Best Civil Lawyer in Louisiana
Ryan Nolan
Civil Lawyer
Ryan Nolan has a focus on Bankruptcy, Personal Injury and Labor & Employment Law. Mr. Nolan graduated magna cum laude from the Southern University Law Center in 2016. While at Southern Law Center, Mr. Nolan was a Teaching Assistant for Torts I and Torts II, as well as a Moot Court Board Member.
He grew up in Luling, LA, graduating from Hahnsville High School. He attended LSU graduating in 2012 with his undergraduate degree.
Mr. Nolan is licensed to practice law statewide, as well as in Federal Courts in the Eastern, Middle and Western Districts of Louisiana.
Dan Claitor
Civil Lawyer
Senator Dan Claitor was born and raised in Baton Rouge and is a product of the Baton Rouge public schools. Dan graduated from LSU in 1983 with a degree in finance and from Loyola Law School of New Orleans in 1987.
Dan tried his first jury trial, the defense of a manslaughter case, as a senior in law school in the fall of 1986. That year he was awarded the 1986-1987 Charles C. Foti, Jr. Award for Excellence in the Field of Criminal Justice. After graduation, Dan returned to the courtroom as an Assistant District Attorney in Orleans Parish. He prosecuted thousands of cases that ranged from child support issues to murder. Since leaving the District Attorney’s Office in 1990, Dan has been self-employed. Collectively, Dan has tried more than 100 admiralty, civil and criminal jury trials.
Dan has been the Louisiana State Senator for District 16 since April 14, 2009, when he was elected in a rough and tumble campaign in which Governor Jindal actively opposed him. Dan was re-elected in 2011 without opposition and elected again in 2016. Dan’s reputation in the Legislature is that he is prepared and inquisitive. Dan designed and carried through the legislative process important legislation relative to access to charter schools by those with developmental disabilities, transparency in the Governor’s Office, and buy in and oversight of Office of Group Benefits rate setting.
Dan has been an active member of the Baton Rouge Bar Association’s Law Day Committee for many years and encourages you to participate in that event.
Franz N. Borghardt
Civil Lawyer
Attorney Franz N. Borghardt has been serving the community and his clients for over a decade. The first part of Franz’s legal career was founded in public service. He spent his first year of practice clerking for Judge Anthony Marabella in the 19th Judicial District Court. He was then employed as a felony assistant defender in the East Baton Rouge Office of Public Defender, representing the indigent and gaining valuable litigation experience. He has also worked as a felony assistant prosecutor East Baton Rouge District Attorney’s Office. While working for the Public Defender and District Attorney Offices, he maintained a private practice, serving the legal needs of citizens in areas of law such as personal injury, representation of small businesses, family law, and criminal defense.
The Law Office of Steven J. Moore hired Franz in 2012 as an associate, where he practiced criminal defense and civil rights law. After four years of successful practice, he formed the Borghardt Law Firm with the goal of continuing to serve the community through public service and clients through skilled and dedicated representation.
Legal Community:
Franz has served as an adjunct professor at the Paul M. Hebert LSU Law School, teaching Criminal Litigation. Franz is a CJA Panel Member for the Federal Middle District of Louisiana, representing indigent individuals in federal criminal proceedings. He has presented legal seminars in the areas of jury selection, domestic violence, criminal law topics, and a seminar for law enforcement officers and forensic crime lab employees. He has written published articles on criminal law topics, cell phone search and seizure, jury selection, and social media. He formerly served as a member of the Louisiana Public Defender Board and presently is on the East Baton Rouge Alcohol Beverage Control Board. He has previously served on the Louisiana Legislature Law Enforcement Body Camera committee as chair of the task force. He is current President of the Louisiana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He was selected to the 2017 Class of the Baton Rouge Business Report’s Forty Under 40 and is a 2018 Honoree of Club Blue’s Great Futures Gala.
Scott Mansfield
Civil Lawyer
After several years of practicing law with one of Louisiana’s oldest and most respected firms, Scott formed Mansfield Melancon with other experienced and trusted lawyers with the goal of providing each individual client with personalized attention and a dedicated team of lawyers who understand their issues and advocate aggressively for all of the firm’s clients.
