Skip to main content
LA County Guide

Calcasieu Parish Small Claims Court

Small Claims Division (City Court/Justice of Peace) • Population: 216,785

$5,000
Maximum Claim
$30 - $75
Filing Fees
30-60 days
Timeline
In-person
Hearing Format

Courthouse Information

Courthouse

Lake Charles City Court

Address

800 Bilbo Street, Suite D, Lake Charles, LA 70601

Local Tips

  • City Court has jurisdiction over civil disputes in Ward 3
  • Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court: (337) 437-3550

How to File in Calcasieu Parish

1

Determine if your case qualifies for Louisiana small claims court (up to $5,000)

2

Send a written demand letter to the other party

3

File your claim at the Calcasieu Parish courthouse or online through the Small Claims Division (City Court/Justice of Peace)

4

Serve the defendant with official notice of the lawsuit

5

Prepare your evidence, documents, and witnesses

6

Attend the in-person hearing and present your case

Statute of Limitations in Louisiana

10 years
Written Contracts
10 years
Oral Contracts
1 years
Property Damage

Important Rules in Louisiana

Based on civil law system
Parish variations apply

Frequently Asked Questions

To file a small claims case in Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, visit your local courthouse at 800 Bilbo Street, Suite D, Lake Charles, LA 70601 or the Small Claims Division (City Court/Justice of Peace) website. You'll need to fill out the claim form, pay the filing fee ($30 - $75), and serve the defendant. The maximum claim amount is $5,000.

The maximum you can sue for in Louisiana small claims court is $5,000. This limit applies to all counties including Calcasieu Parish.

In Louisiana, attorneys are allowed to represent parties in small claims court. While you can represent yourself in Calcasieu Parish, you may choose to hire a lawyer for your case.

From filing to hearing, a small claims case in Louisiana typically takes 30-60 days. Timelines in Calcasieu Parish may vary depending on court schedules.

Ready to File Your Case?

Tell us about your situation and we'll take it from there.

100% refund if we don't file your case

Get Case Evaluation Call Now