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Last Modified on Feb 17, 2026
Settling a divorce can be challenging, regardless of the details of the marriage. In some cases, couples may choose to partake in a divorce settlement conference to facilitate negotiations. In other cases, a judge may order you to complete a mandatory settlement conference meeting. Before you can think about that, you’re probably wondering, “What is a divorce settlement conference in Louisiana, and how does it work?”
A divorce settlement conference is an alternative dispute resolution. It allows spouses and their lawyers to work out the details of a divorce settlement with the help of a neutral third party. Oftentimes, this neutral third party is a trained mediator. Sometimes, it may be another judge. Either way, they are not the ones making the final decision on the terms of your divorce. The point of a divorce settlement conference is to reach an agreement with your spouse. It can also be useful to explore how a divorce settlement conference differs from mediation in Louisiana so you know which path makes sense for your situation.
A skilled divorce settlement conference lawyer from Laura L. Davenport, LLC, can provide guidance throughout your divorce settlement conference.
How a Divorce Settlement Conference Case in Louisiana Works
In recent years, Louisiana has had the lowest divorce rate in the country, at 0.9 per 1,000 people. Still, divorce can impact a great deal of the population. Louisiana is home to over 4,600,000 people, and nearly 50 percent of residents over the age of 15 are married.
Getting divorced can be a complex process that involves settling various matters. Many spouses can work together to negotiate fair terms for their separation. Others must take matters to court to reach a resolution.
Regardless of where you are in your case, it’s possible to resolve issues at a divorce settlement conference. An experienced mediation lawyer can help clarify your options and represent your interests whether your conference is voluntary or court-ordered. There are two main types of settlement conferences that couples may have when going through a divorce:
- Voluntary settlement conference. You and your spouse can decide to attend a settlement conference together to discuss matters in a more structured manner. When you voluntarily attend these meetings, you don’t necessarily need to have a neutral third party present. Instead, you and your attorneys can handle it.
- Mandatory settlement conference. Whether your divorce case goes to court or not, a judge may order you to partake in a mandatory divorce settlement conference. These meetings require a mediator to be present.
FAQs
What Are the Key Differences Between Divorce Settlement Conferences, Mediation, and Arbitration in Louisiana?
The key differences between divorce settlement conferences, mediation, and arbitration in Louisiana are small but significant. All these avenues allow spouses to resolve issues by communicating with one another while a neutral third party facilitates.
With mediation and divorce settlement conferences, this third party cannot make a legally binding decision. In arbitration, they typically can. A judge may be chosen to facilitate a mandatory settlement conference, but does not decide on a divorce settlement.
How Do I Prepare for a Divorce Settlement Conference in Louisiana?
How you prepare for a divorce settlement conference in Louisiana may vary, depending on the details of your situation. For example, it matters whether you’re partaking in a voluntary or mandatory settlement conference.
It’s wise to connect with a Louisiana divorce settlement conference attorney as quickly as possible, as they can advise on the right path forward. It’s also wise to prepare all your financial statements, collect any other relevant legal documents, and make a list of your ideal outcomes.
Do I Have to Partake in a Divorce Settlement Conference If I’m Getting Divorced in Louisiana?
You may not have to partake in a divorce settlement conference if you’re getting divorced in Louisiana, but it ultimately depends on the details of your case. For example, a voluntary settlement conference is only necessary if both parties choose to do it.
A mandatory settlement conference, however, is ordered by a judge before the trial, during court proceedings, or even later in the case. It’s wise to hire a divorce settlement conference lawyer to counsel you.
Is Louisiana a Community Property State?
Louisiana is a community property state. In a divorce, any property that two spouses acquired together during their marriage is eligible to be separated as equally as possible between them. It’s important to note that only marital property can be divided in a divorce.
Separate property, or property that one party acquires outside the marriage, stays with the original owner. This includes gifts and inheritances.
Hire a Divorce Settlement Conference Lawyer in Louisiana to Learn More
Settling a divorce can be complicated, even when both parties are determined to work together. A divorce settlement conference gives spouses the chance to communicate clearly and make wise decisions for their futures with the aid of a neutral third party. It’s also wise to have a Louisiana divorce settlement conference lawyer on your side to represent you through the process.
Laura L. Davenport, LLC, brings decades of family law experience to each case we take. We can advocate on your behalf and make sure you’re not alone throughout these challenging times in your life. Ultimately, we can help you make the right decisions for you and your family, based on the details of your case. Our Louisiana divorce settlement conference attorneys understand how much is at stake and can counsel you throughout your case.
As a Louisiana business, we know how to help local families navigate key divorce settlement conference laws, enabling them to reach a resolution that works for everyone. We’ve built a strong reputation over the years, having earned a spot on Attorney & Practice Magazine’s Top 10 Family Law Firms list and a feature on the Acadiana Profile Magazine’s Top Lawyers of Acadiana.
Our team has won the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys’ Attorney Client Satisfaction Award. We’re also Lead Counsel-rated and named as Acadiana’s Choice with Acadiana Advocate.
We’re located in Lafayette, right off U.S. 90, if you want to come learn more for yourself. Contact us to set up a consultation with a team member today. We can review your case and develop a strategy that addresses all your outstanding divorce issues.
*All awards have differing criteria, and they do not guarantee any specific outcome to your case.