Scott has argued in numerous Louisiana and federal courts and has advocated for clients throughout the state. Scott has represented clients, most of which are individuals injured through no fault of their own, in personal injury cases and numerous business/civil litigation cases on behalf of Fortune 500 companies. Scott’s clients hail from many different states as well as Louisiana.
Scott served as a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association Ethics Advisory Service Committee, which works to encourage ethical lawyer conduct and supports the LSBA’s Ethics Counsel in the provision of informal, non-binding ethics opinions to members of the Bar. Scott also serves on the LSBA Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee, which protects the public from incompetent or fraudulent activities by those who are unauthorized to practice law or who are otherwise misleading those in need of legal services.
Scott graduated from the Paul M. Hebert Law Center at Louisiana State University, where he was a member of the Chancellor’s List and earned CALI Excellence Awards in Legal Research and Writing (I & II) and Civil Law Torts. While in law school, Scott also served as an editor of the Mineral Law Institute Newsletter and member of the Student Bar Association Ethics Committee.
ROBERT B. LANDRY III
Civil Lawyer
Attorney Robert B. Landry III PLC, is passionate about protecting the rights of individuals in workplace discrimination and other employment law claims.
He is uniquely qualified to serve in that role given his extensive experience and high standing as a corporate attorney who counseled companies of all sizes in a broad array of employment law cases for a large New Orleans law firm.
Mr. Landry, who holds a Louisiana law license, has served as lead counsel in a number of cases. He practiced in numerous courts, including the Louisiana Supreme Court, all State and Federal district courts, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, and the U.S. Supreme Court.
Mr. Landry has been certified as an Employment Law Specialist by the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization. He currently serves as a member of The Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization Employment Law Advisory Commission and will serve as Chair for 2023-2024. He is registered as a Civil Mediator with the Louisiana State Bar Association’s Louisiana Mediation Registry. Mr. Landry has earned an AV Preeminent* peer review rating from Martindale-Hubbell, along with numerous other professional awards and recognition, a testament to the fact that his professional peers rank him at the highest level of professional excellence and one of the best employment lawyers in Louisiana.
Peter T. Dudley
Civil Lawyer
My job as an attorney is to solve my clients’ problems. My goal as an attorney is to solve my clients’ problems better than anyone else would. My success as an attorney is when my clients return to me for future issues or recommend other potential clients to me. My strategy for achieving these things is to listen to my clients, care about my clients, be honest with my clients and be fair to my clients. I still believe that the practice of law can be an honorable profession as opposed to a business designed to maximize profits.
Peter Dudley is admitted to practice before all Louisiana State Courts, United States District Courts for the Eastern, Middle and Western districts of Louisiana, and the United States Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit. He is a member of Louisiana State Bar Association, Baton Rouge Bar Association and Baton Rouge Bar of Criminal Justice. Peter received his J.D. from LSU Law School, 1990, and B.S. from LSU, 1986.
Brian Caubarreaux
Civil Lawyer
Brian Caubarreaux was born in Lafayette, Louisiana and is the son of Leroy and Donna Caubarreaux. Leroy Caubarreaux served in the US Military in two different branches: the Marines and the Army. During his time of service, he piloted helicopters during the Vietnam War. Brian accredits his work ethic, strong family values and unwillingness to “cut corners,” to his parents, particularly his father. These values are the foundation upon which Brian Caubarreaux and Associates was built in 1993.
Brian received a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree from University of Louisiana at Lafayette in 1989. He then continued his education at Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, where he earned a Juris Doctor in 1992 and graduated summa cum laude. He was selected to be in the Southern University Law Center Hall of Fame in 2016.
Brian and his wife, Tressie Buford Caubarreaux originally from New Iberia, have been married for over 34 years. They have three children: their sons Ethan and Jacob are with the firm, while their daughter is scheduled to attend LSU. Brian is an avid outdoorsman, pilot and diver.
WILLIAM A. KEATY, II
Civil Lawyer
Will is a native of Lafayette, Louisiana. He attended Georgetown Preparatory School in Maryland and then went on to become a 1997 graduate of Boston College where he studied Psychology. Will worked in the field of Psychology for eight years before returning home. He then attained his Law Degree in 2009 from Southern University Law Center.
Will was a Judge’s Law Clerk for the 15th and 16th Judicial District Courts. Upon passing the Bar, Will began his own practice and founded Keaty & Tilly in 2012. He has since been representing clients throughout Acadiana in a variety of legal matters, including family, estate planning, criminal and personal injury law.
