisdictional and shall not be waived or excused by the court or the district attorney.
Acts 1990, No. 1023, §1, eff. Oct. 1, 1990; Acts 1999, No. 1262, §1; Acts 2004, No. 401, §1; Acts 2013, No. 251, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2014; Acts 2021, No. 104, §1; Acts 2024, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 10, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 2024; Acts 2025, No. 393, §1.
In the event that the petitioner for post-conviction relief is incarcerated, he may be present at post-conviction relief proceedings by teleconference, video link, or other visual remote technology.
Acts 2008, No. 626, §1.
Repealed by Acts 2025, No. 393, §3.
A. The court of appropriate jurisdiction shall adhere to the following time periods in post conviction proceedings:
(1) The court shall conduct the preliminary review provided in Article 927 within thirty days of the filing of application.
(2) When ruling on procedural objections that have been filed pursuant to Article 927, the court shall issue its ruling within thirty days of receipt of such objections.
(3) If the court determines that no evidentiary hearing is necessary, it shall issue its ruling on the merits of any remaining claim alleged in the application within thirty days of the state's answer on the merits.
(4) When the court determines that there are questions of fact which cannot properly be resolved pursuant to Article 929, it shall conduct an evidentiary hearing provided in Article 930 within one hundred eighty days of such determination and issue a ruling on the merits of any remaining claim within thirty days following the conclusion of such hearing.
B. The district attorney and the attorney general shall adhere to the following time periods in post conviction proceedings:
(1) The district attorney shall have sixty days to file procedural objections pursuant to Article 927.
(2) If an answer is required, the district attorney shall have sixty days from the court's ruling on procedural objections to file an answer on the merits pursuant to Article 927.
(3) The attorney general shall have thirty days to file procedural objections pursuant to Article 927 if the district attorney waives such objections.
C. A petitioner who has been sentenced to death shall only seek supervisory review directly from the Louisiana Supreme Court.
D. If a petitioner invokes the supervisory jurisdiction of the Louisiana Supreme Court, the supreme court shall rule on an application for a writ of review within one hundred eighty days of receipt. If there is an active death warrant, the court shall issue a ruling prior to the effective date of that warrant.
E. The state or petitioner shall have the right to seek a writ of mandamus to compel a court to issue a requested ruling within a specified period not to exceed thirty days if that court has not issued a ruling within the deadlines provided in this Title. The reviewing court may order the lower court to submit a per curiam opinion to the reviewing court with an explanation regarding why the lower court has not issued a ruling within the deadlines provided in this Title.
F.(1) Upon the motion of either party, any deadline set forth in this Title, except for the deadline for filing applications for post-conviction relief set forth in Article 930.8, may be extended by the court subject to the requirements of this Article.
(2) Any motion for an extension of time filed by either party shall be filed not later than seven days prior to the deadline sought to be extended and shall be served on all parties and the court by any method allowed by law.
(3) Any motion for an extension of time granted by the court pursuant to this Article shall not exceed sixty days in length, and in no case shall either party be allowed more than three extensions of time.
(4) Each party's first motion for an extension of time may be granted by the court without a contradictory hearing.
(5) After a party's first motion for an extension of time has been granted, any subsequent motion for an additional extension of time by the same mover shall require a contradictory hearing. Following the contradictory hearing, the court may only grant the motion upon a showing by the mover that extraordinary circumstances outside of the control of the moving party exist that necessitate the requested extension of time.
Acts 2025, No. 393, §1.
Except where the context clearly indicates otherwise, as used in this Code:
(1) "Court" means a court with criminal jurisdiction or its judge. It does not include a mayor's court or a justice of the peace.
(2) "City court" means a city, town, village, or other municipal court, with criminal jurisdiction. It does not include a mayor's court or a justice of the peace.
(3) "Judge" means a judge of a court, as defined in this article.
(4) "Magistrate" means any judge, a justice of the peace, or a mayor of a mayor's court.
Except where the context clearly indicates otherwise, as used in this Code:
(1) "Juror" means a grand or a petit juror.
(2) "Petit jury" means the jury that tries a defendant.
(3) "Panel" is a group of persons selected according to law from a grand jury or petit jury venire to serve as a grand jury, or as a petit jury.
Except where the context clearly indicates otherwise, as used in this Code:
(1) "Offense" includes both a felony and a misdemeanor.
(2) "Capital offense" means an offense that may be punished by death.
(3) "Felony" means an offense that may be punished by death or by imprisonment at hard labor.
(4) "Misdemeanor" means any offense other than a felony, and includes the violation of an ordinance providing a penal sanction.
Except where the context clearly indicates otherwise, as used in this Code:
(1) "Act" includes a failure or omission to perform a legal duty.
(2) "City" means a city, town, village, or other municipality.
(3) "Convicted" means adjudicated guilty after a plea or after trial on the merits.
(4) "Defendant" means a person who has been charged with or accused of an offense.
(5) "District Attorney" includes an assistant district attorney, and where the prosecution is in a city court, includes the prosecuting officer of that court.
(6) "Indictment" includes information and affidavit, unless it is the clear intent to restrict that word to the finding of a grand jury.
(7) "Institution of prosecution" means the finding of an indictment, or the filing of an information, or affidavit, which is designed to serve as the basis of a trial.
(8) "Oath" includes affirmation.
(9) "Person" includes an individual, partnership, unincorporated association of individuals, joint stock company, or corporation.
(10) "State" includes a city or other political subdivision of the state.
(11) "Statute" and "criminal law" mean a criminal statute, a constitutional provision, or an ordinance of a city or other political subdivision of the state.
(12) "Trial on the merits" means trial on the issue of guilt or innocence.
The legislature hereby finds and declares the following:
(1) The state of Louisiana could suffer future catastrophic damage through the occurrence of emergencies and disasters of unprecedented size and destructiveness resulting from terrorist events, enemy attack, sabotage, or other hostile action, or from fire, flood, earthquake, or other natural or manmade causes resulting in the displacement of residents or the destruction of or severe damage to courthouses and other facilities supporting the criminal justice system.
(2) The magnitude of such catastrophic events may cause a disruption of the criminal justice system in any parish directly impacted by the emergency or disaster.
(3) The response to such an emergency or disaster should ensure the continued effective operation and integrity of the state's criminal justice system while minimizing adverse effects on the interests of the defendant and the state.
(4) Considering these factors, the Legislature of Louisiana, exercising its authority vested in Article III and Article VI, Section 3 of the Constitution of Louisiana, and recognizing the necessity of creating a classification of parishes based upon the need to conduct emergency sessions of court, does hereby enact the provisions of this Title to provide for the effective operation and integrity of the criminal justice system during times of emergency or disaster.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005.
As used in this Title:
(1) "Affected court" means any appellate, district, parish, city, municipal, traffic, juvenile, justice of the peace, or family court having jurisdiction over criminal prosecutions and proceedings for which the Louisiana Supreme Court has made a determination that the court shall conduct emergency sessions outside its parish or territorial jurisdiction as provided for by the provisions of this Title.
(2) "Emergency sessions" means any criminal court proceeding conducted by an affected court as authorized by the provisions of this Title and by order of the Louisiana Supreme Court.
(3) "Host jurisdiction" means the location or locations in which the Louisiana Supreme Court has ordered the affected court to conduct emergency sessions.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005.
The provisions of this Title shall preempt and supersede but not repeal any conflicting provisions of this Code or any other provision of law.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005.
A. When the supreme court makes the determination that an appellate, district, parish, city, municipal, juvenile, traffic, justice of the peace, or family court having jurisdiction over criminal prosecutions and proceedings shall conduct proceedings outside its parish or territorial jurisdiction, the supreme court may order emergency sessions of court at a location or locations which are both feasible and practicable outside the parish or territorial jurisdiction of that court. This determination shall be based upon emergency or disaster circumstances, including but not limited to the lack of a readily available alternative location to conduct court within the parish, terrorist events, enemy attack, sabotage, or other hostile action, or from fire, flood, earthquake, or other natural or manmade causes resulting in the displacement of thousands of residents and the destruction of or severe damage to courthouses and other facilities supporting the criminal justice system. In making this determination, the supreme court shall make a reasonable effort to consult with the chief judge, the district attorney, the district public defender, and the clerk of the affected court.
B. The supreme court order requiring emergency sessions of court shall name the affected court, the location or locations in which the emergency sessions of that court shall be conducted, and the date on which emergency sessions shall commence.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005; Acts 2007, No. 307, §10.
A. Venue for criminal prosecutions in an affected court shall be changed by operation of law to the parish where the affected court is ordered to conduct criminal sessions for the duration of the emergency sessions. Criminal proceedings may take place in a parish other than the parish where the crime was committed if the supreme court has ordered emergency sessions of that court in another parish pursuant to Article 944 or as otherwise provided by law.
B. Venue for a writ of habeas corpus for an individual whose physical custody has been transferred as a result of the circumstances which are the basis for the emergency session shall be in the parish of East Baton Rouge. If the court in East Baton Rouge Parish is also an affected court, venue shall be in the host jurisdiction which has been established by supreme court order for the affected court in East Baton Rouge Parish.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005.
A. The affected court conducting emergency sessions outside of its parish or territorial jurisdiction pursuant to Article 944 shall retain jurisdiction over all criminal proceedings and prosecutions that would otherwise be conducted by the affected court.
B. All court proceedings, grand jury proceedings, hearings, preliminary matters, pretrial hearings, and trials may be conducted in the emergency sessions of the affected court.
C. The affected court conducting emergency sessions may retain jurisdiction to complete all matters in progress in the host jurisdiction even though the order rendered pursuant to Article 944 has been withdrawn, canceled, or rescinded.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005.
An affected court ordered to conduct emergency sessions outside of its parish or territorial jurisdiction pursuant to Article 944 shall retain all authority and powers previously exercised by that court in its parish or territorial jurisdiction.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005.
A. Emergency sessions of court shall continue until the supreme court withdraws, cancels, or rescinds the order authorizing the emergency sessions. The supreme court shall give notice at least ten days prior to the conclusion of the emergency session to the chief judge, the district attorney, the district public defender, and the clerk of the affected court.
B. The supreme court may withdraw, cancel, or rescind an order authorizing emergency sessions of court at any time that it determines that the conditions which warranted the issuance of the order no longer exist.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005; Acts 2007, No. 307, §10.
All court costs, fees, and fines assessed or taxed and collected previously by the affected court prior to the supreme court order authorizing the conducting of emergency sessions shall be assessed, taxed, collected, distributed, and retained in the same amounts by and to the same entities and in the same manner by the affected court conducting the emergency session in the host jurisdiction.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005.
A. The district attorney or prosecuting attorney, where applicable, of the affected court conducting emergency sessions of court outside of its parish or territorial jurisdiction pursuant to Article 944 shall have entire charge and control of every criminal prosecution and authority in the host jurisdiction that he would otherwise have exercised in the affected court.
B. The provisions of this Article are included in the other duties of the district attorney provided by law as authorized by Article V, Section 26(B) of the Constitution of Louisiana.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005.
A. The sheriff and any other law enforcement agency or officer or court official having jurisdiction in the affected court shall have all necessary authority and powers to operate within the host jurisdiction in which the affected court is conducting emergency sessions pursuant to Article 944, including the collection of fines, fees, costs, and bonds. This authority shall be limited to those matters being conducted in the emergency session of court.
B. The provisions of this Article shall constitute an exception to territorial jurisdiction of the sheriff in the same manner as Articles 204 and 213.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005.
A. During the period in which the supreme court has ordered emergency sessions of court pursuant to Article 944, the clerk of court of the affected court is authorized to establish an ancillary office in the host jurisdiction in which the emergency sessions of the court are held.
B. The clerk of court of the affected court shall continue to exercise all necessary powers, duties, and authority of his office in order to maintain the effective operation and integrity of the criminal justice system of the affected court in the host jurisdiction, including but not limited to the assessment of fees to which the clerk is entitled. This authority shall be limited to all matters and proceedings within the jurisdiction of the affected court.
C. If the affected court is located in Orleans Parish, the provisions of this Article shall apply to the recorder of mortgages and register of conveyances for the parish of Orleans.
