When a tenant’s right to occupy ceases because the term of the lease expires, action by the landlord, nonpayment of rent, or for any other reason, the landlord seeks to obtain possession of the premises, the landlord or his agent can begin the process of an Eviction through the Justice of the Peace Courts.

A Guide to Louisiana Landlord & Tenant Laws

published by the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office.

Please click the button below to view the publication.

Eviction Court Process

5 Day Notice to Vacate

The landlord or his agent must have written notice delivered to the tenant.  The notice must allow the tenant at least five (5)  days to vacate the leased premises from the date on which the notice is delivered.  The five (5) day notice does not include weekends or holidays and does not include the day of service.  

Please click the button below for a printable 5 day Notice.

*print 2 copies, one to be given to your tenant and one to maintain for your records.

Non-Renewal of Lease

For non-renewal of Lease, an eight (8) day Notice to Vacate is required. The eight (8) day notice does not include weekends or holidays and does not include day of service.

Please click the button below for a printable copy of an 8 day Notice.

*print 2 copies, one to be given to your tenant and one to maintain for your records.

I’ve given my tenant the notice to vacate, now what do I do?

Once the appropriate time to vacate has passed (not including holidays and weekends), and if your tenant has not moved him/herself or his/her belongings from the premises, make an appointment with the Justice of the Peace Court to file for an eviction.

What to bring to your appointment:

• copy of the completed Notice to Vacate with witness signatures or proof of delivery

• 2 copies of lease and/or any evidence you feel is important to the eviction

• appropriate court costs

The Justice of the Peace will ask you to complete a Petition of Eviction. A hearing date will be scheduled and the Constable will serve the Defendant (your tenant) with the Eviction documents that will include the hearing date.

Day of the Hearing

• Arrive to court on time

• Review and observe JP Court Decourum - click the link below for full list of Decourum requirements

After the Hearing

If the Judge issues a Judgment of Eviction - The lessee or occupant has twenty-four hours to vacate the premises. If the lessee or occupant does not comply with the Judgement of Eviction within twenty-four hours after its rendition, the court shall immediately issue a warrant directed to and commanding its sheriff, constable, or marshal to deliver possession of the premises to the lessor or owner. Plaintiff/Landlord/Owner must return to the Justice of the Peace to request the Warrant with the appropriate filing fees.

If the Judge rules not to Evict - the lessee or occupant maintains the right to use the premises.

If you have any questions regarding Evictions or would like to schedule an appointment to file for an Eviction, please call 337.852.1705 or click the button below to schedule an appointment.