House Bill No. by Representative McMakin proposes a significant overhaul of the judicial system in Orleans Parish by establishing the Forty-First Judicial District Court, which will consolidate the existing Civil and Criminal District Courts and the Juvenile Court. The bill aims to streamline operations by abolishing the Orleans Parish Juvenile Court and transferring its jurisdiction to the new district court, while extending the terms of current juvenile court judges. It also introduces a single clerk of court for Orleans Parish, effective from the next election, and outlines the powers and duties of judicial officers. The legislation includes the creation of a Consolidated Judicial Expense Fund to manage court finances and ensure efficient administration of justice.

In addition to restructuring the court system, the bill amends and reenacts several sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes, including R.S. 13:1, 474, and 842(A), while adding new provisions such as R.S. 13:474.1 and 621.41 through 621.43. It also establishes a Domestic Relations Section and a Magistrate Section within the new court, appointing a magistrate and four commissioners to assist. The bill mandates the transfer of all records and employees from the existing courts to the new structure, ensuring that employees retain their benefits. Furthermore, it introduces provisions for the management of notarial records and establishes penalties for non-compliance, aiming to create a more cohesive and efficient judicial framework in Orleans Parish.

Statutes affected:
HB911 Original: 13:842(A)