D. The provisions of this Article are included in the other duties of the clerk provided by law as authorized by Article V, Section 28(A) of the Constitution of Louisiana.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005.
The district public defender of the affected court conducting emergency sessions of court outside of its parish or territorial jurisdiction pursuant to Article 944 retains the authority for the appointment of attorneys residing in either the parish or territorial jurisdiction of the affected court or in the host jurisdiction to represent indigent defendants in the host jurisdiction that would otherwise have been exercised in the affected court.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005; Acts 2007, No. 307, §10; Acts 2026, No. 862, §9.
A. Upon motion by the district attorney and after a contradictory hearing, the court may summon jurors from the host jurisdiction. The district attorney must show that the interests of justice are served by the approval of such motion.
B. The summoning of jurors shall be conducted by the clerk of the host jurisdiction. The cost of summoning jurors and all costs regarding jurors shall be paid by the affected court.
Acts 2005, 1st. Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005.
A. The time periods, limitations, and delays established by the provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure, Children's Code, Title 15, and Chapter 26 of Title 40 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950 shall be suspended in the jurisdiction of the affected court for a period of ninety days following the issuance of an order authorizing emergency sessions of court as provided for in Article 944.
B. The ninety-day suspension provided for by this Article shall commence to run from the date the supreme court issued its order authorizing the emergency sessions of court or from the date specified therein, whichever is earlier.
C. The ninety-day suspension may be extended upon a determination by the supreme court that the continuation of the suspension is necessary.
D. The supreme court may rescind the suspension at any time and for any jurisdiction within the state upon a determination by the supreme court that the suspension is no longer necessary.
E. The provisions of this Article shall not apply to Code of Criminal Procedure Articles 230.1, 230.2, 351, 354, and 362.
F. When the supreme court makes the determination and orders an emergency session of court at a location which are both feasible and practical outside the parish or territorial jurisdiction of the affected court, pursuant to Article 944, in addition to the provisions of Paragraph A of this Article, the supreme court may order an extension of time not to exceed four hundred fifty days for the surrender of the defendant as provided for in Code of Criminal Procedure Article 349.8. This extension of time is in addition to the one hundred eighty days provided for in Article 349.8 and the ninety days provided for in Paragraph A of this Article, and also applies to the deadlines for filing motions to set aside judgments of bond forfeiture.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005; Acts 2006, No. 466, §2, eff. June 15, 2006; Acts 2010, No. 914, §1.
An application for a supervisory writ or an appeal from a judgment or ruling of an affected court ordered to conduct emergency sessions shall be taken to the appropriate appellate court which exercised proper appellate or supervisory jurisdiction over the affected court prior to the issuance of the supreme court order. If the appropriate appellate court is also an affected court, an application for a supervisory writ or an appeal from a judgment or ruling of an affected court shall be taken to the host jurisdiction which has been established by supreme court order for the affected appellate court.
Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 52, §1, eff. Dec. 6, 2005.
A. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, an affected court conducting emergency sessions of court outside of its parish or territorial jurisdiction pursuant to Article 944 may release a defendant on bail through an unsecured personal surety as authorized by Article 317, without proof of a security interest pursuant to the provisions of this Article.
B. The provisions of this Article shall not apply to any defendant who has been arrested for any of the following offenses:
(1) A crime of violence as defined in R.S. 14:2(B).
(2) A sex offense as defined in R.S. 15:541.
(3) A felony offense, an element of which includes the discharge, use, or possession of a firearm.
(4) A violation of R.S. 14:98, operating a vehicle while intoxicated, or a parish or municipal ordinance that prohibits operating a vehicle while intoxicated, while impaired, or while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled dangerous substance.
C. The affected court may release a defendant on bail through a personal surety without proof of a security interest as required by Article 319 if all of the following conditions are met:
(1) The defendant was arrested for an offense which is not excluded by Paragraph B of this Article.
(2) The personal surety meets the requirements of Articles 315 and 318 for a secured personal surety.
(3) Proof of a security interest cannot be obtained due to emergency or disaster circumstances as provided for in Article 944.
(4) The court requires that the unsecured surety be converted to a commercial surety or secured personal surety as soon as proof of a security interest can be obtained, or within thirty days of issuance of the unsecured bail, whichever occurs earlier. If proof of a security interest cannot be obtained due to emergency or disaster circumstances, the court may extend the period to obtain proof of the security interest for additional thirty-day increments as determined to be necessary by the court.
D. The provisions of this Article shall not be construed to limit the constitutional right to bail or the inherent authority of the court to set bail.
Acts 2010, No. 141, §1.
A. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, if the governor has declared a disaster or emergency pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 29:721 et seq. or a public health emergency pursuant to R.S. 29:760 et seq., the supreme court is authorized to issue an order, or series of orders as it determines to be necessary and appropriate, that shall have the full force and effect of suspending all time periods, limitations, and delays pertaining to the initiation, continuation, prosecution, defense, appeal, and post-conviction relief of any prosecution of any state or municipal criminal, juvenile, wildlife, or traffic matter within the state of Louisiana including but not limited to any such provisions in this Code, the Children's Code, and Titles 14, 15, 32, 40, and 56 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, or in any other provision of Louisiana law, for a determinate period of thirty days except as otherwise provided by this Article.
B. The thirty-day period provided for in this Article shall commence to run from the date the supreme court issues the order or from a particular date specified by the supreme court in the order, whichever is earlier.
C. The thirty-day period provided in Paragraph A of this Article may be extended by further order of the supreme court for additional successive periods with each period not exceeding thirty days.
D. The period of suspension authorized by the provisions of this Article shall terminate upon order of the supreme court or upon termination of the declared disaster, emergency, or public health emergency, whichever is earlier.
E. The provisions of this Article shall not apply to Articles 230.1, 230.2, and 232 and Children's Code Articles 624 and 819.
F. Nothing in this Article shall be construed to negate or impair the application of any other provision of law regarding the suspension or interruption of time periods, limitations, or delays.
Acts 2020, No. 285, §1, eff. June 11, 2020.
The legislature hereby finds and declares the following:
(1) Louisiana law provides for the expungement of certain arrest and conviction records under limited circumstances. Obtaining an expungement of these records allows for the removal of a record from public access but does not result in the destruction of the record.
(2) An expunged record is confidential, but remains available for use by law enforcement agencies, criminal justice agencies, and other statutorily defined agencies.
(3) Following the passage of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, all individuals who wish to work at ports or on vessels regulated by this Act are required to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). Obtaining a TWIC card requires a criminal history check and clearance which cannot be obtained without either a clean record or an expunged record with respect to certain offenses.
(4) The inability to obtain an expungement can prevent certain individuals from obtaining gainful employment.
(5) The need for employment must be balanced appropriately against the desire for public safety. Nothing in this Title shall be construed to limit or impair in any way the subsequent use of any expunged record of arrest or conviction in any lawful manner by law enforcement, law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, or judges, including its use as a predicate offense or for the provisions of the Habitual Offender Law.
(6) It is the intention of the legislature that this Title will provide opportunities to break the cycle of criminal recidivism, increase public safety, and assist the growing population of criminal offenders reentering the community to establish a self-sustaining life through opportunities in employment.
(7) In balancing the legitimate needs of law enforcement agencies and the desire to afford employment opportunities to all Louisiana citizens, the Louisiana Legislature enacts the provisions of this Title within the Code of Criminal Procedure.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1.
As used in this Title:
(1) "Expedited expungement" means an order of expungement that a judge may sign pursuant to Article 999 without the individual filing a motion to expunge with the clerk of court.
(2) "Expunge a record" means to remove a record of arrest or conviction, photographs, fingerprints, disposition, or any other information of any kind from public access pursuant to the provisions of this Title. "Expunge a record" does not mean destruction of the record.
(3) "Expungement by redaction" provides for the expungement of records of a person who is arrested or convicted with other persons who are not entitled to expungement and involves the removal of the name or any other identifying information of the person entitled to the expungement and otherwise retains the records of the incident as they relate to the other persons.
(4) "Interim expungement" means to expunge a felony arrest from the criminal history of a person who was convicted of a misdemeanor offense arising out of the original felony arrest. Only the original felony arrest may be expunged in an interim expungement.
(5) "Records" includes any incident reports, photographs, fingerprints, disposition, or any other such information of any kind in relation to a single arrest event in the possession of the clerk of court, any criminal justice agency, and local and state law enforcement agencies but shall not include DNA records. Records shall also include records of an arrest based on a warrant or attachment for failure to appear in court for the same offense or offenses for which the person is seeking an expungement.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2019, No. 1, §1; Acts 2024, No. 270, §1.
The following courts, throughout their several territorial jurisdictions, shall have authority to expunge records in accordance with this Title:
(1) District courts and their commissioners within their trial jurisdiction.
(2) City or parish courts within their trial jurisdiction.
(3) Mayor's courts and traffic courts within their trial jurisdiction.
(4) Juvenile and family courts within their trial jurisdiction.
(5) Municipal and traffic courts of New Orleans within their trial jurisdiction.
Acts 2023, No. 90, §1.
A. An expunged record of arrest or conviction shall be confidential and no longer considered to be a public record and shall not be made available to any person or other entity except for the following:
(1) To a member of a law enforcement or criminal justice agency or prosecutor who shall request that information in writing, certifying that the request is for the purpose of investigating, prosecuting, or enforcing criminal law, for the purpose of any other statutorily defined law enforcement or administrative duties, or for the purposes of the requirements of sex offender registration and notification pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 15:540 et seq.
(2) On order of a court of competent jurisdiction and after a contradictory hearing for good cause shown.
(3) To the person whose record has been expunged or his counsel.
(4) To a member of a law enforcement or criminal justice agency, prosecutor, or judge, who requests that information in writing, certifying that the request is for the purpose of defending a law enforcement, criminal justice agency, or prosecutor in a civil suit for damages resulting from wrongful arrest or other civil litigation and the expunged record is necessary to provide a proper defense.
B. Upon written request therefor and on a confidential basis, the information contained in an expunged record may be released to the following entities that shall maintain the confidentiality of such record: the Office of Financial Institutions, the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners, the Louisiana State Board of Nursing, the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry, the Louisiana State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy, the Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners, the Emergency Medical Services Certification Commission, Louisiana Attorney Disciplinary Board, Office of Disciplinary Counsel, the Louisiana Supreme Court Committee on Bar Admissions, the Louisiana Department of Insurance, the Louisiana Licensed Professional Counselors Board of Examiners, the Louisiana State Board of Chiropractic Examiners, or any person or entity requesting a record of all criminal arrests and convictions pursuant to R.S. 15:587.1, or as otherwise provided by law.
C. Except as to those persons and other entities set forth in Paragraph A of this Article, no person whose record of arrest or conviction has been expunged shall be required to disclose to any person that he was arrested or convicted of the subject offense, or that the record of the arrest or conviction has been expunged.
D. Any person who fails to maintain the confidentiality of records as required by the provisions of this Article shall be subject to contempt proceedings.
NOTE: Paragraph E eff. until appropriation of monies by the Legislature. See Acts 2023, No. 454.
E. Nothing in this Article shall be construed to limit or impair in any way the subsequent use of any expunged record of any arrests or convictions by a law enforcement agency, criminal justice agency, or prosecutor including its use as a predicate offense, for the purposes of the Habitual Offender Law, or as otherwise authorized by law.
NOTE: Paragraph E eff. upon appropriation of monies by the Legislature. See Acts 2023, No. 454.
E. Nothing in this Article shall be construed to limit or impair in any way the subsequent use of any expunged record of any arrests or convictions by a judge, magistrate, commissioner, law enforcement agency, criminal justice agency, or prosecutor, including its use as a predicate offense, for the purposes of the Habitual Offender Law, setting bail, sentencing, or as otherwise authorized by law.
F. Nothing in this Article shall be construed to limit or impair the authority of a law enforcement official to use an expunged record of any arrests or convictions in conducting an investigation to ascertain or confirm the qualifications of any person for any privilege or license as required or authorized by law.
