How to Prepare for Divorce in Louisiana
Preparing for divorce in Louisiana can feel overwhelming, especially with the state's specific timelines and property laws. The more organized you are before filing, the more control you retain over the process from every angle, including financially, legally, and emotionally.
Understanding Divorce Laws in Louisiana
Fault Type
Both fault and no-fault
Waiting Period
180 days separation (365 with children)
Property Division
Community property
Residency Requirement
Resident at time of filing
- Louisiana is a community property state.
- Living separate and apart is required for no-fault divorce.
- Covenant marriages have stricter divorce requirements.
How to Prepare for Divorce in Louisiana
⚖️ Legal Preparation
- Collect marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, and prior court orders
- Understand residency requirements (Resident at time of filing)
- Decide whether an attorney or mediator best fits your situation
- Research Louisiana's both fault and no-fault divorce options
💰 Financial Preparation
- List all assets, debts, and income sources
- Gather tax returns (last 3–5 years)
- Open accounts in your own name
- Document all shared accounts and credit cards
Community property rules apply. Louisiana has unique provisions based on its civil law tradition.
👨👩👧👦 If You Have Children
- Learn Louisiana custody standards
- Document children's schools, healthcare, and activities
- Consider ideal custody schedules
- Gather records of parenting involvement
Louisiana courts prioritize the child's best interest and consider each parent's moral fitness.
🔐 Personal & Digital Preparation
- Secure passwords and financial access
- Preserve important communications
- Build emotional and logistical support
- Create copies of important documents
Louisiana Divorce Resources
Stay Organized with Divorce Diary
Divorce Diary helps you track documents, deadlines, and decisions so nothing gets missed during Louisiana's divorce timeline. Walk into your first attorney meeting prepared and saving $1,000+ in intake fees.
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