Source: http://www.docstoc.com/docs/61638779/Temporary-Custody-Forms-for-Louisiana---DOC
Timestamp: 2014-08-20 22:42:26
Document Index: 347418348

Matched Legal Cases: ['Art. 105', 'Art. 105', 'Art. 3607', 'Art. 1702', 'Art. 103', 'Art. 1702', 'Art 1702', 'Art. 103', 'Art. 969', 'Art. 969', 'Art. 102', 'Art. 102', 'Art. 102', 'Art.\n2374', 'Art. 3604', 'Art. 3945', 'Art. 3945', 'Art. 3945', 'art. 3945', 'art. 863', 'Art. 105']

Temporary Custody Forms for Louisiana - DOC
OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT
ACADIA, LAFAYETTE AND VERMILION PARISHES
(Effective April 1, 2005, As Amended August 7, 2006 and October 31, 2007)
Chapter 3, Appendix 2, Rule 3.1. DIVISIONS OR SECTIONS OF THE COURT
The Court shall be divided into thirteen (13) divisions, &#39;&#39;A&quot;, &#39;&#39;B&quot;, &#39;&#39;C&quot;, &#39;&#39;D&quot;, &#39;&#39;E&quot;, &#39;&#39;F&quot;, &#39;&#39;G&quot;, &#39;&#39;H&quot;, &#39;&#39;I&quot;,
&#39;&#39;J&quot;, &#39;&#39;K&quot;, &#39;&#39;L&quot; and &#39;&#39;M&quot;, and each judge shall preside in the divisions to which the Judge has been
elected, as provided in R.S. 13:582. This rule is adopted pursuant to the authority granted
Divisions or Sections of Court in R.S. 13:472. All divisions shall be allotted adoption matters
randomly by the Clerk of Court in the Parishes where the Judges’ respective chambers are
located. Cases assigned to the therapeutic drug court are allotted to Division B. Cases assigned
to Juvenile Drug Court are allotted to Division I. Suits for annulment, divorce and separation
where there are no minor children born of, adopted or legitimated by the marriage together with
all related incidental matters as defined by La. C.C. Art. 105, including a request for protective
order instituted after the filing of the suit, and the community property partitions associated with
the dissolution of said marriages shall be allotted to Divisions &#39;&#39;A&quot;, &#39;&#39;B&quot;, &#39;&#39;C&quot;, &#39;&#39;D&quot;, &#39;&#39;E&quot;, &#39;&#39;F&quot;, &#39;&#39;G&quot;,
&#39;&#39;I&quot;, &#39;&#39;J&quot;, &#39;&#39;K&quot; and &#39;&#39;L&quot;. Matters assigned to the Family Docket are allotted to Divisions H and M.
Title IV. NUMBERING SYSTEM FOR FAMILY AND DOMESTIC RELATIONS
PROCEEDINGS IN DISTRICT COURTS
Rule 23.0. Divisions of the Court
There shall be a Family Docket in the Fifteenth Judicial District and that Docket shall be allotted
to Divisions H and M. Matters heard on the Family Docket shall include:
(a)     Suits for annulment, divorce and separation where there are minor children born
of, adopted or legitimated by the marriage together with all related incidental
matters as defined by La. C.C. Art. 105 and the community property partitions
associated with the dissolution of said marriages.
(b)     All child-related issues such as the establishment or disavowal of the paternity of
children, filiation, custody, visitation, and support in non-marital cases, name
changes for minor children, emancipations, or any other such matters as may be
designated by the District Judges.
(c)     All protective orders filed in accordance with R.S. 46:2131, et seq., and R.S.
46:2151 et seq., unless an annulment, separation or divorce action is pending and
is a non-Family Docket matter.
Pursuant to LSA R.S. 46:236.5 this Court, hereby implements an expedited process for the
establishment, modification and enforcement of support obligations by authorizing and directing
Judges assigned to the Family Docket to nominate one or more Hearing Officers, with the
approval of a majority of Judges of the Fifteenth Judicial District Court, to hear support related
matters, and to hire and employ any and all such other personnel deemed necessary to implement
this procedure, all of whom shall serve at the pleasure of the Court.
Such Hearing Officer(s) shall have authority to perform and shall perform any and all duties
assigned to him, her or them by the Judges of this Court which are consistent with LSA R.S.
46:236.5, as it presently exists or as it may be, from time to time, supplemented or amended in
the future, including but not limited to, matters for the establishment of paternity and the
establishment and enforcement of support and other domestic and family matters. Domestic and
family matters shall include divorce and all issues ancillary to a divorce proceeding; all child-
related issues such as paternity, filiation, custody, visitation, and support in non-marital cases; all
protective orders filed in accordance with R.S. 46:2131 et seq., R.S. 46:2151 et seq., and all
injunctions filed in accordance with R.S. 9:361, 371, and 372 and Code of Civil Procedure
Articles 3601 et seq., which involve personal abuse, terrorizing, stalking, or harassment; and
enforcement of orders in any of these matters, including contempt of court.
Said Hearing Officer(s) shall be prohibited from appearing or practicing before the Fifteenth
The entire Court, by majority vote shall fix the salary, or salaries, of the Hearing Officer(s) and
any such other personnel hired or employed to implement this procedure.
There shall be such number of Hearing Officers for the Family Docket of the 15th Judicial
District Court as authorized by the District Judges.
Rule 24.0. Scheduling Hearing; Scheduling Trials
All parties must have actual notice not less than 10 days before trial of a rule or on the merits,
unless a shorter period of time is provided by law.
A matter may be set for trial by either party, after all issues are joined. Counsel shall not submit
a motion to set for trial without first making a good faith attempt to reach a mutual agreement
with opposing counsel for the date of trial, and for such scheduling order as the parties may agree
upon. In such event where mutual agreement is reached, the proposed trial date and scheduling
order shall be submitted to the Court for approval.
In the event the parties cannot agree regarding a date for trial and/or the appropriate or necessary
scheduling order, either party may submit to the Court a Motion to Set for Trial and Request for
Issuance of Scheduling Order. The matter may be set for status conference which, at the judge’s
discretion may be conducted by telephone for the purpose of choosing a trial date, determining
an appropriate scheduling order for such matters as amendment of pleadings, discovery cut-off,
exchange of witness and exhibit lists and such other matters as the Court may determine or
require within its discretion.
Notice of the scheduled trial date and any pertinent scheduling orders shall be mailed by the
clerk of court to all counsel of record or unrepresented parties.
In the event a matter that may be heard as a summary proceeding on rule day requires, or either
party anticipates it shall require, the use of extensive witness testimony and/or introduction of
exhibits, either party may request that the matter be set for trial on the Court’s regular merits
docket. The determination of whether such matter shall be set for trial in such manner and the
issuance of pertinent pre-trial scheduling orders shall be conducted in the same fashion as set
In any event, in any matter in which witnesses are expected to testify or exhibits introduced, the
moving party and/or plaintiff shall provide a witness and exhibit list to opposing counsel seven
(7) days prior to the scheduled hearing or trial. The Defending party shall provide a witness and
exhibit list to the opposing party no less than five (5) days prior to trial.
Upon a showing of good cause, with mutual consent, hearings before the Court in divorce
proceedings may be held in chambers.
