Louisiana § RS 42:71 - Usurpation of office; punishment
Full text of Louisiana Louisiana Civil Code § RS 42:71 — Usurpation of office; punishment, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ RS 42:71. Usurpation of office; punishment
Any person who assumes or pretends to be a public officer without the authority of an election, or without the authority of a commission from the governor when a commission is required; or who has been duly addressed out of an office that he held, in the manner provided by Article IX, Section 3, of the Constitution of Louisiana, or who has been removed from such an office by impeachment or recall, is a usurper.
Any usurper who attempts to exercise the functions of a public officer or office, and who interferes with any public officer in the discharge of his duties; or refuses to vacate an office, after having been removed therefrom in the manner provided by Article IX, Section 3, of the Constitution of Louisiana, or by impeachment or recall, shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than six months, or both.
Each day's action by a usurper shall constitute a separate offense.
Amended by Acts 1960, 3rd Ex.Sess., No. 3, §1.
Source: official Louisiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana § RS 42:71
What does Louisiana Civil Code § RS 42:71 cover?
Section RS 42:71 ("Usurpation of office; punishment") 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 42:71?
A common citation format is "Louisiana Civil Code § RS 42:71" (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 42:71 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.