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Arkansas Criminal Law Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation and Criminal Law for Arkansas on
Q: Is there such thing as failure to appear court?
Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
answered on Jul 27, 2024

An Arkansas attorney could advise best, but your question remains open for two weeks. In a criminal law context, failing to appear without plausible justification could lead to additional charges - that's something an Arkansas criminal defense attorney who is knowledgeable in this area should... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Civil Rights for Arkansas on
Q: My husband is incarcerated in Baxter Co AR for a non payment of fines. He is not in good health and hasn’t been forwhil

He has been there a little over 2 weeks and has been to the ER 3 times because his blood pressure has been very high.We are trying to get him out of there, but because he hasn’t seen a judge yet they will not release him. According to US code, A. 3C chapter 13 and US code A.3C chapter 13 and US... View More

Richard Lane Hughes
Richard Lane Hughes
answered on May 1, 2024

You need to get an attorney immediately. This situation needs to be brought to the attention of the Judge who issued the warrant for your husband's arrest or any Judge siting in the jurisdiction.

Of course, he should have been before a judge already. An accused is denied Due Process...
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1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Arkansas on
Q: Does S.I.S give police the right to search without permission?
Richard Lane Hughes
Richard Lane Hughes
answered on Apr 19, 2024

A suspended imposition of sentence (SIS) judgment does not, by itself, affect your 4th Amendment and Arkansas Constitutional Rights. However, this judgment of conviction is often accompanied by a waiver of rights by the defendant that may be made a condition of the SIS sentence. The same is true of... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for Arkansas on
Q: Can an officer other than my assigned PB officer search my property any time they want? Without my PB being there

An officer showed up at my house without my probation officer being present and arrested me took me to jail while they were still conducting a search on my property and house after I was taken to jail they were still searching my property no warrant or warning

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Apr 15, 2024

In general, probation officers and other law enforcement officials need to follow proper legal procedures when conducting searches, which typically require either consent, a warrant, or certain exigent circumstances. However, the specific rules can vary depending on the terms of your probation and... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Domestic Violence, Federal Crimes and Sexual Harassment for Arkansas on
Q: can i turn myself in if i’ve committed a sexual assault crime without involving the witness?

i could come up with excuses or try to justify my situation but i feel ive sexually assaulted my ex (who lives in Arizona) while we were together, can i turn myself in?

edit: i meant the victim im sorry

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Apr 4, 2024

I know this is a very difficult situation, but I strongly encourage you to do the right thing - take full accountability for your actions, turn yourself in, and comply with the legal process. Consider consulting with a criminal defense attorney who can advise you on the legal implications and your... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Health Care Law for Arkansas on
Q: are police supposed to stay with a person just arrested if they have to go to hospital before jail?

My stepfather suffered from a stroke in the police car after being arrested. it was from an adjoining county. After being placed in the car, our county waited on the county with the warrant at a local Dollar General. It would have taken at least 30 mins for the transporter to arrive. After... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 25, 2024

When someone is arrested and requires hospitalization, police are typically required to ensure the person's safety and well-being, which often includes staying with or ensuring that the individual is securely handed over to medical staff. The exact protocols can vary based on local laws and... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Federal Crimes and White Collar Crime for Arkansas on
Q: I was criminally banned by someone who claimed to be the owner, how does the owner get that lifted?

My spouses, ex has been harassing me. have proof of her constantly threatening me and even attacking me. she has broken into my previous residence. I moved in with him and she broke in into the house when he was away. 2020 Arkansas Code Title 5 - Criminal Offenses Subtitle 4 -Offenses Against... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 13, 2024

If the owner of the property wants to lift a criminal trespass ban they previously issued against you, they would need to follow these general steps:

1. Contact law enforcement: The owner should reach out to the law enforcement agency that initially handled the criminal trespass notice and...
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1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Communications Law, Federal Crimes and Civil Rights for Arkansas on
Q: Is this illegal

There another tenant from another building coming over to my parking lot area(really close to my apt) possibly my balcony and filming my conversation where as I talking inside. It film audio and video by phone.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 8, 2024

If another tenant is filming your conversations without consent, especially when you are inside your own apartment, this could potentially violate privacy laws. The legality of such actions largely depends on the jurisdiction and specific state laws regarding privacy and consent for recording... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for Arkansas on
Q: I feel like I was forced to take a plea offer on three possession charges by a corrupt court. Can I do anything?
James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 7, 2024

If you believe that you were forced to accept a plea deal and that the court was corrupt, you may have some options to challenge your conviction and/or seek justice. However, the path forward can be complex and may require the assistance of a skilled attorney. Here are some potential steps you can... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Civil Rights for Arkansas on
Q: How long does a DA have to file a formal case against someone who has been arrested and has been in jail 2 months?

His prior 25 year sentence was overturned on appeal and he was released just 2 months before being arrested again (after serving over 2 years). He requested a public defender at his initial hearing. He still hasn't been assigned one. He can't afford bail. No formal charges have been... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 24, 2024

In many jurisdictions, there are specific time limits within which formal charges must be filed after an arrest. These time limits, known as statutes of limitations, vary depending on the nature of the offense and the laws of the state. However, the precise time limit for filing charges can be... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Civil Litigation and Civil Rights for Arkansas on
Q: If a person is detained and handcuffed on the ground can a state trooper run up and kick u in the face?can I file lawsui

Somebody was handcuffed and on ground not moving and a state trooper runs up and kicks them n face so hard immediately ambulance was called on scene cae blood was coming out his eye the EMT said take to emergency. Make sure socket wasn't broke and his eye is filled with blood bad this is not... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 23, 2024

It is never acceptable for law enforcement officers to use excessive force, especially against individuals who are already restrained and not posing a threat. Such actions violate the individual's rights and may constitute police brutality. If you or someone you know has experienced such... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Employment Law and Civil Rights for Arkansas on
Q: Can a convicted felon get a job somewhere that sells guns?

