Sealing an Eviction Record in Louisiana: What Renters Need to Know

If you have experienced an eviction in Louisiana, you may worry about how it will affect your future rental opportunities. In Louisiana, an eviction record (sometimes called a "judgment of eviction") can show up in public court records and on background checks, making it harder to rent again. Fortunately, under certain circumstances, Louisiana law allows tenants to ask the court to seal (expunge) an eviction record. This guide explains how the process works and what you need to do as a renter in Louisiana to protect your rental history.

Understanding Eviction Records in Louisiana

When an eviction case is filed against you in a Louisiana state court, the court record can stay public, even if the eviction is later dismissed or decided in your favor. Sealing the record means the details are removed from public view, which can improve your chances with future landlords.

Can Eviction Records Be Sealed in Louisiana?

Yes, in Louisiana, recent changes in the law allow renters in some situations to have their eviction records sealed. The sealing of eviction records usually applies if the case was dismissed, decided in your favor, or reversed on appeal. If you were served an eviction judgment, eligibility for sealing is more limited, but you may qualify in some circumstances.

Who Handles Residential Evictions in Louisiana?

Residential eviction cases in Louisiana are handled by the local Louisiana District Courts. Eviction procedures and requests to seal a record must be made directly through the court that handled your case.

Relevant Louisiana Landlord-Tenant Laws

The main state laws governing renting and evictions in Louisiana are found in the Louisiana Civil Code – Title IX: Lease. Recent court record sealing reforms may also be referenced in court rules. Always refer to the most recent court procedures for your local jurisdiction.

How to Seal an Eviction Record in Louisiana

Here’s what the process typically involves for renters:

• Confirm that your eviction is eligible to be sealed (for example, was the eviction dismissed or found in your favor?).
• Complete the official court form to request that your eviction record be sealed.
• File the request with the same District Court that handled your eviction case.
• Attend a court hearing, if required, and present your case to the judge.

Be sure to check with your local court about exact forms and requirements, as practices may vary by parish.

Key Official Forms for Requesting to Seal Eviction Records

• Motion to Seal Record (No Official Number): Most Louisiana courts require a "Motion to Seal" form. This is a formal written request asking the judge to seal your specific eviction case. For example, if your eviction was dismissed, you can fill out this form and submit it to the District Court where your eviction was filed.
  Download sample Motion to Seal from Orleans Parish Civil District Court (Always confirm you have the right form for your local court.)
• Order to Seal Record: In some parishes, you must also submit a proposed "Order to Seal" along with your motion. This document, if signed by the judge, officially orders the sealing of your record. Check your court's forms directory for specific templates.

Practical Example

Imagine your eviction case in Orleans Parish was dismissed. You would download the "Motion to Seal" form from the court’s website, fill it out with your case information, and file it with the Clerk of Court. If the judge grants your motion, your eviction record would no longer be visible to the public or most background checks.

Action Steps: Sealing an Eviction Record

• Review the outcome of your eviction case to determine eligibility for record sealing.
• Locate and complete the proper "Motion to Seal" form from your District Court website. Sample: Orleans Parish motion form.
• File the form with the court clerk where your eviction was heard. Pay any filing fees required (these can vary).
• Attend a court hearing, if scheduled. Be prepared to explain why the record should be sealed.
• Once granted, request a certified copy showing your record was sealed for your records.

The process is clear, but accuracy and documentation are important. Check with the district court in your parish for local variations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can every eviction be sealed in Louisiana?
   Not every record can be sealed. Dismissed cases, cases you won, or where the appeal reversed the eviction are typically sealable, but evictions granted against you are harder to seal unless special circumstances apply.
2. Is there a fee to seal an eviction record?
   Many courts charge a filing fee for motions. Check your local District Court’s fee schedule, or ask the Clerk about waiver forms if you can’t afford it.
3. How long does the sealing process take?
   The process varies by court, but after you file your motion, it can take a few weeks to several months, especially if a hearing is required.
4. What if my record is not eligible for sealing?
   If your eviction doesn’t meet the sealing criteria, you may still explain your circumstances to future landlords. Always keep copies of paperwork showing eviction outcomes.
5. Where can I find my parish's forms and instructions?
   All Louisiana parish District Courts publish forms—visit your parish’s District Court website or use the Louisiana Supreme Court’s list of District Courts to find yours.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Legal Services Corporation – Find Legal Aid in Louisiana
• Southeast Louisiana Legal Services (eviction, sealing, and tenant rights assistance)
• Louisiana District Courts Directory – find forms and courthouse contact information for every parish
• Full Louisiana Civil Code: Lease Law

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1. See: Louisiana Civil Code, Title IX: Lease
2. Louisiana Supreme Court – Find your Parish District Court
3. Sample forms: Orleans Parish Civil District Court Forms

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