New Orleans Regulatory Proceedings Lawyer

New Orleans Regulatory Proceedings Attorney

Regulatory issues with the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC) can seem confusing. They might not feel clear. Either way, you need to respond fast. Regulatory actions can disrupt your operations. A New Orleans regulatory proceedings lawyer can help you stay ahead in LSPC proceedings.

Results Come First

At Ezell Law Firm, LLC, many of our clients return year after year. They say they feel heard, not just billed. We have represented individuals and associations with difficult cases. We strive to provide timely updates to everyone involved in regulatory proceedings.

Complaint Procedures

Filing a complaint with the LPSC starts with a written pleading. This document states basic information about the case and what relief is requested. The complaint goes to the Commission’s Secretary. If it meets the filing rules, the case is docketed.

Once a complaint is accepted, the Secretary sends notice to the parties. The respondent has a set time to answer. If no protest is filed within the notice period, the matter is placed on the uncontested docket. The Commission can still choose to hold a hearing if the matter affects the public.

In contested cases, the Commission may set a schedule. The case moves forward based on this order. The Commission has a $10,473,235 budget as of 2025 to use for hearings.

Who Can File?

There were over 60 cases heard with the LPSC in the first half of 2025 alone.  Any person or entity affected by a utility’s operations can take part in an LPSC proceeding. The Commission allows direct involvement when a party has a recognized interest in the case. Common groups include:

• Customers. Consumers may file complaints in rate cases. Their interest usually relates to the quality of service or potential rate increases.
• Businesses. A business competing with a regulated utility might intervene. This could protect their access to the market. These parties often have strong positions in service territory disputes.
• Government bodies. A Parish or city can appear in an LPSC case. They often act when public infrastructure or contracts are involved.
• Trade associations. These groups speak for members affected by changes in service. They may appear formally in the case. They could also submit written testimony to be used as evidence.
• LPSC staff. The Commission treats its own legal staff as a party in each case. The staff can provide analysis during hearings as well.

Participation requires formal steps. Once allowed, each party can file documents and take part in hearings.

Hearings

Hearings take place before the Commission or an appointed judge. These sessions are open to the public unless a law protects certain records.

The hearing follows a set structure. Each party presents its case in turn. Witnesses give sworn testimony. Other parties can cross-examine them. All documents must be entered into the court record.

The Commission accepts a wide range of evidence. In general, anything accepted in a civil court with a jury may be allowed. In uncontested cases, the standard is less rigid. The commission can rely on things like signed statements or summaries. In any case, the party that filed the complaint must prove its claims.

Appeals

If a party disagrees with the outcome of a case, there are two main options. One is to request a rehearing. This must be done within ten days after the order is issued. The party must show that a procedural error affected the result. The Commission can agree to rehear the issue or stand by its original order.

The other option is to appeal. Appeals go to the appropriate state court. The process for appeals follows state law. A party that wants to appeal should move quickly. Missing a deadline can close the door for review.

In some cases, the order takes effect right away, even if an appeal is pending. But in some cases, a motion can delay the enforcement of an order. The specific terms will say what applies. The intricacies of appeals mean an attorney often makes a big difference in how a case ends.

Why Do I Need an Attorney?

In New Orleans, regulatory cases require specific legal knowledge. There are often technical issues that an experienced legal team understands.

Legal counsel also helps manage filings. Each document has to be formatted correctly. In contested matters, preparation often makes the case.

FAQs

What Is the Role of the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC)?

The role of the Louisiana Public Service Commission is to oversee utilities that provide services like electricity and water across Louisiana. The Commission sets rates and reviews whether companies are following regulations. Their decisions can affect how a utility operates. It is a publicly elected office with five members. As of 2024, the Commission featured three Republicans and two Democrats.

Who Can File a Complaint With the LPSC?

Who can file a complaint with the LPSC is quite broad. Most people or businesses can file a complaint. A complaint can also focus on a wide variety of issues. Most commonly, they focus on things like rates or unfair practices. The Commission reviews whether the claim falls under its rules. If so, they may schedule a hearing to hear what the other side has to say.

How Are Hearings Conducted With the LPSC?

Hearings are conducted with the LPSC based on a formal structure. A presiding officer leads the session. Each party presents its own evidence. They can also present witnesses. The official record of the hearing includes both testimony and exhibits. These form the basis of any final decision made by the Commission.

What Types of Evidence Are Admissible in LPSC Regulatory Proceedings?

The types of evidence that are admissible include most types of evidence as long as it’s relevant. Things like documents and testimony are commonly used. In contested cases, the rules are closer to courtroom procedures. In uncontested cases, the rules are more flexible. Evidence must relate to the claims made in the case.

Take Control of the Process

A public body like the LPSC can make those involved feel small. It’s important to use the rules to your advantage. If you’re facing a regulatory issue and don’t know where to begin, Ezell Law Firm, LLC, can help.