Louisiana Law: Absence of Legislation or Custom — Understanding Civil Code Article 4
Video Surveillance Clears Dollar General: No Liability Without Proof of a Hazard
October 27, 2025
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Legislation vs. Custom: Unpacking the Foundations of Louisiana Law
The Building Blocks of Justice: How Louisiana Laws Are Made Louisiana’s legal system is unique, drawing heavily from its Civil Code tradition. Unlike many other states that primarily rely on ‘common law’ (judge-made law), our system is rooted in comprehensive written statutes. But where do these rules come from, and how do we interpret them?
October 27, 2025
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Legal Newsline (Louisiana Record): Berniard Law Firm Represents Roseland Residents After Chemical Plant Explosion
Legal Newsline’s Louisiana Record recently featured the Berniard Law Firm for filing a class action lawsuit on behalf of more than 100 Roseland residents affected by the Smitty’s Supply chemical plant explosion and fire in Tangipahoa Parish Legal Newsline. The firm’s complaint alleges that class members suffered a range of injuries—including headaches, respiratory problems, skin
September 5, 2025
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Berniard Law Firm Takes Legal Action for Families Displaced by the Smitty’s Supply Fire
When the Smitty’s Supply facility erupted in flames on August 22, 2025, residents within a one-mile radius were ordered to evacuate. Families were forced from their homes, many for several days, unsure of when it would be safe to return. In the aftermath, thick soot, oily residue, and chemical contamination settled on homes, vehicles, and
August 26, 2025
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Civil Matter
Berniard Law Firm Files Class Action Lawsuit Following Smitty’s Supply Explosion in Tangipahoa Parish
August 26, 2025
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Civil Matter
August 25, 2025
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Stairway to Dismissal: Missed Deadline Leads to Summary Judgment in Injury Case
This case focuses on the procedural aspects of a personal injury lawsuit, highlighting the importance of deadlines and the consequences of missing them. Case Background Charles and Jeri Kouba sued the City of Natchitoches after Mr. Kouba fell on a staircase owned by the city. They alleged a defect in the staircase caused his injuries.
December 11, 2024
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December 11, 2024
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Medical Malpractice Claim Fails: No Expert Testimony to Support Allegations
The following case highlights the critical role of expert testimony in medical malpractice lawsuits and the difficulty of succeeding on such claims without it. Case Background Claire James sued Dr. Shahed Jameel, alleging that his negligent care caused the death of her mother, Laura James. However, a Medical Review Panel had previously reviewed the case
December 11, 2024
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Power Lines and Damaged Crops: Who Pays When Farming Meets Infrastructure?
The following case revolves around the intersection of farming and infrastructure development, and the legal implications when construction activities impact agricultural land. Case Background Lanie Farms, a sugarcane and soybean farming operation, sued CLECO Power and its contractor, Highlines, for damages caused during the construction of new power lines across the farmland. Lanie Farms claimed
December 11, 2024
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Jeffrey Berniard
Jeffrey Berniard is a specialized injury attorney with over 21 years of experience fighting for Louisiana families.