Louisiana Constitution ARTICLE V. JUDICIAL BRANCH
Here is a summary and breakdown of Article V – Judicial Branch of the Louisiana Constitution:
Louisiana Constitution – Article V: Judicial Branch
Purpose:
Article V establishes the structure, powers, jurisdiction, and administration of the judicial branch in Louisiana.
Key Sections & Provisions:
Section 1. Judicial Power
Judicial power is vested in a supreme court, courts of appeal, district courts, and other courts authorized by the constitution.
Section 2. Supreme Court
Highest court in the state.
Has general supervisory jurisdiction over all other courts.
Has exclusive original jurisdiction over disciplinary matters involving the judiciary.
Seven justices, elected from districts, serve 10-year terms.
Chooses its own chief justice based on seniority.
Section 3. Courts of Appeal
Intermediate appellate courts.
Hear appeals from district courts and certain administrative agencies.
Review both law and facts in civil cases, and law only in criminal cases.
Section 4. District Courts
Have original jurisdiction in all civil and criminal matters.
Can hear jury trials, felony cases, and other major matters.
Judges are elected and serve six-year terms.
Section 5. Other Courts
Legislature may establish other trial courts of limited jurisdiction, such as city courts, mayor's courts, or justice of the peace courts.
Section 6. Judges
Judges must meet certain qualifications:
Be licensed to practice law in Louisiana.
Be a resident of the district and have years of legal experience.
Judges may be removed by the Judiciary Commission and Supreme Court.
Section 7. Judiciary Commission
Investigates misconduct, disability, or other disqualifying behavior by judges.
Can recommend censure, suspension, removal, or retirement.
Section 8. Discipline for Attorneys
Supreme Court has exclusive authority to regulate the practice and discipline of lawyers.
Section 9. Rule-Making Power
The Supreme Court has rule-making authority over procedure, practice, and administration of the courts.
Section 10. Funding
Courts are funded by the state, but some local courts may receive supplemental funding through local governments.
Key Themes
Judicial independence
Accountability of judges
Separation of powers
Structure and hierarchy of courts
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