Caddo County Court Records
What Is Caddo County Court Records
Court records in Caddo Parish, Louisiana, encompass all official documentation generated during judicial proceedings within the parish's court system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of legal actions, decisions, and related documentation maintained by various courts operating within Caddo Parish jurisdiction. Pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statutes § 44:1, court records are classified as public documents subject to specific access provisions.
Court records typically include:
- Case files containing pleadings, motions, and responses
- Court dockets listing scheduled hearings and case status
- Judicial orders and final judgments
- Transcripts of court proceedings
- Evidence and exhibits admitted during trials
- Sentencing and probation records in criminal matters
- Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
- Property liens and judgments affecting real estate
These judicial records differ from other public records such as vital records (birth, death certificates), property records (deeds, mortgages), and administrative records maintained by other government agencies. The distinction lies in their creation within the judicial process and their management under court authority.
The Caddo Parish Clerk of Court serves as the primary custodian of court records for the following courts:
- First Judicial District Court (state district court)
- Caddo Parish Juvenile Court
- Shreveport City Court
- Vivian City Court
- Justice of the Peace Courts
These courts generate records pertaining to civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, family law matters, probate proceedings, traffic violations, and small claims disputes. The specific content and format of these records vary according to case type and the court of origin.
Are Court Records Public In Caddo County
Court records in Caddo Parish are generally accessible to the public in accordance with the Louisiana Public Records Act (La. R.S. § 44:1 et seq.) and the constitutional principle of open courts established in Article I, Section 22 of the Louisiana Constitution. This legal framework establishes the presumption that court records are public documents available for inspection by any person of the age of majority.
The following court records are typically available for public access:
- Civil case files (with certain exceptions)
- Criminal case files (post-charging)
- Judgments, orders, and decrees
- Docket sheets and hearing schedules
- Property records related to judgments and liens
- Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
However, public access is subject to important limitations. Under Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure Article 251, certain records may be sealed or redacted to protect privacy interests, confidential information, or sensitive matters. Records that may have restricted access include:
- Juvenile court proceedings (except in limited circumstances)
- Adoption records
- Mental health commitment proceedings
- Certain family court matters involving minors
- Records sealed by judicial order
- Grand jury proceedings
- Cases involving sexual assault victims
- Records containing personal identifiers such as Social Security numbers
It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana, which has jurisdiction over Caddo Parish, are governed by federal access rules rather than state provisions. 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 administrative rules, which provide uniform standards for record access across all parish courts in the state.
How To Find Court Records in Caddo County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Caddo Parish may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The appropriate approach depends on the type of record sought and its age. Currently, the following procedures apply:
In-Person Requests:
- Identify the court that maintains the desired records
- Visit the clerk's office during regular business hours
- Complete a records request form providing case number, party names, or other identifying information
- Present valid photo identification
- Pay applicable search and copy fees
- Wait for staff to retrieve the requested documents
For District Court Records:
Caddo Parish Clerk of Court
501 Texas Street, Room 103
Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 226-6500
Caddo Parish Clerk of Court
For City Court Records:
Shreveport City Court
1244 Texas Avenue
Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 673-5800
Shreveport City Court
Mail Requests:
- Prepare a written request including:
- Specific case information (names, dates, case numbers)
- Requestor's contact information
- Check or money order for applicable fees
- Mail the request to the appropriate court clerk's office
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return documents
Online Requests:
Several courts in Caddo Parish offer electronic access to certain records through their websites. The Louisiana Clerk Connect portal provides access to many parish court records for registered users. Additionally, the Louisiana Supreme Court maintains a case information portal for appellate cases.
For records from federal cases heard in Caddo Parish, the PACER system (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) provides online access to U.S. District Court and Bankruptcy Court documents.
Fees for record searches and copies vary by court and request type. Pursuant to La. R.S. § 13:841, the Caddo Parish Clerk of Court is authorized to charge specific fees for document searches and reproduction.
How To Look Up Court Records in Caddo County Online?
Caddo Parish offers several digital platforms for accessing court records electronically. These online resources vary in scope and accessibility depending on the court and record type. Currently, the following online search options are available:
Caddo Parish Clerk of Court Online Records:
The Caddo Parish Clerk of Court provides online access to certain court records through its electronic portal. To utilize this system:
- Navigate to the Clerk's official website
- Select "Court Records Search" from the available options
- Create a user account if required (some basic searches may be available without registration)
- Enter search criteria such as:
- Case number
- Party name (last name, first name)
- Filing date range
- Case type
- Review the search results showing basic case information
- Select specific cases to view available documents
- Pay any applicable fees for document access or downloads
Shreveport City Court Online Case Search:
The Shreveport City Court maintains a separate case management system for matters within its jurisdiction. This system allows users to:
- Search for traffic citations and criminal cases
- View case status and scheduled court dates
- Access information about fines and payment options
Louisiana Supreme Court Case Portal:
For appellate cases involving Caddo Parish matters, the Louisiana Supreme Court provides an online docket system that includes:
- Supreme Court case information
- Court of Appeal records
- Case status updates
- Opinion and ruling access
Federal Court Records:
For federal cases involving Caddo Parish residents or entities, the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana provides access through the federal PACER system, which requires registration and charges nominal fees for document access.
