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lawsuit to collect debt

Lawsuits to collect debts are usually filed in state courts—and may be filed in small claims courts, depending on the amount of the debt and the small claims court’s jurisdictional limits (the maximum amount of a claim that can be filed in the court).

In Louisiana (LA), lawsuits to collect debts are typically filed in state courts, which include district courts, city courts, and justice of the peace courts. Small claims courts in Louisiana are known as 'Justice of the Peace Courts' and 'City Courts,' depending on the location. These courts handle smaller cases involving claims up to certain monetary limits. As of the knowledge cutoff in 2023, the jurisdictional limit for Justice of the Peace Courts is generally up to $5,000, while City Courts can handle cases up to $35,000. The specific jurisdictional limit can vary by court, so it's important to check the local rules for the exact amount. If the amount of the debt exceeds the jurisdictional limits of these small claims courts, the lawsuit must be filed in a court with higher jurisdiction, such as a District Court. It's also important to note that debt collection lawsuits must comply with both state and federal laws, including the Louisiana Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, which provide guidelines and protections for consumers against abusive debt collection practices.

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Creditor / Debtor

lawsuit to collect debt

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Louisiana State Code

Creditor / Debtor

lawsuit to collect debt

Louisiana State Code

Articles