The Limits of Private Agreements In Louisiana, freedom of contract is a powerful principle — people generally have the right to make their own legal agreements and decide the terms that govern their relationships, businesses, and property. But that freedom is not absolute. There are certain laws that exist not…
Why Knowing the Law Matters We’ve all heard the phrase, “I didn’t know that was illegal!” — but in Louisiana, that statement carries no legal weight. Whether you’re dealing with traffic laws, property issues, contracts, or criminal matters, not knowing the law doesn’t excuse you from following it. This fundamental…
Have you ever wondered how judges and lawyers determine what a law truly means? While legal interpretation can sometimes seem complex, Louisiana’s Civil Code gives clear guidance for when the meaning of a law is straightforward.Understanding these principles can empower you as a citizen and help you recognize how laws…
When the Law Is Silent Have you ever wondered what happens when no written law or legal tradition clearly applies to a situation in Louisiana? Our state’s legal system is rooted in the Civil Code, which doesn’t just define laws — it also provides guidance for what courts must do…
Introduction: Understanding the Roots of Louisiana Law Ever wondered where the laws that govern your daily life in Louisiana actually come from? Unlike many other states, Louisiana has a unique legal system rooted in its Civil Code, and understanding its foundations can be incredibly empowering. Today, we’re diving into the…
The Berniard Law Firm was featured in Legal Newsline’s Louisiana Record for representing Roseland residents after the Smitty’s Supply chemical plant fire. 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…
Attorney Jeff Berniard, founder of the Berniard Law Firm, was recently featured on WGNO News for his leadership in filing a class action lawsuit on behalf of families affected by the Smitty’s Supply explosion and fire in Tangipahoa Parish. Watch the full news story here. Berniard was asked to provide…
On August 22, 2025, the Tangipahoa Parish community was shaken by the massive explosion and fire at Smitty’s Supply, Inc. The incident released thick, black smoke, ash, and oily residue across nearby neighborhoods and waterways, forcing residents to evacuate and leaving families with property damage, health concerns, and lingering uncertainty…
On August 22, 2025, residents of Roseland and surrounding Tangipahoa Parish woke up to a terrifying scene: a massive explosion and fire at Smitty’s Supply Inc., a lubricant manufacturing and distribution facility. The incident forced evacuations, sent thick black smoke into the air, and left homes, cars, and yards covered…
This case examines the requirements for proving merchant liability in slip and fall cases, emphasizing the importance of evidence and the burden of proof. Case Background Lamarr Pierite sued Dollar General, alleging he slipped and fell in a liquid substance at their store, causing injuries. After a trial, the court…