Rule 24.1. Order of Business
Section A. The order of business on Family Docket rule days shall be as follows:
(a)     Reading of the minutes;
(b)     Filing of pleadings;
(c)     Judgments for signature, and judgments and opinions to be handled by the Court;
(d)     Motions and assignments of cases for trial;
(e)     Preliminary defaults;
(f)     Confessions of judgment, uncontested partitions and other matters except rules
not at issue by answer or opposition;
(g)     Entering judgments of divorce and confirmations of default under C.C. Articles
102 and 103;
(h)     Trial of rules, exceptions or cases fixed on the docket.
In Acadia and Vermilion Parishes, cases to be tried on the merits may be fixed on any day, but
on Rule days the order of business set out above and the trial of rules and exceptions shall take
preference, except in Lafayette Parish where no cases will be fixed for trial on the merits on Rule
Section B. On Family Docket Rule days in any Parish, there shall be a morning hour where
confirmations and other uncontested matters may be taken up commencing at 9:00 a.m. until
10:00 a.m., before the Hearing Officer. There will be no court reporter present and no record
made of the proceeding. The only record will be a minute entry by the minute clerk. The
Hearing Officer shall render a written recommendation substantially in compliance with
Appendix 16 and the parties shall assent or object to the recommendations at the conclusion of
the hearing. If either party objects, the matter shall be fixed on the docket of the appropriate
division for the matter to be heard de novo. The hearing of rules shall commence at 10:00 a.m.
Rule 24.2. Rule Day
Section A. There shall be a regularly scheduled civil docket for family court cases for the
Parishes of Acadia and Vermilion at least once per month.
Section B. The Clerk in any Parish shall fix up to, but not exceeding forty (40) rules, exceptions,
motions or other summary proceedings, on each Division&#39;s civil rule day docket.
Section C. Family Docket rule days in Vermilion Parish shall be on Tuesdays, in Acadia Parish
on Wednesdays and in Lafayette Parish on Thursdays of each court week.
Chapter 25. ALLOTMENT, REALLOTMENT AND TRANSFER OF CASES; FORM OF
Rule 25.4. Form of Pleadings
Section A. All suits or pleadings for annulment, divorce and separation and all Family Docket
cases shall be docketed as such. Unless otherwise set forth in the initial pleading for annulment,
divorce and separation, the filing attorney or unrepresented party shall file a certification stating
whether there are minor children born of, adopted or legitimated by the marriage that is the
subject of the litigation. The proceeding first docketed shall be the proceeding for all subsequent
litigation in the case. Any subsequent suits or filings shall be filed in said docket.
Section B. In all instances, suit captions in all annulment, divorce and separation matters and all
Family Docket cases shall include the parties’ full names together with a woman&#39;s maiden name
and her married name if applicable, and the Judge’s division and Hearing Officer’s division to
which it is allotted. Divorce petitions shall clearly state within the title of the suit whether the
petitioner is seeking a divorce under C.C. Articles 102 or 103 and whether there are or are not
any minor children born or adopted of the marriage, or legitimated by the marriage of the parties.
For example “Petition for 102 Divorce Without Minor Children” or “Petition for 103 Divorce
With Minor Children.”
Section C. All suits or pleadings for annulment, divorce and separation and all Family Docket
cases involving minor child(ren) shall state the full names of each child and date(s) of birth.
Section D. When a petition, motion, or rule to show cause has been filed on any summary
proceeding matter concerning child custody and visitation, child support, interim spousal
support, final periodic support, for contempt and/or attorneys fees for nonpayment of child or
spousal support, and/or use and occupancy of the family home and movables, the filing party
shall attach an order substantially in compliance with Appendix 1. Upon execution of said order
by the Court, the Clerk of Court shall issue notice containing the information set forth in
Appendix 2 and advising all counsel of record, and any unrepresented parties, of the date and
time of the conference with the Hearing Officer, and compelling the attendance of the parties at
said conference, with or without counsel. Said notice shall be mailed to counsel of record for the
party filing the request for custody or visitation, or to the unrepresented party making such
request, and shall be served upon the defendant-in-rule or respondent at the same time as service
of the petition, motion, or rule to show cause.
Rule 26.1. Discovery Motions
Prior to filing a motion to compel discovery, or any other discovery motion, counsel for the filing
party shall first attempt to resolve the matter with opposing counsel and shall request a
conference (which may be by telephone) for that purpose. Opposing counsel shall participate in
said conference. Any party filing a discovery motion shall certify to the Court that said
conference took place and the parties were unable to resolve the dispute, or shall identify the
efforts made to schedule such conference.
Rule 26.2. Depositions
Prior to noticing a deposition, whether of a party or non-party witness, counsel seeking the
deposition shall first contact opposing counsel to make a good faith attempt to clear an available
date and time. Failure to contact, or make reasonable effort to contact opposing counsel prior to
noticing a deposition may be grounds to quash the notice and any subpoena issued in conjunction
Chapter 27. PRETRIAL STATUS CONFERENCES
Rule 27.0. Request
Either party may request a pre-trial conference or status conference. It shall be within the
Court’s discretion as to whether such conference shall be conducted. If a party desires a pre-trial
or status conference, the requesting party shall obtain available dates and times from the judge’s
office. Once available dates and times are obtained, the requesting party shall confer with the
other party to agree upon a mutually convenient time and the issues to be discussed. The
requesting party shall fax a letter to the Judge stating that he has conferred with the opposing
party. The letter shall also set forth the date and time of the conference and the issues to be
discussed. The judge’s office shall fax a confirmation to all parties.
Rule 28.2. Continuance
If the parties mutually agree to continue a scheduled Hearing Officer Conference, the attorney(s)
of record and any unrepresented party shall notify the office of the Hearing Officer in writing of
the continuance so that the matter can be removed from the Hearing Officer’s calendar.
A copy of a contested motion to continue that would continue a scheduled Hearing Officer
Conference shall be provided to the office of the appropriate Hearing Officer prior to its
presentation to the Court for signature and said motion or judgment shall contain a certificate
signed by the party or his counsel verifying that a copy has been sent to the opposing party or his
counsel and that the office of the Hearing Officer has been supplied with a copy of the motion.
Once the order is signed, the attorney(s) and any unrepresented party shall notify the office of the
Hearing Officer in writing of the signing.
Rule 28.4. Extension of Time to Plead
Any motion for an extension of time shall contain a statement as to whether the motion is for the
first, second or subsequent extensions requested.
Rule 28.5. Hearing Before Judge to Whom Case Allotted
If any party files a timely objection to a Hearing Officer Recommendation in a matter allotted to
Divisions &#39;&#39;A&quot;, &#39;&#39;B&quot;, &#39;&#39;C&quot;, &#39;&#39;D&quot;, &#39;&#39;E&quot;, &#39;&#39;F&quot;, &#39;&#39;G&quot;, &#39;&#39;I&quot;, &#39;&#39;J&quot;, &#39;&#39;K&quot; and &#39;&#39;L&quot;, then the party or parties who
object to the Recommendation, or any part thereof, shall provide to the District Judge in whose
Division the matter is pending, at least five (5) days prior to the hearing, a written statement of
the specific issues that are to be heard. If a party objects to the Recommendation, or any part
thereof, is represented by counsel, the statement of the issues shall be signed by said counsel.
