Divorce Courts in Orleans County, LA
| Court Name | Location | Phone | Hours | Judge(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orleans Parish Civil District Court | 421 Loyola Avenue, Room 402, New Orleans, LA 70112 | (504) 407-0000 | 8:30 am – 4:30 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Ethel Simms Julien, Judge Regina Bartholomew Woods |
| Orleans Parish Juvenile Court | 1100-B Milton Street, New Orleans, LA 70122 | (504) 658-9500 | 8:30 am – 4:30 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Candice Bates-Anderson, Judge Tammy Stewart |
| Orleans Parish First City Court | 421 Loyola Avenue, Room 201, New Orleans, LA 70112 | (504) 407-0400 | 8:30 am – 4:00 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Veronica E. Henry, Judge Monique Barial |
| Orleans Parish Second City Court | 225 Morgan Street, Room 100, New Orleans, LA 70114 | (504) 368-4099 | 8:30 am – 4:30 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Jeffrey R. Pruitt |
Orleans County Divorce Filing Fee
The average base filing fee in Orleans Parish for a divorce is approximately $500. The service fee is typically $30 per defendant if using sheriff’s service. You can contact the Orleans Parish Civil District Court Clerk’s office at (504) 407-0000 to get more accurate information.
Residency Requirements
To file for divorce in Orleans County, Louisiana, at least one spouse must have lived in Louisiana for 12 months before filing. Both spouses do not need to reside in Orleans County specifically, but residency in Louisiana is required. Proof of residency can include a driver’s license, utility bills, or a notarized affidavit.
How to File for Divorce in Orleans,Louisiana
1. Prepare Your Divorce Forms
Gather all necessary paperwork including your marriage certificate, financial records, property deeds, and information about shared assets and debts. For couples with children, collect birth certificates and prepare details about custody preferences and support arrangements.
2. Complete Required Forms
Fill out the official divorce complaint forms, domestic relations information sheet, and summons. If children are involved, you’ll need additional forms including the child support information sheet. Forms must be complete and accurate to avoid rejection.
3. Submit Paperwork to the Court
Submit all completed and signed divorce documents to the Clerk of Court in your county. Once your forms are filed and the fee is paid (or waived), the court will assign a case number to your divorce. A judge will also be assigned to review your case and issue the final divorce judgment.
4. Serve Your Spouse With Papers
Legally notify your spouse about the divorce filing through sheriff’s service, certified mail, or a private process server. Your spouse has a limited period to respond to the complaint. This step is crucial as the divorce cannot proceed until proper service is documented with the court.