Update 4/8; LASC's new order dated 04.06.20 extends the court closure for non-emergency hearings through May 4th.
The LA Supreme Court updated their 3/20/2020 order on 3/23/20 in response to the "Stay at Home Order" issued by Governor Edwards on March 22, 2020/ ordered, "
"Courts must take immediate measures to limit access to courtrooms and other spaces, with absolute minimum physical contact, to practice social distancing and limit court activity to only essential functions"
This LA Supreme Court order directs all district courts in the State to limit the access to courtrooms, which will affect all criminal cases. Exceptions, "essential function" should include setting bonds and hearing emergency hearings. Then, "essential functions" should be conducted by video conferencing, when possible.
District Courts around the state are issuing their own orders for additional clarification. A few of the local courts have issued the following:
- 18th Judicial District Court (Iberville parish, West Baton Rouge parish, point Coupee parish)
- 19th JDC
- Baton Rouge City Court
- 21st Judicial District Court
- 23rd Judicial District Court (Ascension, St. James, Assumption) Ascension parish court
- 40th Judicial District Court (St. John the Baptist parish)
If you or a family member is unsure how to interpret the District Court orders or your court is not listed here, please contact the office and the staff of Dewey & Braud will be able to assist you.