Section A. In accordance with C.C.P. Art. 3607.1, all temporary restraining orders, protective
orders, and judgments containing orders of protection issued pursuant to any motion, rule,
petition for protection, reconventional demand, as well as motions to modify, dissolve, or
dismiss orders or judgments, shall be submitted to the Court on the Uniform Abuse Prevention
Order forms mandated by law. Copies of these forms may be obtained from the Parish Clerk of
Court or the Louisiana Protective Order Registry, 1555 Poydras Street, Suite 1540, New Orleans,
Louisiana 70112-3701; www.lpor.org.
Section B. An ordinary proceeding may be combined with summary proceedings that seek
protective or injunctive relief from domestic violence as long as the court has jurisdiction, venue
is appropriate for both proceedings, and all of the actions cumulated are mutually consistent and
observe the necessary delays required by law. The Court may require separate trials of the
actions. If the custody or visitation of minor child(ren) is at issue, the parties shall each file the
Mandatory Affidavit for Child Custody/Visitation Matters set forth in Appendix 3(A).
Section C. A petition for divorce, separation or annulment of marriage, or a custody proceeding
that is filed subsequent to a petition under the Domestic Abuse Assistance Act, Post-Separation
Family Violence Relief Act, or Protection from Family Violence Relief Act shall be filed under
the earlier domestic violence docket number. In the event the suit for annulment, divorce and
separation does not involve minor children born of, adopted or legitimated by the marriage, the
suit shall be filed under the earlier domestic violence docket number and shall be randomly re-
allotted to Divisions &#39;&#39;A&quot;, &#39;&#39;B&quot;, &#39;&#39;C&quot;, &#39;&#39;D&quot;, &#39;&#39;E&quot;, &#39;&#39;F&quot;, &#39;&#39;G&quot;, &#39;&#39;I&quot;, &#39;&#39;J&quot;, &#39;&#39;K&quot; or &#39;&#39;L&quot;.
Likewise, if a suit for divorce or custody is pending, any application for a protection order shall
be filed under that earlier docket and shall be heard within the delays required by law.
Section D. A request for injunctive relief pursuant to R.S. 9:372 or 9:372.1, being incidental to
a proceeding for divorce, shall be pled with the divorce and the relief expressly continued or
obtained in the divorce decree. Only the relief granted pursuant to R.S. 9:372 shall be submitted
on the Uniform Abuse Prevention Order form.
Section E. A Hearing Officer Conference shall be scheduled with the Hearing Officer, who shall
determine the issues of the case and in conjunction therewith, shall hear and make
recommendations regarding all protective orders filed in accordance with R.S. 46:2131 et seq.,
R.S. 46:2151 et seq., and on all injunctions filed in accordance with R.S. 9:361, 371, and 372;
and hear and make recommendations on all motions for contempt of court and motions to extend,
modify, or dissolve protective orders and injunctions. There will be no court reporter present
and no record made of the proceeding. The only record will be a minute entry by the minute
clerk. The Hearing Officer shall initially make the recommendation orally and the parties shall
assent or object to the recommendation at the conclusion of the hearing. If there is no objection
the Hearing Officer shall prepare a written recommendation substantially in compliance with
Appendix 17 and a proposed Protective Order judgment on the appropriate LPOR form which
shall be reviewed and signed by the parties prior to its submission to the appropriate judge for
signature. If either party objects, the Hearing Officer shall prepare a written recommendation
substantially in compliance with Appendix 17 without preparing a recommended Protective
Order judgment and the matter shall be fixed on the docket of the appropriate division for the
matter to be heard de novo.
Section F. Parties, who seek to dismiss their petition for a domestic violence protective order,
may be required to appear before the court prior to dismissal.
Chapter 33. CONFIRMATION OF DEFAULTS AND UNCONTESTED MATTERS
UNDER CIVIL CODE ARTICLE 103 ACCORDING TO LA. CODE CIV. PROC. ARTS.
Rule 33.1. Confirmation of Defaults
Confirmation of default shall be in accordance with law. To confirm a default it shall be
sufficient to introduce the testimony of the moving party to constitute a prima facie case in
divorce matters filed pursuant to C.C. Article 103(1).
It shall be the responsibility of the attorney bringing a confirmation before the court that is not
fixed on the docket for that day to check out the suit record from the Clerk for submission at the
Rule 33.2. Judgments of Divorce in Chambers under La. Code Civ. Proc. Art. 1702E
Confirmation of divorce under C.C. Art. 103 (1) may be accomplished by affidavit in accordance
with C.C.P. Art. 1702E. In such instances, the mover’s attorney shall complete the Default
Confirmation under C.C.P. Art 1702E Checklist, which is attached as Appendix 12 to these rules
and/or may be obtained from the Judge’s office. The Checklist and affidavit must accompany
the filing of the Judgment of Divorce.
Rule 33.3. Summary Judgment of Divorce in Chambers under La. Code Civ. Proc. Art.
A Judgment of divorce under C.C. Art. 103 (1) may be accomplished in accordance with C.C.P.
Art. 969B. In such instances, the attorney for one of the parties shall complete the Uncontested
Divorce under C.C.P. Art. 969B Checklist, which is attached as Appendix 13 to these rules
and/or may be obtained from the Judge’s office. The Checklist must accompany the filing of the
CHAPTER 34. Divorces Pursuant to Civil Code Art. 102
Rule 34.0. Rules to Show Cause
To enter a judgment of divorce it shall be sufficient to introduce the testimony of the moving
party to constitute a prima facie case in divorce matters filed pursuant to C.C. Article 102.
Rule 34.1. Required Affidavits
The entering of a divorce under C.C. Art. 102 may be accomplished by affidavit in accordance
with C.C.P. Articles 3951 et. seq. In that event, the mover’s attorney shall complete and submit
the C.C. Art. 102 Divorce Checklist, which is attached as Appendix 14 to these rules and/or may
be obtained from the Judge’s office. The Checklist form and affidavit shall be filed no later than
the date the Rule is fixed for hearing.
Chapter 35. ALIMONY AND CHILD SUPPORT MATTERS ANCILLARY TO CIVIL
Rule 35.0. Use of Hearing Officers
Section A. Matters to be heard by Hearing Officers
The Hearing Officers shall perform Hearing Officer Conferences on summary proceeding
matters concerning child custody and visitation, child support, interim spousal support, final
periodic support, use and occupancy of the family home, use of community movables property,
contempt of court, attorney’s fees and such other matters as may be authorized by law or as
directed by the District Judge.
In all suits for annulment, divorce and separation and in suits assigned to the Family Docket,
each party shall prepare and submit the appropriate mandatory Hearing Officer Conference
Affidavits and Checklists as set forth in Appendix 3 within the time delays set forth herein.
1.     After filing initial pleadings with the Family Docket, all parties shall be required to attend
a Hearing Officer Conference with the assigned Hearing Officer, with the following exceptions:
(a)     When a party is seeking final periodic spousal support, the matter shall be
bifurcated and fixed in regular course on the appropriate divisions’ docket for a
determination of the issue of mover’s freedom from fault. Thereafter if the
moving party is found to be free from fault, a Hearing Officer Conference shall be
scheduled as soon as the docket permits to determine the amount of final periodic
spousal support. If either party timely objects to the Hearing Officer’s
Recommendation, the matter shall be fixed before the District Judge as set forth in
Section C, below. If a bifurcated hearing is held, the ruling of the Court on the
issue of fault shall be considered an interlocutory decree if the moving party is
found free from fault and shall not be a final judgment until there has been a
determination setting the amount of the spousal support.
