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Last Modified on Feb 17, 2026
Getting a divorce is never an easy decision. Even when both spouses agree that it’s the right thing to do, actually settling the terms of a divorce can lead to many challenges and setbacks. Meeting at a divorce settlement conference is an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that allows spouses to maintain control over their decisions. Before you consider it, it’s useful to know about the common mistakes to avoid during a divorce settlement conference in Louisiana.
Whether you’re partaking in a voluntary or mandatory divorce settlement conference, it’s imperative that you have a basic understanding of Louisiana’s divorce settlement conference laws. That way, you can know what your options are for settling all the different matters in your divorce. A skilled divorce settlement conference attorney from Laura L. Davenport, LLC, can provide seasoned counsel throughout your case.
Filing for Divorce in Louisiana
Louisiana has the lowest divorce rate in the United States, at 0.9 per 1,000 people. That said, divorce still stands to impact many people. Moreover, a fraction of these couples have children, who can also be affected by a divorce. There are more than 1,000,000 children living in Louisiana, accounting for over 23 percent of the state’s population.
If you wish to file for divorce in Louisiana, you do not have to have a reason. Louisiana is a no-fault divorce state. That said, you still must meet certain requirements. For example, you and your spouse must be living apart from one another for at least 180 days, or 365 days if you have a minor child together.
Common Mistakes in a Divorce Settlement Conference Case
A divorce settlement conference can seem straightforward, but it’s still imperative that you understand what you’re doing. This enables you to avoid mistakes that can delay the process. Common errors to avoid during a divorce settlement conference in Louisiana include:
- Hiding assets or debts from your spouse and the court
- Ignoring tax consequences when making decisions about property and support
- Letting emotions control the conversation
- Not acting in your child’s best interest for custody or support-related issues
- Not preparing for the meeting beforehand
- Not hiring a Louisiana divorce settlement conference attorney
- Rushing the process just to be done with it
One of the easiest ways to avoid these common divorce settlement conference mistakes is to hire a divorce settlement conference lawyer. Working with an experienced property division lawyer can be especially valuable when navigating decisions about community assets and debts. With a Louisiana divorce settlement conference attorney on your side, you can be sure you fully understand the laws dictating your case. including Does a Divorce Settlement Conference Take in Louisiana and what to expect from the process. Their counsel lets you make educated decisions based on a professional’s experience instead of just your limited knowledge and your gut. Your attorney can also advocate for you in a settlement conference and a court trial if necessary. Together, you can make the right decisions for you and your family going forward.
FAQs
What Decisions Can Be Made Through a Divorce Settlement Conference in Louisiana?
What decisions can be made through a divorce settlement conference in Louisiana will depend on the types of matters you and your spouse must settle. Every divorce is different, but you can typically expect to discuss dividing community property, including both assets and debts.
Other matters that can be settled through a divorce settlement conference include:
- Creating child custody and visitation plans
- Determining child support
- Ordering spousal support if necessary
Is Louisiana a Community Property State?
Louisiana is a community property state. Therefore, in a divorce, any property that belongs to both spouses is divided evenly between them. There are ways to work around the state’s community property laws.
For example, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements allow you to make decisions about assets before divorce is even considered. You can also negotiate a more flexible agreement if both parties are willing to cooperate.
What Happens If We Cannot Reach an Agreement Through a Divorce Settlement Conference in Louisiana?
What happens if you cannot reach an agreement through a divorce settlement conference in Louisiana depends on the specifics of your case. In some cases, arbitration may prove successful.
This is similar to the conference process, except your neutral third party can make a legally binding decision. If that doesn’t work, you will proceed to a more formal trial before a judge in whatever family court oversees cases in your area.
How Is a Divorce Settlement Conference Different From Mediation or Arbitration?
How a divorce settlement conference is different from mediation or arbitration ultimately lies in who sets the terms of the divorce. With a divorce settlement conference and mediation, the spouses ultimately decide what happens.
Mediation is very similar to the settlement conference process. The main difference is that mediation is usually voluntary, while conferences are often court-ordered. Notably, the conferences are not always mandated. With arbitration, a neutral third party makes a legally binding decision.
Hire a Divorce Settlement Conference Lawyer for Your Case in Louisiana
If you’re filing for divorce, it’s highly recommended to have a family law professional on your side to guide you through the process. A Louisiana divorce settlement conference attorney can take the time to explain your legal options. That way, you can make the right decisions for you and your family.
Laura L. Davenport, LLC, has decades of experience in complex family legal issues throughout Lafayette and beyond. We’ve earned the trust and respect of countless Louisianans over the years, along with a stellar reputation, recognized with the following industry awards:
- Acadiana’s Choice with Acadiana Advocate
- Acadiana Profile Magazine’s Top Lawyers of Acadiana
- Attorney & Practice Magazine’s Top 10 Family Law Firms
- Lead Counsel-rated
- The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys’ Attorney Client Satisfaction Award
When you choose Laura L. Davenport, LLC, you’re hiring a local attorney you can trust. If you’re ready to discuss your case in more detail, we’re a quick trip off U.S. 90 in downtown Lafayette. Get in touch to set up an appointment with a trusted attorney today.
*Each award has its own selection criteria. None of them guarantees specific results for a client’s case.
