Louisiana Court Records

How to Run a Louisiana Court Records Search

Are you in need of legal documents for a case or personal reasons? Look no further than Louisiana court records. These records contain valuable information that can be used for a variety of purposes, from background checks to legal research. In this article, we will discuss the different types of courts in Louisiana and how to obtain these records from various sources, including the clerk of the courts.

The process of running a Louisiana court records search is straight forward. All you need to begin your inquiry is the LA court case number, or the first and last name of the person you want to research. A starting point for many people is a public record site where you can search statewide with just a name. If you have the case number, that will simplify things.

Various Ways to Obtain Louisiana Court Records

There are several ways to obtain Louisiana public court records, including online databases, in-person requests, and through the clerk of the courts.

Online Databases

One of the easiest ways to obtain Louisiana court case records is through online databases. These databases allow you to search for records by name, case number, or other criteria. Some popular online databases for Louisiana public court records include:

• Louisiana Courthouse Website: This is the official website of the Louisiana judicial system and allows you to search for records by name, case number, or citation number.
• Louisiana Clerks of Court Association: This website provides links to the websites of the various clerks of the different judicial branches of Louisiana, where you can search for case documents and file. You can set an appointment to meet with them in person, or over the phone. They are a great resource if you have difficulty locating the information you are seeking.
• Public Records Websites: These directories provide a one-stop-shop for all things public records. You can search statewide with a simple name search and unlock a multitude of information not available from government sites. Here you can find information on convictions, criminal records, arrest history, police reports, incarcerations, arrest warrants and comprehensive background checks.

It is also good to note that with public record sites you can often request a free Louisiana court records search online. Most sites will give you some limited information for free. However, if you need more detailed reports you will most likely need to pay a small fee.

In-Person Requests

If you prefer to obtain court records in person, you can visit the courthouse in the parish where the case was filed. You will need to provide the name of the parties involved and the case number, if known. You may also be required to pay a fee for copies of the records. Certified copies will be an additional cost as well.

Clerk of the Courts

The Louisiana clerk of the courts is the official record keeper for the courthouse information and dockets in Louisiana. They are responsible for maintaining and providing access to a multitude of information and scheduling.

To obtain information from the clerk of the courts, you will need to visit the clerk’s office in person or submit a request by mail. You will need to provide the name of the parties involved and the case number, if known. You may also be required to pay a fee for copies of the records.

Types of Courts in Louisiana

Louisiana has a unique judicial system that is divided into four levels: the Supreme, Appeals, District, and the Justice of the Peace. Each handles different types of cases and legal matters. While there is overlap between some of these courts, they each have distinct functions within the state’s legal framework.

Supreme Court

The Louisiana Supreme Court is the highest court in the state and has final say in anything legally binding. It is composed of seven justices who are elected by the people for ten-year terms. They mostly handle appeals and have the judicial power to review and overturn decisions made other courts.

Court of Appeals

The Court of Appeals is the intermediate appellate court in Louisiana and is divided into five circuits. Each circuit has a panel of three judges who are elected by the people for ten-year terms. The Court of Appeals hears appeals from the District Courts and has the power to review and overturn their decisions.

District Courts

The District Courts deal mostly with trials in Louisiana. They are divided into 42 judicial districts. Each district has at least one judge who is elected by the people for six-year terms. They have jurisdiction over civil, criminal, and family law cases.

Justice of the Peace Courts

The Justice of the Peace Courts are the lowest level of judicial system in Louisiana. They handle small claims cases and traffic citations. They are divided into 64 districts, with each district having at least one justice of the peace who is elected by the people for six-year terms.

What Can Be Found in Louisiana Court Records?

Louisiana public court records contain a wealth of information that can be useful for a variety of purposes. Some of the information that can be found in these records includes:

• Case Information: This includes the names of the parties involved, the type of case, and the date the case was filed.
• Court Documents: These can include pleadings, motions, and other legal documents filed in the case.
• Dockets: A docket is a list of all the events and actions that have taken place in a case, such as hearings and filings.
• Judgments and Orders: These are the final decisions made by the in a case by a judge or jury.
• Sentencing Information: Louisiana criminal court records may include information about the sentence imposed by the courthouse judge.
• Witness and Expert Information: Court case records may also contain the names and contact information of witnesses and experts involved in the case.

Tips for Obtaining Louisiana Public Court Records

When requesting any type of records, it is important to provide as much information as possible to ensure that you receive the correct information. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Provide the full names of the parties involved: This will help to ensure that you receive the correct records.
• Provide the case number, if known: This will make it easier for the clerk to locate the records.
• Be specific about the type of records you need: If you are looking for a specific document, such as a judgment or order, be sure to specify this in your request.
• Be prepared to pay a fee: Most courthouses charge a fee for copies of documents, especially those that are certified. The fee may vary depending on the type of record and the number of pages.

Conclusion

Louisiana public court records are a valuable resource for a variety of purposes, from legal research to background checks. You can find a multitude of different court case records and relevant legal information online. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can easily obtain the public records you need for your specific purposes.