(b)     Termination of the community property regime in accordance with C.C. Art.
2374(C) which shall be set expeditiously by the Clerk.
(c)     A judicial determination that the detailed descriptive list of a party is deemed to
constitute the community assets and liabilities in accordance with R.S.
9:2801(A)(1)(a).
(d)     Discovery motions which shall be set expeditiously by the Clerk.
(e)     Matters that require the services of an attorney ad hoc to locate an absentee party
when the appointed attorney has been unable to locate the absentee party.
(f)     Preliminary injunctions between spouses as permitted by C.C.P. Art. 3604(B).
(g)     Motion for Sanctions.
2.     The initial Hearing Officer Conference shall be scheduled as soon as the docket permits
following the filing of the pleading.
3.       If there are complicated or extraordinary issues that will require a Hearing Officer
Conference longer than an hour, the parties shall notify the Hearing Officer of this fact at the
time the order to set the Hearing Officer Conference is filed, or immediately upon determining
that a longer time is necessary. Thereafter, the Hearing Officer may schedule a longer Hearing
Officer Conference to accommodate the issues of the case if time is available.
4.       If, however, the Court determines that there exists a situation of immediate danger or
immediate need, the initial conference shall be scheduled at an earlier date at the request of the
5.      All attorneys shall bring their calendars to the Hearing Officer Conference to facilitate in
scheduling additional conferences or rule dates.
6.      Parties shall be required to file a memorandum of issues, with the financial information,
if they are seeking a deviation in child support or the case involves an unusual issue of law. The
memorandum shall include case law or statutory authority in support of the deviation or the
unusual issue of law.
7.    At the Hearing Officer Conference, the Hearing Officer shall determine the issues of the
case and in conjunction therewith, shall hear and make recommendations regarding:
(a)     Contested and uncontested paternity cases.
(b)     Establishment and modification of child and spousal support.
(c)     The use and occupancy of the family home and use of community movable
property pursuant to La. R.S. 9:374(c).
(d)     The method of collection of child and spousal support.
(e)     Calculation of arrearages, contempt of court, attorney’s fees and sanctions as
(f)     The referral of parties to mediation.
1.      A copy of any written recommendation rendered by the Hearing Officer shall be provided
to the parties and their counsel at the time of the Hearing Officer&#39;s ruling, if present. The
recommendation(s) of the Hearing Officer shall be filed into the record, but shall not be provided
to the Judge hearing the case. Further, the parties’ Mandatory Affidavit for Child Support
Matters set forth in Appendix 3(B) and the Mandatory Checklist for Spousal Support Matters set
forth in Appendix 3(C), as well as their current Income and Expense Declaration Statement set
forth in Appendix 4 shall also be filed in the record of the proceeding.
2.     If both parties agree to the Hearing Officer&#39;s recommendation on the day of the Hearing
Officer Conference, then the Hearing Officer&#39;s recommendation shall become a final order after
signature by the Judge. Both parties must sign a waiver to the three (3) day objection period.
3.      Any party who disagrees with a recommendation of a Hearing Officer on a matter set
forth may file a written objection thereto substantially in compliance with Appendix 11 within
three (3) days unless otherwise set forth by these rules.
If the parties cannot agree on the matters fixed for Hearing Officer Conference, then the Hearing
Officer shall recommend a temporary order on all matters which shall be forwarded to the
District Judge as a temporary order after the objection period has expired.
If a written objection to the Hearing Officer recommendation is timely filed by either party, then
the Hearing Officer recommendation shall be forwarded to the District Judge to be signed as a
Upon timely written objection filed by either party, the matter shall proceed to the scheduled
contradictory hearing (or a contradictory hearing shall then be scheduled if not previously fixed)
where the Judge shall hear the matter de novo.
recommendations, there shall be no discussion regarding the merits of the case with the District
Judge assigned thereto.
4.      If no written objection is filed with the Clerk of Court within the time and manner
established, the recommendation shall become a final judgment of the Court and shall be signed
by a District Judge as a final judgment. The judgment, after signature by a District Judge shall
be served upon the parties in accordance with law.
5.      If either party does not provide the required financial information as ordered by the
Court at the Hearing Officer Conference necessary to make a determination as to the amount of
child support or spousal support, then the Hearing Officer, in order to do substantial justice, may
recommend that the party failing to produce the financial information be found in contempt of
court with sanctions to be imposed, and/or may recommend that the matter be dismissed without
prejudice and/or may recommend that good cause exists to modify the retroactivity of the award,
and/or may make temporary recommendations based upon the limited information provided. If
the Hearing Officer is unable to make a recommendation based upon the information provided,
the Court may set a limited hearing for purposes of fixing temporary child support or spousal
support. The temporary order shall be without prejudice and shall not affect claims of
retroactivity except for good cause shown.
Rule 35.1. Notice and Exchange of Information
Five (5) days prior to the Hearing Officer Conference, the parties shall submit to the Mandatory
Child Support Checklist and the Mandatory Spousal Support Checklist. Further, where child
support or spousal support is an issue, both parties shall submit to the Hearing Officer the
(a)     A current Income and Expense Declaration Statement substantially in compliance
with Appendix 4 when spousal support is at issue and/or if child support is at
issue and the parties’ combined adjusted gross income exceeds the highest level
specified in the schedules contained in R.S. 9:315.19 or if a party is seeking a
deviation from the child support guidelines.
(b)     The last two (2) years of their state and federal income tax returns, including all
attachments, specifically all schedules, W-2 forms, 1099 forms and amendments.
(c)     The last four (4) pay check stubs. In the event no pay check stubs are available,
other appropriate documentation shall be attached.
(d)     Any information concerning health insurance, including proof of health insurance
such as cards or policies and the cost of the health insurance.
(e)    Any information concerning day care costs, including proof of costs such as the
day care fee schedule and canceled checks for at least four (4) months if available.
If a party is self-employed or employed by a closely held business entity in which the party has an
ownership interest, then ten (10) days prior to the Hearing Officer Conference that party shall
submit to the opposing party business and personal tax returns for the previous two (2) years, check
registers, bank statements and canceled checks for his personal and business accounts and his
business credit card statements for the previous twelve (12) months. Except for good cause shown,
prior to the scheduled Hearing Officer Conference, counsel and/or the parties shall meet jointly, in
person, to discuss their respective positions with regard to the income of the party who is self-
employed or who is employed by a closely held entity in which the party has an ownership interest.
However, under no circumstances shall an attorney be compelled to meet with an unrepresented
party. At the Hearing Officer Conference, each party must be prepared to support with
documentation their respective positions with regard to the income of the party who is self-
employed or who is employed by a closely held entity in which the party has an ownership interest
It shall not be necessary to file a pre trial brief in connection with rules for spousal support or
child support, unless there are unusual or complicated issues of law or fact to be considered or
unless a party is seeking a deviation from the child support guidelines as set forth in R.S. 9:315,
Rule 35.2. Child Support Worksheet
Where child support is at issue, (5) days prior to the Hearing Officer Conference both parties
shall submit to the Hearing Officer a draft child support worksheet representing the proposed
calculation of child support.
