Louisiana Small Claims Court Guide

Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in Louisiana.

Maximum Claim

$5,000

Filing Fee

$75

Fee waiver available

Court Name

Small Claims Division (City Court / Justice of the Peace)

Hearing Timeline

30–60 days from filing

Find your courthouse in Louisiana

Search by city, county, or ZIP code to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.

How Much Can You Sue For in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, individuals can file small claims cases for up to $5,000. This limit applies to both individuals and businesses.

Important: Filed in Justice of the Peace courts in rural areas, City Courts in urban areas

Louisiana Small Claims Court Filing Fees

Claim Amount	Filing Fee
Standard filing fee (varies by parish)	$75

If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may qualify for a fee waiver. Ask the court clerk for a fee waiver application when you file.

Statutes of Limitations in Louisiana

You must file your claim within the time limits below, or the court will dismiss your case regardless of its merits.

years — written contract

years — oral contract

years — property damage

years — personal injury

Ready to take action in Louisiana?

A demand letter often resolves disputes before court. Our free guide shows you how to write one in minutes.

Read the demand letter guide

Where to File in Louisiana

Small claims cases in Louisiana are handled by the Small Claims Division (City Court / Justice of the Peace). Louisiana has 49 parish Justice of the Peace and City Courts.

Where to file: File in the parish where the defendant lives

Not sure which court you need? Our step-by-step filing guide walks you through finding the right court for your case.

Find your specific courthouse: Search for your county courthouse below ↓ — get the address, phone number, hours, and see if e-filing is available.

How to Serve the Defendant in Louisiana

After filing your claim, you must formally notify the defendant. This is called "service of process" and is required before your case can be heard.

Accepted methods: Personal service by sheriff or certified mail

Deadline: Service must be completed at least 10 days before the hearing.

Louisiana Small Claims Court Procedures

Can I bring a lawyer?

Yes, attorneys are allowed to represent parties in Louisiana small claims court.

Can I appeal?

Either party may appeal (timeframe varies by court)

Is e-filing available?

E-filing is available in some Louisiana courts but not all. Check with your specific court location.

Are remote hearings available?

Remote hearings are available in some Louisiana courts. Check with your specific court location for current policies.

Official Louisiana Court Resources

Louisiana Court Website →

Find Your Courthouse in Louisiana

Select your county to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.

Search all courts by city, county, or ZIP

Acadia Parish

Crowley area

(337) 334-4584

Allen Parish

Oberlin area

(337) 639-4929

Ascension Parish

Donaldsonville area

(225) 621-8400