G. Nothing in this Article shall be construed to limit or impair in any way the subsequent use of any expunged record of any arrests or convictions by a "news-gathering organization". For the purposes of this Title, "news-gathering organization" means all of the following:
(1) A newspaper, or news publication, printed or electronic, of current news and intelligence of varied, broad, and general public interest, having been published for a minimum of one year and that can provide documentation of membership in a statewide or national press association, as represented by an employee thereof who can provide documentation of his employment with the newspaper, wire service, or news publication.
(2) A radio broadcast station, television broadcast station, cable television operator, or wire service as represented by an employee thereof who can provide documentation of his employment.
H. Nothing in this Article shall be construed to relieve a person who is required to register and provide notice as a child predator or sex offender of any obligations and responsibilities provided in R.S. 15:541 et seq.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2018, No. 141, §1; Acts 2023, No. 454, §1, see Act.
A. A private third-party entity, excluding a news-gathering organization, that compiles and disseminates criminal history information for compensation shall not disseminate any information in its possession regarding an arrest, conviction, or other disposition after it has received notice of an issuance of a court order to expunge the record of any such arrest or conviction. The provisions of this Paragraph shall not apply to private third-party entities which are regulated by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. §1681 et seq.) or the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (15 U.S.C. §6801-6809).
B. The person obtaining the expungement shall send notice of the order of expungement by certified or registered mail with return receipt requested and a certified copy of the order of expungement.
C. A private third-party entity that publicly disseminates criminal history information in violation of this Article after having received notice as provided for in Paragraph B of this Article, may be liable for any actual damages, court costs, and attorney fees that are incurred by the person whose criminal history was disseminated.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1.
A person in the physical custody of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections serving a sentence at hard labor shall not be permitted to file a motion to expunge a record of an arrest which did not result in a conviction or to expunge a record of an arrest and conviction of a misdemeanor or felony offense.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2020, No. 78, §1.
A. A person may file a motion to expunge a record of his arrest for a felony or misdemeanor offense that did not result in a conviction if any of the following apply:
(1) The person was not prosecuted for the offense for which he was arrested, and the limitations on the institution of prosecution have barred the prosecution for that offense.
(2) The district attorney for any reason declined to prosecute any offense arising out of that arrest, including the reason that the person successfully completed a pretrial diversion program.
(3) Prosecution was instituted and such proceedings have been finally disposed of by dismissal, sustaining of a motion to quash, or acquittal.
(4) The person was judicially determined to be factually innocent and entitled to compensation for a wrongful conviction pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 15:572.8. The person may seek to have the arrest and conviction which formed the basis for the wrongful conviction expunged without the limitations or time delays imposed by the provisions of this Article or any other provision of law to the contrary.
B. Pursuant to R.S. 15:578.1, no person arrested for a violation of R.S. 14:98 (operating a vehicle while intoxicated) or a parish or municipal ordinance that prohibits operating a vehicle while intoxicated, impaired, or while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any controlled dangerous substance, and placed by the prosecuting authority into a pretrial diversion program, shall be entitled to an expungement of the record until five years have elapsed since the date of arrest for that offense.
C. The motion to expunge a record of arrest that did not result in a conviction of a misdemeanor or felony offense shall be served pursuant to the provisions of Article 979.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2015, No. 200, §1; Acts 2016, No. 125, §1, eff. May 19, 2016; Acts 2020, No. 132, §1.
A. A person may file a motion to expunge his record of arrest and conviction of a misdemeanor offense if either of the following apply:
(1) The conviction was set aside and the prosecution was dismissed pursuant to Article 894(B) of this Code.
(2) More than five years have elapsed since the person completed any sentence, deferred adjudication, or period of probation or parole, and the person has not been convicted of any felony offense during the five-year period, and has no felony charge pending against him. The motion filed pursuant to this Subparagraph shall include a certification obtained from the district attorney which verifies that to his knowledge the applicant has no felony convictions during the five-year period and no pending felony charges under a bill of information or indictment.
B. The motion to expunge a record of arrest and conviction of a misdemeanor offense shall be served pursuant to the provisions of Article 979 of this Code.
C. No person shall be entitled to expungement of a record under any of the following circumstances:
(1) The misdemeanor conviction arose from circumstances involving or is the result of an arrest for a sex offense as defined in R.S. 15:541, except that an interim expungement shall be available as authorized by the provisions of Article 985.1 of this Code.
(2) The misdemeanor conviction was for domestic abuse battery.
(3) The misdemeanor conviction was for stalking (R.S. 14:40.2).
D. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, a person may file a motion to expunge his record of arrest and conviction of a misdemeanor conviction for a first offense possession of marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol, or chemical derivatives thereof after ninety days from the date of conviction.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2015, No. 151, §1, eff. June 23, 2015; Acts 2015, No. 200, §1; Acts 2020, No. 78, §2; Acts 2023, No. 342, §1.
A. Except as provided in Paragraph B of this Article, a person may file a motion to expunge his record of arrest and conviction of a felony offense if any of the following apply:
(1) The conviction was set aside and the prosecution was dismissed pursuant to Article 893(E).
(2) More than ten years have elapsed since the person completed any sentence, deferred adjudication, or period of probation or parole based on the felony conviction, and the person has not been convicted of any other criminal offense for a period of at least ten years preceding the motion and has no criminal charge pending against him. The motion filed pursuant to this Subparagraph shall include a certification obtained from the district attorney which verifies that, to his knowledge, the applicant has no convictions during the ten-year period immediately preceding the motion, and no pending charges under a bill of information or indictment.
(3) The person is entitled to a first offender pardon for the offense pursuant to Article IV, Section 5(E)(1) of the Constitution of Louisiana, provided that the offense is not defined as a crime of violence pursuant to R.S. 14:2(B) or a sex offense pursuant to R.S. 15:541.
B. No expungement shall be granted nor shall a person be permitted to file a motion to expunge the record of arrest and conviction of a felony offense if the person was convicted of the commission or attempted commission of any of the following offenses:
(1) A crime of violence as defined by or enumerated in R.S. 14:2(B), unless otherwise authorized in Paragraph E of this Article.
(2)(a) Notwithstanding any provision of Article 893, a sex offense or a criminal offense against a victim who is a minor as each term is defined by R.S. 15:541, or any offense which occurred prior to June 18, 1992, that would be defined as a sex offense or a criminal offense against a victim who is a minor had it occurred on or after June 18, 1992.
(b) Any person who was convicted of carnal knowledge of a juvenile (R.S. 14:80) prior to August 15, 2001, is eligible for an expungement pursuant to the provisions of this Title if the offense for which the offender was convicted would be defined as misdemeanor carnal knowledge of a juvenile (R.S. 14:80.1) had the offender been convicted on or after August 15, 2001. The burden is on the mover to establish that the elements of the offense of conviction are equivalent to the current definition of misdemeanor carnal knowledge of a juvenile as defined by R.S. 14:80.1. A copy of the order waiving the sex offender registration and notification requirements issued pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 15:542(F) shall be sufficient to meet this burden.
(3) A violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law, except for any of the following which may be expunged pursuant to the provisions of this Title:
(a) A conviction for possession of a controlled dangerous substance as provided for in R.S. 40:966(C), 967(C), 968(C), or 969(C), or 970(C).
(b) A conviction for possession of a controlled dangerous substance with the intent to distribute.
(c) A conviction for a violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law which is punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than five years.
(d) A conviction for a violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law which may be expunged pursuant to Article 893(E).
(e) A conviction for a violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law for which the person is entitled to a first offender pardon pursuant to Article IV, Section 5(E)(1) of the Constitution of Louisiana.
(4) The conviction was for domestic abuse battery.
C. The motion to expunge a record of arrest and conviction of a felony offense shall be served pursuant to the provisions of Article 979.
D. Repealed by Acts 2020, No. 78, §2.
E.(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, after a contradictory hearing, the court may order the expungement of the arrest and conviction records of a person pertaining to a conviction of aggravated battery, second degree battery, aggravated criminal damage to property, simple robbery, purse snatching, or illegal use of weapons or dangerous instrumentalities if all of the following conditions are proven by the petitioner:
(a) More than ten years have elapsed since the person completed any sentence, deferred adjudication, or period of probation or parole based on the felony conviction.
(b) The person has not been convicted of any other criminal offense during the ten-year period.
(c) The person has no criminal charge pending against him.
(d) Repealed by Acts 2020, No. 71, §2.
(2) The motion filed pursuant to this Paragraph shall include a certification from the district attorney which verifies that, to his knowledge, the applicant has no convictions during the ten-year period and no pending charges under a bill of information or indictment. The motion shall be heard by contradictory hearing as provided by Article 980.
F. A person shall be eligible to have more than one felony conviction expunged in a ten-year period if each felony is eligible for expungement under the provisions of this Article.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2015, No. 151, §1, eff. June 23, 2015; Acts 2015, No. 200, §1; Acts 2016, No. 125, §1, eff. May 19, 2016; Acts 2018, No. 678, §1; Acts 2019, No. 268, §1; Acts 2020, No. 71, §2; Acts 2020, No. 78, §2; Acts 2024, No. 580, §1.
The following documents shall be submitted to the Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information in addition to the motion for expungement:
(1) Criminal background check from the Louisiana State Police or a respective sheriff's office dated within sixty days of filing.
(2) Certification letter from the district attorney verifying to his knowledge that the applicant has no convictions or pending applicable charges within the requisite time period of Article 978 with the office of the district attorney, and whether any charges were refused related to the arrest incident in the motion for expungement.
(3) Court minute entries showing final disposition of the case, or in the absence of court minutes, a charge disposition report, or a letter from the clerk of court that no such records exist.
(4) Charging instrument, including a bill of information, indictment, or affidavit.
Acts 2026, No. 129, §1.
A. The clerk of court shall serve notice of the motion of expungement by United States mail or electronically upon the following entities:
(1) The district attorney of the parish of conviction.
(2) The Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information.
(3) The arresting law enforcement agency.
B. When service is made by United States mail, a certificate of service shall be filed into the record indicating the date the motion was placed in the United States mail for service.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2015, No. 200, §1.
A. Any entity named in Article 979 of this Code that receives notice of the motion may object to the granting of a motion to expunge a record.
B.(1) Except as provided in Subparagraph (2) of this Paragraph, an objecting party shall file an affidavit of response with reasons for the objection in the record with service to the defendant within sixty days from the date of service of the motion and specifically state the grounds for the objection.
(2) If the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information objects to the granting of the motion to expunge a record, it shall file an affidavit of response with reasons for the objection in the record with service to the defendant within one hundred and twenty days from the date of the service of the motion until August 1, 2015. On August 1, 2015, and thereafter, if the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information objects to the granting of the motion to expunge a record, it shall file an affidavit of response with reasons for the objection in the record with service to the defendant within sixty days from the date of the service of the motion.
C. The court may grant an extension of time to file an objection not to exceed thirty days from the expiration of the original sixty days for a party to object.
D. Any objection timely filed shall have a contradictory hearing. If an objection is timely filed, the district attorney or an objecting party shall request that the matter be set for a contradictory hearing. A notice of hearing shall be served on the defendant and those persons provided for in Article 979 of this Code.
E. The objecting agency must show by a preponderance of the evidence why the motion of expungement should not be granted.
F. If no objection is filed by an agency listed under Article 979 of this Code, the defendant may waive the contradictory hearing, and the court shall grant the motion to expunge the record if the court determines that the mover is entitled to the expungement in accordance with law.
G. Any agency listed under Article 979 of this Code may expressly waive its time period to object by filing a formal "No Opposition" into the record.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2015, No. 200, §1.
A judgment ordering expungement of a record of arrest or of conviction of a misdemeanor or felony offense shall be served as provided for in Article 982 of this Code. The judgment shall not affect any persons or other entities set forth in Article 979 or 982 of this Code who have not been served with the motion and judgment ordering the expungement of a record.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1.
The clerk of court shall serve the order and judgment of expungement of a record by United States mail or electronically upon all of the following entities:
(1) The district attorney of the parish of conviction.
(2) The Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information.
(3) The sheriff of the parish of conviction.
(4) The arresting agency.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1.
A. Except as provided for in Articles 894 and 984, the total cost to obtain a court order expunging a record shall not exceed five hundred fifty dollars. Payment may be made by United States postal money orders or money orders issued by any state or national bank or by checks issued by a law firm or an attorney.