When using online search systems, users should note that:
- Not all court records are available electronically
- Older cases may only be accessible in person
- Some sensitive or sealed records are excluded from online access
- Document viewing or downloading may incur fees
- Technical limitations may affect search functionality
How To Search Caddo County Court Records for Free?
Louisiana law provides for public inspection of court records at no cost, though fees may apply for copies or certified documents. Pursuant to La. R.S. § 44:32, custodians of public records shall provide access to any public record during regular business hours. The following methods allow for free access to Caddo Parish court records:
In-Person Inspection:
Members of the public may visit the appropriate courthouse during regular business hours to view records without charge:
- Proceed to the clerk's office and request to examine specific records
- Complete any required request forms
- Present identification if requested
- View the records in designated areas within the clerk's office
- Take notes as needed (photography may be restricted)
Free Online Resources:
Several limited free online options exist for basic court record information:
- The Caddo Parish Clerk of Court website offers basic case information searches without charge, though document access may require payment
- The Shreveport City Court provides free access to case status information for traffic and criminal matters
- The Louisiana Judicial Branch website offers free access to appellate court opinions and case status information
Public Access Terminals:
Both the Caddo Parish Courthouse and Shreveport City Court maintain public access computer terminals where visitors can search court records at no cost:
- These terminals are available during regular business hours
- Staff assistance may be available for search guidance
- Printing from these terminals typically incurs standard copy fees
Law Libraries:
The Caddo Parish Law Library, located within the courthouse, provides free access to certain court records and legal research materials:
Caddo Parish Law Library
501 Texas Street, Room 308
Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 226-6526
While inspection of records is generally free, fees apply for:
- Copies of documents (typically $0.25-$1.00 per page)
- Certified copies (additional certification fee)
- Record searches conducted by staff
- Expedited service requests
What's Included in a Caddo County Court Record?
Court records in Caddo Parish contain various documents depending on the case type and court of origin. The content of these records is governed by Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure Article 251 and related statutes. Typically, court records include the following components:
Civil Case Records:
- Petition or complaint initiating the action
- Summons and proof of service
- Defendant's answer or response
- Motions filed by either party
- Discovery documents (if filed with the court)
- Affidavits and sworn statements
- Exhibits admitted into evidence
- Transcripts of hearings and trials
- Court orders and rulings
- Final judgment or decree
- Post-judgment motions and orders
- Appeal documents (if applicable)
Criminal Case Records:
- Bill of information or indictment
- Arraignment documentation
- Bail and bond information
- Pre-trial motions and rulings
- Evidence lists and exhibits
- Witness statements (if not sealed)
- Plea agreements
- Trial transcripts
- Verdict forms
- Sentencing documents
- Probation reports (may be restricted)
- Appeal notices and briefs
Family Court Records:
- Petitions for divorce or separation
- Child custody and support orders
- Visitation schedules
- Property division agreements
- Domestic violence protective orders
- Adoption petitions and decrees (often sealed)
- Name change applications
- Paternity determinations
Probate Records:
- Wills and codicils
- Petitions for probate
- Letters testamentary or of administration
- Inventories of estate assets
- Claims against estates
- Accountings by executors or administrators
- Distribution orders
- Succession judgments
Traffic Court Records:
- Citations and tickets
- Plea information
- Fine payment records
- Driving school completion certificates
- License suspension information
Each court record also contains a docket sheet or case summary that chronologically lists all actions taken in the case, including filings, hearings, and rulings. This serves as an index to the complete case file.
The Caddo Parish Clerk of Court maintains these records according to standardized filing systems established by state law and judicial administration rules.
How Long Does Caddo County Keep Court Records?
