This bill amends several articles of the Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure to enhance civil procedure practices, including the introduction of electronic signatures for pleadings, the process for challenging expert witnesses, and the handling of depositions by telephone. Key changes include the requirement for parties to provide their email addresses for service of process, the establishment of a pretrial hearing for expert witness qualifications, and the ability for appellate courts to consider peremptory exceptions filed for the first time. Additionally, the bill clarifies the conditions under which injunctive relief can be granted to prevent the sale of property and allows for a descriptive list of succession property to be filed in lieu of a formal inventory.

Further amendments address the notification process for heirs and residuary legatees regarding accounts filed by succession representatives, allowing for service via commercial courier and ordinary mail for non-final accounts. The bill also removes outdated provisions related to registered mail and emphasizes the necessity of obtaining a signed receipt for final account notifications. Overall, these revisions aim to streamline civil procedures and adapt to modern practices, ensuring clarity and efficiency in legal processes.

Statutes affected:
HB227 Original: 9:863(A), 9:1425(F)(1)
HB227 Engrossed: 9:863(A), 9:1425(F)(1)