Chapter 36. CHILD SUPPORT PURSUANT TO HEARING OFFICER PROCEEDING
Rule 36.5. Criminal Non-Support
Unless otherwise determined by the Judge, non-support matters will be scheduled on and will
convene at 9:00 a.m., excluding holidays, on such days of the week as designated by the District
Judges in the Family Docket Division. The Court will continue in session as the Judge or
Hearing Officer determines and the docket requires. The Court will publish and post a schedule
of hearing dates at least quarterly.
Pursuant to Louisiana R.S. 46:236.5 and applicable articles of the Louisiana Children’s Code,
this Court implements an expedited process for the establishment, modification and enforcement
of support obligations by appointment of one or more Hearing Officers to hear support and
support-related matters. The Hearing Officers shall act as a finder of fact and shall make
recommendations to the Court. At the conclusion of the hearing, the Hearing Officer shall
render a written recommendation to the Court.
Pursuant to the authority of R.S. 46:236.5, in all IV-D Social Security Act cases presently
pending and arising in the future, the Court shall assess an additional five (5%) percent to each
support obligation, including existing arrearages and future arrearages, as well as ongoing
support payments, beginning February 1, 1994, in accordance with the rule as adopted by the
Lafayette Parish District Court on January 10, 1994.
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, the minutes of the Court shall reflect the amount made
executory followed by the words “plus five (5%) percent thereof as a fee to fund the
administrative costs of expedited process.”
All pleadings and motions pertaining to Non-Support shall be filed with the Non-Support Docket
Clerk in the Non-Support Division of the Family Docket.
The Lafayette Parish District Attorney’s office, Non-Support Division, and the Louisiana
Department of Social services, Support Enforcement Services (SES) shall cause to be docketed,
all non-support cases, both civil and criminal, pertaining to the establishment, collection and
enforcement of support orders. Such cases shall be heard by a Hearing Officer appointed by the
Lafayette Parish Family Docket to preside over non-support hearings. The Lafayette Parish
District Attorney shall be the prosecuting officer in these cases and shall have a representative in
Court when such cases are docketed.
The Hearing Officers are authorized to develop the necessary forms in order to effectuate the
prompt and efficient movement of all such cases through Court, subject to Court approval.
The guidelines as set forth in R.S. 9:315, et seq., are to be used in any proceeding to establish or
The Court may deviate from the guidelines if the application would not be in the best interest of
the child or would be inequitable to the parties. The Court shall give specific oral or written
reasons for the deviation, including a finding as to the amount of support that would have been
required under a strict application of the guidelines.
All Court proceedings must be initiated by written request either by formal motion or by formal
rule. The written request must set forth in general term the relief sought by the moving party or
the category of hearing which is being requested (i.e., Reduction, Contempt, etc.), as well as the
names of all relevant parties and the docket number and division of the case.
All rules and motions filed on behalf of the State of Louisiana, either through the Lafayette
Parish District Attorney’s Office or through Support Enforcement Services are the
responsibilities of the Lafayette Parish District Attorney, Non-Support Division or Support
Enforcement Services. The D.A. or legal representatives of Support Enforcement Services will
represent the interest of the State at the hearings.
All rules and motions filed on behalf of the defendant/payor must be submitted in writing with an
appropriate certificate of service on opposing counsel or pro se litigant.
When rules are filed alleging contempt for failure to pay support as ordered, the Regional
Support Enforcement Services Office shall procure a computer printout of the defendant’s
account to assist the Court in determining the proper status of the account. Both parties are to
provide proof of support paid and/or received during the period of time in question.
At the hearings to initially set support or modification of an existing order, both the defendant
and the person seeking the order of support or modification, shall bring to Court, a copy of their
most recent state and federal tax return, four recent paycheck stubs or a paycheck stub with a
year-to-date amount, proof of the cost for medical insurance premiums to insure the child or
children only, and proof of child expenses, or certification/evidence of state or federal benefits.
When the person owing the support (designated a “Respondent”) resides within the jurisdiction
of the Fifteenth Judicial District Court and the petitioner resides in another state, such cases shall
be designed as “Responding UIFSA.”
In Responding URESA and Responding UIFSA matters, when the Respondent is order to
contribute to the support of his dependents, the Court may order him to pay an additional amount
Any party may object to the Hearing Officer’s recommendations by timely filing a written
objection. A written objection to the Hearing Officer’s Recommendation to the Court shall be
filed within three (3) days from the date of the hearing.
The Clerk shall schedule a contradictory hearing on the court’s next available date to be held
before the Judge in the appropriate Division. At the hearing on the objection, the defendant shall
be entitled to a de novo review and the Judge shall accept, reject, or modify in whole or part the
findings of the Hearing Officer.
Except in extraordinary circumstances, if no exception to the hearing Officer’s Recommendation
is filed within three (3) days following the initial hearing before the Hearing Officer, an order
shall be signed by the Judge of the appropriate Division which shall be a final Judgment and
shall be appealable to the proper appellate court.
Both parties in a court ordered support matter are responsible for notifying the Court in writing
through the Regional Support Enforcement Services Office of any change of address or place of
Clients and witness shall be advised not to bring children to court, unless unusual circumstances
where the children may be called as witness. Children, under the age of twelve, shall not be
allowed in the courtroom without special permission of the court.
Rule 35.6. Arrearages
Five (5) days prior to the Hearing Officer Conference, the parties shall submit to the Hearing
Officer the Mandatory Affidavit for Arrearage/Contempt for Nonpayment of Support
substantially in compliance with Appendix 3(D).
Rule 37.0. Commencement of Proceedings
All partition actions shall be commenced by petition, supplemental petition or reconventional
demand and shall include a description of the claims the party seeks to have decided by the
Court, and shall comply in all other respects with La. R.S. 9:2801. All partitions shall be filed in
the same suit number of the divorce and/or separation of property action between the same
Rule 37.1. Sworn Detailed Descriptive List
Each party shall update and file their detailed descriptive list at least thirty (30) days prior to a
partition trial on the merits, but in no event shall the update be prepared and filed more than sixty
(60) days prior to trial.
Rule 37.2. Pre-trial Procedures
Upon filing of a traversal of the descriptive lists as set forth in La. R.S. 9:2801(2), either party
may request that the matter be set for trial of the traverses and/or on the merits. All trials of the
traverses and/or all partition trials shall be fixed on a merits docket and shall be scheduled in
accordance with Chapter 24 of these rules. The trial of the traverses and/or the partition trial
shall not be fixed unless both parties have filed a detailed descriptive list into the record of the
proceeding in accordance with R.S. 9:2801(1)(a), or unless a detailed descriptive list has been
deemed to constitute a judicial determination of the community assets and liabilities by the Court
in accordance with La. R.S. 9:2801(1)(a). The Motion to Fix for Trial shall contain a
certification signed by the party or his counsel to this effect.