B. The nonrefundable processing fees for a court order expunging a record shall be as follows:
(1) The Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information may charge a processing fee of two hundred fifty dollars for the expungement of any record of arrest when ordered to do so by the court in compliance with the provisions of this Title.
(2) The sheriff may charge a processing fee of fifty dollars for the expungement of any record of arrest when ordered to do so by the court in compliance with the provisions of this Title.
(3) The district attorney may charge a processing fee of fifty dollars for the expungement of any record of arrest when ordered to do so by the court in compliance with the provisions of this Title.
(4) The clerk of court may charge a processing fee not to exceed two hundred dollars to cover the clerk's costs of the expungement.
C. The clerk of court shall collect all processing fees at the time the motion for expungement is filed.
D.(1) The clerk shall immediately direct the collected processing fee provided for in Subparagraph (B)(1) of this Article to the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information, and the processing fee amount shall be deposited immediately upon receipt into the Criminal Identification and Information Dedicated Fund Account.
(2) The clerk shall immediately direct the collected processing fees provided for in Subparagraphs (B)(2) and (3) of this Article to the sheriff and the district attorney, and the processing fee amount shall be remitted immediately upon receipt in equal proportions to the office of the district attorney and the sheriff's general fund.
E. The processing fees provided for by this Article are nonrefundable and shall not be returned even if the court does not grant the motion for expungement.
F. An applicant for the expungement of a record shall not be required to pay any fee to the clerk of court, the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information, sheriff, the district attorney, or any other agency to obtain or execute an order of a court of competent jurisdiction to expunge the arrest from the individual's arrest record if a certification obtained from the district attorney is presented to the clerk of court which verifies that the applicant has no felony convictions and no pending felony charges under a bill of information or indictment and at least one of the following applies:
(1) The applicant was acquitted, after trial, of all charges derived from the arrest, including any lesser and included offense.
(2) The district attorney consents, and the case against the applicant was dismissed or the district attorney declined to prosecute the case prior to the time limitations prescribed in Chapter 1 of Title XVII of this Code, and the applicant did not participate in a pretrial diversion program.
(3) The applicant was arrested and was not prosecuted within the time limitations prescribed in Chapter 1 of Title XVII of this Code and did not participate in a pretrial diversion program.
(4) Repealed by Acts 2022, No. 36, §2.
(5) Concerning the arrest record which the applicant seeks to expunge, the applicant was determined by the district attorney to be a victim of a violation of R.S. 14:67.3 (unauthorized use of "access card"), a violation of R.S. 14:67.16 (identity theft), a violation of R.S. 14:70.4 (access device fraud), or a violation of any other crime which involves the unlawful use of the identity or personal information of the applicant.
G. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the following individuals shall be exempt from the payment of the processing fees otherwise authorized by this Article:
(1) A juvenile who has successfully completed any juvenile drug court program operated by a court of this state.
(2) A person eligible for an expedited expungement pursuant to Article 999.
H. Human trafficking victim request for certification and application for expungement.
(1) An applicant for the expungement of a record of offense who was a victim of human trafficking, in accordance with R.S. 14:46.2, may request a certification from the prosecuting authority that the offense for which the expungement is sought was committed, in substantial part, as the result of the applicant being a victim of human trafficking in accordance with R.S. 14:46.2.
(2) To obtain certification, the applicant has the burden of establishing by a preponderance of the evidence to the prosecuting authority that the offense was committed, in substantial part, as the result of the applicant being a victim of human trafficking in accordance with R.S. 14:46.2.
(3) The certification shall be prima facie evidence that similar eligible crimes committed within other Louisiana jurisdictions during the time period the applicant was a victim of human trafficking were committed, in substantial part, as the result of the applicant being a victim of human trafficking in accordance with R.S. 14:46.2.
(4) All applicable time delays pertaining to expungement provided by Articles 977 and 978 shall be waived when the certification is presented to the clerk of court with the application for expungement.
(5) An applicant for the expungement of a record of offense who was a victim of human trafficking, in accordance with R.S. 14:46.2, shall not be required to pay any fees relative to the application for expungement to the clerk of court, the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information, the sheriff, the district attorney, or any other agency.
(6) Utilization of the process outlined within this Paragraph shall not preclude any applicant from seeking additional expungement to which the applicant may be entitled, in accordance with law.
(7) The Louisiana District Attorneys Association shall annually submit a report to the legislature, no later than February first, that includes the number of applications for, denials of, and approvals of the certification provided for by this Paragraph for the prior year.
I. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, a person who was determined to be factually innocent and entitled to compensation for a wrongful conviction pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 15:572.8 shall be exempt from payment of the processing fees otherwise authorized by this Article.
J. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, a person who has been granted a pardon shall be exempt from payment of the processing fees otherwise authorized by this Article. However, no person granted a first offender pardon pursuant to Article IV, Section 5(E)(1) of the Constitution of Louisiana shall be exempt from payment of the processing fees otherwise authorized by this Article.
K. If an application for an expungement of a record includes two or more offenses arising out of the same arrest, including misdemeanors, felonies, or both, the applicant shall be required to pay only one fee as provided for by this Article.
L. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, an applicant for the expungement of a record, other than as provided in Paragraphs F and G of this Article, may proceed in forma pauperis in accordance with the provisions of Code of Civil Procedure Article 5181 et seq.
M.(1) Notwithstanding Paragraph B of this Article, the total cost to obtain a court order expunging a record of a misdemeanor conviction for a first offense possession of marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol, or chemical derivatives thereof shall not exceed three hundred dollars. The nonrefundable processing fees for a court order expunging such record shall be as follows:
(a) The Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information may charge a processing fee of fifty dollars for the expungement of the record when ordered to do so by the court in compliance with the provisions of this Title.
(b) The sheriff may charge a processing fee of fifty dollars for the expungement of the record when ordered to do so by the court in compliance with the provisions of this Title.
(c) The district attorney may charge a processing fee of fifty dollars for the expungement of the record when ordered to do so by the court in compliance with the provisions of this Title.
(d) The clerk of court may charge a processing fee of one hundred fifty dollars to cover the clerk's costs of the expungement.
(2) The clerk of court shall collect all processing fees at the time the motion for expungement is filed.
(3) The clerk shall immediately direct the collected processing fee provided for in Subsubparagraph (1)(a) of this Paragraph to the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information, and the processing fee amount shall be deposited immediately upon receipt into the Criminal Identification and Information Dedicated Fund Account.
(4) The clerk shall immediately direct the collected processing fees provided for in Subsubparagraphs (1)(b) and (c) of this Paragraph to the sheriff and the district attorney, and the processing fee amount shall be remitted immediately upon receipt in equal proportions to the office of the district attorney and the sheriff's general fund.
(5) The provisions of this Paragraph shall be null, void, and without effect and shall terminate on August 1, 2026.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2016, No. 8, §1; Acts 2018, No. 404, §1; Acts 2019, No. 1, §1; Acts 2020, No. 79, §1; Acts 2021, No. 114, eff. July 1, 2022; Acts 2022, No. 36, §§1, 2; Acts 2022, No. 130, §1, eff. May 26, 2022; Acts 2023, No. 342, §1; Acts 2024, No. 270, §1.
A. A person convicted of operating a vehicle while intoxicated shall be required to supplement the motions required in this Title with proof in the form of a certified letter from the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of motor vehicles, that the person has complied with the requirements of this Article. The certified letter shall be attached to the motion to expunge the record of arrest and conviction for operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
B. The court shall order the clerk of court to mail to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of motor vehicles, all of the following as provided by the defendant:
(1) A certified copy of the record of the plea of guilty or nolo contendere.
(2) Fingerprints of the defendant.
(3) Proof that the defendant meets the requirements as set forth in Article 556 or 556.1 of this Code which shall include the defendant's date of birth, social security number, and driver's license number.
C. An additional fifty-dollar court cost shall be assessed at this time against the defendant and paid to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of motor vehicles, for the costs of storage and retrieval of the records. The court cost provided by this Paragraph shall be submitted to the department regardless of whether the clerk of court is submitting this matter to the department pursuant to Paragraph B or D of this Article.
D. In lieu of forwarding the items listed in Paragraph B of this Article, the clerk of court may send a copy of the letter issued by the department pursuant to Subparagraph (B)(1) of Article 894 if the clerk had previously submitted records of the plea to the department pursuant to that Article.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2015, No. 200, §1.
A. If a record includes the name of more than one individual and one or more of the individuals is entitled to an expungement of an arrest or conviction pursuant to the provisions of this Title, any individual entitled to an expungement may petition the court to have records related to the arrest or conviction of the individual expunged by redaction.
B. If the court grants the expungement by redaction, the name of the individual and all other identifying information regarding the individual granted the expungement by redaction shall be redacted from all records regarding the arrest and conviction. The redacted records shall be available for public access.
C. The clerk of court shall not be liable for any damages resulting to any person or entity as a consequence of expunging or redacting or for the failure to expunge or redact any record where the expungement order does not specifically identify all locations of the records to be expunged or specify the information to be redacted.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1.
A. A person may file an interim motion to expunge a felony arrest from his criminal history when that original arrest results in a conviction for a misdemeanor. In such cases, only the original felony arrest may be expunged.
B. The interim motion to expunge a felony arrest which results in a misdemeanor conviction from criminal history is separate and distinct from an expungement of a final conviction pursuant to Articles 976, 977, and 978 of this Code.
C. Except as provided in Paragraph D of this Article, an interim motion to expunge a felony arrest from criminal history shall follow the same procedures and fees established pursuant to the provisions of Article 979 et seq of this Code.
D. An interim motion to expunge shall not be subject to the time limitations provided for in Articles 977(A)(2) or 978(A)(2) of this Code, and there shall be no restriction on the number of interim expungements which may be granted.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1.
A. The Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information shall identify within its criminal repository database all records with a Case Management Information System (CMIS) number and final dispositions for individuals eligible for an expungement pursuant to the provisions of Articles 976, 977, and 978.
B. Beginning January 1, 2025, a defendant may submit a request through the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information for expungement through the automated process. The form shall contain the defendant's name, date of birth, last four digits of their social security number, arrest date, and case number. Within thirty days of receipt of the request, the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information shall expunge any eligible records identified in Paragraph A of this Article and shall send the records with a Case Management Information System number and final dispositions to the Louisiana Supreme Court Case Management Information System.
C. Within thirty days of receipt of records from the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information, the Louisiana Supreme Court Case Management Information System shall send notice by United States mail or electronically of all records identified pursuant to Paragraph A of this Article to be expunged by automation to the clerks of the district courts of Louisiana. The clerks of the district courts of Louisiana shall verify and identify such records and mark those records as expunged by automation. If a clerk of a district court is unable to verify and identify any record identified for automatic expungement, the clerk shall notify the Louisiana Supreme Court Case Management Information System within thirty days of receipt of the notice required pursuant to the provisions of this Paragraph, who shall then notify the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information that the record is not expunged by automation.
D. The clerks of the district courts of Louisiana shall send notice by United States mail or electronically of all records expunged by automation to the district attorney of the parish of the person's conviction, the sheriff of the parish of the person's conviction, and the arresting agency. The district attorney, sheriff, and arresting agency shall acknowledge the records as expunged by automation according to Article 973. Nothing in this Paragraph shall be construed to require the arresting agency, booking agency, or the district attorney to manually segregate or sequester upon acknowledging or identifying the records.
E. The Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of state police, is hereby authorized to adopt and promulgate rules and regulations in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act to carry out the provisions of this Article for criminal records in district courts of Louisiana which date back to January 1, 2006.
F. Nothing in this Article shall prevent an otherwise eligible individual from obtaining an expungement pursuant to any provision in this Title. An individual eligible for an automated expungement under this Article shall not have a cause of action for any damages resulting from the omission of their records in the process provided by this Article.
G. This Article shall be subject to the appropriate funding necessary for implementation and provided for in the executive budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026.
Acts 2023, No. 454, §1, see Act.
A. The court may order the immediate expungement of the record of the arrest and conviction of the violation that necessitated participation in the probation or program by a person who is otherwise eligible for an expungement upon the successful completion of a court-ordered probation or alternative sentencing program.
