House Bill No. 409, introduced by Representative Lafleur, amends and reenacts specific provisions of the Louisiana Revised Statutes regarding the powers and duties of court commissioners in the 19th Judicial District Court (JDC). The bill clarifies that commissioners will perform assigned duties only when necessary, including hearing and recommending dispositions for civil, criminal, or domestic violence matters. It also allows commissioners to hear and dispose of preliminary motions prior to filing charges, but only when necessary. Additionally, the bill modifies the authority of commissioners concerning protective orders, allowing them to issue such orders only if required by statute or as a condition of bail, while repealing their previous authority to review and act on petitions for protective orders and make recommendations for injunctions.

Furthermore, the bill repeals certain provisions that previously granted commissioners the power to make recommendations for the issuance of preliminary or permanent injunctions in both civil and criminal matters. The amendments aim to streamline the responsibilities of court commissioners and ensure that their powers are exercised judiciously, particularly in sensitive areas such as domestic violence and protective orders. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the judicial process within the 19th JDC.

Statutes affected:
HB409 Original: 13:713(A), 13:713(B)(2)
HB409 Engrossed: 13:713(A), 13:713(B)(2)