Eviction Process Timeline Guide for Louisiana Renters

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Louisiana and facing eviction, it’s important to understand the eviction process timeline, your legal rights, and what steps you can take. Louisiana has specific laws landlords must follow if they want to end your lease or remove you from the property. This guide breaks down each step of the eviction process so you can stay informed and prepared.

Overview: How Eviction Works in Louisiana

The eviction process in Louisiana is governed by the Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure Articles 4701–4735. Landlords must follow a legal procedure before removing tenants. Typically, eviction can only occur for reasons like nonpayment of rent, breaking the lease, or staying after the lease ends (holdover).

Step-By-Step Louisiana Eviction Timeline

Below is a general timeline for the Louisiana eviction process. Timelines may differ based on your situation, so be sure to review your specific lease and any notices from your landlord.

1. Written Notice to Vacate

• Nonpayment or Lease Violation: Landlord gives a 5-day Notice to Vacate (sometimes called a termination notice).
• No Lease or Holdover: Landlord may still use a 5-day Notice to Vacate.
• No official form number, but the notice must be written and can be hand-delivered or posted to your door.

Example: If you miss rent, your landlord could give you a written 5-day notice asking you to leave or pay.

See sample Notice to Vacate templates and requirements from the Louisiana Supreme Court's eviction resources.

2. Eviction Filing with the Court

• If you don’t move out after the 5-day notice period (weekends/holidays not included), the landlord may file a formal eviction lawsuit (called a Rule for Possession) in the proper parish court.
• The court is often a City, Parish, or Justice of the Peace Court.
• You will receive an official court document called a Rule to Show Cause (Rule for Possession).

Find local court contact information here.

3. Court Hearing

• The hearing is usually scheduled 3 days after the Rule to Show Cause is served to you, but it can be sooner.
• You have the right to appear and present your side.
• Important: If you do not attend, the court may rule against you by default.

Court schedules and records can be checked with your local parish eviction court.

4. Judgment and Order to Vacate

• If the judge rules in the landlord’s favor, you usually have 24 hours to vacate after the judgment.
• If you do not move out, the landlord can request a Warrant for Possession.

This warrant allows the constable or sheriff to remove you and your property if necessary.

Official Form: Rule for Possession

• Form Name: Rule for Possession (commonly used name; no statewide official number)
• When Used: After notice to vacate expires and the tenant remains, landlord files this with the court to start eviction proceedings.
• Practical Example: If you stay after the 5-day notice, you’ll be served this form, telling you the hearing date and why eviction is being requested.
• Sample Rule for Possession forms and instructions here.

Who Handles Louisiana Evictions?

Evictions are handled by local courts—find your specific parish court or Justice of the Peace for more details.

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Summary: The typical Louisiana eviction process may take as little as 1–2 weeks if uncontested, depending on court scheduling and the reason for eviction. However, delays can happen if either party requests more time or files appeals.

Protecting Your Rights and Next Steps

• Confirm all written notices are properly delivered and state the reason for eviction.
• Appear at any scheduled court hearings to present your case or defenses.
• If you need legal help, contact a local tenant legal aid office or check Louisiana’s renter resources below.

The Louisiana eviction law can be found in Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure Articles 4701–4735.

Frequently Asked Questions: Louisiana Eviction

1. How much notice must my landlord give me before eviction in Louisiana?
   Landlords must usually provide at least 5 days’ notice to vacate before filing for eviction, not counting weekends and holidays.
2. Can a landlord evict me without going to court in Louisiana?
   No, landlords must follow the court process and cannot remove tenants themselves.
3. What should I do if I receive a Rule to Show Cause (Rule for Possession)?
   Read the notice and note your court date. Attend the hearing to explain your situation or raise any defenses.
4. Are there special protections against eviction for certain renters in Louisiana?
   In some cases (such as subsidized housing), additional federal protections may apply. Contact your local housing authority for guidance.
5. Where can I get help with eviction in Louisiana?
   Free legal assistance is available via statewide legal aid and local city/parish courts. See the resources section below.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana Supreme Court: Eviction Resources – Forms, guides, and court directories
• Louisiana Legal Aid Services – Free legal help for qualifying renters
• Louisiana Housing Corporation – Housing assistance and rental support
• LawHelp Louisiana – Tenant rights information and legal help locator

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1. See Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure Articles 4701–4735.
2. Louisiana Supreme Court - Evictions.
3. Louisiana Legal Aid Services.

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