Louisiana Crimes: Laws and Penalties

Louisiana Misdemeanor Crimes and Sentences

Learn which crimes are treated as misdemeanors in Louisiana, and how they're punished.

Louisiana Felony Crimes and Sentences

Learn which crimes are considered felonies in Louisiana and how the state's sentencing laws work.

Expunging or Sealing Adult Criminal Records in Louisiana

Learn how expungement works in Louisiana and whether you may be eligible.

Louisiana Criminal Statutes of Limitations

Louisiana's criminal statute of limitations determines how long prosecutors can file charges after a crime occurs. Time limits vary from two years for misdemeanors to no limit for violent crimes like murder and rape.

Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License in Louisiana

In Louisiana, criminal convictions, driving offenses, and other matters can result in a license suspension or revocation. Driving while your license is suspended or revoked is a crime.

Possession of a Controlled Substance in Louisiana

Illegal possession of drugs in Louisiana can mean penalties that range from fine-only offenses to months of jail time or years of prison time. Learn more about drug classifications and possible punishments under Louisiana law.

Louisiana Laws on Theft and Shoplifting

Louisiana theft and shoplifting crimes carry misdemeanor and felony penalties depending on the value or type of property or services stolen.

Auto Theft Laws in Louisiana

Motor vehicle theft, carjacking, and joyriding are all serious crimes in Louisiana, and a conviction can result in a long prison sentence.

Burglary and Home Invasion Laws in Louisiana

A conviction for burglary or home invasion can result in felony penalties, including prison time and fines. Learn about Louisiana's laws and penalties for burglary and trespass-related crimes.

Misdemeanor and Felony Battery in Louisiana

Louisiana's battery laws can result in harsh prison sentences, especially for aggravated and second-degree battery crimes or battery involving a firearm.

Louisiana Domestic Violence Laws

Learn how Louisiana defines and punishes crimes of domestic violence, including domestic abuse battery, aggravated assault against a family member or dating partner, and violation of a protective order.

Disorderly Conduct in Louisiana

Disorderly conduct—called disturbing the peace in Louisiana—can mean a variety of things, including fighting, being drunk or noisy in public, and participating in a riot.

Misdemeanor and Felony Assault Crimes in Louisiana

Simple assault crimes can mean jail time in Louisiana, while aggravated assault might land a person in prison. Learn how Louisiana penalizes simple and aggravated assault.

Louisiana Statutory Rape Laws

Learn how Louisiana defines and punishes statutory rape offenses and whether Romeo-and-Juliet exceptions exist.

Louisiana Rape and Sexual Battery Laws

In Louisiana, a person commits the crime of rape or sexual battery by engaging in sexual activity without the other person’s consent.

Louisiana Sexting Laws for Teens and Minors

The practice of “sexting”—sending nude or sexually suggestive photos electronically—has grown in recent years, especially among teenagers. Learn about Louisiana's juvenile sexting law.

Weapons Charges in Louisiana

Learn when you can be charged with a crime in Louisiana for possessing, carrying, or using a gun or other dangerous weapon.