Louisiana § RS 9:242 - Waiver of delay

Full text of Louisiana Louisiana Civil Code § RS 9:242 — Waiver of delay, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ RS 9:242. Waiver of delay

            A. A judge, justice of the peace, or retired justice of the peace authorized to perform the marriage may waive the twenty-four-hour delay upon application of the parties giving serious and meritorious reasons. His certificate authorizing the immediate performance of the ceremony must be attached to the marriage license.

            B. Notwithstanding the provisions of R.S. 9:241, an officiant authorized to perform marriage ceremonies in the parish of Orleans may waive the twenty-four-hour delay for nonresident parties upon application of the parties giving serious and meritorious reasons. His certificate authorizing the immediate performance of the ceremony shall be attached to the marriage license. For purposes of this Subsection, "nonresident" shall mean a person domiciled or residing in a jurisdiction other than the state of Louisiana.

            Acts 1987, No. 886, §3, eff. Jan. 1, 1988; Acts 2003, No. 255, §1, eff. June 6, 2003; Acts 2014, No. 435, §1; Acts 2018, No. 276, §1.

Source: official Louisiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana § RS 9:242

What does Louisiana Civil Code § RS 9:242 cover?

Section RS 9:242 ("Waiver of delay") is part of the Louisiana Civil Code, the codified statutory law of Louisiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Louisiana § RS 9:242?

A common citation format is "Louisiana Civil Code § RS 9:242" (Louisiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Louisiana law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Louisiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Louisiana attorney.

How does Louisiana § RS 9:242 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Louisiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Louisiana.