Calling for an Overdose
La. R.S. 14:403.10 — the person who seeks help, and the person overdosing, are not charged with possession on that evidence
Seeking help is protected. A person acting in good faith who seeks medical assistance for someone experiencing a drug overdose may not be charged, prosecuted or penalized for possessing or using a controlled dangerous substance, or drug paraphernalia, when the evidence was found because help was sought.
- The person who overdosed is protected the same way, for evidence found because of the overdose.
- Neither faces a sanction for breaking a condition of pretrial release, probation or parole over that incident, or civil forfeiture of property related to it.
- Seeking help can count in a person's favor in a prosecution the protection does not cover.
The protection covers possession and use, not other crimes, and does not stop an officer from detaining or arresting for something else. A particular case is a question for a licensed Louisiana attorney.
Sources for this section (1)
- La. R.S. 14:403.10 — Drug-related overdoses; medical assistance; immunity from prosecution
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Louisiana attorney.