Background
Frederick Grigsby sought supervisory review in a criminal matter pending in the 19th Judicial District Court for East Baton Rouge Parish, docketed as No. 04-04-0586, Section VII.
The district court set July 1, 2026, as the return date for Grigsby’s writ application. Counsel filed the application one day late, provided no explanation for the delay, and did not submit documentation showing that a timely extension of the return date had been requested.
The Court’s Holding
The Louisiana First Circuit ruled that the writ application would not be considered. It relied on the untimely filing and counsel’s failure to comply with applicable Uniform Rules of Louisiana Courts of Appeal governing writ applications.
The court also noted that the filing omitted the issues presented for review and pertinent court minutes, if any. It said supplementation of the application and a rehearing application would not be considered.
Key Takeaways
- A writ application filed after the district court’s return date may be rejected absent an explanation or proof of a timely extension.
- Writ applications must include the issues for review and pertinent court minutes when required.
- Grigsby may file a new, rule-compliant application by October 26, 2026, including proof of a timely extension, the missing materials, and a copy of this ruling.
Why It Matters
The ruling underscores that Louisiana appellate courts may decline supervisory review for procedural defects without reaching the merits. Counsel pursuing extraordinary relief must comply with return-date and record-content requirements when filing the initial application.