No More Confusion: New Orleans Traffic Court Returns to Broad Street (And We’re Ready)

For the last four years, the New Orleans traffic and municipal court system has been in a state of flux. Following the damage from Hurricane Ida, dockets were shuffled to temporary facilities, leaving many residents confused about exactly where they needed to show up to fight a ticket or handle a misdemeanor.

The era of the “temporary location” is finally over.

As recently reported by Fox 8 Live, the Municipal and Traffic Court of New Orleans has officially returned to its permanent home at 727 South Broad Street.

No More Confusion: New Orleans Traffic Court Returns to Broad Street and We’re Ready – Why This Move Matters for Your Case

Stability is good, but changes in venue often lead to confusion. If you have an older ticket or an open case that originated during the years the court was housed at the old VA hospital on Perdido Street, you need to be vigilant. The court had been operating out of a temporary location at 1601 Perdido St. due to damage from Hurricane Ida.

After years of operating from a temporary location in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, the courthouse had been out of operation since Hurricane Ida struck on August 29, 2021, and the roof and interior were severely damaged. The court is now set to reopen at its original Broad Street location. The move is effective January 5, 2026. The court will open to the public beginning January 5, 2026, and will operate during regular hours from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents with traffic cases or inquiries should report to 727 S. Broad Street for all matters.

Showing up to the wrong building can result in a “Failure to Appear,” which often triggers an attachment (warrant) for your arrest and the immediate suspension of your driver’s license.

The renovated courthouse features upgrades such as new floors, walls, dedicated spaces for judges, space for specialty dockets, and upgraded facilities. The Broad Street renovation was fully funded by insurance and federal funds.

The public will have access to all services at the new location. Residents are encouraged to utilize online payment options at the traffic.nola.gov website, and individuals can still use online and phone options for payments and information.

If you feel ill or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, you should follow COVID-19 protocols when visiting the courthouse.

Introduction to the Court Relocation

After years of operating from a temporary location in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, the New Orleans Municipal and Traffic Court has officially returned to its original location at 727 South Broad Street, New Orleans, LA 70119. This move, effective as of January 5, 2026, marks the first time since the storm that the court is once again open to the public in its familiar Orleans courthouse. For people across the region, this relocation is more than just a change of address—it’s a sign of progress and resilience for the city of New Orleans.

The reopening of the courthouse at its original location brings a sense of stability and normalcy back to the judicial process, making it easier for the public to access traffic court services and content related to their cases. With the court now operating from its permanent home, individuals with pending matters can expect improved efficiency and a more streamlined experience. The return to Broad Street is a welcome development for the people of New Orleans, as it not only restores a key institution to its rightful place but also supports the ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Ida.

As the court resumes regular hours and welcomes the public for the first time since the storm, it’s important for everyone in the region to take note of the new, yet familiar, location. Whether you’re dealing with a traffic ticket or seeking information about court operations, knowing where to go is the first step in ensuring your case moves forward smoothly. The reopening of the original courthouse is a positive milestone for New Orleans, reflecting the city’s commitment to serving its people and rebuilding stronger than ever.

The Bloom Legal Advantage: We Go So You Don’t Have To

While the court has moved back to Broad Street, the best way to handle a traffic ticket or municipal charge remains the same: Hire an attorney who knows the system.

At Bloom Legal, our office is just a short drive from the courthouse, but our goal is to ensure you never have to make that drive yourself.

We specialize in taking the hassle out of the legal process. Whether the court is on Perdido, Broad, or the moon, our attorneys are there every day. We track the docket changes, we know the clerks, and we understand the specific procedures of the reopened facility.

Our Traffic Court & Municipal Expertise

We don’t just “dabble” in traffic law; it is a cornerstone of our practice. We help clients navigate:

• Traffic Tickets: Speeding, red light violations, and failure to yield. We fight to keep points off your record and insurance rates low.
• License Restoration: If a past mistake or a missed court date has led to a suspended license, we can help clear the attachments and get you back on the road legally.
• Municipal Misdemeanors: From public intoxication to disturbing the peace, we handle the charges that can stain your permanent record if not managed correctly.
• DWIs/DUIs: Aggressive defense for serious driving offenses.

Don’t Let a Temporary Location Change Derail Your Defense

The reopening of 727 South Broad Street is a positive step for the city, but don’t let the logistics trip you up. If you aren’t sure where to go, or if you simply don’t have the time to spend hours waiting in a courtroom, call us.

We monitor the system so you can get on with your life.