House Bill No. 164, introduced by Representative Hebert, seeks to amend R.S. 13:716 to expand the powers and duties of the commissioner in the 15th Judicial District Court. The bill broadens the commissioner's jurisdiction to encompass criminal, civil, domestic relations, and family law matters, granting them the same powers as district judges, such as administering oaths, taking acknowledgments, and presiding over arraignments for misdemeanor and felony charges, with the exception of accepting pleas of nolo contendere. The commissioner will also have the authority to issue search and arrest warrants, supervise bail conditions, and review petitions for protective orders related to domestic violence.

Additionally, the bill retains existing provisions that allow commissioners to conduct hearings and issue findings and recommendations to district judges while clarifying that consent for a commissioner to preside over a case must be in writing. Notably, the House amendments grant commissioners the authority to accept pleas of nolo contendere, issue temporary protective orders, and impose fines for contempt. The legislation aims to enhance the efficiency of the judicial process in family law cases by empowering commissioners with expanded authority and responsibilities, while ensuring that the jurisdiction of district judges remains intact.

Statutes affected:
HB164 Original:
HB164 Engrossed:
HB164 Reengrossed: