I represent people in Independence 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 Independence County cases.
Where Independence County cases are heard
Independence County is part of Arkansas’s Sixteenth Judicial Circuit. The circuit court for Independence County sits in Batesville, 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.
Felony cases
The circuit court hears felony cases. If a felony goes to trial, a jury of 12 decides guilt and, if it finds the defendant guilty, also decides the sentence within the range the law allows (A.C.A. § 16-97-101). In addition to my private practice, I have served as both a public defender and a deputy prosecuting attorney, handling hundreds of cases from traffic tickets to murders. I take a select number of criminal cases, usually ones likely headed for trial. Read what happens at a felony jury trial or see my criminal defense page.
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.
Getting ready for court in Independence 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 Independence 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.