B. Only the form provided in Article 992 shall be used to expunge the record of a person who is otherwise eligible for an expungement upon the successful completion of a court-ordered probation or alternative sentencing program.
C. The immediate expungement shall be served pursuant to the provisions of Article 982 and shall include the court record with the signed order with all of the following:
(1) The bill of information.
(2) The sentencing minutes.
(3) Any documents or records relevant to the arrest incident and plea agreements, if available.
Acts 2024, No. 560, §1.
A. Only the forms provided for in Articles 987, 988, 989, 990, 991, 992, 993, 994, 995, and 998 shall be used for filing motions to expunge a record of an arrest which did not result in a conviction, for the expungement of a record of arrest and conviction of a misdemeanor or felony offense, or for an interim motion to expunge a felony offense which resulted in a misdemeanor conviction.
B. Supplemental forms may be added to any petition as long as they adhere to the form provided for in Article 993 of this Code.
C. The clerk of court for any court in the state of Louisiana having criminal jurisdiction may amend any of the forms provided for in Articles 987, 988, 989, 990, 991, 992, 993, 994, 995, and 998 to provide the appropriate name of the court ordering an expungement of records.
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2015, No. 200, §1; Acts 2023, No. 342, §1.
"
STATE OF LOUISIANA
JUDICIAL DISTRICT FOR THE PARISH OF
______________________________
No.: _____________
Division: "_______"
State of Louisiana
vs.
_______________________________________________________
MOTION TO SET ASIDE CONVICTION AND
DISMISS PROSECUTION
NOW INTO HONORABLE COURT, comes
Defendant, OR
Defendant through undersigned Counsel,
who moves that the conviction pursuant to Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure
Article 894(B) Misdemeanors, OR
Article 893(E) Felonies
in the above numbered case be set aside and that the prosecution dismissed in accordance with the Code of Criminal Procedure in that the period of the deferred sentence has run and petitioner has successfully completed the terms of his probation.
The mover is further identified below:
DOCKET NUMBER:
CHARGE:
DATE OF ARREST:
ARRESTING AGENCY:
CITY/PARISH OF ARREST:
The Mover prays that, after a contradictory hearing with the District Attorney's Office, the Court order the above numbered case be set aside and that the prosecution dismissed in accordance with the Code of Criminal Procedure.
Respectfully submitted,
Signature of Attorney for Mover/Defendant
Attorney for Mover/Defendant Name
Attorney's Bar Roll No.
Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Telephone Number
If not represented by counsel:
Signature of Mover/Defendant
Mover/Defendant Name
Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Telephone Number
STATE OF LOUISIANA
JUDICIAL DISTRICT FOR THE PARISH OF
______________________________
No.: ______________
Division: "_______"
State of Louisiana
vs.
_______________________________________________________
RULE TO SHOW CAUSE
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED , that the District Attorney show cause on the _______ day of ______________________, 20 _____, at ______o'clock __m why the foregoing motion should not be granted.
THUS ORDERED AND SIGNED this ____ day of _________________, 20 ____ at ______________, Louisiana, ___________________________.
JUDGE
PLEASE SERVE:
District Attorney: _____________________________________________
Attorney for Defendant and/or Defendant ____________________________
STATE OF LOUISIANA
JUDICIAL DISTRICT FOR THE PARISH OF
______________________________
No.: _________
Division: "_______"
State of Louisiana
vs.
_______________________________________________________
ORDER OF DISMISSAL
Considering the Motion to Set Aside Conviction and Dismiss Prosecution, the hearing conducted on the representation of the State of Louisiana of its consent hereto, and that there is no opposition for any good cause appearing herein;
IT IS ORDERED, ADJUDGED AND DECREED that this conviction is set aside and the prosecution dismissed for purposes of expungement.
THUS ORDERED AND SIGNED this _____ day of _______________, 20 ____at ________________, Louisiana.
JUDGE
PLEASE SERVE:
District Attorney:________________________________________________
Attorney for Defendant and/or Defendant ___________________________"
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1.
" STATE OF LOUISIANA
JUDICIAL DISTRICT FOR THE PARISH OF
No.: ______________Division: "_______"
State of Louisiana
vs.
CERTIFICATION OF FEE WAIVER
To be completed by defendant and submitted to the District Attorney's Office prior to filing. Append completed form to Motion of Expungement at filing only if eligible.
DEFENDANT NAME
DATE OF BIRTH
SSN (last 4 digits)#
XXX-XX-
DATE OF ARREST
DOCKET NUMBER
CHARGE
In accordance with Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 983, the Office of the District Attorney has reviewed the available databases and determined that (Check all that apply. To be completed by authorized personnel from the District Attorney's Office and returned within 15 days to defendant.) :
□ The arrestee listed above has NO FELONY CONVICTIONS.
AND
□ The arrestee listed above has NO PENDING FELONY CHARGES UNDER A BILL OF INDICTMENT OR INFORMATION.
AND
□ The arrestee listed above WAS ACQUITTED after trial of all charges derived from the arrest listed above, including any lesser and included offense.
OR
□ The arrestee listed above WAS NOT PROSECUTED WITHIN THE TIME LIMITATIONS prescribed in Chapter 1 of Title XVII of the Code of Criminal Procedure and the arrestee did not participate in a pretrial diversion program for the arrest listed above.
OR
□ The case involving the arrestee listed above was dismissed or the district attorney declined to prosecute the case prior to the time limitations prescribed in Chapter 1 of Title XVII of the Code of Criminal Procedure, and the arrestee did not participate in a pretrial diversion program.
OR
□ The arrestee listed above has been determined to be factually innocent and entitled to compensation for a wrongful conviction pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 15:572.8.
OR
□ The arrestee listed above is a juvenile who has successfully completed any juvenile drug court program and is exempt from fees pursuant to Code of Criminal Procedure Article 983(G).
District Attorney or his designee - Print Name
___________________________________________________, 20"
District Attorney or his designee - SignatureDate
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2015, No. 200, §1.
STATE OF LOUISIANA
JUDICIAL DISTRICT FOR THE PARISH OF
No.: ______Division: ""
State of Louisiana
vs.
MOTION FOR EXPUNGEMENT
NOW INTO COURT comes mover, who provides the court with the following information in connection with this request:
I.DEFENDANT INFORMATION
NAME: ___________________________________________________________
(Last, First, MI)
DOB: /__/___ (MM/DD/YYYY)
SEX _____ Female _____Male
SSN (last 4 digits): XXX-XX-________
RACE: _________________
DRIVER LIC.# _________________
ARRESTING AGENCY: __________________________________________
SID# (if available): _________________
ARREST NUMBER (ATN): _________________
AGENCY ITEM NO. _________________
Mover is entitled to expunge the record of his arrest/conviction pursuant to Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 971 et seq. and states the following in support:
II.ARREST INFORMATION
Mover was arrested on __// (MM/DD/YYYY)
_____ YES _____ NO A supplemental sheet with arrests and/or convictions is attached after page 2 of this Motion.
Mover was:
_____ YES _____ NO Arrested, but it did not result in conviction
_____ YES _____ NO Convicted of and seeks to expunge a misdemeanor
_____ YES _____ NO Convicted of and seeks to expunge a felony
_____ YES _____ NO Convicted but determined to be factually innocent and entitled to compensation for a wrongful conviction pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 15:572.8.
____ Yes ____ No ARRESTS THAT DID NOT RESULT IN CONVICTION
NO. 1 La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense __________________
( ) Time expired for prosecution__________________
(MM/DD/YYYY)
( ) Not prosecuted for any offense
arising out of this charge.
( ) Pre-trial Diversion Program.
( ) DWI Pre-Trial Diversion Program
and 5 years have elapsed since the
date of arrest.
( ) Charge dismissed
( ) Found not guilty/judgment of acquittal
NO. 2 La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense __________________
( ) Time expired for prosecution__________________
(MM/DD/YYYY)
( ) Not prosecuted for any
offense arising out of this charge.
( ) Pre-trial Diversion Program.
( ) Charge dismissed
( ) Found not guilty/judgment of acquittal
NO. 3 La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense __________________
( ) Time expired for prosecution__________________
(MM/DD/YYYY)
( ) Not prosecuted for any offense
arising out of this charge.
( ) Pre-trial Diversion Program.
( ) Charge dismissed
( ) Found not guilty/judgment of acquittal
____ Yes ____ No MISDEMEANOR CONVICTIONS
NO. 1 La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 894(B) (MM/DD/YYYY)
( ) More than 5 years have passed
since completion of sentence.
NO. 2 La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 894(B) (MM/DD/YYYY)
( ) More than 5 years have passed
since completion of sentence.
____ Yes ____ No FELONY CONVICTIONS
NO. 1 La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 893(E)(MM/DD/YYYY)
( ) More than 10 years have passed
since completion of sentence
( ) Received a first offender pardon for an eligible offense
NO. 2 La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 893(E)(MM/DD/YYYY)
( ) More than 10 years have passed
since completion of sentence
( ) Received a first offender pardon for an eligible offense
____ Yes ____ No OPERATING A MOTOR VEHICLE WHILE INTOXICATED CONVICTIONS
Mover has attached the following:
( ) A copy of the proof from the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of motor vehicles, that it has received from the clerk of court a certified copy of the record of the plea, fingerprints of the defendant, and proof of the requirements set forth in C.Cr.P. Art. 556, which shall include the defendant's date of birth, last four digits of social security number, and driver's license number
□ Criminal Background Check from the La. State Police/Parish Sheriff dated within the past 60 days (required).
□ Bill(s) of Information (if any).
□ Minute entry showing final disposition of case (if any).
□ Certification Letter from the District Attorney for fee waiver (if eligible).
□ Certification Letter from the District Attorney verifying that the applicant has no convictions or pending applicable criminal charges in the requisite time periods.
□ Certification Letter from the District Attorney verifying that the charges were refused.
□ Certification Letter from the District Attorney verifying that the applicant did not participate in a pretrial diversion program.
□ A copy of a first offender pardon.
□ A copy of the order waiving the sex offender registration and notification requirements.
□ A copy of the court order determination of factual innocence and order of compensation for a wrongful conviction pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 15:572.8 if applicable.
The Mover prays that if there is no objection timely filed by the arresting law enforcement agency, the district attorney's office, or the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information, that an order be issued herein ordering the expungement of the record of arrest and/or conviction set forth above, including all photographs, fingerprints, disposition, or any other such information, which record shall be confidential and no longer considered a public record, nor be made available to other persons, except a prosecutor, member of a law enforcement agency, or a judge who may request such information in writing, certifying that such request is for the purpose of prosecuting, investigating, or enforcing the criminal law, for the purpose of any other statutorily defined law enforcement or administrative duties, or for the purpose of the requirements of sex offender registration and notification pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 15:541 et seq. or as an order of this Court to any other person for good cause shown, or as otherwise authorized by law.
If an "Affidavit of No Opposition" by each agency named herein is attached hereto and made a part hereof, Defendant requests that no contradictory hearing be required and the Motion be granted ex parte.
Respectfully submitted,
Signature of Attorney for Mover/Defendant
Attorney for Mover/Defendant Name
Attorney's Bar Roll No.
Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Telephone Number
If not represented by counsel:
Signature of Mover/Defendant
Mover/Defendant Name
Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Telephone Number
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2015, No. 200, §1; Acts 2016, No. 125, §1, eff. May 19, 2016; Acts 2018, No. 711, §1; Acts 2020, No. 71, §1; Acts 2020, No. 73, §1; Acts 2026, No. 814, §27.
"
STATE OF LOUISIANA
JUDICIAL DISTRICT FOR THE PARISH OF
______________________________
No.: ______________
Division: "_______"
State of Louisiana
vs.
_______________________________________________________
AFFIDAVIT OF RESPONSE
Pursuant to Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 980, the District Attorney for the Parish of __________________ acknowledges the following:
No Opposition. Respondent respectfully consents to waiver of the contradictory hearing.
Opposition to the Motion of Expungement with Reasons. Respondent respectfully requests a contradictory hearing.
OR
Pursuant to Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 980, the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information acknowledges the following:
No Opposition. Respondent respectfully consents to waiver of the contradictory hearing.
