Louisiana § RS 40:42 - Evidentiary character of certificates
Full text of Louisiana Louisiana Civil Code § RS 40:42 — Evidentiary character of certificates, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ RS 40:42. Evidentiary character of certificates
A. Except for delayed or altered certificates, every original certificate on file in the vital records registry is prima facie evidence of the facts therein stated. The names of parents as entered on birth and death records shall not be deemed to be prima facie evidence of the existence of a marriage between the said parents.
B. Certified copies of original certificates shall be admitted as evidence under the same conditions as the original certificate. Upon service of a subpoena at least seven days in advance of the return date, the state registrar shall forward a certified copy of the subpoenaed document, by certified mail, to the clerk of court or other lawful authority who issued the subpoena. A personal return with the original document shall not be required unless the court or other lawful authority, for good cause shown, orders the production of the original by a personal return by the state registrar or his designee.
Acts 1979, No. 776, §1. Amended by Acts 1981, No. 657, §1; Acts 1986, No. 876, §1; Acts 1986, No. 621, §2; Acts 1987, No. 341, §1.
Source: official Louisiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana § RS 40:42
What does Louisiana Civil Code § RS 40:42 cover?
Section RS 40:42 ("Evidentiary character of certificates") 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 40:42?
A common citation format is "Louisiana Civil Code § RS 40:42" (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 40:42 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.