Navigating the Orleans Parish justice system isn’t easy. From the moment you’re arrested to the day you stand before a judge, every step can feel confusing and overwhelming. At Smith & Bloom Law, we believe informed clients make stronger decisions, and we’re here to guide you with the resources you need before, during, and after your case.
This hub offers step-by-step guides, checklists, FAQs, and official court links that will help you understand the process and prepare with confidence.
Downloadable Guides & Checklists
Our free guides are designed to walk you through the key steps of the Orleans Parish court process.
Arraignment Guide
What to expect at your first appearance in Criminal District, Traffic, or Municipal Court.
Expungement Checklist
Eligibility requirements, timelines, and documents you’ll need to clear your record.
Traffic Ticket Options
Should you pay, fight, or negotiate? Learn your choices in Orleans Parish Traffic Court.
Bail & Bond Guide
Step-by-step instructions for securing release from Orleans Parish Prison, including bond types and how we fight for reduced bail.
Court Day Preparation Checklist
What to wear, what to bring, when to arrive, and how to find your courtroom.
Municipal Violations Guide
Understanding city-level offenses like trespassing, disturbing the peace, or public intoxication.
Felony vs. Misdemeanor Overview
Breaking down the differences, penalties, and court processes for each.
Client Rights Card
A printable wallet-sized reference with your rights during arrest, questioning, or traffic stops.
Tulane & Broad Survival Guide
A practical walkthrough of what to expect when you arrive at the courthouse complex.
Useful Links
Quick access to the most important Orleans Parish legal resources:
- Orleans Parish Docket Search Look up your case details, court dates, and docket information.
- Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Inmate Search Find out if someone is in custody at Orleans Parish Prison.
- Clerk of Court – Orleans Parish Court forms, filing information, and official public records.
- Orleans Parish Traffic & Municipal Court Information about fines, court locations, and case lookups.
- Louisiana State Police Criminal Records Background check requests and expungement processing information.
- Public Defender’s Office Orleans Parish – Access to indigent defense resources.
- Louisiana Law Help Free legal information and self-help resources.
- United States District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana Federal court resources (if your case escalates beyond Orleans Parish).
Frequently Asked Questions
Expungements
Am I eligible to clear my record in Louisiana?
Eligibility for expungement depends on the type of charge, the outcome, and how much time has passed. For example, arrests that did not lead to convictions may be cleared immediately, while most misdemeanors can be expunged after five years, provided you have no new convictions. Certain felonies may be eligible after 10 years, as long as all probation or parole terms were completed. Serious crimes like sex offenses, violent felonies, and crimes against children generally cannot be expunged. Because the rules are complicated, the best way to know is to have an attorney review your record and timeline.
How long does expungement take in Orleans Parish?
The process usually takes three to six months, but delays are common. Each petition has to be filed in the same court where your case was handled — whether that’s Criminal District Court, Municipal Court, or Traffic Court. From there, the paperwork must also go to the Louisiana State Police for background verification and to the District Attorney’s office for review. If everything is filed correctly and no objections are raised, a judge signs the order sealing the record. If anything is missing or challenged, the process can take longer.
Bail & Release
How is bail set in Orleans Parish?
Bail amounts are determined by a judge based on several factors: the seriousness of the charge, your prior criminal record, your ties to the community, and whether you’re considered a flight risk. For example, a non-violent misdemeanor may have a relatively low bail or even qualify for release on recognizance, while a violent felony will carry a much higher bail. An attorney’s role is to advocate for you at the hearing and present arguments for the lowest possible amount or an alternative release option.
Can a lawyer really lower my bail?
Yes. A skilled defense attorney can file what’s called a bond reduction motion and argue in front of the judge that your bail should be lowered. We may present evidence of employment, family ties, or lack of flight risk to strengthen the request. In some cases, this can mean the difference between sitting in jail for weeks or going home to prepare your defense. Bail reductions also make it easier for families to post bond quickly and avoid financial strain.
Court Appearances
Do I have to attend every hearing in Orleans Parish?
It depends on the type of case. For many misdemeanor and traffic cases, your attorney can appear on your behalf for routine hearings, saving you the stress of missing work or arranging childcare. However, in felony cases — especially at arraignment, trial, or sentencing — your presence is usually mandatory. We’ll always let you know ahead of time which hearings you must attend and which ones we can handle for you.
What happens if I miss a court date?
Missing court in Orleans Parish almost always results in a bench warrant for your arrest. This means law enforcement can arrest you at any time — even during a routine traffic stop. In addition, missing court can make your case harder to defend, increase your bail amount, and harm your credibility with the judge. If you know you can’t make it, contact your attorney immediately so we can file a motion to reschedule or explain your absence to the court before a warrant is issued.
Facing Court at Tulane & Broad?
