Louisiana § RS 13:5200 - Declaration of purpose
Full text of Louisiana Louisiana Civil Code § RS 13:5200 — Declaration of purpose, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ RS 13:5200. Declaration of purpose
A. The purpose of this Part is to improve the administration of justice in small noncriminal cases, and make the judicial system more available to and comprehensible by the public; to simplify practice and procedure in the commencement, handling, and trial of such cases in order that plaintiffs may bring actions in their own behalf, and defendants may participate actively in the proceedings rather than default; to provide an efficient and inexpensive forum with the objective of dispensing justice in a speedy manner; and generally to promote the confidence of the public in the overall judicial system by providing a forum for small claims.
B. In an effort to improve access to justice, the Louisiana Supreme Court has initiated an Online Dispute Resolution Pilot Project Program as provided in Part XVIII-A of this Chapter to include all small claims cases filed in the City Court of East St. Tammany beginning January 1, 2022, and continuing until the Louisiana Supreme Court or Louisiana Legislature terminates the program.
Added by Acts 1977, No. 710, §1; Acts 2021, No. 281, §1.
Source: official Louisiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana § RS 13:5200
What does Louisiana Civil Code § RS 13:5200 cover?
Section RS 13:5200 ("Declaration of purpose") 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 13:5200?
A common citation format is "Louisiana Civil Code § RS 13:5200" (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 13:5200 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.