Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Tit. XXX, Art. 905. Capital cases; sentencing hearing required; delay; waiver

A. Following a verdict or plea of guilty in a capital case, a sentence of death may be imposed only after a sentencing hearing as provided herein.

B. Following a conviction by trial or guilty plea in a capital case, on joint motion of the state and the defendant, the court may impose a sentence of life imprisonment without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence without conducting a sentencing hearing. The court may refuse to grant the joint motion and order that a sentencing hearing be conducted.

C. If a sentencing hearing will be conducted, the hearing shall not commence sooner than twelve hours after a verdict or plea of guilty, except on joint motion of the state and the defendant.