Caddo Parish maintains court records according to retention schedules established by the Louisiana Secretary of State's Records Management program and the Louisiana Supreme Court. These retention periods vary based on record type, case disposition, and historical significance. The following retention guidelines currently apply:
District Court Records:
- Felony criminal cases: Permanent retention for murder, manslaughter, and sex crimes; 20 years after final disposition for other felonies
- Civil litigation: 10 years after final judgment for most cases; permanent retention for real property matters
- Domestic relations cases: Permanent retention for divorce decrees and custody determinations; 10 years for temporary orders
- Probate/succession cases: Permanent retention
- Juvenile delinquency: Until subject reaches age 31, then destroyed (with exceptions for violent offenses)
- Interdictions and tutorships: Permanent retention
- Adoption records: Permanent retention (sealed)
City Court Records:
- Misdemeanor criminal cases: 10 years after final disposition
- Traffic violations: 3 years after final disposition
- Small claims matters: 5 years after judgment
- Eviction proceedings: 5 years after judgment
Indexes and Dockets:
- Criminal case indexes: Permanent retention
- Civil case indexes: Permanent retention
- Minute books: Permanent retention
- Judgment indexes: Permanent retention
These retention periods are established pursuant to La. R.S. § 44:36, which authorizes the Secretary of State to establish retention schedules for public records. Additionally, the Louisiana Supreme Court has issued specific guidance on court record retention through its administrative rules.
Records scheduled for destruction are reviewed for historical significance. Those deemed historically valuable may be transferred to the Louisiana State Archives rather than destroyed. Digital preservation initiatives are currently underway to convert older paper records to electronic format for permanent retention.
Individuals seeking older records should note that availability depends on the record type and creation date. Some historical records may have been transferred to state archives or may exist only on microfilm or in bound volumes requiring special handling.
Types of Courts In Caddo County
Caddo Parish's judicial system encompasses multiple courts with varying jurisdictions and authority. These courts operate within Louisiana's unified court system under the administrative oversight of the Louisiana Supreme Court. The following courts currently serve Caddo Parish:
First Judicial District Court
501 Texas Street
Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 226-6500
First Judicial District Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
The First Judicial District Court serves as the parish's primary trial court with general jurisdiction over civil matters exceeding $50,000, felony criminal cases, domestic relations, successions, and property matters.
Caddo Parish Juvenile Court
1835 Spring Street
Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 226-6500
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
This specialized division handles juvenile delinquency cases, child in need of care proceedings, adoptions, and family matters involving minors.
Shreveport City Court
1244 Texas Avenue
Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 673-5800
Shreveport City Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Shreveport City Court has jurisdiction over misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic violations, small claims up to $5,000, civil matters up to $25,000, and evictions within city limits.
Vivian City Court
226 North Pine Street
Vivian, LA 71082
(318) 375-3856
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
This court handles misdemeanors, traffic violations, and limited civil matters within its municipal boundaries.
Justice of the Peace Courts
Multiple locations throughout the parish
Hours vary by location
These courts handle small claims up to $5,000, evictions, and certain civil matters in their respective districts.
United States District Court - Western District of Louisiana (Shreveport Division)
300 Fannin Street, Suite 1167
Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 676-4273
Western District of Louisiana
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
This federal court handles federal criminal prosecutions, civil cases involving federal questions, diversity jurisdiction cases, and bankruptcy matters.
The court hierarchy in Louisiana proceeds from limited jurisdiction courts (City Courts, Justice of the Peace Courts) to general jurisdiction district courts, then to the Louisiana Second Circuit Court of Appeal, and finally to the Louisiana Supreme Court as the court of last resort.
What Types of Cases Do Caddo County Courts Hear?
The courts in Caddo Parish adjudicate a diverse range of legal matters according to their respective jurisdictions as established by the Louisiana Constitution and state statutes. The following case types are currently heard by Caddo Parish courts:
First Judicial District Court:
- Felony criminal prosecutions
- Civil lawsuits exceeding $50,000 in controversy
- Domestic relations (divorce, child custody, support)
- Successions and probate matters
- Property disputes and real estate litigation
- Personal injury and tort claims
- Contract disputes
- Medical malpractice actions
- Class action lawsuits
- Appeals from city courts and administrative bodies
Caddo Parish Juvenile Court:
- Juvenile delinquency proceedings
- Child in need of care cases
- Termination of parental rights
- Adoption proceedings
- Child support enforcement involving minors
- Truancy matters
- Juvenile traffic offenses
Shreveport City Court:
- Misdemeanor criminal cases
- Municipal ordinance violations
- Traffic infractions
- DWI/DUI cases (first and second offense)
- Civil matters up to $25,000
- Small claims up to $5,000
- Eviction proceedings
- Preliminary hearings in felony cases
- Peace bonds and protective orders
Vivian City Court:
- Misdemeanor offenses within city limits
- Municipal code violations
- Traffic citations
- Limited civil matters
- Small claims
- Evictions within jurisdiction
Justice of the Peace Courts:
- Small claims up to $5,000
- Eviction proceedings
- Civil matters within jurisdictional limits
- Perform marriages
- Issue peace bonds
U.S. District Court - Western District of Louisiana:
- Federal criminal prosecutions
- Civil cases involving federal questions
- Diversity jurisdiction cases ($75,000+ between citizens of different states)
- Bankruptcy proceedings
- Patent and copyright litigation
- Civil rights claims
- Federal habeas corpus petitions
- Immigration matters
- Admiralty and maritime cases
The Criminal/Traffic Division of Shreveport City Court specifically handles all criminal and traffic matters within city limits, including arraignments, trials, and fine collections.
