DeSoto Parish Clerk of Court Lisa Lobrano Burson is reminding prospective candidates of important information ahead of the qualifying period for the Fall 2026 elections.
Candidate qualifying will begin (TODAY) Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. and continue through Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, ending at 4:30 p.m.
The Clerk’s Office noted that numerous offices will be qualifying during the three-day period and asked candidates to be patient. Courthouse security rules remain in effect. The office will also take qualifying photos, upon request, and send them to candidates.
According to the Clerk’s Office, candidates are responsible for qualifying for the correct office and district and for ensuring they meet all qualifications required by law. The office qualifies candidates for the office requested, but it is the candidate’s responsibility to verify eligibility. If a candidate qualifies for the wrong district or does not meet the qualifications, qualifying fees are non-refundable.
Candidates who are unsure of their voting districts are encouraged to visit the Registrar of Voters Office or check the Geaux Vote app before qualifying.
Qualifying fees must be paid in cash or certified funds only. Fees vary depending on the office being sought and whether the candidate is affiliated with a registered political party or qualifies as no party. Candidates should review the Secretary of State’s qualifying fee schedule to determine the applicable fee.
The Clerk’s Office also reminded candidates that by signing the Notice of Candidacy, they certify they have read the notice, meet the qualifications for the office sought, are not prohibited from qualifying due to a felony conviction, have filed required tax returns or an extension, acknowledge the Campaign Finance Disclosure Act requirements, do not owe applicable fines, fees, or penalties, and certify that all information provided is true and correct.
Officials also noted that if a candidate qualifies in the wrong district but corrects the error before qualifying closes at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 7, a new qualifying fee will be required for the correct district.
Candidate Qualification Highlights
According to information provided by the DeSoto Parish Clerk of Court, qualification requirements include:
School Board: Candidate must be a qualified elector, at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or equivalent, be able to read and write, have been a Louisiana resident for the preceding two years, and have been domiciled in the district for the preceding year.
Justice of the Peace: Must be of good moral character, a qualified elector, a resident of the district from which elected, able to read and write English correctly, and possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
Constable: Must be of good moral character, a qualified elector and resident of the district, able to read and write English correctly, and possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
Mayor: Must be an elector of the municipality and have been domiciled and actually resided there for at least one year preceding the election.
Alderman/Councilman: Must be an elector of the municipality and have been domiciled and actually resided there for at least one year preceding the election.
District Judge: Must have been admitted to practice law in Louisiana for eight years prior to the election and domiciled in the district for one year preceding the election.
District Attorney: Must have been admitted to practice law in Louisiana for five years prior to the election and resided in the district for two years preceding the election.
The Clerk’s Office thanked prospective candidates for their patience and said it looks forward to assisting all hopeful candidates during the qualifying period.