Except for good cause shown, at least two (2) days prior to the scheduled Hearing Officer
Conference, counsel and/or the parties shall meet jointly, in person, to discuss the nature and basis
of their claims and defenses. However, under no circumstances shall an attorney be compelled to
meet with an unrepresented party. At the joint meeting, counsel and/or the parties in attendance
shall make a good faith effort to narrow the issues, reach joint stipulations to dispose of uncontested
matters, discuss and attempt to resolve any matters concerning the authenticity or admissibility of
exhibits produced in response to discovery, and attempt a settlement of the matter. Further, the
attorneys shall prepare a combined detailed descriptive list which sets forth all community property
claims, reimbursement claims, community obligation claims and separate property claims, as well
as the nature of the disputes between the parties, in such a manner so that the Court can make a side
by side comparison of each claims. An example of a combined detailed descriptive list is attached
as Appendix 18.
All attorneys of record are responsible for arranging the joint meeting at a mutually agreeable
time and location and are responsible for personally attending the meeting. At the joint meeting,
counsel and/or the parties are to complete a Mandatory Checklist for Community Property
Matters substantially in compliance with Appendix 10. All attorneys of record are responsible
for preparing and filing the checklist.
Additionally, the matter shall be set for a Hearing Officer conference before the assigned
Hearing Officer, which conference shall take place no less than twenty-one (21) days before any
scheduled trial. Notice of the scheduled trial and Hearing Officer Conference shall be mailed to
all counsel of record and unrepresented parties. The purpose of the conference shall be to
determine if the case is ready for trial and to discuss the nature and basis of the claims and
defenses and to make a good faith effort to narrow the issues, reach joint stipulations to dispose
of uncontested matters, discuss and attempt to resolve any matter concerning the authenticity or
admissibility of exhibits produced in response to discovery, and attempt a settlement of the
If the matter is not resolved or determined not ready for trial, the Hearing Officer may
recommend an appropriate scheduling order and either party may request a pre-trial conference
before the designated Division Judge in accordance with these rules.
The Court may, on the motion of either party, or on its own motion, require a separate hearing on
contested issues of law or fact or on the issues of the separate or community nature of assets or
obligations and/or the valuation of assets, liabilities or reimbursements, prior to a trial on the
merits. Decisions on questions of law or fact shall be considered preliminary findings in nature
for appeal purposes. No appeal may be taken until final judgment covering all community
property issues heard pursuant to La. R.S. 9:2801 et. seq. is signed.
Rule 37.5. Summary Proceedings
The trial of the traverses and trial on the merits shall be set on the Court’s regular merits docket.
Rule 37.7. Form of Judgment
It shall be the responsibility of any party who is an employee participant in a benefit plan in
which the community possesses an interest to obtain all available forms and other necessary
information from the plan administrator which shall be submitted to the Court and to opposing
counsel, or the opposing party if unrepresented, so that a qualified domestic relations (QDRO)
order can be prepared as directed by the Court;
matters concerning child custody and visitation, contempt of court, attorney’s fees and such other
All pleadings filed in the Family Docket seeking child custody or visitation shall be accompanied
by the Mandatory Affidavit for Child Custody/Visitation Matters set forth in Appendix 3(A),
which shall be filed into the record.
a Hearing Officer Conference with the assigned Hearing Officer.
5.      If not previously filed, the parties shall submit to the Hearing Officer the Mandatory
Affidavit for Child Custody/Visitation Matters set forth in Appendix 3(A) at least five (5) days
prior to the Hearing Officer Conference. Further, where child support or spousal support are an
issue, both parties shall submit to the Hearing Officer the items required by Rule 35.1.
6.     All attorneys shall bring their calendars to the Hearing Officer Conference to facilitate in
7.    Parties shall be required to file a memorandum in cases involving unusual issues of law.
The memorandum shall include case law or statutory authority in support of the unusual issue of
8.     At the Hearing Officer Conference, the Hearing Officer shall determine the issues of the
(b)     The referral of parties to mediation, medical and psychological evaluation, and
drug testing in accordance R.S. 9:306 and 331 et. seq., and to make
recommendations regarding the referral of parties to counseling and substance
(d)     Contempt of court, attorney’s fees and sanctions as provided by law.
to the Judge hearing the case.
2.      If the parties agree to custody and/or visitation at the Hearing Officer Conference, the
parties shall sign a stipulation to that effect. This stipulation and a judgment in accordance
therewith shall thereafter be submitted to the Judge for signature and become a final judgment.
If the parties cannot agree to the custody and/or visitation recommendation of the Hearing
Officer at the conference, and in those cases where visitation is not prohibited by law, then the
Hearing Officer shall recommend a temporary order of custody and/or visitation which shall be
forwarded to the District Judge as a temporary order after the objection period has expired.
If a written objection to the custody and/or visitation recommendation of the Hearing Officer is
timely filed by either party and in those cases where visitation is not prohibited by law, then the
Hearing Officer recommendation shall be forwarded to the District Judge to be signed as a
where the Judge shall hear the matter de novo and render such rulings as are appropriate under
5.       If the parties do not agree to custody and/or visitation at the conference, the Hearing
Officer shall determine if the case needs to be referred to mediation, psychological evaluations,
or set for a hearing before the Court.
If mediation or psychological evaluations are recommended by the Hearing Officer at the
Hearing Officer Conference, the Hearing Officer shall recommend the terms and conditions upon
which the parties are to pay for the mediation or psychological evaluations and prepare an order
to that effect. Any such recommendations are subject to objection and de novo hearing as set
The parties who have been referred to mediation or psychological evaluations shall be required
to provide proof to the Hearing Officer as to the appointments set for mediation or evaluations
within fifteen (15) working days after the Hearing Officer Conference.
Rule 38.1. Ex Parte Custody Orders
Section A. All requests for ex parte child custody must be pled in accordance with one of the
(a)     La. R.S. 46:2131 et seq., Domestic Abuse Assistance Act;
(b)     La. R.S. 9:361, 363, 364, Post Separation Family Violence Relief Act;
(c)     La. C.C.P. Art. 3945, Incidental Order of Child Custody;
(d)     La. Ch. Code 1564, et seq., Domestic Abuse Assistance Act; or
(e)     Any other statute expressly permitting such relief.
Section B. If an ex parte change of custody order is sought when a prior legal custody order
exists, the suit record must accompany the application. If a prior application was sought,
reference should be made to such an order; to what Judge, and what order or decision was made
thereon. Orders of ex parte custody and visitation shall be given no weight at merits hearing on
Section C. La. C.C.P. Art. 3945. When there is no prior legal custody order, ex parte orders
granting temporary custody shall not be signed unless the application complies with Louisiana
Code of Civil Procedure Art. 3945. The petitioner, must by affidavit or verified petition, set out
in detail all the facts that establish why immediate and irreparable injury will result to the child;
when, where, how, and under what circumstances he or she has obtained the physical custody of
the child and why he/she is requesting legal custody, or, if not in their physical custody, why
they feel they should be entitled to it. If represented by counsel, the application must be
accompanied by counsel’s certificate. All applications for ex parte custody shall be accompanied
by the Mandatory Affidavit for Child Custody/Visitation Matters set forth in Appendix 3(A).
Section D. If an ex parte change of custody order is sought when a prior legal custody order
thereon. If new facts exist, they should be stated and brought to the attention of the court. In
addition to the certificate and/or affidavit required in Section A above, there must be at least one
(1) non-party affidavit attesting to the facts in support of the ex parte modification order.
