NEW ORLEANS – Attorney LaKeisha Jefferson announced that she will run for Orleans Parish Civil District Court Judge, Division H, bidding for election to the bench vacated by Judge Monique Barial’s election to the Division D bench.

Hailing from the heart of New Orleans, she embarked on her legal journey focusing primarily on family and domestic law in 2005, anchoring her practice in the needs of the local landscape.

“As attorneys, we give voices to parties fighting to take care of their children and live fulfilling lives,” she expressed. "As your next Orleans Parish Civil District Court Judge for Division H, I am committed to allowing the people’s voices to be heard and fairness delivered.”

An unwavering belief in universal justice propels LaKeisha's campaign, forming its bedrock. She acknowledges the monumental impact that civil court verdicts exert on what’s most important – our families, livelihood, and homes, our foundations.

LaKeisha's academic journey includes a Bachelor’s Degree from Spelman College in 1999, followed by a JD from the Southern University Law Center in 2003. In over two decades of professional legal experience, she has tenaciously championed justice for families, not just in trial courts, but also before the Louisiana Courts of Appeal and the state's highest tribunal, the Louisiana Supreme Court. An active advocate, she's affiliated with various organizations and has prepared for a seat on the bench by honing her skills at the National Judicial College, graduating in 2019.

"Our judicial system owes all of us accountability and a fair shake - everyone deserves to be treated with dignity in the courtroom. That is the vision LaKeisha will bring to Orleans Parish Civil District Court, Section H, and New Orleans families deserve justice from our Judges," said Jennifer Greene, Attorney at law.

In her time practicing law and running Jefferson Law Firm, LaKeisha has held diverse roles: prosecuting domestic violence cases as Assistant City Attorney for New Orleans, aiding victims at Project SAVE, and representing family law cases at her firm. She also served Southeast Louisiana Legal Services and Orleans Parish Indigent Defender Program. LaKeisha is also a Louisiana State Bar Association qualified mediator.

LaKeisha extends her commitment to the betterment of our community beyond the courtroom, often dedicating her time to volunteering for a variety of initiatives. Notably, she actively participates in programs organized by esteemed institutions such as the Louisiana State Bar Association, the New Orleans Bar Association, the Greater New Orleans Martinet Legal Society, and the Jefferson Bar Association.

Her community involvement also includes the American Moot Court Association National Tournament and local efforts such as The Pro Bono Project. Additionally, LaKeisha contributes to community-oriented organizations including the Independent Women’s Organization, as well as volunteering her efforts at local food banks like the Upperroom Bible Church, the Household of Faith, the Connect Church, and the Second Harvest Food Bank. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, LaKeisha engaged in city-wide Community Mask Give-Aways. She also annually coaches the Allen Ray Bolin Trial Advocacy Workshop for High School Students, instructing them in trial procedures.

LaKeisha is a member of the Association for Women Attorneys, the Independent Women’s Organization, the New Orleans Black Chamber of Commerce, the New Orleans Chapter of the Alumnae Association of Spelman College, and the Upperroom Bible Church.

LaKeisha is dedicated to ensuring that all families in New Orleans receive the justice they deserve, understanding that the decisions made in Civil District Court have a profound impact.

“I believe that regardless of your socio-economic status, you deserve to be treated fairly and your case should be handled efficiently,” LaKeisha said.

The Municipal Primary Election will take place on March 23, 2024.