Ascension Parish Public Records /Ascension Parish Court Records

Ascension County Court Records

What Is Ascension County Court Records

Ascension County court records encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's judicial system. These records serve as the comprehensive documentation of court activities and are maintained pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statutes § 44:1, which defines public records and establishes requirements for their maintenance.

Court records in Ascension County typically include:

Case files containing pleadings, motions, and other filed documents
Docket sheets chronicling case events and scheduling information
Court orders and judgments issued by presiding judges
Transcripts of hearings and trial proceedings
Evidence and exhibits admitted during court proceedings
Sentencing records in criminal matters
Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
Probate and succession documents

These records differ from other public records such as property deeds, vital statistics, or tax assessments, which are maintained by separate county departments. The Ascension Parish Clerk of Court serves as the official custodian of court records for proceedings conducted in the following courts:

23rd Judicial District Court
828 S. Irma Boulevard, Building 2
Gonzales, LA 70737
(225) 621-8400
23rd Judicial District Court

Ascension Parish Justice of the Peace Courts
Various locations throughout the parish
(225) 621-8400
Ascension Parish Government

Gonzales City Court
120 S. Irma Boulevard
Gonzales, LA 70737
(225) 647-3500
Gonzales City Court

The comprehensive nature of court records allows for transparency in judicial proceedings while providing an official account of legal matters ranging from civil disputes and criminal prosecutions to family law cases, probate matters, and traffic violations.

Are Court Records Public In Ascension County

Court records in Ascension County are generally public documents accessible to citizens under Louisiana's Public Records Law, Louisiana Revised Statutes § 44:31, which establishes that "any person of the age of majority may inspect, copy, or reproduce any public record." This right of access reflects Louisiana's constitutional commitment to governmental transparency.

The following court records are typically available for public inspection:

Civil case files (with certain exceptions)
Criminal case files (post-charging)
Judgments and court orders
Docket sheets and hearing schedules
Property records including mortgages, liens, and conveyances
Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
Probate and succession records

However, certain records may be sealed or redacted pursuant to Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure Article 1426, which provides for protective orders regarding confidential information. Records that may be restricted include:

Juvenile proceedings (except in limited circumstances)
Adoption records
Mental health commitment proceedings
Cases involving minors as victims
Records sealed by judicial order
Documents containing sensitive personal information

Access to federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Louisiana (which has jurisdiction over Ascension Parish) is governed by federal rules rather than state law. These records are accessible through the federal PACER system.

The Louisiana Supreme Court has established additional rules governing public access to court records through its Public Access Policy, which balances transparency with privacy concerns and the administration of justice.

How To Find Court Records in Ascension County in 2026

Members of the public seeking court records in Ascension County may utilize several methods to locate and obtain these documents. The Ascension Parish Clerk of Court serves as the primary custodian of judicial records and provides multiple access options.

For in-person requests:

Visit the Ascension Parish Clerk of Court's office during regular business hours
Complete a records request form specifying the desired documents
Provide case numbers or names of parties involved when available
Present valid identification
Pay applicable search and copy fees

Ascension Parish Clerk of Court
300 Houmas Street
Donaldsonville, LA 70346
(225) 473-9866
Ascension Parish Clerk of Court

Ascension Parish Clerk of Court - Gonzales Office
815 E. Worthey Street
Gonzales, LA 70737
(225) 621-8400
Ascension Parish Clerk of Court

For mail requests:

Submit a written request to the Clerk of Court's office
Include specific case information and document descriptions
Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope
Include payment for applicable fees (call ahead to confirm amount)

For electronic requests:

Access the Clerk of Court's online portal
Register for an account if required
Search by case number, party name, or filing date
Submit electronic request forms for documents not available online

Researchers should note that while many records are immediately available, some requests may require processing time, particularly for older cases that may be archived. Additionally, pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statutes § 44:35, if a request is denied, individuals have the right to institute proceedings for the issuance of a writ of mandamus, injunctive or declaratory relief.

How To Look Up Court Records in Ascension County Online?