Section E. Any Order granting temporary ex parte custody shall contain a provision which
prohibits both parents (parties) from changing the child’s residence from the jurisdiction of the
Section F. The petition shall provide for a Rule to Show Cause in the proper division and except
for good cause shown or where prohibited by law, the application must provide for visitation
substantially in compliance with La. C.C.P. art. 3945.
Section G. The provisions of this Rule do not apply to any order of custody of a child requested
in a verified petition alleging the applicability of the Domestic Assistance Act R.S. 46:2131 et
seq. Children’s Code Article 1564 et seq. or the Post Separation Family Violence Relief Act,
R.S. 9:361 et seq.
Section H. On the motion of a party, or on its own motion, the Court may impose appropriate
sanctions pursuant to La. C.C.P. art. 863D for certifications that are not based in good faith.
Rule 38.3. Submission and Implementation of Joint Custody Plans
Joint Custody Plans should contain provisions substantially in compliance with Appendix 15.
Rule 38.4. Modification of a Custody or Visitation Order
Modifications of an existing custody or visitation order shall be handled in the same manner as
set forth in Rules 38.0, 38.1 and 38.3.
Rule 38.5. Alternative Procedures (Mediation, Parenting Classes)
Section A. At the time of the Hearing Officer Conference with the hearing officer, the parties or
their respective counsel shall have an opportunity to provide a verbal statement of their positions
to the hearing officer with regard to the custody and/or visitation issues before the Court. The
hearing officer shall then determine whether the matter is appropriate for mediation.
Section B. In the event the hearing officer determines that the matter is appropriate for
mediation, the hearing officer shall determine whether the issues will require only one mediation
session, or whether more than one mediation session shall be required.
1.     In the event the issues appear to require only one mediation session, the case may be
mediated by court officers who have been trained to mediate custody and visitation matters in
accordance with LSA R.S. 9:334. However, in no event may a court officer who will be serving
as a Hearing Officer for support issues mediate a custody or visitation issue.
2.      If the issues will require more than one mediation session, then the parties shall be
referred to a mediator from the list of approved mediators maintained by the Clerk of Court, on a
Section C. If the hearing officer refers the matter to mediation, an Order of Mediation shall issue
at the time of the Hearing Officer Conference, in substantial compliance with Appendix 5. A
party objecting to the referral of the matter to mediation by the hearing officer shall have three
(3) court days within which to file an objection to the Order of Mediation, in which the party
shall set forth, with specific allegations of fact, the basis upon which an objection to mediation is
Section D. In the event the hearing officer does not refer the matter to mediation, either party
may nevertheless file a motion seeking a court order of mediation, and shall, at the time said
motion is filed, have the matter set for contradictory hearing on the next available rule docket.
Section E. In the event the parties agree upon a mediator other than the mediator appointed by
the court, the name, address, and telephone number of the agreed upon mediator shall be
provided to the Judge within five (5) court days after notice to the parties by the hearing officer
of the referral to mediation.
Section F. In order to be listed as an approved mediator with the Clerk of Court, an individual
must have successfully completed mediation training in accordance with LSA R.S. 9:334, and
must be a practicing member of the Family Mediation Council of Louisiana. Individuals seeking
to be placed on the list of approved mediators shall be required to provide a resume and shall
agree to charge according to the fee schedule promulgated by the Judges assigned to the Family
Docket on file with the Clerk of Court in advance of consideration of his or her placement on the
Appointment and Initial Disclosure by Court Appointed Mediator substantially in compliance
with Appendix 6.
Section H. The mediator shall communicate with the parties and schedule mediation sessions as
appropriate. The mediator shall encourage and assist the parties in reaching a settlement of their
dispute but may not compel or coerce the parties to enter into a settlement agreement.
Section I. Mediators shall preserve and maintain the confidentiality of mediation proceedings
pursuant to LSA R.S. 9:332C:
1.     They shall keep confidential from opposing parties any information obtained in
individual caucuses unless the party or parties to a caucus permit disclosure.
2.       They shall maintain confidentiality in the storage and disposal of records and shall render
anonymous all identifying information when materials are used for research, training or
3.     All proceedings of the mediation, including statements made by any party, attorney or
other participant, are privileged in all respects. The proceedings may not be reported, recorded,
placed into evidence, made known to the trial court, or construed for any purpose as an
4.     The mediator shall not be named as a witness, nor may the mediator&#39;s records be
subpoenaed or used as evidence, nor may the mediator&#39;s deposition be taken, or any other
discovery had against the mediator.
Section J. At the conclusion of the mediation between the parties, the mediator shall report to
the Court that the parties have reached a mediated agreement, and shall provide a memorandum
of understanding to the parties and their respective legal counsel, summarizing the nature and
substance of the parties&#39; agreement. In the event no settlement was reached, the mediator shall
report to the Court, the parties, and their respective legal counsel that the parties were unable to
reach a mediated agreement. In either case, the mediator shall file a Final Report of Mediator to
the Court substantially in compliance with Appendix 7.
Section K. The cost of mediation shall initially be borne equally by the parties, unless the parties
agree otherwise, and shall ultimately be taxed as costs of court in the event mediation does not
resolve the dispute. At the conclusion of each mediation session, whether or not successful, the
parties shall pay the mediator&#39;s fee as per the fee schedule on file, or as agreed upon, and the
amount of the fee shall be certified by the mediator and placed in the record of the action. All
court filings made by the mediator shall be accepted by the Clerk of Court without any filing fee
Section A. In order to provide for the best interest of the children of parents who are involved in
a contested custody matter, the parents shall participate in an educational program that is
designed to make the parties more aware of the effects of separation and divorce upon their
children and to acquaint them with methods of assisting minor children to cope with the stress of
divorce and custody proceedings.
Section B. All parties to a contested custody matter filed in the Court shall successfully
complete the program &#39;&#39;Children Cope with Divorce&quot;. The parties shall promptly pay all fees
associated with the program, as directed by the Court.
Section C. The program shall be completed within sixty (60) days of service of initial pleadings
in the case and each party shall file a certificate of completion in the record.
Section D. A party&#39;s failure to timely complete the program and/or pay all costs in connection
therewith, shall subject the party to an appropriate action by the Court, including contempt of
Section E. The Court may waive the requirement of completion of the program, in individual
cases, for good cause shown. The Court may also change the time by which the program shall be
completed or the location, in individual cases, for good cause shown.
Rule 39.0. Other Rules
1. SPECIFIC CIVIL RULES IN FAMILY DOCKET CASES
Suits for annulment, divorce and separation where there are no minor children born of, adopted
or legitimated by the marriage together with all related incidental matters as defined by La. C.C.
Art. 105, including a request for protective order instituted after the filing of the suit, and the
community property partitions associated with the dissolution of said marriages, and all matters
assigned to the Family Docket shall be governed by the specific rules found in Title IV hereof.
In any instance where the specific rules found in Title IV are silent, the general rules and civil
Clients and witnesses shall be advised not to bring children to court, except in unusual
circumstances where the child[ren] may be called as witnesses. When a child is to be a witness in
a proceeding, arrangements shall be made to have the child on a standby basis until their
testimony is needed, preferably waiting at a location other than the Courthouse. Children, under
the age of twelve, shall not be allowed in the courtroom without special permission of the court.