A friend of mine has applied for a job that sells weapons much like Walmart or any other southern store. He was going to be hired however one of the employees at said store knew of his prior conviction. She stated that she would not work with her due to law stating a convicted felon cannot work... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 23, 2024

In general, federal law prohibits individuals who have been convicted of a felony from possessing firearms. However, when it comes to employment in establishments that sell firearms, the regulations can vary depending on state laws and the specific policies of the employer. Some states may have... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Arkansas on
Q: "What justifies ones position of a drug or defines legal positionin the state of Arkansas"

If an unidentified backpack was found in somebody's home containing drugs or a substance of the such who would be considered legally in possession of those in the state of Arkansas

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 23, 2024

In the state of Arkansas, legal possession of drugs or substances is typically determined by factors such as knowledge, control, and intent. If an unidentified backpack containing drugs or a substance is found in someone's home, several factors would be considered in determining who is legally... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Arkansas on
Q: I was passenger of vehicle that got pulled over in Crawford Arkansas owner and driver sign affidavit that I had no know

Knowledge of drugs in his vehicle and he accepted full responsibility to his crime

Richard Lane Hughes
Richard Lane Hughes
answered on Feb 11, 2024

If you were charged with possession it is based upon the legal notion of joint possession. Often prosecutors will charge a passenger or cotenant with knowingly possessing contraband when they are in a reasonable proximity to the substance even if it belongs to another person. The truth is that... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law and Civil Rights for Arkansas on
Q: I am on probation in Arkansas , signed for four years back in 2020 . I absconded after about 9 months . I did a 90 day

P.V. this year just got out not even 2 months ago. I missed my 2nd office visit due to weather they were closed. However I never made another appointment. To follow up. I got a job back in another county and was trying to transfer. My boss contacted an faxed paperwork to my p.o. it's only... View More

T. Augustus Claus
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answered on Jan 29, 2024

In Arkansas, probation is a legal arrangement where compliance with specific terms and conditions is mandatory. If you absconded from probation initially and then missed a follow-up appointment after a 90-day parole violation (PV) sentence, your probation officer (PO) labeling this as absconding... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law and Civil Rights for Arkansas on
Q: I am on probation in Arkansas , signed for four years back in 2020 . I absconded after about 9 months . I did a 90 day

P.V. this year just got out not even 2 months ago. I missed my 2nd office visit due to weather they were closed. However I never made another appointment. To follow up. I got a job back in another county and was trying to transfer. My boss contacted an faxed paperwork to my p.o. it's only... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jan 29, 2024

In Arkansas, probation officers have the authority to report a probation violation if they believe a probationer has not complied with the terms of their probation. This can include failing to report for scheduled appointments, even if there were extenuating circumstances like bad weather.... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Personal Injury, Civil Rights, Federal Crimes and Criminal Law for Arkansas on
Q: I went to jail. The 1st & 3rd I was raped in the cell by a male trustee
James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jan 29, 2024

I'm truly sorry to hear about your experience in jail. Sexual assault is a serious matter, and it's crucial to take immediate action. First and foremost, seek medical attention to address any physical injuries and collect evidence.

Contact law enforcement to report the sexual...
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1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Constitutional Law for Arkansas on
Q: I have also been harassed by a neighboring tenant when I am a property owner of 25 years. No investigation and dismissed

After 25 years a tenant moved in 5 years ago next door. They trespassed the very first night. It escalated to property damage. Then terroristic threatening. Along with criminal mischief and defamation. Because of my reaction to the lackadaisical type of treatment I was given I've been written... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jan 27, 2024

I'm very sorry to hear about the horrible harassment you have endured from a neighbor for years without getting sufficient help from law enforcement. Your frustration is completely understandable. While the authorities dismissing your concerns is undoubtedly unfair, there may still be some... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Federal Crimes and Wrongful Death for Arkansas on
Q: Why is inciting someone to commit murder a class Y felony and murder a class A felony

In 2011 a sister called her brother because she was angry with her boyfriend and provided false information which angered the brother to the extent he took a handgun, drove to the sister & boyfriend's residence, lay in wait for the boyfriend and shot him in the chest. The brother was... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jan 23, 2024

There are a few reasons why the sister in this case may not have been charged, even though inciting murder is generally a more serious felony than murder itself in Arkansas:

1. Evidentiary issues - While the sister allegedly provided false information that incited the shooting, proving that...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation, Criminal Law and Civil Rights for Arkansas on
Q: if three people are in a vehicle and are pulled over and arrestws because of what the officer says is the Blanket Law

There was one bag. The arresting officer took a picture and it weighed 5 grams, the state crime lab repot says one bag and weighed 4.16 grams. The person who had the drugs tried to hide them in the vehicle. Now in court the one person is being charged with 2< andthe other two are being charged... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jan 22, 2024

In a situation where multiple people in a vehicle are charged under what's referred to as a "blanket law," it's essential to understand that such laws typically hold all occupants responsible for contraband found in a shared space. However, the specific charges and the weight... View More

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