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How to File for Divorce in Louisiana Without a Lawyer

Complete step-by-step guide to filing for divorce in Louisiana without an attorney. Save thousands in legal fees.

Overview: Filing for Divorce in Louisiana Without a Lawyer

Louisiana is a unique community property state using French civil law. Requires 6-12 months residency and 6-month separation (or 180 days if both agree and no children). Covenant marriages have stricter requirements.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in Louisiana?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

  • Separated required period
  • Both agree on community property (50/50)
  • No custody disputes
  • Not covenant marriage
  • Both cooperate

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

  • Covenant marriage
  • Complex community property
  • Business interests
  • Custody disputes
  • Spouse contests

Find Louisiana Divorce Lawyers →

Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in Louisiana

Step 1

Verify Residency

6-12 months depending on grounds.

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A
💡 Tips:
  • LA driver's license
Step 2

Separate 180 Days

Must live separate for 180 days (if both agree, no children).

⏱ Estimated Time: 180 days
💡 Tips:
  • Document separation
  • 6 months if children
Step 3

File Petition

File Petition for Divorce with district court.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
💡 Tips:
  • Filing fee: $200-300
Step 4

Serve Spouse

Serve via sheriff or certified mail.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks
💡 Tips:
  • Spouse can waive
Step 5

Complete Disclosures

Exchange financial information.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours
💡 Tips:
  • List community property
Step 6

Draft Settlement

Create community property partition.

⏱ Estimated Time: 4-6 hours
💡 Tips:
  • Must be 50/50
Step 7

Attend Hearing

Brief hearing required.

⏱ Estimated Time: 20 minutes
💡 Tips:
  • Confirm separation period
Step 8

Receive Judgment

Court issues judgment.

⏱ Estimated Time: Immediately
💡 Tips:
  • Get certified copies

Required Forms for Louisiana Divorce

Petition for Divorce (Varies)

Required

Note: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.

Cost Breakdown for Louisiana DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$250-400
  • Filing fee: $200-300
  • Service fee: $50-100
  • Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$3,000-18,000

Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases

For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View Louisiana Divorce Costs →

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1

Filing before separation complete

2

Not understanding LA community property

3

Covenant marriage confusion

Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana DIY Divorce

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Louisiana?

Yes, though Louisiana's unique legal system (based on French civil law) makes it more complex. After meeting separation requirements, DIY is feasible.

Need Professional Help?

While DIY divorce can save money in Louisiana, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.

Find Louisiana Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer