La. Stat. Ann. § R.S. 46:2256
Complaints; filing procedure; compensation
Operative Text
§2256. Complaints; filing procedure; compensation A. When any person with a disability believes that any person has engaged or is engaging in discriminatory practices, as defined in this Chapter, he shall have one year from the date of the alleged discriminatory act to file a complaint in the appropriate civil district court. B. Persons with disabilities who have been subject to unlawful discrimination as defined in this Chapter shall have the right to any and all remedies available under the law if they prevail in a suit under this Chapter including but not limited to compensatory damages, attorney fees, costs, and any other relief deemed appropriate. Any person who believes he has been discriminated against and intends to pursue court action shall give the person who has allegedly discriminated written notice of this fact at least thirty days before initiating court action and shall detail the discrimination, and both parties shall make a good faith effort to resolve the dispute before court action. C. Any party filing suit under this Chapter who fails to prevail in his cause of action shall be held responsible for reasonable attorney fees and all court costs at the discretion of the judge.
La. R.S. § 46:2256 establishes the process by which people with disabilities may seek legal relief when they believe they have experienced housing discrimination. Under this provision, a complaint must be filed in civil district court within one year of the alleged discriminatory act, and a written notice must be given to the accused party at least thirty days before filing suit. If the person with a disability prevails, they may be entitled to compensatory damages, attorney fees, and other court-ordered relief; however, a party who files suit and does not prevail may be ordered to pay the opposing side's reasonable attorney fees and court costs.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under La. R.S. § 46:2256, a housing provider who receives a written notice of intent to sue for disability discrimination is entitled to at least thirty days to attempt a good-faith resolution before court action begins. Operators who maintain clear, documented non-discrimination policies and respond promptly and constructively to any written notice are generally better positioned to demonstrate compliance. Because a losing plaintiff may be responsible for the defendant's attorney fees at the judge's discretion, the provision creates a mutual accountability structure that housing providers should be aware of when responding to discrimination claims.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
La. R.S. § 46:2256 gives people with disabilities up to one year from the date of an alleged discriminatory act to file a complaint in civil district court. Before filing, a person intending to pursue court action must send written notice to the party accused of discrimination at least thirty days in advance, detailing the nature of the discrimination, and both sides are expected to make a good-faith effort to resolve the matter. Tenants who prevail in a suit under this provision may be entitled to compensatory damages, attorney fees, and other relief, and consulting a tenant-rights organization or legal aid office can help individuals understand the full range of options available to them.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 17, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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