Louisiana State Laws
Updated for 2026
Louisiana Divorce Laws
Your complete guide to divorce in Louisiana. As a community property state with unique civil law traditions.
Understanding Louisiana Divorce Law
Community Property
Louisiana is a community property state. All property acquired during marriage is owned equally.
50/50 DivisionGrounds for Divorce
No-Fault: Living separate and apart for statutory period
Fault: Adultery, felony conviction with death penalty or hard labor
Separation RequiredChild Custody
Louisiana favors joint custody when in the childs best interests.
Best InterestsChild Support
Uses the Income Shares Model.
Income Shares ModelChild Custody Factors
1
Love and affection between child and each parent
2
Permanence of proposed home
3
Moral fitness of parties
4
Mental and physical health of parties
5
Home, school, and community record of child
6
Preference of child if of sufficient age
7
Willingness to facilitate relationship with other parent
8
Distance between parents residences
Spousal Support
Interim Spousal Support
During proceedings, up to 180 days after judgment
Final Periodic Support
Post-divorce, may not exceed 1/3 of payors income
Key Statutes
La. C.C. Art. 102
No-Fault Divorce
Divorce after living separate and apart
La. C.C. Art. 2336
Community Property
Equal ownership of community property
La. C.C. Art. 132
Child Custody
Best interests factors
Recent Changes
2024
Waiting Period Considerations
Courts increasingly allow expedited divorces in certain circumstances.
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