Opposition to the Motion of Expungement with Reasons. Respondent respectfully requests a contradictory hearing.
OR
Pursuant to Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 980, the arresting law enforcement agency__________________acknowledges the following:
No Opposition. Respondent respectfully consents to waiver of the contradictory hearing.
Opposition to the Motion of Expungement with Reasons. Respondent respectfully requests a contradictory hearing.
Respectfully submitted,
Signature of Attorney
Attorney's Bar Roll No.
Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Telephone Number
PLEASE SERVE:
District Attorney:______________________________________________
Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information___________
The Arresting Law Enforcement Agency___________________________
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1.
"
STATE OF LOUISIANA
JUDICIAL DISTRICT FOR THE PARISH OF
______________________________
No.: _____________
Division: "_______"
State of Louisiana
vs.
_______________________________________________________
ORDER
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED,
If there is an objection to the Motion for Expungement, the district attorney and the arresting law enforcement agency shall file a motion to object within sixty days of the service of this Order.
If the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information objects to the Motion for Expungement, they shall file a motion within 120 days of the service of this order (prior to August 1, 2015) and within 60 days of service of this order (after August 1, 2015).
NO CONTRADICTORY HEARING SHALL BE REQUIRED as evidenced by the "Affidavit of No Opposition" executed by each agency named herein and attached to the Motion for Expungement.
THUS ORDERED AND SIGNED this ____ day of _________________, 20 ____ at ______________, Louisiana, ___________________________.
JUDGE
PLEASE SERVE:
District Attorney:________________________________________________
Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information_____________
Arresting Agency: ____________________________________________"
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1.
STATE OF LOUISIANA
JUDICIAL DISTRICT FOR THE PARISH OF
No.: ____________ Division: "_______"
State of Louisiana
vs.
ORDER OF EXPUNGEMENT OF ARREST/CONVICTION RECORD
Considering the Motion for Expungement
□ The hearing conducted and evidence adduced herein, OR
□ Affidavits of No Opposition filed,
IT IS ORDERED, ADJUDGED AND DECREED
□ THE MOTION IS DENIED for No(s). __________ for the following reasons (check all that apply):
□ More than five years have not elapsed since Mover completed the misdemeanor conviction sentence.
□ More than ten years have not elapsed since Mover completed the felony conviction sentence.
□ Mover was convicted of one of the following ineligible felony offenses:
□ A violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law which is ineligible to be expunged.
□ An offense currently listed as a sex offense that requires registration pursuant to R.S. 15:540 et seq., at the time the Motion was filed, regardless of whether the duty to register was ever imposed.
□ An offense defined or enumerated as a "crime of violence" pursuant to R.S. 14:2(B) at the time the Motion was filed.
□ The arrest and conviction being sought to have expunged is for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated and a copy of the proof from the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, office of motor vehicles, is not attached as required by C.Cr.P. Art. 984(A).
□ Mover was convicted of a misdemeanor which arose from circumstances involving a sex offense as defined in R.S. 15:541.
□ Mover was convicted of misdemeanor offense of domestic abuse battery which was not dismissed pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 894(B).
□ Mover did not complete pretrial diversion.
□ The charges against the mover were not dismissed or refused.
□ Mover's felony conviction was not set aside and dismissed pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 893(E).
□ Mover's felony conviction was not set aside and dismissed pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 894(B).
□ Mover completed a DWI pretrial diversion program, but five years have not elapsed since the mover's date of arrest.
□ Mover's conviction for felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile is not defined as misdemeanor carnal knowledge of a juvenile had the mover been convicted on or after August 15, 2001.
□ Mover was not convicted of a crime that would be eligible for expungement as required by C.Cr.P. Art. 978(E)(1).
□ Mover has criminal charges pending against him.
□ Mover was convicted of a criminal offense during the ten-year period, excluding any noncapital felony during the preceding ten-year period that would otherwise be eligible for expungement pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 978(F).
□ Mover received a first offender pardon but for an ineligible offense.
□ Mover did not receive a first offender pardon.
□ Denial for any other reason provided by law with attached reasons for denial.
□THE MOTION IS HEREBY GRANTED for No(s). ____________ and all agencies are ordered to expunge the record of arrest/conviction and any photographs, fingerprints, or any other such information of any kind maintained in connection with the Arrest(s)/Conviction(s) in the above-captioned matter, which record shall be confidential and no longer considered a public record, nor be available to other persons except a prosecutor, member of a law enforcement agency, or a judge who may request such information in writing certifying that such request is for the purpose of prosecuting, investigating, or enforcing the criminal law, for the purpose of any other statutorily defined law enforcement or administrative duties, or for the purpose of the requirements of sex offender registration and notification pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 15:541 et seq. or upon an order of this Court to any other person for good cause shown, or as otherwise authorized by law.
□THE MOTION IS HEREBY GRANTED FOR EXPUNGEMENT BY REDACTION If the record includes more than one individual and the mover is entitled to expungement by redaction pursuant to Code of Criminal Procedure Article 985, for No(s). ____________ and all agencies are ordered to expunge the record of arrest/conviction and any photographs, fingerprints, or any other such information of any kind maintained in relation to the Arrest(s)/Conviction(s) in the above-captioned matter as they relate to the mover only. The record shall be confidential and no longer considered a public record, nor be available to other persons except a prosecutor, member of a law enforcement agency, or a judge who may request such information in writing certifying that such request is for the purpose of prosecuting, investigating, or enforcing the criminal law, for the purpose of any other statutorily defined law enforcement or administrative duties, or for the purpose of the requirements of sex offender registration and notification pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 15:541 et seq. or upon an order of this Court to any other person for good cause shown, or as otherwise authorized by law.
NAME: _______________________________________________________
(Last, First, MI)
DOB: //___ (MM/DD/YY)
SEX: _____ Female _____Male
SSN (last 4 digits): XXX-XX-_________
RACE: _________________
DRIVER LIC.# _________________
ARRESTING AGENCY: ______________________________________
SID# (if available): _________________
ARREST NUMBER (ATN): _________________
AGENCY ITEM NUMBER: _________________
ARREST DATE: //___ (MM/DD/YY)
THUS ORDERED AND SIGNED this _____ day of ___________, 20
at ________________________, Louisiana.
JUDGE
PLEASE SERVE:
District Attorney: ______________________________________________
Arresting Agency: _____________________________________________
Parish Sheriff:________________________________________________
Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information___________
Attorney for Defendant (or defendant)_____________________________
Clerk of Court ____________________________
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2015, No. 200, §1; Acts 2016, No. 125, §1, eff. May 19, 2016; Acts 2018, No. 711, §1; Acts 2020, No. 71, §1; Acts 2020, No. 73, §1; Acts 2020, No. 78, §1; Acts 2024, No. 580, §1; Acts 2026, No. 814, §27.
SUPPLEMENTAL SHEET
____ Yes ____ No ARRESTS THAT DID NOT RESULT IN CONVICTION
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Time expired for prosecution __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
( ) Charge refused by DA - not prosecuted.
( ) Pre-trial Diversion Program.
( ) Charge dismissed
( ) Found not guilty/judgment of acquittal
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Time expired for prosecution __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
( ) Charge refused by DA - not prosecuted.
( ) Pre-trial Diversion Program.
( ) Charge dismissed
( ) Found not guilty/judgment of acquittal
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Time expired for prosecution __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
( ) Charge refused by DA - not prosecuted.
( ) Pre-trial Diversion Program.
( ) Charge dismissed
( ) Found not guilty/judgment of acquittal
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Time expired for prosecution __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
( ) Charge refused by DA - not prosecuted.
( ) Pre-trial Diversion Program.
( ) Charge dismissed
( ) Found not guilty/judgment of acquittal
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Time expired for prosecution __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
( ) Charge refused by DA - not prosecuted.
( ) Pre-trial Diversion Program.
( ) Charge dismissed
( ) Found not guilty/judgment of acquittal
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Time expired for prosecution __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
( ) Charge refused by DA - not prosecuted.
( ) Pre-trial Diversion Program.
( ) Charge dismissed
( ) Found not guilty/judgment of acquittal
SUPPLEMENTAL SHEET
____ Yes ____ No MISDEMEANOR CONVICTIONS
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 894(B)
( ) More than 5 years have passed
since completion of sentence.
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 894(B)
( ) More than 5 years have passed
since completion of sentence.
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 894(B)
( ) More than 5 years have passed
since completion of sentence.
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 894(B)
( ) More than 5 years have passed
since completion of sentence.
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 894(B)
( ) More than 5 years have passed
since completion of sentence.
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 894(B)
( ) More than 5 years have passed
since completion of sentence.
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 894(B)
( ) More than 5 years have passed
since completion of sentence.
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 894(B)
( ) More than 5 years have passed
since completion of sentence.
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 894(B)
( ) More than 5 years have passed
since completion of sentence.
SUPPLEMENTAL SHEET
____ Yes ____ No FELONY CONVICTIONS
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 893(E)
( ) More than 10 years have passed
since completion of sentence
( ) Received a first offender pardon for an eligible offense
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 893(E)
( ) More than 10 years have passed
since completion of sentence
( ) Received a first offender pardon for an eligible offense
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 893(E)
( ) More than 10 years have passed
since completion of sentence
( ) Received a first offender pardon for an eligible offense
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 893(E)
( ) More than 10 years have passed
since completion of sentence
( ) Received a first offender pardon for an eligible offense
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 893(E)
( ) More than 10 years have passed
since completion of sentence
( ) Received a first offender pardon for an eligible offense
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 893(E)
( ) More than 10 years have passed
since completion of sentence
( ) Received a first offender pardon for an eligible offense
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 893(E)
( ) More than 10 years have passed
since completion of sentence
( ) Received a first offender pardon for an eligible offense
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 893(E)
( ) More than 10 years have passed
since completion of sentence
( ) Received a first offender pardon for an eligible offense
NO. ___ La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense _________________
( ) Conviction set aside/dismissed __//
(MM/DD/YYYY)
pursuant to C.Cr.P. Art. 893(E)
( ) More than 10 years have passed
since completion of sentence
( ) Received a first offender pardon for an eligible offense
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2018, No. 711, §1; Acts 2020, No. 73, §1.
STATE OF LOUISIANA
JUDICIAL DISTRICT FOR THE PARISH OF
No.: ______Division: ""
State of Louisiana
vs.
MOTION FOR INTERIM EXPUNGEMENT
NOW INTO COURT comes mover, who provides the court with the following information in connection with this request:
I.DEFENDANT INFORMATION
NAME: ___________________________________________________________
(Last, First, MI)
DOB: /__/___ (MM/DD/YYYY)
SEX _____ Female _____Male
SSN (last 4 digits): XXX-XX-________
RACE: _________________
DRIVER LIC.# _________________
ARRESTING AGENCY: __________________________________________
SID# (if available): _________________
ARREST NUMBER (ATN): _________________
AGENCY ITEM NO. ________________
Mover is entitled to an interim expungement of the entry of the felony charge(s) of his arrest pursuant to Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 985.1 and states the following in support:
II.ARREST INFORMATION
Mover was arrested on __// (MM/DD/YYYY)
_____ YES _____ NO A supplemental sheet with arrests and/or convictions is attached after page 2 of this Motion.
3.Mover was:
_____ YES _____ NO Arrested for a felony offense.
_____ YES _____ NO Convicted of a misdemeanor arising out of that felony offense.
____ Yes ____ No FELONY ARREST THAT RESULTED IN A MISDEMEANOR CONVICTION
NO. 1 La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § _______ : ________
Name of the offense __________________
(MM/DD/YYYY)
( ) Felony charge dismissed.
( ) Convicted of misdemeanor offense arising out of
felony arrest.
The mover prays that if there is no objection timely filed by the arresting law enforcement agency, the District Attorney's Office, or the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information, that an order be issued herein ordering the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information to expunge the entry of the felony charge(s) listed contained in the criminal history; and further that the Clerk of Court, District Attorney, and arresting law enforcement agency expunge the entry of those felony charge(s) from any public indices.
If an "Affidavit of No Opposition" by each agency named herein is attached hereto and made a part hereof, Defendant requests that no contradictory hearing be required and the Motion be granted ex parte.