Ascension County provides several digital platforms for accessing court records electronically. These systems offer convenient alternatives to in-person visits and are available through the following portals:

The primary online resource is the Ascension Parish Clerk of Court's web portal, which provides access to:

Civil case records
Criminal case dockets
Property records
Marriage licenses
Probate and succession files

To utilize this system:

Navigate to the Ascension Parish Clerk of Court website
Select "Online Records" from the main navigation menu
Create a user account if required
Choose the appropriate record type from the available options
Enter search criteria such as case number, party name, or date range
Review search results and select specific documents for viewing
Pay any applicable fees for document access or downloads

For criminal case information, users may also access:

The Louisiana Supreme Court Case Management Information System which provides docket information for district courts
The Louisiana Judicial Administrator's Office maintains a searchable database of court calendars and case status information

For records from Gonzales City Court:

Visit the Gonzales City Court website
Navigate to the records search section
Enter the required search parameters
Follow the prompts to view available case information

Users should note that while basic case information is often available at no cost, accessing full document images or obtaining certified copies typically requires payment of statutory fees. Additionally, certain sensitive documents may not be available through online systems and may require in-person requests with proper identification.

How To Search Ascension County Court Records for Free?

Louisiana law provides for free public inspection of court records under Louisiana Revised Statutes § 44:32, which states that "the custodian shall present any public record to any person of the age of majority who so requests." While copying fees may apply, examination of records is available without charge.

Free access options in Ascension County include:

In-person inspection at the Clerk of Court's office during regular business hours
Public access terminals located in the courthouse for on-site electronic searches
Basic case information searches through the Clerk's online portal

Ascension Parish Clerk of Court - Public Access Terminal
300 Houmas Street
Donaldsonville, LA 70346
(225) 473-9866
Ascension Parish Clerk of Court

Ascension Parish Clerk of Court - Gonzales Office Public Terminal
815 E. Worthey Street
Gonzales, LA 70737
(225) 621-8400
Ascension Parish Clerk of Court

For online searches without fees:

The Louisiana Supreme Court's docket search provides basic case information without charge
The Ascension Parish Clerk of Court website offers limited free searches for case existence and status
The Louisiana Judicial Administrator's Office maintains court calendars that can be viewed without cost

Public libraries in Ascension Parish also provide free internet access where residents can utilize these online resources:

Ascension Parish Library - Gonzales Branch
708 S. Irma Boulevard
Gonzales, LA 70737
(225) 647-3955
Ascension Parish Library

While basic searches are available without charge, users should be aware that fees typically apply for:

Printed or electronic copies of documents
Certified copies of court records
Extensive searches requiring staff assistance
Document delivery services

What's Included in a Ascension County Court Record?

Ascension County court records contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings, with contents varying by case type. These records typically include:

For Civil Cases:

Petition or complaint initiating the action
Summons and proof of service documents
Answers and responsive pleadings
Motions filed by parties and corresponding rulings
Discovery documents (when filed with the court)
Affidavits and sworn statements
Exhibits admitted into evidence
Transcripts of hearings and trial proceedings
Judgments and decrees
Post-judgment motions and orders
Appeal documents if applicable

For Criminal Cases:

Charging documents (indictments, bills of information)
Arrest warrants and returns
Bond and bail information
Arraignment records
Pre-trial motions and rulings
Plea agreements
Trial transcripts
Verdict forms
Sentencing documents
Probation reports (may be confidential)
Appeal notices and related filings

For Family Law Matters:

Petitions for divorce or separation
Child custody and support documents
Visitation schedules
Property division agreements
Protective orders
Adoption petitions and decrees
Name change applications

For Probate/Succession Proceedings:

Petitions for probate
Wills and codicils
Inventories of estate assets
Creditor claims
Executor/administrator reports
Distribution plans
Final accountings
Succession judgments

Each court record also contains a docket sheet, which serves as a chronological index of all filings and court actions. This document provides a comprehensive overview of case progression from initiation to disposition.

Court records may also include administrative documents such as scheduling orders, notices of hearing, certificates of service, and correspondence with the court when filed as part of the official record.

How Long Does Ascension County Keep Court Records?

