How many days does a plaintiff have to request service of citation on all named defendants after commencing a civil action?

In Louisiana civil procedure, after a plaintiff commences a civil action by filing a petition, they have a specific timeframe to request service of citation on all named defendants. This period is established to ensure that defendants are properly notified of the action against them, safeguarding their right to due process. The correct duration for requesting service of citation is 90 days from the filing of the petition.

This timeframe reflects the balance between allowing plaintiffs enough time to have defendants served without unduly delaying the proceedings. If the plaintiff fails to request service of citation within this 90-day window, they may face dismissal of the action based on the lack of timely prosecution. This rule underscores the importance of promptness in civil proceedings while also providing a structured timeline for both parties involved.

Understanding this 90-day requirement is crucial for effective civil case management in Louisiana, ensuring that both plaintiffs and defendants can move forward in the litigation process without unnecessary delays.