Will is admitted to the Louisiana Bar and is a member of the Lafayette Bar Association and the American Inns of Court, Inns on the Teche. He has served as President of the Family Law Section of the Lafayette Bar Association. Will was elected as Justice of the Peace for Vermilion Parish Ward 4 in 2015 and is also a Certified Legal Mediator.
Will is married to Erin McKenzie Keaty, and they have four children. He enjoys duck hunting, traveling, family and art.
The Gumbo State’s Legal Champion: Why You Need a Top Civil Lawyer in Louisiana
Louisiana’s vibrant spirit thrives on resilience, and navigating civil legal challenges requires the same strength. Here’s why securing a top-notch civil lawyer in Louisiana is crucial for maximizing your chances of success:
1. Conquering the Labyrinth of Louisiana Civil Law:
Civil law intricacies can be daunting. A skilled lawyer is your guide:
- Deep Understanding of Louisiana’s Legal System: Louisiana’s legal system, based on the Napoleonic Code, differs from other states. A skilled lawyer with in-depth knowledge of Louisiana’s unique laws and court procedures (including statutes and court precedents) ensures they effectively handle your case, whether it’s a contract dispute, property issue, personal injury claim, family law matter, or more. (https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/lawsearch.aspx)
2. Protecting Your Rights and Interests in Louisiana:
Your voice matters:
- Strong Legal Advocacy: A skilled civil lawyer is your champion, fiercely defending your rights and interests throughout the legal process in Louisiana. They will use their expertise to advocate on your behalf and help you achieve the best possible outcome in your civil case.
3. Expertise and Experience in Louisiana Civil Matters:
Experience is key:
- Proven Track Record of Success: The best civil lawyers in Louisiana will have extensive experience and a proven track record of successfully handling similar cases to yours. Their knowledge of state laws and familiarity with the local court systems give them a significant advantage in navigating your Louisiana civil case.
4. Negotiation for Success in Louisiana Civil Disputes:
Reaching settlements saves resources:
- Skilled Negotiation: Many civil cases can be resolved outside of court through negotiations. A skilled lawyer can represent you effectively during settlement discussions in your Louisiana civil case, ensuring your interests are safeguarded and that you receive fair compensation if applicable.
5. Trial-Ready Representation in Louisiana Courtrooms:
Confidence in the face of litigation:
- Litigation Expertise: In the event your case goes to trial, a top civil lawyer will be prepared to present a compelling argument on your behalf in a Louisiana courtroom. They will gather evidence, effectively cross-examine witnesses, and fight tirelessly to protect your rights.
6. Minimizing Costs and Risks in Your Louisiana Civil Case:
Strategic planning is crucial:
- Cost-Effective Representation: While hiring the best civil lawyer may seem like an added expense, it can save you money in the long run. A skilled lawyer can help minimize the risks associated with your Louisiana civil case and prevent costly mistakes that could negatively impact your situation.
7. Emotional Support During Your Louisiana Legal Challenge:
Peace of mind amidst challenges:
- Supportive and Knowledgeable Counsel: Legal matters can be emotionally taxing. Having a supportive and knowledgeable lawyer by your side can provide reassurance and alleviate some of the stress associated with your Louisiana civil case.
8. Efficiency and Timeliness in Resolving Your Louisiana Civil Matter:
Time is valuable:
- Streamlined Case Management: A top civil lawyer will be well-versed in the Louisiana legal process, leading to quicker resolutions for your case. This efficiency can be crucial in situations where time is of the essence.
9. Crafting a Winning Legal Strategy for Your Louisiana Civil Dispute:
Experience leads to success:
- Tailored Legal Approach: The best lawyers can analyze your Louisiana civil case, identify potential weaknesses or strengths, and develop a customized legal strategy to achieve the best possible outcome.
10. Preventing Future Legal Issues in Louisiana:
An ounce of prevention…
- Proactive Legal Guidance: In some cases, a civil lawyer can help you identify potential legal issues before they escalate into major problems in Louisiana. By seeking legal advice early on, you can take preventative measures to protect yourself or your business.
Finding the Right Fit:
Remember, the best civil lawyer for you will depend on the specifics of your case. Look for a lawyer with a solid reputation, relevant experience in Louisiana civil law, and a commitment to providing excellent legal representation.