Louisiana § RS 13:3205 - Default judgment; hearings; proof of service of process
Full text of Louisiana Louisiana Civil Code § RS 13:3205 — Default judgment; hearings; proof of service of process, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ RS 13:3205. Default judgment; hearings; proof of service of process
No default judgment may be rendered against the defendant and no hearing may be held on a contradictory motion, rule to show cause, or other summary proceeding, except for actions pursuant to R.S. 46:2131 et seq., until thirty days after the filing in the record of the affidavit of the individual who has done any of the following:
(1) Mailed the process to the defendant, showing that it was enclosed in an envelope properly addressed to the defendant, with sufficient postage affixed, and the date it was deposited in the United States mail, to which shall be attached the return receipt of the defendant.
(2) Utilized the services of a commercial courier to make delivery of the process to the defendant, showing the name of the commercial courier, the date, and address at which the process was delivered to the defendant, to which shall be attached the commercial courier's confirmation of delivery.
(3) Actually delivered the process to the defendant, showing the date, place, and manner of delivery.
Added by Acts 1964, No. 47, §3; Acts 2003, No. 619, §1; Acts 2007, No. 140, §2; Acts 2017, No. 419, §2; Acts 2021, No. 174, §2, eff. Jan. 1, 2022.
Source: official Louisiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana § RS 13:3205
What does Louisiana Civil Code § RS 13:3205 cover?
Section RS 13:3205 ("Default judgment; hearings; proof of service of process") 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 13:3205?
A common citation format is "Louisiana Civil Code § RS 13:3205" (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 13:3205 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.