The Clerk of Court shall notify the parties of this rule in accordance with Appendix 2.
Case filings designated as an approved Collaborative Law matter shall be exempt from deadlines
and other local rules of court proceedings concerning domestic cases. The attorneys shall certify
in the Petition for Divorce that this is a collaborative law case, and that they and the clients have
signed a Contract to proceed in a collaborative manner. In the event of an impasse, and either
party withdraws from the collaborative process, both attorneys shall file a motion to withdraw as
counsel of record, and they shall certify in the motion that the collaborative process is in
Once a collaborative case is at impasse and the attorneys in the collaborative process have
withdrawn as counsel of record, the matter shall be deemed one for regular litigation, and it shall
then proceed according to all local court rules of the Fifteenth Judicial District.
Any attorney that enters into a collaborative law agreement in the Fifteenth Judicial District shall
be in good standing with the Louisiana State Bar Association, and they shall have the basic
introductory two day training regarding the team approach to collaborative cases involving
mental health professionals, certified public accountants, certified valuation analyst and other
professionals that may be necessary to find a solution to the parties legal problems. Any
introductory course offered by the Collaborative Professional Group of Louisiana, Inc., is
Section A. At the time of the Hearing Officer Conference with the hearing officer, if either party
has moved for a mental health evaluation under La. R.S. 9:331, the parties or their respective
counsel shall have an opportunity to provide a verbal statement and other documentary evidence
of their positions to the hearing officer with regard to the custody and/or visitation issues before
the Court. The hearing officer shall then recommend whether the matter is appropriate for a
mental health evaluation and if so, how the costs shall be apportioned pending the hearing on the
merits of the custody and/or visitation proceeding.
Section B. If the hearing officer recommends referring the matter to a mental health professional
for evaluation, an Order for Mental Health Evaluation shall issue at the time of the Hearing
Officer Conference, in substantial compliance with Appendix 8. A party objecting to the hearing
officer’s recommendation referring the matter for evaluation shall have five (5) days within
which to file an objection to the order. The Clerk of Court shall send a certified copy of the
order to the mental health professional and any unrepresented party, by certified mail, return
receipt requested, to the address contained on the order, simultaneously with the mailing of the
Notice to all counsel of record.
Section C. If the hearing officer does not recommend referring the matter to a mental health
professional for an evaluation, either party shall have five (5) court days within which to file an
objection to the recommendation denying the requested order;
Section D. In the event either party objects to the recommendation of the hearing officer
regarding the issue of mental health evaluation, the issue shall proceed before the designated
Division Judge (or said matter shall immediately be set for hearing before said Division Judge if
a rule date has not already been scheduled) who shall hear the matter de novo as set forth in
Section E. When a custody/visitation evaluation is agreed upon by the parties or is ordered by
the Court pursuant to La. R.S. 9:331 after a contradictory hearing, the attorneys shall submit an
order substantially in compliance with Appendix 8. The Clerk of Court shall send a certified
copy of the order to the mental health professional and any unrepresented party, by certified
mail, return receipt requested, to the address contained on the order, simultaneously with the
mailing of Notice to all counsel of record.
Section F. Unless otherwise agreed by the parties, when an evaluation is ordered by the Court
pursuant to La. R.S. 9:331 in a proceeding for sole custody, or a proceeding where the
designation of a domiciliary parent is at issue, or in a proceeding where supervised visitation is
sought, the “mental health professional” shall be a person who is a psychiatrist or a person who
possesses a doctorate degree in counseling, social work, psychology, or marriage and family
Section G. Unless otherwise agreed by the parties, when an evaluation is ordered by the Court
pursuant to La. R.S. 9:331 in a proceeding for visitation (other than supervised visitation), or in a
joint custody proceeding where the designation of a domiciliary parent is not an issue, the
“mental health professional” shall be a person who possesses at least a masters’ degree in
counseling, social work, psychology, or marriage and family counseling.
Section H. Unless otherwise agreed by the parties, when any evaluation is ordered by the Court
pursuant to La. R.S. 9:331, there shall have been no prior communications between the attorneys
or the parties and the mental health professional concerning the issues in the pending matter,
other than communications for the sole purpose of determining the availability of the mental
health professional or to identify any conflicts of interest the mental health professional may
have with the parties or the children.
Section I. When an evaluation is ordered by the Court pursuant to La. R.S. 9:331 and the mental
health professional has been appointed, by the attorneys and the mental health professional shall
1.      There shall be no ex-parte contact between the attorneys and the mental health
professional. All oral contacts shall be by conference call or joint meeting. All correspondence
from the mental health professional shall be directed to all attorneys of record. All
correspondence to the mental health professional shall be by joint letter from all attorneys of
record, or if not by joint letter, the correspondence shall be pre-approved by all attorneys of
record, and shall contain the following certification by the attorney-author: “I do hereby certify
that a copy of this letter and attachments, if any have been previously provided to all counsel of
record and I have their express approval prior to its delivery to you.”
2.      In the event the attorneys of record cannot agree whether certain information or
documentation should be provided to the mental health professional, the attorney of record who
desires to provide the information to the mental health professional shall arrange a conference
call or joint meeting between all attorneys of record and mental health professional, so that the
mental health professional can decide if the information would be relevant to the evaluation.
Alternatively, the attorneys of record may request a status conference from the Court.
3.     The attorneys shall not use the clients or the children to send written communications to
the mental health professional.
4.     In the event the mental health professional determines that the minor child is at risk for
physical injury or may suffer serious and demonstrable psychological trauma due to the
condition or circumstances of any party or any child, the mental health professional shall
immediately contact the Court, and all counsel of record to advise of the matter.
5.       Once the evaluation has been completed, the mental health professional shall, within a
reasonable period of time, provide a short form report as set forth in Appendix 9 to the Court and
all attorneys of record, to include at least the following information:
(a)     The number of contacts with the parties and the children and the types of tests
administered to the parties and/or the children, if any.
(b)     A listing of other sources of information and a listing of any relevant information
that could not be obtained.
(c)     Identify any specific opinions or facts regarding the parties or the children that
may impact the issues before the court.
(d)     Any specific recommendation in light of the opinions or facts set forth in (c).
6.     If any attorney of record requires additional information, this information shall be
requested as set forth in Section I(1) above, or by deposition.
7.    If the Court requires additional information, this information shall be provided by
whatever means the Court deems appropriate.
6. CANCELLATION OF HEARING OFFICER CONFERENCES.
If a matter is settled prior to a scheduled Hearing Officer Conference, the attorneys of record
shall notify the office of the Hearing Officer in writing to remove the matter from the Hearing
Officer’s calendar.
A copy of a motion to dismiss filed in a case prior to a scheduled Hearing Officer Conference
shall be provided to the office of the appropriate Hearing Officer prior to its presentation to the
Court for signature and said motion shall contain a certificate signed by the party or his counsel
verifying that a copy has been sent to the opposing party or his counsel and that the office of the
Hearing Officer has been supplied with a copy of the motion. Once the order is signed, the
attorney(s) and any unrepresented party shall notify the office of the Hearing Officer in writing
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