La. R.S. 13:4865

After the pleading is settled as provided in R.S. 13:4864 the plaintiff may apply to the court by motion for an order fixing a certain time at which testimony may be taken. A certified copy of this motion and the order thereon shall be served on the defendant. The court, on legal cause shown as in other actions or on agreement of the parties, may continue the hearing from time to time, or may continue it indefinitely, subject to re-assignment on motion of the plaintiff and notice to the defendant. Such hearing may be held in open court or in chambers, and during vacation of the court.