Civic Education
What Does the Constable Do?
A plain-language guide to the office and its responsibilities within First City Court.
The Basics
An office most people only meet at a difficult moment
Many residents never think about the Constable’s Office until a court document arrives. This page explains, in general terms, what the office does and why the way it operates matters.
The Role of First City Court
First City Court is a civil court in New Orleans that hears certain civil matters, including many landlord–tenant cases and smaller money disputes. The Constable is the officer connected to that court’s civil process.
Service of Court Documents
Petitions, citations, notices, and other court papers must be delivered to the correct parties and properly documented so that a case can move forward and everyone receives notice.
Execution of Lawful Court Orders
When the court issues an order, the Constable’s Office is responsible for carrying it out as the law directs. The office does not decide the case; it carries out what the court has ordered.
Eviction-Related Responsibilities
In matters where the court has ordered possession of a property returned, the Constable’s Office carries out that order. How it is conducted — with notice, professionalism, and respect — is a matter of leadership.
Working With the Public
The office interacts daily with attorneys, landlords, tenants, and residents. Each of them deserves accurate information, timely responses, and courteous treatment.
Administrative Responsibilities
Recordkeeping, scheduling, personnel, fees, and reporting all sit with the office. Sound administration is what makes reliable service possible.
Public Accountability
The Constable is elected. That means the office answers to the residents of New Orleans as well as to the court, and should be able to explain how it operates.
How a Civil Matter Moves
A simplified overview
- 01
A case is filed with First City Court.
- 02
Court documents are served on the parties involved.
- 03
The court hears the matter and issues a ruling.
- 04
If the court orders action, the Constable’s Office carries it out.
Educational information only. This page is provided by the campaign for general civic education. It is not legal advice, and it is not an official statement of the court or the Constable’s Office. If you have a legal question about a specific case, please consult an attorney or contact the court directly.