May I represent myself?
Everyone has the right to represent himself/herself. However, the Court strongly urges you to seek legal counsel. You will not receive any special treatment or assistance from the court. People who represent themselves are responsible for knowing court rules and proper procedures. Representing yourself may entail risks of which you would not be aware.
What should I wear to court?
Court is a business environment. Dress in a way that reflects respect for the court and yourself. Shorts, pajamas, t-shirts with vulgar or violent messages, flip-flops, and house shoes are NOT appropriate attire and may prevent you from being allowed to enter the courtroom.
What can I expect from security?
Upon entering the courthouse, you and your belongings will be searched. Prohibited items include (but are not limited to):
- firearms
- explosives
- knives of any kind
- screwdrivers
- metal combs
- metal nail files
- pepper spray
- stun guns or tasers
- scissors
- bags and other containers
- cell phones
Court security may instruct you to return your items to your vehicle, confiscate said items, or refuse to allow your entry. During times of heightened security, there may be additional restrictions posted.
Attorneys are exempt from the prohibitions on bags/containers and cellphones. However, attorney cell phones must be silenced during court. If you are an attorney whose paralegal, expert witness, or other professional needs to bring a bag/container or cellphone into the courtroom, notify the Bailiff at least one full business day prior to the trial or other hearing, as follows:
- Notice shall be made to Bailiff Gentry by faxing Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Dispatch Department at (318) 256-3409.
- Notice must be made on firm letterhead and include the individual’s full legal name as well as the name of the associated case.
- The individual must present a valid state ID upon seeking entry to the courthouse.
- Failure to comply with these requirements will result in the individual being disallowed from entering with a container.
I have evidence on my cell phone. How can I present it in court since cellphones are prohibited?
If you are represented by an attorney, speak with her/him. If you are representing yourself, it is your responsibility to present your evidence in an allowed form such as by printing photos or text messages and transferring videos to a USB drive. Self-represented individuals should familiarize themselves with the Louisiana Code of Evidence and other applicable law regarding whether evidence may be admitted.
Where is the courtroom?
Both courtrooms are on the second floor of the courthouse.
How should I address the judge in court?
“Your Honor” or "Judge Lastname" (example: Judge Gentry or Judge Harrington) are appropriate. You must treat the judge, staff, the opposing party, and all other litigants with respect. Do not interrupt while anyone else is speaking. Disruptions to the court of any kind are inappropriate and may result in being found in contempt of court.
How can I contact the judge?
Unless both parties are represented by counsel, all discussions with the judge must be in open court. To bring your case before the court, a motion must be filed with the Clerk of Court’s Office. Court staff cannot provide advice or guidance on preparing or filing a motion. If you need help, you should seek legal advice from a licensed attorney.
Unrepresented litigants may not speak with the judge or court staff regarding their cases outside of court. Correspondence sent to the judge and not served on the other party will not be reviewed by the Court.