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Last Modified on Feb 17, 2026
If you’re filing for divorce in Louisiana, it’s important that you understand all your potential avenues for settling the case. A divorce settlement conference can often serve as a convenient alternative dispute resolution for spouses. Other times, it’s ordered by a judge and becomes a mandatory part of the process. Regardless, you’re probably wondering, “How long does a divorce settlement conference take in Louisiana?”
At Laura L. Davenport, LLC, our skilled divorce settlement conference lawyer can provide experienced counsel for your case.
How a Divorce Settlement Conference Case Works in Louisiana
How long it takes to reach a settlement and finalize a divorce is ultimately up to you and your spouse. Most divorce cases in the United States settle out of court. Spouses either negotiate directly with one another, partake in mediation, or use a divorce settlement conference.
A divorce settlement conference is a meeting where two spouses and their attorneys can communicate to settle divorce matters without having to go to court. A neutral third party is there to facilitate the process and help you reach a final decision. This neutral party is often a mediator but may sometimes be another judge. Either way, they are not there to make legally binding decisions. They simply facilitate the conversation. It can be helpful to first understand what a divorce settlement conference in Louisiana is and how it works before your first meeting.
Factors that can impact how long a divorce settlement conference takes in Louisiana include:
- Communication breakdowns
- Complexity of the assets
- Court delays
- Disagreements on settlement terms
- Lack of cooperation
- Procedural errors
- Whether you have children
There is a simple way to stay on task and avoid as many delays as possible throughout your case. The answer is to hire a divorce settlement conference lawyer. An experienced family lawyer can help you navigate complicated conversations and represent your interests in court if need be.
Filing for Divorce in Louisiana
The divorce rate in Louisiana is 0.9 per 1,000 people, which is the lowest in the nation. Even so, divorce impacts many families across the state. Data shows that about 48 percent of men and 44 percent of women in Louisiana are currently married. Another 10 percent of men and 13 percent of women have already divorced.
It’s wise to secure legal representation if you’re navigating a divorce, especially if the other party has an attorney. Generally, the filing party of a divorce is more likely to hire legal representation than the responding party. Nationally, 42 percent of filing parties have legal counsel versus 23 percent of respondents.
This can create a power imbalance, which can quickly become noticeable in a divorce settlement conference setting. No matter which party you are in a divorce, it’s recommended to hire a divorce settlement conference lawyer to represent you. Understanding common mistakes to avoid during a divorce settlement conference in Louisiana can also give you a real advantage going into the process. Their knowledge of divorce settlement conference laws can prove vital for achieving your goals.
FAQs
What Are the Requirements for Getting Divorced in Louisiana?
The requirements for getting divorced in Louisiana are few since it is a no-fault divorce state. To get divorced in Louisiana, both parties must be living separately for at least 180 days, or 365 days if they have a child under the age of 18. If you file for an at-fault divorce, the requirements are going to vary.
Is a Divorce Settlement Conference Faster Than Going to Trial for a Divorce in Louisiana?
A divorce settlement conference is generally going to be faster than going to trial for a divorce in Louisiana. Moreover, this avenue can often be more cost-effective. Divorce settlement conferences give spouses the chance to resolve issues without going to court, where a judge has a final say on what happens.
While it can be faster than going to court, the time it takes to reach an agreement ultimately depends on your ability to communicate with the other party.
What Causes Delays in the Divorce Settlement Conference Process in Louisiana?
What causes delays in the divorce settlement conference process in Louisiana can vary, depending on the situation. A settlement conference is a space for spouses to communicate with one another and make important decisions. One or both spouses’ inability to cooperate can be a common cause of delays. Other delays typically stem from having to settle complex matters, like:
- Arguments about property division
- Contested custody arrangements
- Disagreements on support payments
You also must account for any mandatory separation periods.
How Can a Louisiana Divorce Settlement Conference Attorney Help With My Case?
How a Louisiana divorce settlement conference attorney can help with your case ultimately depends on the type of assistance you need. It’s important to do your research so you can secure the right legal counsel for your case.
When you hire a divorce settlement conference lawyer, you’re acquiring a legal professional who can explain your legal options and represent you throughout each stage of the process. Your attorney can also negotiate and litigate as necessary.
Hire a Divorce Settlement Conference Lawyer in Louisiana to Talk About Your Case in More Detail
Getting divorced is never easy, even when it’s ultimately the right decision for the family. Any divorce case can be complicated, both logistically and emotionally. It’s recommended that you work with a local Louisiana divorce settlement conference attorney, as they can represent you and seek the resolution you deserve.
Laura L. Davenport, LLC, is a local Louisiana family law firm that brings decades of experience to every case. Over the years, we’ve earned a great reputation for helping families through their toughest challenges. We’re featured on the Acadiana Profile Magazine’s Top Lawyers of Acadiana and made it on Attorney & Practice Magazine’s Top 10 Family Law Firms list. We also won the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys’ Attorney Client Satisfaction Award.
When you choose Laura L. Davenport, LLC, to represent you, you’re choosing a Lead Counsel-rated firm you can trust. If you want to learn more, our office is in downtown Lafayette, right off U.S. 90. You can find us near the Acadiana Center for the Arts and the Lafayette Museum. Contact us to set up an appointment with an attorney you can trust today.
*Awards have varying criteria, and they do not guarantee a specific outcome.