Respectfully submitted,
Signature of Attorney for Mover/Defendant
Attorney for Mover/Defendant Name
Attorney's Bar Roll No.
Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Telephone Number
If not represented by counsel:
Signature of Mover/Defendant
Mover/Defendant Name
Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Telephone Number
PLEASE SERVE:
District Attorney______________________________________________
Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information___________
Arresting Agency ______________________________________________
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1; Acts 2018, No. 711, §1; Acts 2026, No. 814, §27.
"STATE OF LOUISIANA
JUDICIAL DISTRICT FOR THE PARISH OF
______________________________
No.: ____________
Division: "_______"
State of Louisiana
vs.
_______________________________________________________
ORDER OF EXPUNGEMENT OF INTERIM ARREST RECORD
Considering the Motion for Expungement
The hearing conducted and evidence adduced herein, OR
Affidavits of No Opposition filed,
IT IS ORDERED, ADJUDGED AND DECREED
THE MOTION IS DENIED for the following reasons (check all that apply):
Mover was not arrested for a felony.
Mover was not convicted of a misdemeanor offense.
THE MOTION IS HEREBY GRANTED and the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information is hereby ordered to expunge the entry of the felony charge(s) contained in the criminal history of the above-named for the following felony charge(s):
La. R.S.
_______: ________
Name of Offense
La. R.S.
_______: ________
Name of Offense
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the Clerk of Court, District Attorney and arresting agency expunge the entry of the felony charge(s) from any public indices of the above-named on the above enumerated charge(s).
THUS ORDERED AND SIGNED this ____ day of _________________________,
20 ______ at
_________________________, Louisiana.
JUDGE
PLEASE SERVE:
District Attorney ______________________________________________
Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information ___________
Arresting Agency _____________________________________________"
Acts 2014, No. 145, §1.
TRANSMITTAL OF RECORDS FOR EXPUNGEMENT OF DWI
PURSUANT TO C.Cr.P. Art. 984
DATE
OFFICE OF MOTOR VEHICLES
P.O. BOX 64886
BATON ROUGE, LA 70896
NAME_______________________DRIVERS LICENSE#___________________
DATE OF BIRTH:OFFENSE DATE:_______
SS#___DOCKET NO:
TICKET NO: ________________________
☐ Attached is a certified copy of the court minutes, original/certified copy of fingerprints and proof of the requirements as set forth in the Code of Criminal Procedure Article 556.1. Additionally, a $50.00 money order or certified funds made payable to the office of motor vehicles, in reference to the above named defendant is attached; or
☐ Attached is a copy of the certified letter received from office of motor vehicles indicating that all of the required documents were previously filed in conjunction with the requirements of Code of Criminal Procedure Article 894 and are on file. Additionally, a $50.00 money order or certified funds made payable to the office of motor vehicles is attached.
NOTE: Do not use this form to submit records of a DWI plea pursuant to Code of Criminal Procedure Article 894(A)(5).
Acts 2015, No. 200, §1.
STATE OF LOUISIANA
__________ JUDICIAL DISTRICT FOR THE PARISH OF ____________________
NO.:_________________________ DIVISION: _______________
STATE OF LOUISIANA
vs.
CERTIFICATION OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING VICTIM STATUS
In accordance with the provisions of Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 983, the Office of the District Attorney has reviewed and determined that one,
______________________________________________________________________, RACE/ SEX: ___________________DOB: , SSN:, has established by a preponderance of the evidence proof of status as a victim of human trafficking in accordance with the provisions of R.S. 14:46.2, for the following offense(s), detailed specifically as follows:
(If more than one offense, each relevant offense must be specifically listed in the following format)
OFFENSE:________________________
DOCKET NO:_____________________
CHARGE:________________________
DATE OF ARREST:________________
ARRESTING AGENCY:____________
CITY/PARISH OF ARREST:___________________
FURTHER, that the above offense(s) for which this Certification issued was committed, in substantial part, as a result of the above-named being a victim of human trafficking, in accordance with R.S. 14:46.2.
FURTHER, this Certification shall be considered as prima facie evidence of the victim's status in similar eligible crimes committed within other Louisiana jurisdictions during the time period in which the above-named was a victim of human trafficking.
FURTHER, all applicable time delays pertaining to expungement contained in Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Articles 977 and 978 shall be waived when presented to the clerk of court with an application for expungement of the above-specified offense(s).
FURTHER, any application for expungement of the above-specified offense(s) shall be at no cost to the above-named victim.
DATE DISTRICT ATTORNEY
PARISH OF
_____________ JUDICIAL DISTRICT
STATE OF LOUISIANA
Acts 2022, No. 130, §1, eff. May 26, 2022; Acts 2026, No. 814, §27.
STATE OF LOUISIANA
JUDICIAL DISTRICT FOR THE PARISH OF
No.: ______Division: ""
State of Louisiana
vs.
MOTION FOR EXPUNGEMENT FOR MISDEMEANOR CONVICTION FOR A FIRST OFFENSE POSSESSION OF MARIJUANANOW INTO COURT comes mover, who provides the court with the following information in connection with this request:
I.DEFENDANT INFORMATION
NAME: ___________________________________________________________
(Last, First, MI)
DOB: /__/___ (MM/DD/YYYY)
SEX _____ Female _____Male
SSN (last 4 digits): XXX-XX-________
RACE: _________________
DRIVER LIC.# _________________
ARRESTING AGENCY: __________________________________________
SID# (if available): _________________
ARREST NUMBER (ATN): _________________
AGENCY ITEM NO. _________________
Mover is entitled to expunge the record of his arrest/conviction pursuant to Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 971 et seq. and states the following in support:
II. MISDEMEANOR CONVICTION FOR A FIRST OFFENSE POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA
The Mover prays that if there is no objection timely filed by the arresting law enforcement agency, the district attorney's office, or the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information, that an order be issued herein ordering the expungement of the record of arrest and/or conviction set forth above, including all photographs, fingerprints, disposition, or any other such information, which record shall be confidential and no longer considered a public record, nor be made available to other persons, except a prosecutor, member of a law enforcement agency, or a judge who may request such information in writing, certifying that such request is for the purpose of prosecuting, investigating, or enforcing the criminal law, for the purpose of any other statutorily defined law enforcement or administrative duties, or for the purpose of the requirements of sex offender registration and notification pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 15:541 et seq. or as an order of this court to any other person for good cause shown, or as otherwise authorized by law.
If an "Affidavit of No Opposition" by each agency named herein is attached hereto and made a part hereof, defendant requests that no contradictory hearing be required and the motion be granted ex parte.
Respectfully submitted,
Signature of Attorney for Mover/Defendant
Attorney for Mover/Defendant Name
Attorney's Bar Roll No.
Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Telephone Number
If not represented by counsel:
Signature of Mover/Defendant
Mover/Defendant Name
Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Telephone Number
Acts 2023, No. 342, §1; Acts 2026, No. 814, §27.
A. A person shall be entitled to the expedited expungement of his arrest, at no cost to him, if the person meets all of the following:
(1) The person is seventeen years of age when the person is arrested or charged with any criminal offense as provided in Title 14 or 40 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950.
(2) The district attorney, for any reason, declined to prosecute all offenses arising out of that arrest, including the reason that the person successfully completed a pretrial diversion program.
(3) Prosecution was instituted and such proceedings have been finally disposed of by dismissal, sustaining of a motion to quash, or acquittal.
B. The provisions of this Article shall not apply to any misdemeanor or felony conviction arising from the incident of arrest.
C. The expedited expungement shall be served pursuant to the provisions of Article 982.
Acts 2024, No. 270, §1.
JUDICIAL DISTRICT FOR THE PARISH OF
No.: ______Division: ""
State of Louisiana
vs.
ORDER OF EXPUNGEMENT UNDER
CODE OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE ARTICLE 999
Pursuant to Code of Criminal Procedure Article 999, wherein all of the following applies,
(1) The defendant was seventeen years of age when the defendant was arrested or charged with any criminal offense as provided in Title 14 or 40 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950.
(2) The district attorney, for any reason, declined to prosecute all offenses arising out of that arrest, including the reason that the person successfully completed a pretrial diversion program.
(3) Prosecution was instituted and such proceedings have been finally disposed of by dismissal, sustaining of a motion to quash, or acquittal.
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that the following charges and arrest on the dates provided herein be expunged.
THUS ORDERED AND SIGNED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED this ____ day of ___________, 20 ____ at ______________, Louisiana, ___________________________.
JUDGE
DEFENDANT INFORMATION:
NAME:________________________________________________
First Middle Last
DATE OF BIRTH:_____________
SEX:_____________
SS#___________________________
RACE___________________________
DRIVER'S LICENSE#___________________
ARRESTING AGENCY___________________
SID#___________________
ARREST NUMBER (ATN)___________________
AGENCY ITEM NO:________________________
PLEASE SERVE:
District Attorney:________________________________________________
Arresting Agency:_______________________________________________
Parish Sheriff:_______________________________________
Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information
Attorney for Defendant (or defendant)____________________________
Clerk of Court ____________________________
Acts 2024, No. 270, §1; Acts 2026, No. 814, §27.
As used in this Title:
(1) "Dating partner" shall have the same meaning as provided in R.S. 46:2151 or R.S. 14:34.9.
(2) "Family member" shall have the same meaning as provided in R.S. 46:2132 or R.S. 14:35.3.
(3) "Firearm" means any pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun, machine gun, submachine gun, black powder weapon, or assault rifle which is designed to fire or is capable of firing fixed cartridge ammunition or from which a shot or projectile is discharged by an explosive.
(4) "Household member" shall have the same meaning as provided in R.S. 46:2132 or R.S. 14:35.3.
(5) "Other law enforcement agency" shall include any local or municipal police force, the constable, and state police.
(6) "Sheriff" means the sheriff of the jurisdiction in which the order was issued, unless the person resides outside of the jurisdiction in which the order is issued. If the person resides outside of the jurisdiction in which the order is issued, "sheriff" means the sheriff of the parish in which the person resides.
Acts 2018, No. 367, §3, eff. Oct. 1, 2018; Acts 2019, No. 427, §3.
Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, the sheriff may enter into an agreement with any other law enforcement agency to have that law enforcement agency assume the duties of the sheriff under this Title.
Acts 2019, No. 427, §3.
A.(1) When a person has any of the following, the judge shall order the transfer of all firearms and the suspension of a concealed handgun permit of the person:
(a) A conviction of domestic abuse battery (R.S. 14:35.3).
(b) A second or subsequent conviction of battery of a dating partner (R.S. 14:34.9).
(c) A conviction of battery of a dating partner that involves strangulation (R.S. 14:34.9(K)).
(d) A conviction of battery of a dating partner when the offense involves burning (R.S. 14:34.9(L)).
(e) A conviction of possession of a firearm or carrying a concealed weapon by a person convicted of domestic abuse battery and certain offenses of battery of a dating partner (R.S. 14:95.10).
(f) A conviction of domestic abuse aggravated assault (R.S. 14:37.7).
(g) A conviction of aggravated assault upon a dating partner (R.S. 14:34.9.1).
(h) A conviction of any felony crime of violence enumerated or defined in R.S. 14:2(B), for which a person would be prohibited from possessing a firearm pursuant to R.S. 14:95.1, and which has as an element of the crime that the victim was a family member, household member, or dating partner.
(i) A conviction of any felony crime of violence enumerated or defined in R.S. 14:2(B), for which a person would be prohibited from possessing a firearm pursuant to R.S. 14:95.1, and in which the victim of the crime was determined to be a family member, household member, or dating partner.
(2) Upon issuance of an injunction or order under any of the following circumstances, the judge shall order the transfer of all firearms and the suspension of a concealed handgun permit of the person who is subject to the injunction or order:
(a) The issuance of a permanent injunction or a protective order pursuant to a court-approved consent agreement or pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 9:361 et seq., R.S. 9:372, R.S. 46:2136, 2151, or 2173, Children's Code Article 1570, Code of Civil Procedure Article 3607.1, or Articles 30, 320, or 871.1 of this Code.
(b) The issuance of a Uniform Abuse Prevention Order that includes terms that prohibit the person from possessing a firearm or carrying a concealed weapon.