Ascension County maintains court records according to retention schedules established by the Louisiana Secretary of State's Records Management program under authority of Louisiana Revised Statutes § 44:411. These schedules vary by record type and significance.

Permanent retention applies to:

All judgments and decrees in civil matters
Criminal case files for felony convictions
Property records including conveyances and mortgages
Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
Probate and succession proceedings
Adoption records
Civil interdiction proceedings
Juvenile adjudication records for violent offenses

Limited retention periods include:

Misdemeanor criminal cases: 10 years after final disposition
Traffic violations: 3 years after final disposition
Small claims proceedings: 10 years after judgment
Domestic abuse protective orders: 10 years after expiration
Child support enforcement records: Until the youngest child reaches majority plus 3 years
Court reporter notes and recordings: 10 years for civil cases, 20 years for criminal felonies

The Louisiana Judicial Records Management Program provides additional guidance on record retention for courts throughout the state. Records scheduled for destruction may be preserved if they have historical or research value, as determined by the clerk of court in consultation with state archivists.

Digital preservation initiatives have expanded retention capabilities, with many records now maintained electronically indefinitely, even when physical copies may be destroyed according to schedule. The Ascension Parish Clerk of Court has implemented digital archiving for many historical records dating back to the parish's formation.

Researchers seeking older records should note that some historical documents may be stored off-site or maintained by the Louisiana State Archives rather than at the courthouse. Special requests for archived materials may require additional processing time.

Types of Courts In Ascension County

Ascension County's judicial system consists of several courts with varying jurisdictions and authority levels. These courts operate within Louisiana's unified court system and handle different types of legal matters.

23rd Judicial District Court
828 S. Irma Boulevard, Building 2
Gonzales, LA 70737
(225) 621-8400
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
23rd Judicial District Court

The 23rd Judicial District Court serves Ascension, Assumption, and St. James Parishes. As a court of general jurisdiction, it handles major civil cases, felony criminal matters, family law proceedings, probate cases, and juvenile matters.

Gonzales City Court
120 S. Irma Boulevard
Gonzales, LA 70737
(225) 647-3500
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Gonzales City Court

This limited jurisdiction court handles misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic violations, civil matters under $25,000, small claims, and preliminary hearings for felony cases occurring within Gonzales city limits.

Ascension Parish Justice of the Peace Courts
Multiple locations serving specific wards:

Justice of the Peace - District 1
42077 Highway 931
Gonzales, LA 70737
(225) 644-3797
Hours: By appointment
Ascension Parish Government

Justice of the Peace - District 2
13563 Airline Highway
Gonzales, LA 70737
(225) 644-1371
Hours: By appointment
Ascension Parish Government

Justice of the Peace Courts handle small claims up to $5,000, evictions, certain civil matters, and perform marriages.

Louisiana Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal
101 Derbigny Street
Gretna, LA 70053
(504) 376-1400
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Louisiana Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal

This appellate court reviews cases appealed from Ascension Parish's district courts, along with cases from Jefferson, St. Charles, St. James, and St. John the Baptist Parishes.

Louisiana Supreme Court
400 Royal Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
(504) 310-2300
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Louisiana Supreme Court

As the state's highest court, the Louisiana Supreme Court has supervisory authority over all lower courts and may review decisions from the Courts of Appeal.

The court hierarchy follows a progression from limited jurisdiction courts (City Court, Justice of the Peace) to general jurisdiction (District Court) to appellate courts (Court of Appeal, Supreme Court), with each level handling increasingly complex matters or reviewing decisions from lower courts.

What Types of Cases Do Ascension County Courts Hear?

Ascension County's various courts adjudicate a wide range of legal matters according to their respective jurisdictions as established by Louisiana law. Each court is authorized to hear specific types of cases based on subject matter, monetary value, and geographic boundaries.

