Emergency Family-Law Resources in Louisiana
Official starting points for immediate safety, interim custody orders, protective orders, and Louisiana DCFS child protection.
Temporary orders involving children
Louisiana does not promise same-day rulings on any private interim filing. Emergency orders are limited. Use the District Court interim procedure and parish forms, and confirm the receiving court's local intake and deadlines.
A parent can request interim custody / visitation through the District Court procedure. For an immediate threat, a protective order petition is a separate, faster route.
Protective orders (Domestic Abuse Assistance Act, R.S. 46:2131)
A Louisiana protective order is issued under the Domestic Abuse Assistance Act (R.S. 46:2131). There is no filing fee. A TRO may be issued ex parte. After a hearing, a protective order may last up to 18 months (renewable); the no-abuse/no-harassment part can be indefinite. Obey every term; only the court can change it.
Louisiana child protective (DCFS)
Reports of suspected abuse or neglect go to the Louisiana DCFS at 1-855-452-5437 (24/7) or 911 for immediate. A report can lead to a CPS investigation; an unsubstantiated report does not prove it was knowingly false and does not by itself end custody or visitation.
- Louisiana protective orders
- La. Civ. Code Art. 134 — custody / best interests
- Louisiana DCFS — Child Protective Services
Always confirm current local forms, fees, and filing procedure with the clerk of the Louisiana District Court (parish) handling your case.