Louisiana § RS 9:272 - Covenant marriage; intent; conditions to create

Full text of Louisiana Louisiana Civil Code § RS 9:272 — Covenant marriage; intent; conditions to create, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ RS 9:272. Covenant marriage; intent; conditions to create

A.  A covenant marriage is a marriage entered into by one male and one female who understand and agree that the marriage between them is a lifelong relationship.  Parties to a covenant marriage have received counseling emphasizing the nature and purposes of marriage and the responsibilities thereto.  Only when there has been a complete and total breach of the marital covenant commitment may the non-breaching party seek a declaration that the marriage is no longer legally recognized.

B.  A man and woman may contract a covenant marriage by declaring their intent to do so on their application for a marriage license, as provided in R.S. 9:224(C), and executing a declaration of intent to contract a covenant marriage, as provided in R.S. 9:273.  The application for a marriage license and the declaration of intent shall be filed with the official who issues the marriage license.

C.  A covenant marriage terminates only for one of the causes enumerated in Civil Code Article 101.  A covenant marriage may be terminated by divorce only upon one of the exclusive grounds enumerated in R.S. 9:307.  A covenant marriage agreement may not be dissolved, rescinded, or otherwise terminated by the mutual consent of the spouses.

Acts 1997, No. 1380, §3; Acts 2006, No. 249, §1.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana § RS 9:272

What does Louisiana Civil Code § RS 9:272 cover?

Section RS 9:272 ("Covenant marriage; intent; conditions to create") 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 9:272?

A common citation format is "Louisiana Civil Code § RS 9:272" (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 9:272 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.