The 23rd Judicial District Court handles:

Felony criminal prosecutions
Civil lawsuits exceeding $25,000 in value
Domestic relations cases including divorce, child custody, and support
Successions and probate matters
Juvenile delinquency proceedings
Child in need of care cases
Adoptions and name changes
Property disputes and real estate litigation
Appeals from lower courts within the parish

Gonzales City Court adjudicates:

Misdemeanor criminal offenses occurring within city limits
Traffic violations and DWI/DUI cases
Civil matters with values up to $25,000
Small claims proceedings up to $5,000
Eviction proceedings
Preliminary hearings in felony cases
City ordinance violations
Peace bond applications

Justice of the Peace Courts have authority over:

Small claims disputes up to $5,000
Eviction proceedings
Civil matters up to $5,000
Issuance of peace bonds
Performance of marriage ceremonies
Notarial services

The Louisiana Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal reviews:

Appeals from final judgments of the District Court
Supervisory writs challenging interlocutory rulings
Original proceedings in limited circumstances

The Louisiana Supreme Court considers:

Writs of certiorari from Court of Appeal decisions
Direct appeals in specific cases involving constitutional questions
Disciplinary proceedings against attorneys and judges
Matters involving the interpretation of state law

Case assignment within the 23rd Judicial District Court follows an allotment system that randomly distributes cases among the district judges to ensure equitable workloads and impartial adjudication. Specialized divisions or sections may be established for certain case types such as drug court, veterans court, or domestic violence matters.

How To Find a Court Docket In Ascension County

Court dockets in Ascension County provide the official schedule of proceedings and case listings for the various courts. These documents serve as essential resources for determining hearing dates, tracking case progression, and identifying scheduled matters.

To access court dockets in Ascension County, several methods are available:

For in-person access:

Visit the Clerk of Court's office during business hours
Request to view the daily docket sheets posted in the courthouse
Check bulletin boards near courtrooms for daily calendars

Ascension Parish Clerk of Court
300 Houmas Street
Donaldsonville, LA 70346
(225) 473-9866
Ascension Parish Clerk of Court

For online access:

Navigate to the Ascension Parish Clerk of Court website
Select "Court Dockets" or "Court Calendars" from the available options
Choose the specific court and date range of interest
Review the published schedule of hearings and proceedings

For 23rd Judicial District Court dockets:

Visit the 23rd Judicial District Court website
Select "Court Calendars" from the navigation menu
Choose the specific division or judge
Select the desired date range
View or download the available docket information

For Gonzales City Court:

Call the court clerk at (225) 647-3500 to inquire about scheduled cases
Visit the Gonzales City Court website for calendar information

Attorneys and registered users may access additional docket information through secure portals:

Docket information typically includes:

Case numbers and style (parties involved)
Nature of scheduled proceedings (trial, motion hearing, status conference)
Assigned courtroom and judge
Scheduled time
Attorney information when applicable

Users should note that dockets are subject to change, and it is advisable to verify scheduling information shortly before planned attendance at court proceedings.

Which Courts in Ascension County Are Not Courts of Record?

In Ascension County, certain courts operate as "courts not of record," meaning they do not maintain comprehensive verbatim transcripts of their proceedings as required by Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure Article 1551.1. This distinction affects both the conduct of proceedings and the appeals process from these courts.

The following Ascension County courts function as courts not of record:

Justice of the Peace Courts for all districts within the parish
Constable offices associated with Justice of the Peace Courts

As courts not of record, these judicial bodies:

Do not routinely employ court reporters to create verbatim transcripts
Maintain simplified documentation of proceedings and judgments
Conduct less formal hearings than courts of record
Issue judgments that may be appealed for trial de novo (new trial) rather than on the record

When a case is appealed from a court not of record, the matter receives a completely new hearing in the 23rd Judicial District Court, rather than a review of the lower court's proceedings. This process, known as trial de novo, allows litigants to present their case anew as if the prior proceeding had not occurred.

In contrast, the following Ascension County courts operate as courts of record:

23rd Judicial District Court
Gonzales City Court

These courts maintain complete records of all proceedings through:

Court reporter transcriptions or digital recording systems
Comprehensive filing systems for all pleadings and evidence
Detailed minute entries documenting court actions
Preservation of exhibits and documentary evidence

The distinction between courts of record and courts not of record is established by Louisiana Revised Statutes § 13:1896 for city courts and Louisiana Revised Statutes § 13:2561.8 for justice of the peace courts, which outline the record-keeping requirements and appeals procedures for these judicial bodies.