Featured Case of the Month

Introduction

Luke Joseph Thibodeaux was involved in a highly contested custody dispute focusing on school choice and parental authority. The trial court issued orders that failed to properly designate a domiciliary parent and limited his decision-making rights, challenging his ability to exercise parental authority.

The case became procedurally complex, requiring multiple interventions by the Louisiana Supreme Court. On June 25, 2025, the Court remanded the case to the trial court to issue a compliant domiciliary parent designation and implementation order. When the trial court’s follow-up remained insufficient, Teresa sought additional relief, resulting in a July 30, 2025 order clarifying the trial court’s statutory obligations. Finally, on August 6, 2025, the Supreme Court reversed portions of the trial court’s judgment, fully affirming Luke’s parental authority.

Conclusion

These rulings came after repeated missteps by the trial court, highlighting the challenge of ensuring compliance with custody statutes and the persistence required to protect Luke’s parental rights. Teresa’s careful, sustained advocacy ensured the court properly followed the law, securing a hard-fought victory and preserving Luke’s authority over major decisions affecting his child.