Legal rules differ a lot from state to state. Here are the numbers that matter most for everyday problems in Louisiana, with the statutes behind them.
Louisiana at a glance
| Topic | Louisiana | Source or note |
|---|---|---|
| Small claims limit | $5,000 | Largest claim most individuals can bring in small claims court. |
| Personal injury deadline | 2 years | La. Civ. Code Art. 3493.11 and 3493.12 |
| Written contract deadline | 10 years | Statute of limitations for breach of a written contract. |
| Oral contract deadline | 10 years | Statute of limitations for breach of an oral agreement. |
| Security deposit return | 1 month | § 9:3251 |
How we built this table. Figures come from published 50-state surveys of state statutes and court rules, retrieved 2026-10-20. A number is shown only when at least two surveys agree; otherwise we leave it out. Laws change, so confirm with the statute cited or your state court before you rely on a figure. This is general information, not legal advice.
Small claims court in Louisiana
Louisiana lets individuals bring claims of up to $5,000 in small claims court. That is below the national middle of about $10,000.
- Filing fee: $35 per defendant (city court); up to $130 plus $20 per added defendant (justice of the peace). Fees vary by county, and fee waivers exist for people with low income.
- Lawyers: Not required.
- Appeals: None in city court (unless removed); new trial within 15 days from a justice of the peace.
Learn the steps in our guide to how small claims court works.
Deadlines to file a lawsuit in Louisiana
The deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit in Louisiana is generally 2 years, which is the same as the most common period of 2 years across the country (La. Civ. Code Art. 3493.11 and 3493.12). For a written contract the period is 10 years and for an oral contract 10 years.
Worth knowing: 1 year statute of limitations for personal injury claims occurring before July 1, 2024
Deadlines can start later or pause in some situations, and claims against government bodies often have much shorter notice periods. See what a statute of limitations is and what to do after a car accident.
Security deposits in Louisiana
Landlords in Louisiana must return a tenant's security deposit within about 1 month (1 month; itemized statement within 1 month, or 15 days after that (as of Aug. 1, 2026); § 9:3251). Missing the deadline can cost a landlord the right to keep deductions, and some states add penalties.
See security deposit rules and how evictions work.
Where to get legal help in Louisiana
- Legal Services Corporation: find a legal aid office, a directory of free civil legal help for people with low incomes.
- LawHelp.org, free legal information and referrals, where you can choose Louisiana.
- National Center for State Courts directory of state court websites, many with self-help forms.
Not sure whether you need an attorney? Read Do I need a lawyer? and how to find free or low-cost legal help.
Browse other states: Kentucky and Maine. Or see the full 50-state comparison.