I represent people in Cleburne County, Arkansas, in family law, select criminal cases and civil litigation. My office is in Jonesboro, and I handle cases throughout the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit, which includes Cleburne, Fulton, Independence, Izard and Stone counties. Here is what to know about Cleburne County cases.
Where Cleburne County cases are heard
Cleburne County is part of Arkansas’s Sixteenth Judicial Circuit. The circuit court for Cleburne County sits in Heber Springs, the county seat. The circuit court hears divorce, custody, adoption, guardianship, orders of protection, felony cases and most civil lawsuits. In contrast, district court generally hears misdemeanors, traffic cases and smaller civil claims. Your paperwork will tell you which court and judge will hear your case.
Divorce and custody
You file divorce, custody and support cases in circuit court. Also, Arkansas requires a legal ground for divorce, such as general indignities or 18 months of continuous separation (A.C.A. § 9-12-301), and a 30-day waiting period after filing. In custody cases, the court decides based on the child’s best interest, and in an original custody decision in a divorce or paternity case, the law presumes joint custody is in the child’s best interest (A.C.A. § 9-13-101). Read more about divorce and child custody.
Probate disputes
The circuit court also hears will contests and other estate disputes. However, these cases have their own deadlines, so don’t wait if you think something is wrong with an estate. See my probate litigation page.
Getting ready for court in Cleburne County
Bring every paper you have been served with or given by the court. In addition, gather texts, photos, records and the names of anyone who saw what happened. Arrive early, dress as you would for an important meeting, and don’t discuss your case with the other side in the hallway.
Other cases I handle in Cleburne County
Family law is most of my practice: divorce, custody, child support, paternity, guardianship, adoption and orders of protection. I also take a select number of criminal cases, usually difficult matters likely to require a trial, and civil cases such as personal injury, probate litigation and wrongful foreclosure. See all of my practice areas.
How to reach us
Call 870.525.2191. Someone answers our phones 24 hours a day, and Sara Beth or I will call you back. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at 721 W. Matthews Ave, Jonesboro, AR 72401. You can also request a consultation online.
This page is general information about Arkansas law, not legal advice for your situation.