Federal Judge Temporarily Blocks Louisiana Clerk Consolidation Law
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New Orleans. A federal judge on Sunday, May 3, blocked a Louisiana law that would eliminate the Orleans Parish Criminal District Court clerk position, allowing Calvin Duncan—who won the November election with 68% of the vote—to move forward to assume the office; the judge found the April 30 statute violated voting rights and granted a temporary restraining order.
The order prevents Governor Jeff Landry and Secretary of State Nancy Landry from carrying out parts of Act 15 while the litigation continues; the ACLU filed the emergency motion on Duncan’s behalf, Duncan briefly began work Monday before a higher court temporarily froze the federal decision at the state’s request, and judges will hear further arguments.
More context
Timeline
- 1. November (prior election): Calvin Duncan wins Orleans Parish Criminal District Court clerk race with 68%.
- 2. April 30, 2026: Governor Jeff Landry signs Act 15 consolidating the criminal and civil clerk positions.
- 3. May 1–3, 2026: The ACLU and Calvin Duncan file emergency motion seeking a temporary restraining order.
- 4. May 3, 2026: U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles issues an order blocking enforcement of parts of Act 15.
- 5. May 4, 2026: Duncan briefly began work; a higher court temporarily froze the federal order at the state's request and litigation continues.
Why it matters
This legal tussle affects your RIGHTS. It's about who gets to serve as the Orleans Parish Criminal District Court clerk. This role impacts how the court operates and how justice is served in your community. Keep an eye on the news for updates.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