Case assignment within the First Judicial District Court follows specialized divisions, with certain judges designated to hear criminal matters, others assigned to civil litigation, and some handling family law cases. This specialization promotes judicial efficiency and expertise in specific legal areas.
How To Find a Court Docket In Caddo County
Court dockets in Caddo Parish provide chronological listings of scheduled court proceedings, including hearings, trials, and other judicial events. These dockets serve as the official court calendar and are available to the public through several methods. Currently, the following options exist for accessing court dockets:
Online Docket Access:
-
The Caddo Parish Clerk of Court website provides access to docket information for the First Judicial District Court
- Navigate to the clerk's website
- Select "Court Calendar" or "Docket Search"
- Enter search criteria (date range, judge, case type)
- Review results showing scheduled proceedings
-
Shreveport City Court offers online docket information for cases within its jurisdiction
- Visit the court's official website
- Select "Court Calendar" or "Docket Information"
- Search by date, courtroom, or case type
- Results display scheduled hearings and trials
-
Federal court dockets for the Western District of Louisiana are available through PACER
- Register for a PACER account
- Log in to the system
- Select "Calendar Events" or "Court Calendar"
- Filter by date, judge, or case type
In-Person Docket Access:
- Visit the clerk's office at the appropriate courthouse during business hours
- Request to view the daily or weekly docket
- Docket sheets are typically posted near courtroom entrances
- Electronic displays in courthouse lobbies often show daily proceedings
Telephone Docket Information:
- Contact the clerk's office for the relevant court
- First Judicial District Court: (318) 226-6500
- Shreveport City Court: (318) 673-5800
- Vivian City Court: (318) 375-3856
- Provide case number or party name
- Request docket information for upcoming proceedings
Attorney Access:
Licensed attorneys have additional docket access options through secure portals that may provide more detailed information than public interfaces.
When reviewing court dockets, users should note:
- Dockets are subject to change (continuances, settlements, etc.)
- Criminal dockets typically list defendant names and charges
- Civil dockets show party names and case types
- Juvenile proceedings may have restricted docket information
- Some sensitive cases may be excluded from public dockets
For the most current docket information, checking within 24 hours of the scheduled proceeding is recommended, as last-minute changes are common in court scheduling.
Which Courts in Caddo County Are Not Courts of Record?
In Louisiana's judicial system, certain courts are designated as "courts not of record," meaning they do not maintain comprehensive verbatim transcripts of their proceedings. This distinction is established by Louisiana Revised Statutes § 13:1896, which defines the record-keeping requirements for various courts. In Caddo Parish, the following courts currently operate as courts not of record:
Justice of the Peace Courts:
Justice of the Peace Courts throughout Caddo Parish are not courts of record. These courts:
- Handle small claims up to $5,000
- Process eviction proceedings
- Adjudicate minor civil disputes
- Do not maintain verbatim transcripts of proceedings
- Keep only basic records of judgments and orders
- Provide trial de novo (new trial) on appeal to district court
Mayor's Courts:
Any Mayor's Courts operating in smaller municipalities within Caddo Parish are not courts of record. These limited jurisdiction courts:
- Handle municipal ordinance violations
- Process certain traffic infractions
- Maintain minimal documentation of proceedings
- Do not employ court reporters
- Provide for appeal to district court with trial de novo
The practical implications of a court not being a court of record include:
- Appeals from these courts result in completely new trials (trial de novo) in the district court rather than reviews of the lower court record
- No official transcript exists for reference during appeals
- Proceedings are typically less formal
- Court reporters are not present to document testimony
- Evidence must be re-presented at the appellate level
By contrast, courts of record in Caddo Parish include:
- First Judicial District Court
- Caddo Parish Juvenile Court
- Shreveport City Court
- Vivian City Court
- U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana
These courts maintain complete records of all proceedings, including verbatim transcripts prepared by official court reporters. Appeals from courts of record typically involve review of the existing record rather than new trials.
The distinction between courts of record and courts not of record is significant for litigants considering appeal rights and procedural requirements when cases originate in lower courts.
Lookup Court Records in Caddo County
Caddo Parish Clerk of Court records
Criminal and Traffic Division information