B.(1) The order to transfer firearms and suspend a concealed handgun permit shall be issued by the court at the time of conviction for any of the offenses listed in Subparagraph (A)(1) of this Article or at the time the court issues an injunction or order under any of the circumstances listed in Subparagraph (A)(2) of this Article.
(2) In the order to transfer firearms and suspend a concealed handgun permit the court shall inform the person subject to the order that he is prohibited from possessing a firearm and carrying a concealed weapon pursuant to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 922(g)(8) and Louisiana law.
C. At the same time an order to prohibit a person from possessing a firearm or carrying a concealed weapon is issued, the court shall also cause all of the following to occur:
(1) Require the person to state in open court or complete an affidavit stating the number of firearms in his possession and the location of all firearms in his possession.
(2) Require the person to complete a firearm information form that states the number of firearms in his possession, the type of each firearm, and the location of each firearm.
(3) Transmit a copy of the order to transfer firearms and a copy of the firearm information form to the sheriff of the parish or the sheriff of the parish of the person's residence.
D.(1) The court shall, on the record and in open court, order the person to transfer all firearms in his possession to the sheriff no later than forty-eight hours, exclusive of legal holidays, after the order is issued and a copy of the order and firearm information form required by Paragraph C of this Article is sent to the sheriff. If the person is incarcerated at the time the order is issued, he shall transfer his firearms no later than forty-eight hours after his release from incarceration, exclusive of legal holidays. At the time of transfer, the sheriff and the person shall complete a proof of transfer form. The proof of transfer form shall contain the quantity of firearms transferred. The sheriff shall retain a copy of the form and provide the person with a copy. The proof of transfer form shall attest that the person is not currently in possession of firearms in accordance with the provisions of this Title and is currently compliant with state and federal law, but shall not include the date on which the transfer occurred.
(2) Within ten days of transferring his firearms, exclusive of legal holidays, the person shall file the proof of transfer form with the clerk of court of the parish in which the order was issued. The proof of transfer form shall be maintained by the clerk of court under seal.
E.(1) If the person subject to the order to transfer firearms and suspend a concealed handgun permit issued pursuant to Paragraph A of this Article does not possess firearms, at the time the order is issued, the person shall complete a declaration of nonpossession form which shall be filed in the court record and a copy shall be provided to the sheriff.
(2) Within five days of the issuance of the order pursuant to Paragraph A of this Article, exclusive of legal holidays, the person shall file the declaration of nonpossession with the clerk of court of the parish in which the order was issued.
F. Notwithstanding the provisions of Paragraph E of this Article or any other provision of law to the contrary, if the person subject to the order to transfer firearms and suspend a concealed handgun permit issued pursuant to Paragraph A of this Article possessed firearms at the time of the qualifying incident giving rise to the duty to transfer his firearms pursuant to this Title, but transferred or sold his firearms to a third party prior to the court's issuance of the order, that third-party transfer shall be declared in open court. The person subject to the order to transfer firearms and suspend a concealed handgun permit shall within ten days after issuance of the order, exclusive of legal holidays, execute along with the third party and a witness a proof of transfer form that complies with the provisions of Paragraph D of this Article and with Article 1003(A)(1)(a). The proof of transfer form need not be signed by the sheriff and shall be filed, within ten days after the date on which the proof of transfer form is executed, by the person subject to the order with the clerk of court of the parish in which the order was issued. The proof of transfer form shall be maintained by the clerk of court under seal.
G. The failure to provide the information required by this Title, the failure to timely transfer firearms in accordance with the provisions of this Title, or both, may be punished as contempt of court. Information required to be provided in order to comply with the provisions of this Title cannot be used as evidence against that person in a future criminal proceeding, except as provided by the laws on perjury or false swearing.
H. On motion of the district attorney or of the person transferring his firearms, and for good cause shown, the court shall conduct a contradictory hearing with the district attorney to ensure that the person has complied with the provisions of this Title.
I. For the purposes of this Title, a person shall be deemed to be in possession of a firearm if that firearm is subject to his dominion and control.
Acts 2018, No. 367, §3, eff. Oct. 1, 2018; Acts 2019, No. 427, §3.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Articles 814 and 817 and any other provision of law to the contrary, when a person is charged with any felony crime of violence enumerated or defined in R.S. 14:2(B), for which the person would be prohibited from possessing a firearm pursuant to R.S. 14:95.1 if convicted, the district attorney may allege in the indictment or bill of information that the victim of the crime was a family member, household member, or dating partner for the purpose of invoking the provisions of this Title, including Article 1002(A)(1)(i). If the person pleads guilty to the indictment or bill of information, the fact that the victim was a family member, household member, or dating partner shall be deemed admitted. If the matter proceeds to trial, the issue of whether the victim was a family member, household member, or dating partner shall be submitted to the jury and the verdict shall include a specific finding of fact as to that issue in addition to a specification of the offense as to which the verdict is found.
Acts 2019, No. 427, §3.
A. The sheriff of each parish shall be responsible for oversight of firearm transfers in his parish. For each firearm transferred pursuant to this Title, the sheriff shall offer all of the following options to the transferor:
(1)(a) Allow a third party to receive and hold the transferred firearms. The third party shall complete a firearms acknowledgment form that, at a minimum, informs the third party of the relevant state and federal laws, lists the consequences for noncompliance, and asks if the third party is able to lawfully possess a firearm. No firearm shall be transferred to a third party living in the same residence as the transferor at the time of transfer. The sheriff shall prescribe the manner in which firearms are transferred to a third party.
(b) If a firearm is transferred to a third party pursuant to the provisions of this Subparagraph, the sheriff shall advise the third party that return of the firearm to the person before the person is able to lawfully possess the firearms pursuant to state or federal law may result in the third party being charged with a crime.
(2) Store the transferred firearms in a storage facility with which the sheriff has contracted for the storage of transferred firearms or with the sheriff. The sheriff may charge a reasonable fee for the storage of such firearms.
(3) Oversee the legal sale of the transferred firearms to a third party. The sheriff may contract with a licensed firearms dealer for such purpose. The sheriff may charge a reasonable fee to oversee the sale of firearms.
B. The sheriff shall prepare a receipt for each firearm transferred and provide a copy to the person transferring the firearms. The receipt shall include the firearm manufacturer and firearm serial number. The receipt shall be signed by the officer accepting the firearms and the person transferring the firearms. The sheriff may require the receipt to be presented before returning a transferred firearm.
C. The sheriff shall keep a record of all transferred firearms including but not limited to the name of the person transferring the firearm, the manufacturer, model, serial number, and the manner in which the firearm is stored.
D.(1) When the person is no longer prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law, the person whose firearms were transferred pursuant to the provisions of this Title may file a motion with the court seeking an order for the return of the transferred firearms.
(2) Upon reviewing the motion, if the court determines that the person is no longer prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law, the court shall issue an order stating that the firearms transferred pursuant to the provisions of this Title shall be returned to the person. The order shall include the date on which the person is no longer prohibited from possessing a firearm and a copy of the order shall be sent to the sheriff. However, all outstanding fees shall be paid to the sheriff prior to the firearms being returned.
(3) No sheriff or third party to whom the firearms were transferred pursuant to the provisions of this Title, shall return a transferred firearm prior to receiving the order issued by the court pursuant to the provisions of this Paragraph.
(4) If the person refuses to pay outstanding fees to the sheriff or fails to file a motion with the court seeking an order for the return of the transferred firearms within one year of the expiration of the prohibition on possessing firearms under state or federal law, the sheriff may send, by United States mail to the person's last known address, a notice informing the person that if he does not pay the outstanding fees to the sheriff or file a motion with the court seeking an order for the return of the transferred firearms within ninety days, the firearms shall be forfeited to the sheriff. If, after ninety days from the mailing of the notice, the person does not pay the outstanding fees to the sheriff or file a motion with the court seeking an order for the return of the transferred firearms, the sheriff may file a motion seeking a court order declaring that the firearms are forfeited to the sheriff, who may thereafter dispose of the firearms at his discretion.
E. The sheriff shall exercise due care to preserve the quality and function of all firearms transferred under the provisions of this Title. However, the sheriff shall not be liable for damage to firearms except for cases of willful or wanton misconduct or gross negligence. In addition, the sheriff shall not be liable for damage caused by the third party to whom the firearms were transferred pursuant to the provisions of this Title.
F. Nothing in this Title shall be construed to prohibit the sheriff, consistent with constitutional requirements, from obtaining a search warrant to authorize testing or examination upon any firearm so as to facilitate any criminal investigation or prosecution. Notwithstanding Article 163(C) or any other provision of law to the contrary, the testing or examination of the firearms pursuant to the search warrant may be conducted at any time before or during the pendency of any criminal proceeding in which the firearms, or the testing or examination of the firearms, may be used as evidence, and shall not be subject to the ten-day period in Article 163(C).
G. Not sooner than three years after the date on which a firearm or firearms are returned pursuant to the provisions of this Article, the person may file a motion with the court requesting that the records relative to the firearm or firearms held by the clerk of court and by the sheriff be destroyed. After a contradictory hearing with the sheriff and the district attorney, which may be waived by the sheriff or the district attorney, the court, if the person is no longer prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law and if the firearm or firearms have actually been returned, shall order that the records held by the clerk of court and by the sheriff relative to the returned firearm or firearms be destroyed.
Acts 2018, No. 367, §3, eff. Oct. 1, 2018; Acts 2019, No. 427, §3.
Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, any records held by the sheriff or any other law enforcement agency pursuant to this Title shall be confidential and shall not be considered a public record pursuant to the Public Records Law.
Acts 2019, No. 427, §3.
The sheriff, clerk of court, and district attorney of each parish shall develop forms, policies, and procedures no later than January 1, 2019, regarding the communication of convictions and orders issued between agencies, procedures for the acceptance of transferred firearms, procedures for the storage of transferred firearms, return of transferred firearms, the proof of transfer form, the declaration of nonpossession form, and any other form, policy, or procedure necessary to effectuate the provisions of this Title.
Acts 2018, No. 367, §3, eff. Oct. 1, 2018.
A.(1) The sheriff of each parish shall report on an annual basis to the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Criminal Justice the following aggregate data:
(a) The total number of civil orders to transfer firearms received by the sheriff's office pursuant to Article 1002(C)(3).
(b) The total number of criminal orders to transfer firearms received by the sheriff's office pursuant to Article 1002(C)(3).
(c) The total number of proof of transfer forms completed and retained by the sheriff's office as required by Article 1002(D)(1).
(d) The total number of declarations of nonpossession received by the sheriff's office pursuant to Article 1002(E)(1).
(e) The number of firearm transfers completed as required by Article 1002 including:
(i) The total number of firearms transferred to the sheriff's office.
(ii) The total number of firearms transferred to a third-party entity.
(iii) The total number of firearms transferred to contracted storage.
(iv) The total number of firearms transferred via legal sale.
(f) The number of orders received from the court stating that firearms shall be returned to the transferor pursuant to Article 1003(D)(2).
(2) The sheriff shall submit a report to the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Criminal Justice regardless of whether the sheriff is able to complete a firearm transfer pursuant to Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph.
B. Not later than January 1, 2023, the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Criminal Justice shall create and distribute a standardized form for use by the sheriff of each parish to use to report all aggregate data fields required by Paragraph A of this Article. The form shall not contain any identifying information of the person who possesses the firearm and shall only contain numerical data provided in Paragraph A of this Article.
C. The Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Criminal Justice shall identify a single point of contact or web portal to which each sheriff shall submit the completed form created pursuant to Paragraph B of this Article.
D. The sheriff of each parish shall submit the completed form to the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Criminal Justice no later than January thirty-first of each calendar year. Each form shall contain the aggregate data for each of the items listed in Paragraph A of this Article for the prior calendar year.
E. The Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Criminal Justice shall publish the data collected from the sheriff of each parish pursuant to Paragraph D of this Article to the commission's public website by February twenty-eighth of each calendar year.
F. The Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Criminal Justice shall submit a report containing the information received pursuant to Paragraph D of this Article to the House Committee on Administration of Criminal Justice and the Senate Committee on Judiciary C no later than March first of each calendar year.
Acts 2022, No. 484, §1.
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